Program Associates are vital to Urban Initiatives’ mission of empowering Chicago’s youth to become agents of community change through academic success, healthy living, and leadership development. They drive systematic change by connecting stakeholders and strengthening the social fabric of the community. Meet Dajuan, one of UI’s newest Program Associates!
Basic info: Name, birthday, where you last went to school
Dajuan King, January 17th, Graduated Wartburg College in May 2016.
Who is your favorite Spice Girl/Backstreet Boy/Power Ranger?
Favorite Power Ranger in the Red one.
Who is someone that has really inspired you in your lifetime?
My Godfather has really inspired me, he is a Social Worker.
If we gave you $20 to go spend on anything right now, what would you buy?
If I had $20, I would buy the whole office subway cookies.
What’s your favorite type of cheese and why?
Favorite Cheese is Pepperjack because it has a kick to it, lol.
What is your spirit animal?
LION!
If you were to throw a dinner party, who are 3 people you’d want to invite?
I would invite my Godfather, my mom, and my advisor from College, Krystal.
What is the last book you read?
The last book I read was A leadership book for class in college, lol.
What’s the best place to get food in Chicago?
Best place to get food in Chicago is . . . Im not sure, thats a hard one.
How would your best friend describe you?
My best friend would describe me as funny and a man with a plan, lol.
What’s your favorite childhood sports-related memory?
My favorite childhood sports related memory is when my Godfather finally let me beat him in a game of basketball.
What are you most excited about for this year?
I am most excited about getting to work with the kids in my community.
What was your first impression of Jim Dower?
My first impression of Jim was that he is a very loving and funny man who loves his job.
Anything else you’d like to share?
I love my job!