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Emanuel Directs Leftover NATO Funds For Community Projects

CHICAGO (CBS) -- As part of his effort to fight gang violence in Chicago, Mayor Emanuel is directing leftover NATO funds to community groups.

Neighborhood organizations can apply for a share of $1 million in private funds raised but not used for NATO, starting next month.

The mayor announced the "Youth Working for Success" program at Universidad Popular in Little Village on the near Southwest Side.

Board Member Elio Dearrudah says they would use the money to expand programs that currently offer after school tutoring, cooking and adult computer classes.

He says they would also take field trips to other parts of the city that they don't normally see, because the neighborhood is fragmented by gangs.

Mayor Emanuel says the program will help upwards of 400 kids get jobs or enroll in after school programs.

He stresses communities must instill values in children that keep them out of gangs and teach them violence is not the answer.

LISTEN: WBBM Newsradio's Nancy Harty Reports

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