Kids Off the Block

The Inspiring True Story of One Woman's Quest to Protect Chicago's Most Vulnerable Youth

Narrated by Lisa Reneé Pitts
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Pub Date Sep 01 2020 | Archive Date Sep 30 2020
RB Media | christianaudio

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Description

"What can I do?" That was the question Diane Latiker asked of herself as she watched the teens in her Chicago neighborhood succumb at an alarming rate to gangs and gun violence. Her answer started small, inviting ten kids into her living room to talk about their struggles and dreams. But over the years it grew. With the help of God, her family, and many other people along the way, Diane's Kids Off the Block morphed from a personal crusade to do what she could into a nationally known program that has helped more than 3,000 at-risk Chicago teens. In this powerful, energizing book, she tells her incredible story to men and women who are sick of sitting behind their keyboards watching the world crumble and are ready to do something to make a difference. Through doubt, financial strain, and deep grief over lives lost, Diane has never lost her faith that God called her to this life-transforming work. In this book she'll show you that God is calling you to do something too. Maybe something that feels small . . . definitely something that will change the world.

"What can I do?" That was the question Diane Latiker asked of herself as she watched the teens in her Chicago neighborhood succumb at an alarming rate to gangs and gun violence. Her answer started...


A Note From the Publisher

Diane Latiker was a CNN Top Ten Hero of the Year in 2011 for her tireless work with at-risk Chicago teens. Recipient of the 2013 BET Shine a Light Award, she is an in-demand speaker and has been featured by national media outlets, such as NBC News, CBS News, NPR's Weekend Edition, Ebony magazine, Time magazine, the Huffington Post, USA Today, and more. In 2019, she spoke at the US House Judiciary Committee's first hearing on gun violence in years, and she has just graduated from the Goldin Institute as a 2019 Chicago Peace Fellow.

Diane Latiker was a CNN Top Ten Hero of the Year in 2011 for her tireless work with at-risk Chicago teens. Recipient of the 2013 BET Shine a Light Award, she is an in-demand speaker and has been...


Available Editions

EDITION Audiobook
ISBN 9781545915738
PRICE $19.99 (USD)

Available on NetGalley

NetGalley Shelf App (AUDIO)

Average rating from 5 members


Featured Reviews

What a remarkable true story of the life of Diane Latiker. What I loved most was her tenacity and faith. The combo made for a one of a kind story of her starting KOB. Even when no one else believed, she persisted. Even when no one else understood, she persisted. Even when the numbers and time and heartache didn’t make sense, she persisted… and look at her now! The Lord has continued to carry her, even in the hardest of seasons. He has used her to bless the lives of many of Chicago’s most vulnerable youth, and He continues to do so because of her faith and dedication to the call.
I had the pleasure of listening to this book on audio, narrated in Diane’s own voice. What a joy to hear the emotion and passion straight from the woman herself!
This is a remarkable story that highlights the power of what one person can do to make a difference in the world. Her utter selflessness and joy make this story a delight to devour. Diane’s influence will ripple into future generations for many decades to come.
Thank you NetGalley and Baker Books for the opportunity to enjoy this book on audio. All opinions are my own.

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What an inspirational story! Kids Off the Block by Diane Latiker was a true inspiration and demonstrated the difference one person can truly make.

Diane Latiker went from just having discussions with her daughter to having a nonprofit organization that has changed the lives of over 3000 kids. I just imagine the impact those 3000 children and teens will have on the world around them.

For those in the faith, Latiker inspires those struggling to keep going. When one is in the trenches with God, as long as you continue to pray and persist in what He is calling you to do, it will happen. What spoke to me most is the part where Latiker is talking to her mother. She tells her mother she wished people understood what God was instructing her to do. Her mother told her she had to show them because God told her the plan and no one else. I know often I think, why can’t God tell someone else or why did He choose me? There is a reason. Persist and have faith in Him.

Lisa Renee Pitts did a fantastic job with the narration. I felt passion and inspiration with each word she spoke.

I really did not know what I would think of this book. I am so glad I gave it a listen. I had a hard time putting it down. I have already recommended it to several friends. If you want to be inspired (whether you are Christian or not) this book is worth a read or listen.

I received an advanced audiobook copy from RB Media and Christianaudio through NetGalley. All opinions are 100% my own.

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