I remember the first time I saw a drill team perform. It was at a summer parade when I was a kid, visiting family in Chicago. The sharp, synchronized movements, the crackle of energy, the pure pride radiating from the marchers—it was magic. It felt like more than a performance; it was a statement of unity, discipline, and hope. That memory came rushing back as I read about the South Shore Drill Team, a Chicago institution facing a fight for its future.
For 46 years, this team has been a beacon on the South Side. They’ve performed at a presidential inauguration. They mentor young people, create brotherhood, and keep kids safe. Yet today, financial pressures threaten this legacy. Many of their non-renewable grants have ended. Staff are volunteering their time because payroll is behind. “We’ve been moving some pieces around to make things work,” said Stella Natufe, the team’s media director.
The heart of the issue is a perfect storm. Founder Arthur Robertson, who managed finances for decades, has faced serious health challenges. Other directors had to suddenly learn his role. At the same time, crucial funding dried up. Natufe describes it like losing a grandmother who holds all the family knowledge. “The finances, payroll, insurance—that was not their responsibility,” she said. Now they’re navigating it all.
Instructor Desonni Harege, 24, exemplifies the team’s spirit. He leads a large group of boys, finding strength in being relatable. He’s not fazed by the lack of pay. “This is what we love doing,” Harege said. He spent 16 years as a performer before teaching. “It’s about keeping the kids safe, keeping them off the streets, saving lives.” He’d do it without money any day. That dedication creates a powerful family bond among members.
Nineteen-year-old Jeremiah Thomas calls it a brotherhood. He credits his mentors with changing his life. The team provides rides for each other when transportation funds are short. They show up because this community matters. Their commitment shines even as funding fades. This struggle isn’t unique to South Shore. Natufe says other nonprofits are in similar fights. Grant focuses shift. Corporate donations drop. Everyone is seeking creative ways to stay open.
- Perform at prestigious events
- Mentor young people
- Create brotherhood
- Keep kids safe
- Maintain community support
- Develop sustainable funding
The team estimates $100,000 would help them pay debts and catch up. It would allow them to sustain and grow. They are applying for new grants and seeking partnerships. But they also need community support. Donations of any size make a difference. Snacks, water, and supplies are accepted at their youth center. For those who can’t donate money, time is precious. Volunteers can help with homework, grant writing, or practices.
“We have no intentions on closing our doors,” Natufe stated firmly. They plan to exhaust every single option. Their performance schedule remains packed. They marched in the Bud Billiken Parade just last weekend. They have festivals and trips planned through September. They hope to run their annual winter coat drive. The mission continues, driven by pure passion. They aim to keep their doors open for another 46 years.
Watching a drill team requires faith—faith in each other, in the routine, in the shared goal. That same faith now fuels their fight for survival. It’s a reminder that the institutions shaping our youth need our collective support. They build more than performers; they build character and community. How can we help ensure their next spectacular performance isn’t their last? The answer might lie in our own willingness to step into the rhythm and support them.
| Key Issues | Solutions |
|---|---|
| Financial pressures | Seek new grants |
| Funds drying up | Build community support |
| Staff working voluntarily | Encourage donations |
| Need for mentorship | Engage volunteers |
| Transportation challenges | Provide rides |
| Sustaining legacy | Plan events and partnerships |
