MILWAUKEE — A Milwaukee organization is changing lives, one dress and one suit at a time. I OWE Youth is dedicated to workforce preparation, but they’re also ensuring that young people in our community don’t miss out on special milestones—like prom. I caught up with Jessica Johnson, Chaquilla Love, and Kalan Harris to hear their inspiring story of how they work together to give back in a big way.
For these three women, prom wasn’t always a dream come true. Instead, it was a financial burden. Today, they are the driving force behind I OWE Youth’s mission to make prom accessible for everyone, regardless of their financial situation.
Event planner Chaquilla Love shared her perspective on the value of giving back. “Someone’s trash is another’s treasure. Even though it may seem old to you, it’s new for someone else.
It’s someone else’s story now,” Love said. I OWE Youth provides more than just free prom dresses for girls. They also supply suits for boys, ensuring every teen has the opportunity to shine on their big night.
Jessica Johnson, the founder of I OWE Youth, reflected on her own struggles that inspired her to start the foundation. “I was adopted when I was young, and my adopted mom passed away. I had some financial struggles with prom, and I just want to give back to kids so they don’t have to miss out on important events just because of financial burdens,” Johnson explained.
For nine years, the organization has inspired young people by offe.
