Lil Durk, a rapper and philanthropist who has won a Grammy, went back to Chicago for his birthday weekend, which was filled with spiritual reflection, community work, and celebration.

On Friday, October 18, he got the keys to the city from Broadview Mayor Katrina Thompson and Bellwood Mayor Andre Harvey. This was the start of the weekend. Seventh graders from Durk’s Neighborhood Heroes Kaleidoscope program were at the gathering at Broadview Village Town Hall. It was a clear honor for all he had done to help the community.

Lil Durk’s foundation, Neighborhood Heroes, held a private fireside chat for 50 young Black guys from Roseland that night. Leaders in the community and groups such as Omega Psi Phi, Phalanx Family Services, and Chicago CRED all came together to help mentor the young guys. Durk and his dad, Mr. Banks, talked to the group directly and told them to keep their eyes on their goals and keep going.

The Unity Prayer Event took place at Navy Pier the next day, October 19. The event, which was open to everyone, encouraged mental health, reflection, and unity. It was important for Lil Durk to connect with people in his neighborhood.

“A big part of what we do at Neighborhood Heroes is promoting spiritual health and building unity,” Lil Durk said. “This event is meant to bring people together in a meaningful way and promote peace, connection, and happiness in our communities.”

Sunday, Oct. 20, saw a show at the United Center that was almost sold out. One eighteen thousand people came to raise money for Neighborhood Heroes and saw concerts by Lil Baby, Sexy Red, Bossman, and Dlow. The concert was the highlight of a weekend full of music, community work, and spiritual reflection. It showed how committed Durk is to improving underserved areas of Chicago.