Margot M. Williams dedicates her time and energies to inspiring Cook County youth and adults to become more civic-minded. She does this through providing programming that increases community awareness and stimulates participation in public policy. She has considerable experience working in higher education and collaborating with social justice organizations. Williams earned her bachelor's degree in Journalism/Advertising from Northern Illinois University and her master's degree in Business Communications from Jones International University.

Williams also enjoys presenting and leading discussions about how Hip Hop impacts youth and adults with interest in developing strategies to cope with these influences in the 21^st century.

CERIUS Identity

Program offered in 6 week sessions designed to focus on the key characteristics that are often found in outstanding leaders as well as explores local issues, the value of community service and connects participants with global matters. Topics covered include:

 Definition of 'CERIUS" identity

 How to recognize "CERIUS" identity distinguishing characteristics in others and yourself

 Identify "CERIUS" community leaders

 Exploring the benefits of research

 Activities to help develop problem solving skills, value of working in teams and rewards of effective project management Note: A "Community Connection" culminating event can be included upon request.

Bling! Bling! (The Influences of Hip Hop in the 21^st Century)

This workshop format can be adapted to 90 minute sessions highlighting specific aspects of hip hop or conducted in 6 week sessions. Youth explore the historical elements of hip hop and discuss the economic, social and political aspects of hip hop in the 21^st Century. Topics covered include:

 Historical Hip Hop elements

 The influence of music

 The influence of fashion

 Social and political significance

 Lyric critiques

 Multi-cultural examples

 Consumer responsibility

Power of the Pen (Adults)

A workshop offered in various formats: 90 minutes, ½ day, 1 day or 6-week sessions. Attendees learn how to improve their communication skills when contacting elected officials and other key community stakeholders. The workshop consists of lessons on the following topics:

• Request information on an issue
• Communicate an issue or concern
• Invite an elected official to speak to your organization or attend your special event
• Congratulate a newly elected official and inform him/her about your organization
• Write to a state or federal legislator requesting s/he vote for or veto a specific bill or referendum

"Express Yourself" is a workshop to inspire youth of all backgrounds and interests to effectively communicate in writing their thoughts and feelings.

Writing exercises covered include how to:

Share thoughts with parents

Share thoughts with teachers

Thank parents, teachers, relatives or friends in meaningful ways

Invite someone to a special event

Write a letter to an elected official or community leader

Write respectful and considerate correspondence