In a Chicago neighborhood where 43 percent of residents live below the poverty line, Billy Lamar Brooks Sr. is trying to help kids build a future. Brooks grew up in North Lawndale and has spent his adult life working as an activist and educator in the community. In this short documentary, Brooks reflects on his philosophy of supporting young people through tough love.

Produced to accompany the June 2014 Atlantic cover story, "The Case for Reparations."