Latiker is the founder of the nonprofit, Kids Off the Block (KOB), which provides recreational activities and educational opportunities for young people in Chicago, focusing on the neighborhood of Roseland.
[1] In 2003,[6] Latiker literally turned her own home into a community center for young people.
[7] She sold her TV to buy used computers, and got rid of furniture to make space for kids in her home.
[5] Latiker did not expect the idea to turn her home into a community center to become so popular, but in about 3 months, she had 75 kids visiting regularly.
[2] Latiker is widely revered in her neighborhood, though she has also been threatened by "gang bangers" who have shot up her van.