ODE TO THE BLOCK
A storytelling project from One Purpose Magazine honoring the blocks that raised us. Share what your block meant to you, what you learned there, and why it will always be home.
About You.
Name: Type your first and last name or the name you’d like published.
First Name
Last Name
Email
example@example.com
City & State Where You Grew Up? Example: “Chicago, IL”
What block or neighborhood are you writing about? Example: “79th & Yates, South Shore”
Your Block Story
Describe your block in three words. Example: “Loud, Loving, Legendary."
What made your block special to you? Hint text: Think about the people, traditions, sounds, or places that defined it.
Was there a moment or memory that captures the spirit of your block? Hint text: Tell us a story only someone from your block could tell.
Who were the people that made your block feel like home? Hint text: Neighbors, elders, friends, store owners — name who mattered and why.
What lessons did growing up on your block teach you? Hint text: How did your block prepare you for life?
What’s something outsiders never understood about your block? Hint text: A myth, reputation, or misunderstood truth you want to correct.
The Legacy
What’s changed about your block since you were a kid? Hint text: Has it grown, declined, or transformed? How does that make you feel?
If your block could talk, what would it say to the next generation? Hint text: Write a message in your block’s voice — what would it want remembered?
Upload a photo or image that represents your block (optional): Limit: 1 file | Accepted formats: JPG, PNG, PDF | Max size: 10MB
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Permissions
Publishing Permission
I give permission for my story and/or photo to be published in One Purpose Magazine’s “Ode to the Block” issue.
Editing Acknowledgment
I understand my submission may be edited for clarity or length.
Thank you for sharing your story.
Every block has a heartbeat — and yours helped shape the rhythm of who you are.You’ll receive an email confirmation shortly from One Purpose Magazine.
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