The Mayor Youth Advisory Council’s “Project Shoe City.”

Mayor Dave Wood’s Youth Advisory Council has been working on a unique addition to the beloved City of Mishawaka. This new installation has been named “Project Shoe City” and has sparked nostalgia amongst different generations who surround the community.

Mayor Dave Wood challenges the MYAC to create something that will forever leave a mark on the City of Mishawaka. Every two years, the MYAC does just that. This year, they took on “Project Shoe City.”

“The idea is to give our young people a real voice and the opportunity to lead,” states Mayor Dave Wood, “leadership starts early, and decisions made by our youth today can shape Mishawaka’s future tomorrow.”

The Mayor Dave Wood Youth Advisory Council has been working passionately on this project, demonstrating their leadership skills and homage to Mishawaka’s heritage. Not only have they been fundraising for this dream, but they surpassed the fundraising goal of $35,000 and achieved over $63,000.

The MYAC took inspiration for their project from the Red Ball Jets athletic shoes. Red Ball Jets athletic shoes were once manufactured in Mishawaka. Based in Mishawaka was the Ball Band Company, one of the oldest shoe manufacturers in the United States, earning Mishawaka the nickname “Shoe City USA” back in the 1890s. This project will unite all generations surrounding Mishawaka.

The countless efforts and planning that went into “Project Shoe City” showcases that “youth voices matter.”

A MYAC member, AJ Rimelspach, states “This project was entirely driven by us students. It’s proof that young people can lead, create, and make an impact, shares Rimelspach. “Project Shoe City isn’t just about art- it’s about understanding where we came from so, we can shape where we’re going.”

The MYAC are making sure the legacy of Red Ball Jets lives on, a crucial part in Mishawaka’s heritage. Honoring the history of the City is a strong motivating factor, and the MYAC’s hard work will not go unnoticed. Soon, the shoes will be displayed all over Mishawaka, sharing the message that when young minds come together, history will be made.