There’s a lot to be downcast about during these harsh times, but ingenious and resourceful Illinoisans continue to make us proud. Darius Mason, a seventh grader from Chicago’s South Side, is one young man spending time to help others even as he’s faced loss.

Darius, who had no previous experience in sewing, learned how to sew and began collecting fabrics to make masks for family and friends who were essential workers. Since then, he has expanded his clientele to include various essential workers in his community, like police officers, detention center employees and nurses. With the help of his family members, he has sewn more than 400 masks.

“I wanted to help protect people who are in need and help everybody be safe,” he said. “Everybody’s trying to work on this together.”

Darius, who lost his great-great aunt to coronavirus, said he’s working to create masks in the hopes of protecting others. He plans to balance his home life and schoolwork while he continues to make masks as long as there is a need for them.

If you would like to donate materials to Darius and his family, email cikeammason@gmail.com.