LaRoyce Hawkins, Chicago P.D.’s Kevin Atwater, brought his hometown pride to life at a 2024 Chicago charity event that became a fan-favorite moment. On September 28, 2024, Hawkins hosted a “South Side Heroes” fundraiser at Harold Washington Cultural Center, raising funds for youth arts programs in his native Harvey, Illinois. Joined by P.D. co-stars Marina Squerciati and Patrick John Flueger, he performed spoken-word poetry, shared set stories, and led a Q&A, delighting locals. Photos of Hawkins hugging kids, posted on his Instagram, drew comments like “Atwater’s heart is Chicago’s heart!”
The event wasn’t just a night out—it reflected Hawkins’ commitment to his roots, mirroring Atwater’s Season 12 arc as a mentor to teens caught in Reid’s carjacking scheme. Born in Chicago’s south suburbs, Hawkins often credits his theater background at Thornton High for his empathy, seen in Atwater’s quiet strength. His 2024 speech, praising community resilience, echoed P.D.’s themes of loyalty and redemption. Squerciati’s post, joking about Hawkins’ “endless energy,” showed cast camaraderie, with Flueger leading a crowd chant for Season 12.
Fans on X called the night “peak Chicago,” tying it to P.D.’s authenticity—Hawkins filmed nearby in Bronzeville that week. His work with G.E.M.S., a nonprofit for at-risk youth, parallels Atwater’s outreach, blurring lines between actor and role. The event raised $50,000, per local reports, funding scholarships Hawkins championed. For viewers, seeing him bridge P.D.’s fiction with real impact—while Marina and Patrick cheered—felt like an Intelligence Unit win, proving the show’s spirit lives in its stars’ actions.
