Spring Program Update

When Y.O.U. transitioned to virtual programming a year ago, we had no idea that we would remain virtual this long. Now, Y.O.U. is proud to share that in-person programming has resumed at four of our school sites. In February, Y.O.U. began supporting in-person hybrid learning during the school day at four of our partner schools: Walker and Washington Elementary Schools in Evanston and Edison Elementary and Lincoln Junior High in Niles Township. On April 19th, when partnering School District 69 transitions to full-day in-person learning, Y.O.U. will transition from school-day programming to our traditional afterschool program model at Edison and Lincoln Schools.

Y.O.U. is developing safe ways for middle school youth in Evanston to gather in person for program options this spring. We also have begun planning for safe, in-person programs for all of our youth this summer. During this time of transition, Y.O.U. continues virtual programming for youth who remain in remote learning. Our program plans continue to be made in collaboration with our partnering school districts and guided by safety and the needs of our youth and families. 

For all youth, Y.O.U. provides both academic support and enrichment programming. Academic support includes support with independent learning assignments, tutoring, goal setting, and social-emotional check-ins. Current enrichment programming includes a focus on team building, literacy, STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math), and social justice. All of our clinical and outreach services, including counseling, case management, and our 24/7 youth housing hotline, have continued without interruption, primarily through virtual and telehealth models.

Y.O.U. has learned much over the last year. This time has served as an important reminder of the need for our work, of the inequities that continue to manifest themselves in our community, and of what we can accomplish when we come together. We are beyond grateful for our generous community as we continue to meet the emerging needs of youth and families.