Summer's Coming: Help Us Keep Essential Programming Funded
Together, we've made an impact— let's continue to build hope this summer.
Chicago’s youth are resilient, passionate, and full of potential — traits they show every day in their schools, neighborhoods, and communities. Yet despite these strengths, they continue to face enormous challenges.
A city-wide youth survey conducted by A Better Chicago in summer 2024 revealed that Chicago youth witness community violence at alarming levels, with nearly 1 in 4 youth in the survey saying they witness it weekly. The report goes on to say that exposure to violence impacts young people’s social, emotional, behavioral, and academic growth, whether or not they are directly involved.
Memorial Day marks the unofficial start of summer in Chicago — and historically, a surge in violence. According to the University of Chicago Crime Lab, violence tends to increase during the summer months, with shootings peaking and accounting for 38% of the total annual incidents. July alone can contribute 12% of those incidents.
Funding disruption at the state and federal level threaten our impact— your support is more critical than ever.
One thing is clear—the youth tell us they rely on community-based programs and want greater access to these opportunities.Those involved in out-of-school programs feel more optimistic and are more likely to aspire to a four-year college degree.
Programs such as our Keeping Grounded Summer Internship Program are essential violence prevention strategies. By providing youth with consistent mentorship, workforce development, paid internships, social-emotional learning, and safe spaces to gather and grow this summer, we offer real alternatives for youth faced with these realities.
You can can also make a tax-deductible donation using our easy Text To Donate option:
Text OFO to 366283
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