Arts based youth programs

Arts, Writing, Music in school and non-school programs

View the websites below and borrow ideas that could be used in your own school or non-school program

 

ARTS EDUCATION IN CHICAGO - ARTLOOK MAP
https://artlookmap.com/
Search the map for schools and arts organizations in Chicago. Hosted by Ingenuity

 

CHANGING WORLDS - EDUCATIONAL ARTS NPO IN CHICAGO
https://www.changingworlds.org/
Changing Worlds is an educational arts nonprofit organization whose mission is to foster inclusive communities through oral history, writing and art programs that improve student learning, affirm identity and enhance cross-cultural understanding.

 

CHICAGO AREA WRITING PROJECT
https://cawpchicago.org/about/
From the web site: "The Chicago Area Writing Project (CAWP) is based at the University of Illinois at Chicago, and since its founding in 1979, CAWP has trained more than 21,000 teachers based on the highly acclaimed Bay Area Writing Project  “teachers-teaching-teachers” model to improve their instruction of writing.  CAWP is one of over 200 sites of the National Writing Project and is one of six NWP sites in Illinois."

CHILD'S PLAY TOURING THEATER - PERFORMS STORIES AND POEMS WRITTEN BY YOUN AUTHORS
http://www.cptt.org/
From the website: "Founded in 1978, Child's Play Touring Theatre was the first theatre company to realize the value of children's own writing and perform exclusively stories and poems written by young authors. Our goal is to help children understand the value and significance that writing and reading has on their lives."

CON TEXTOS - WRITING BASED PREVENTION PROGRAMS
https://contextos.org/
From the website:  "Con Textos launched in 2011 to transform traditional, rote education into dynamic learning environments that promote deep-thinking, engaged dialogue, and expression." Programs are in Chicago and El Salvador and focus on 1) juveniles and adults who are awaiting trail, or incarcerated; 2) schools, and 3) community workforce development, reentry, alternative sentencing, and community centers that reach individuals who are on probation, house arrest, just out-of-jail, or at elevated risk for violence involvement. 

CREATE NOW! AN LA BASED PROGRAM.
https://www.createnow.org/
The goal of Create Now! is to teach children to express themselves creatively through all of the arts, including dance, animation, graphic design, ceramics, etc. This is a Hollywood, CA. based program which targets at-risk and high-risk youth and its web site has many examples of what a program like this can accomplish.

 

CULTURAL ASSET MAPPING PROJECT - CHICAGO
https://camp-chiparks.hub.arcgis.com/
From the website: "The Cultural Asset Mapping Project (C.A.M.P.) is a community storytelling and data visualization project started in 2020, where Chicago artists and community story tellers collaborate to better understand artistic excellence and cultural vibrancy in our communities."   View the  map on this page and see arts/cultural organizations in all parts of Chicago.

Another version, created by Free Street Media, shows organizations in South Central Chicago.
View at  https://www.google.com/maps/d/viewer?mid=1gUX_nKkmF5bngnBqO1J3q8zje2kR3mb9&shorturl=1&ll=41.81944247764153%2C-87.65377654999999&z=12

FORWARD MOMENTUM CHICAGO - INSPIRES POSSIBILITIES THROUGH DANCE EDUCATION PROGRAMS
https://www.forwardmomentumchicago.org/
From the website: "Forward Momentum Chicago programs are designed to increase dance skills and awareness, and to foster creativity, critical thinking, and social-emotional learning. Forward Momentum Chicago offers a variety of dance experiences for all ages and ability levels."

HAPPINESS CLUB, THE
http://www.thehappinessclub.com/
Located in the Chicago area, The Happiness Club's mission is to inspire and enable young people to embrace positive values, to openly express themselves with conviction and courage, to actively participate in developing individual skills and talents, and to confidently pursue productive futures as responsible, contributing members of society.

ILLINOIS WRITING PROJECT
https://www.illinoiswritingproject.com/
From the web site "The Illinois Writing Project helps teachers build capacity and resources to employ the best of what is known about writers and writing. We offer flexible, transformative, sustainable professional development to help teachers guide students to write with thoughtfulness, skill, and enjoyment. Locally based but nationally connected, we are one of nearly 200 sites in the National Writing Project network."

INTONATION MUSIC WORKSHOP - CHICAGO
https://www.intonationmusic.org/
From the web site: "The Intonation Music Workshop empowers children to become rock stars on every stage in life through innovative music education. Using donated instruments and a unique pop-band curriculum, our in-school, after-school and summer music programs provide kids age 6-17 in Chicago’s underserved communities with access to instruction and performance opportunities in a safe and positive environment, sparking for many a life-changing sense of accomplishment and belonging."

LUV CITY - ENGAGES YOUTH IN MULTIMEDIA PRODUCTION
https://luvcity.org/
From the website: "LUV City offers a 5-week Summer Institute where Chicago youth are immersed in workshops in filmmaking, editing, sound design, multimedia production, acting, storytelling and music production. Youth are invited to continue on with programming during fall, winter and spring semesters."

MARWIN - ARTS EDUCATION FOR INNER CITY CHICAGO YOUTH
https://marwen.org/what-we-do
From the web site: "Marwen achieves its mission by providing free visual arts classes to under-served Chicago youth in 6 - 12 grades.  Marwen also provides free college and career counseling to high school students and their families who are interested in pursuing a career in the visual arts or wish to continue their education beyond high school." 

MERIT SCHOOL OF MUSIC - CHICAGO
https://meritmusic.org/about-merit/
From the web site: "Merit School of Music provides instruction to more than 4,000 children each year at public, parochial, charter and private school and community centers across Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana through our off-site program called Bridges: Partners in Music."

MOVING IN THE SPIRIT (MITS)
https://www.movinginthespirit.org/
From the web site: "Moving in the Spirit is a nationally-recognized youth development program that uses the art of dance to positively transform the lives of children and teens in Atlanta, Georgia. Through programs that integrate high-quality dance instruction with performance, leadership and mentor opportunities, Moving in the Spirit impacts over 200 children and teens annually, encouraging them to overcome the obstacles they face each day and realize their highest potential.

SPHINX ORGANIZATION - TRANSFORMING LIVES THROUGH ARTS - DETROIT
https://www.sphinxmusic.org/
From the website: "The Sphinx Organization is the social justice organization dedicated to transforming lives through the power of diversity in the arts. Sphinx’s four program areas – Education & Access, Artist Development, Performing Artists, and Arts Leadership – form a pipeline that develops and supports diversity and inclusion in classical music at every level: music education, artists performing on stage, the repertoire and programing being performed, the communities represented in audiences, and the artistic and administrative leadership within the field."

THE ALL STARS PROJECT OF CHICAGO - PERFORMANCE ARTS
https://allstars.org/locations/chicago/
From the web site: "We transform the lives of youth and poor communities using the developmental power of performance, in partnership with caring adults.  In All Stars programs, people learn new performances onstage and off. They try new things, become more worldly and begin to create new possibilities for themselves and their communities." In Chicago the Allstars Project is also hosting an annual networking conference and quarterly networking events.

THE FIREHOUSE COMMUNITY ARTS CENTER - CHICAGO
https://thefcac.org/
From the web site: "The Firehouse offers daily arts training and mentoring to youth and young adults in a creative and nurturing environment.  Youth (ages 12-25) will have opportunities to engage in workshops involving music production, dance, graphic arts, computer technology, culinary art, photography, and entrepreneurship. Providing Arts as Redemptive Transformation in education though these disciplines."

THE MIRACLE CENTER - ARTS INCUBATOR MODEL
https://www.themiraclecenter.org/
From the web site: "The Miracle Center (TMC) is a 501 (c)3 faith-based organization dedicated to providing youth from educationally and/or economically disadvantaged communities between the ages of 11 to 22 a socio-emotionally supportive environment for personal growth, creative and academic development. TMC enables young people to learn the social skills, discipline, self-advocacy and character-building tools needed to become successful students, committed family members, and responsible citizens preventing them from engaging in unwanted pregnancy, gang violence, and drugs-use."

TIME IN - NYC ARTS BASED YOUTH DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM
https://www.timeinkids.org/
From the web site: "Time In is a groundbreaking arts initiative that brings some of New York’s youngest, most at-risk public school children out of underserved classrooms in Harlem and the South Bronx, and into the world of the living arts every week of the school year as part of their normal school day. Founded in 2006, Time In transforms the lives of inner city children, as it inspires learning and engagement in a nurturing, multi-sensorial learning environment that enriches children’s lives and helps them reach their fullest potential.

URBAN GATEWAYS - BRINGS ARTS TO CHICAGO YOUTH
https://urbangateways.org/
From the web site: "Urban Gateways delivers high-quality, accessible arts experiences to young people in Chicago. From visual arts residencies to live performances and media arts apprenticeships, our programs connect youth with professional artists to encourage self-expression and social change."

YOUNG CHICAGO AUTHORS
https://youngchicagoauthors.org/
From the web site: "Since 1991, Young Chicago Authors has been transforming the lives of young people by cultivating their voices through writing, publication, and performance education."

YOUTH COMMUNICATIONS - NEW YORK
https://youthcomm.org/
From the web site: "Youth Communication provides powerful, teen-written stories and professional development to help educators and youth workers engage struggling youth. Our literacy-rich training model helps teachers, after-school workers, counselors, and other professionals to connect with the teens they serve and build their social and emotional learning skills."

e-mentoring, tutoring

e-Mentor and e-Tutor Programs

 

VIRTUAL VOLUNTEERING WIKI
http://www.coyotecommunications.com/vvwiki/
This Wiki is a library of more than 100 research articles about virtual volunteering, compiled by Jayne Cravens since the mid 1990s.  As you're building your e-Mentoring and e-Tutoring program, or just working to improve  your site-based program, finding virtual volunteers to help you is always a challenge.

 

TIPS FOR ADDING E-MENTORING TO SITE BASED PROGRAMS
https://symba.io/5-key-takeaways-2021-national-mentoring-summit/
This article offers five takeaways from the January 2021 National Mentoring Summit and focused on planning needed to build a quality virtual mentoring strategy on top of an existing face-to-face program.  The steps apply to starting a new program or enhancing an existing program.

 

Models to learn from:

CHAPTER ONE - CONNECTS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL KIDS WITH E-TUTORS
https://www.chapterone.org/about
From the web site:  "Chapter One provides 1:1 reading support at the time students need it most: Kindergarten, first and second grade."

 

CRICKET TOGETHER 1-ON-1 E-MENTORING PLATFORM
https://cricketmedia.com/crickettogether/
From the website: CricketTogether's mission is "To connect, support, and sustain 1:1 eMentoring relationships that empower every child to unlock their full personal and academic potential."  Focus is on children in grades 3-8.

 

E-COUNSELING 2.0 - NEW WAVE OF E-MENTORING
https://hechingerreport.org/e-counseling-2-0-can-a-new-wave-of-virtual-guidance-help/
This 2016 article describes some emerging e-Mentoring formats that are helping youth stay in college.

 

E-PALS GLOBAL COMMUNITY
https://www.epals.com/#/connections
From the web site: "ePALS eMentoring  is a web-based multilingual tool designed by ePALS, the leader in student-safe email, to enable corporate and organizational volunteers to mentor students online. ePALs is a global collaboration portal for teachers, students, mentors."

 

iCouldBe.org eMentoring
https://www.icouldbe.org/default.asp
From the web site: "The mission of iCouldBe is to provide at-risk middle and high school students with an online community of professional mentors, empowering teens to stay in school, plan for future careers, and achieve in life."

 

I-MENTOR - TECHNOLOGY-ENABLED MENTORING
https://imentor.org/who-we-are/model
From the web site: "iMentor's model harnesses the power of long-term, personal relationships to help students succeed. We partner with high schools in low-income communities, where a majority of students served will be first-generation college graduates. Each year, we recruit thousands of volunteers who commit to mentor a high school student for at least three years." Now with branches in New York, Chicago, Bay Area and Baltimore.

 

PA E-MENTOR PROGRAM
https://www.pa-ementor.org/#1
From the Program Site:  "The Program uses working and retired adults and mature college students serving as online career mentors, as well as a structured online curriculum to help give teens and young adults the knowledge and skills they need to "get real" about their futures - "real" about the demands and opportunities within the job market, and "real" about a plan that leads to their eventual success."

 

STEM MENTOR MATCHING EXCHANGE - ON-LINE
http://help.mentormatchingengine.org/mme-mentor#mentoring-on-mme
The Mentor Matching Exchange is an app that enables students to connect with STEM mentors. It's a product of the Illinois Science & Technology Coalition which you can learn about at https://www.istcoalition.org/


STEP UP TUTORING - FREE 1-0N-1 MATH AND LITERACY TUTORING, CONDUCTED ONLINE WITH A TRAINED, CONSISTENT, TUTOR
https://www.stepuptutoring.org/
From the website: "Step Up Tutoring is a California-based nonprofit that drives student success by providing virtual high-impact tutoring and mentorship to elementary and middle school students in under-resourced communities."  Browse the website to learn more.


TEENS TUTOR TEENS - OFFERS FREE TUTORING TO OTHER TEENS
https://www.teenstutorteens.com/
From the website: "Teens Tutor Teens has chapters in Georgia and four other states. Teens can receive free tutoring from other teens who have proven to be academically exceptional in their community. Teens who are economically disadvantaged are given priority.


UPCHIEVE - NONPROFIT ED-TECH INITIATIVE SUPPORTS NEW YORK AREA
https://upchieve.org/mission
From the web site: "UPchieve is a nonprofit ed-tech initiative that provides free, online, and on-demand educational and guidance services to high school students in the U.S. Our goal is to making the college application process simple for all students - not just those with educated, financially stable, and supportive parents. Some of the students we try to help include those who are low income, minorities, LGBTQ, immigrants, or the first in their family to go to college."

 

 

Additional Youth Serving Programs

Learn from other youth serving programs

When forming the Tutor/Mentor Connection in 1993 we wanted to help existing programs constantly
improve and new program start where needed.

To support that effort we began building a library of existing Chicago non-school, volunteer-based, tutoring and/or mentoring programs and we began collecting links to other types of learning programs in Chicago and in other parts of the USA and the world. Using this information people can see what other programs are doing to help kids and they can borrow ideas to that they can use in their own programs.

The list of Chicago area programs can be found at this link.


Open the links below to find information about other programs.

Arts Music based programs - click here

STEM focus - click here

e-Mentoring; e-Tutoring - click here

Youth as Leaders; service learning - click here

Programs beyond Chicago area - click here

International programs - click here

Intermediaries, networks, associations - click here

Program Locators/Directories - click here

Volunteer Recruitment platforms - click here

If you find broken links please send information to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Chicago Suburbs - Tutor and/or Mentor Programs

Tutor and/or Mentor Programs in Chicago Suburbs

Chicago North Suburbs

 

BIG BROTHERS, BIG SISTERS IN LAKE COUNTY
https://bbbschgo.org/
Big Brothers, Big Sisters is the most widely recognized name in mentoring. Activities in Lake County are coordinated by the BBBS Metropolitan Chicago office, which is in downtown Chicago. Browse the site to learn how you can become a mentor or enroll a youth.

 

BRIDGE YOUTH & FAMILY SERVICES MENTORING PROGRAM
https://www.bridgeyouth.org/
From the web site: "The Bridge Youth Advocacy Program is a mentoring program for children between 7 and 15 years old. Mentoring is a proven method of promoting social skill development and healthy decision-making by teaching through example. Mentors help at-risk youth develop a more positive outlook on their futures, improve academically, and get along better with their peers and family members."

 

COLLEGE BOUND OPPORTUNITIES - MENTORING PROGRAM
https://cbo4success.org/mentoring/
From the web site: "Mentoring is the key component of the CBO program and begins immediately after the student’s acceptance into CBO. Spanning the full six years of the CBO program, the one-to-one mentor relationships provide the necessary guidance for the scholars to make the right decisions in their academic and personal lives. They inspire our scholars, help them dream big, set realistic goals, provide feedback and authority, encourage accountability and celebrate successes with them. Because most of the students in the CBO program are the first in their families to go to college, a mentoring relationship can provide the motivation and care a student needs in that moment and over time."

 

MAINESTAY YOUTH & FAMILY SERVICES - MENTORING
https://mainetown.com/departments/mainestay/youth_mentoring.php
From the web site: " MaineStay offers an on-site evening mentoring program in partnership with Big Brothers Big Sisters. Participation is open to students in grades 4-8 who live or attend school in Maine Township and limited to 20 matched pairs of the same gender. Meetings are held on the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays of each month from 6-7:30 PM at the Maine Township Town Hall. There is no cost for youth to participate."

 

OMNI YOUTH SERVICES
https://koi-clarinet-kxhz.squarespace.com/counseling/#schoolbasedgroups
From the web site: "In response to community needs, OMNI offers programs in cooperation with school personnel in the school setting. Past programs have addressed both prevention and intervention of areas such as bullying, gang involvement, suicide and substance use/abuse, parenting adolescents, social skills, and the transition to high school. Consultation and program development can be provided for individual school issues or needs.

 

READING POWER, INC
https://www.readingpowerinc.org/
From the web site: "Reading Power helps Pre-K through 2nd grade students in North Chicago and Zion, Illinois become successful and independent readers and writers through one-to-one literacy tutoring for elementary children."

 

YOUTH OPPORTUNITY UNLIMITED - Y.O.U. EVANSTON
https://youthopportunity.org/strategy/goals-strategies
From the web site: "Y.O.U. closes the opportunity gap by preparing youth for post-secondary and life success. We partner with families, schools, and the community to provide academic, social, and emotional supports to 1,600 youth and their families each year, ensuring every young person has the opportunity to succeed. All of Y.O.U.'s services are relationship-based and free for youth and families."

 

Chicago West Suburbs

BIG BROTHERS, BIG SISTERS OF WILL & GRUNDY COUNTIES
https://bbbswillgrundy.org/
BBBS of Will & Grundy Counties connects volunteer mentors with youth in traditional one-on-one mentoring and in virtual mentoring via the Internet. Visit the web site and see how you can get involved.

 

CREO DUPAGE
https://creodupage.org/our-story
From the web site: "CREO DuPage (aka CREO) is a nonprofit program (started in 2019) focused on helping motivated Hispanic/Latino/Latinx students attain the future they yearn for – making possible what may seem impossible. We want to break away from misconceptions by changing the college narrative in the community and enabling our students to successfully prepare for and complete their studies.

 

ELGIN COMMUNITY COLLEGE YOUTH LEADERSHIP ACADEMY
https://www.ylacademy.org/
From the web site: "The Youth Leadership Academy (YLA) program is delivered through a diverse team of trainers, mentors and other volunteers who meet with cadets an average of two Saturday mornings per month during the academic year. There are close to 20 sessions total in an academic year. Sessions are usually held on Saturdays beginning at 9:00 am and conclude at 12:00 noon. The goal of the YLA curriculum is to provide cadets with the support and experiences that allow them to reach their full potential as individuals who are still very young and responsible for making important choices about their adult life. There are three training concepts that the YLA uses in combination to deliver a unique program to our cadets to help them accomplish this: A) Self-Determination, B) College Readiness, and C) Service Learning."

 

ETERNAL LIGHT COMMUNITY SERVICES
https://eternal-light-srvces.tripod.com/id2.html
From the web site: "Eternal Light Community Services was founded by Reverend Regi Ratliff in 1997. Based in the Village of Maywood, and focusing on the Proviso Township area, the mission of Eternal Light is to provide services that would allow today’s youth to reach their fullest potential. Eternal Light strives to save a community with promise. Providing guidance, instilling self-esteem, and empowering youths, as well as their parents, to invest in themselves and their future strengthen a community. Various workshops hosted by Eternal Light are Toastmaster’s Public Speaking, Tutoring & Mentoring, Teen Parenting Program, Financial Literacy, and Poetry"

 

KIDS GOLF FOUNDATION - MENTORING PROGRAM
https://www.kidsgolffoundation.org/events/mentoring-events/
From the web site: "Other Side Of The Green (male version) and Thinking Outside The Tee Box (female version) are annual mentoring events that pair a junior golfer age 11-17 with a business professional in the career they are interested in for a nine-hole scramble at Rich Harvest Farms. During the event, participants talk to the business professionals about their experience and learn valuable life skills. The event was created to show boys and girls how to use the sport of golf as a vehicle to enhance their future careers."

 

MAYWOOD YOUTH MENTORING
https://maywoodyouthmentoring.org/MaywoodYouthMentoring.org/About_MYM.html
This program has been providing a variety of mentoring and youth enrichment programs in Maywood, IL since 1994. On this link you can click into pages describing a girls mentoring program and a boys mentoring program, while also seeing other opportunities in Maywood to engage youth.

 

THE EDUCATION CENTER - NAPERVILLE
https://www.theeducationcenter.org/Mission
From the web site: "The Education Center was founded with the mission of providing counseling services for young people and keeping them a part of the community. The staff works tirelessly with thousands of children, youth and families each year. Help comes to those with learning disabilities, lack of study skills, and serious school issues. A mentoring program is included."

 

THE FIG FACTOR FOUNDATION - FOCUSES ON LATINO GIRLS AGE 15-25
http://www.thefigfactor.org/what-we-do/
From the web site: "We are a non-for profit organization dedicated to giving vision, direction, and structure to young Latinas. Our mission is to become a powerful catalyst for Latinas ages 15-25 to pursue their dreams by providing educational leadership platforms, mentorship, and powerful experiences through the context of sisterhood. Our MENTOR PROGRAM provides each graduate with a female mentor that will support them for six months with monthly meetings and regular check?in calls. Our volunteer mentors are part of a team of caring adults that bring new ideas, encourage positive development and help participants define their goals and identify action to take. Graduates become accountable through sustaining support."

 

THE G.L.A.R.E CLUB
http://www.theglareclub.org/
From the web site: "The G.L.A.R.E Club’s program provides girls with many opportunities including life skill enhancement, leadership development, character building, educational and social development. This is accomplished through mentoring, arts, literacy, recreational activities, self awareness, respect, and empowerment. Programs in the past have taken place at the offices of Creative Alliance Group, located in Westchester, Illinois."

 

THE LEADERSHOP: MENTORING AND YOUTH PROGRAMS
https://theleadershop.org/programs/mentoring-program/
From the web site: "The LeaderShop offers a variety of programs designed to help today’s youth build confidence, knowledge and leadership. The mentoring program establishes a one-to-one relationship between a screened and trained adult volunteer and a child (ages 5 through 12) in need of additional adult contact, guidance and support. There are all different types of kids involved in the program. Youth are from various backgrounds: some reside in a single parent household, some live in a group home, some live with both parents, and all have a need for extra support. Volunteers also vary by age, cultural backgrounds and interests. In an effort to create the best match possible, youth and adults are matched by the Mentor Coordinator according to their interests, not by length of time on the waiting list. The expectation is that the match will meet weekly for at least a year." Located in LaGrange, IL.

 

WILLOWBROOK CORNER - AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM
http://www.thecommunityhouse.org/what-we-do/willowbrook-corner/
From the web site: "The Community House offers education and support programs for residents of the Willowbrook Corner neighborhood. We strive to provide a space where children can learn and grow in a safe and supportive environment, and we also offer programs and support for parents. Offerings include an After School Program, a Summer Learning Program, and special events sponsored by the Willowbrook Corner Coalition; an umbrella group of community agencies working together to meet the unique needs of families in unincorporated Willowbrook."

 

Chicago South Suburbs

 

JONES MEMORIAL COMMUNITY CENTER OF CHICAGO HEIGHTS
https://www.jonescenter.org/programs.html
As part of Jones Memorial Community Center's out-of-school time programs include: # After School Club - Educational, social, and recreational activities for ages 5-17

# Tutoring / Mentoring - Specialized help for youth with greater academic needs

# Mentoring - One-on-One relationships with caring adults for 4th-8th graders

# Computer Learning Center - Hands-on computer training utilizing PLATO software and online capabilities

 


Tutor and/or Mentor Programs in Illinois, outside of Chicago region

CHAMPAIGN URBANA 1-TO-1 MENTORING PROGRAM
https://www.cu1to1.org/
From the web site: "C-U One-to-One Mentoring is the school-based mentoring program of the Champaign Unit 4 and Urbana District #116 Schools. Mentoring is about building relationships of trust between a young person and an adult for the purpose of providing support, encouragement and guidance. Mentors are matched one-on-one with a student of their own gender when the student is in 3rd-7th grade. Mentors meet with their 'mentees' for one hour a week during the school day on school grounds. They may read together, play games, go for a walk, workout in the gym, discuss current events, work on a school project or just talk. Coordinators at each building help provide activity suggestions, training and support."

 

Tutor and/or Mentor Programs – NW Indiana


BOYS AND GIRLS CLUBS OF GREATER NORTHWEST INDIANA - EDUCATION AND CAREER PROGRAMS
https://www.bgcgreaternwi.org/
From the web site: "Core Programs at each club engage our youth in activities with adults, peers and family members that develop self esteem and support our youth in reaching their full potential. Based on physical, emotional, cultural and the social needs and interests of our youth, while recognizing developmental principles, Clubs offer program activities in five areas (which are described on the web site)."

 

If you know of other programs that should be added contact Dan Bassill at tutormentor 2 @ earthlink dot net.

 

 

Chicago Area School Based Tutor Mentor

School Based Tutor and/or Mentor Programs Serving Chicago Area

 

ASPIRA INC. OF ILLINOIS - YOUTH DEVELOPMENT CENTER
https://aspirail.org/youth-development-center/21st-century-programs-high-school/
ASPIRA of Illinois operates a variety of youth development programs in partnership with Chicago Public Schools.  This link points to their 21st Century Community Learning Center. 

BIG SHOULDERS FUND - STOCK MARKET PROGRAM
http://bigshouldersfund.org/our-programs/stock-market-program/
From the web site: "Big Shoulders Fund developed the Stock Market Program to bring business professionals into eighth grade classrooms to teach basic concepts related to the stock market, investing, and careers in business. Under the leadership of Big Shoulders Fund Directors Charlie Bobrinskoy and Jim Hoeg, students in the program build a virtual portfolio tied to actual financial incentives for their school. Starting with 12 schools back in 2007, the program has expanded to 61 schools by the 2018-2019 school year."

BLACK STAR PROJECT - FOCUS ON EDUCATION FOR YOUTH IN UNDERSERVED COMMUNITIES
https://www.blackstarproject.org/programs
This page provides a description of five Black Star Project youth programs including the Phillip Jackson Youth Mentoring Program, Homework Help and Tutoring, Young Black Men of Honor and more. 

BOUNCE FOR JOY PROJECT
http://www.bounceforjoyproject.org/our-work
From the web site: "Our program is an adult-supervised mentors in art, fitness and stem activities mobile program. BFJP concept is delivered on-site in schools, summer camps, churches and community centers, which we provide 6 or 8 weeks three component program. The program includes mentoring art, fitness internship, and college prep for ages 16-18 that challenge youth. BFJP mentor and arts programs educate youth on how to relieve stress and anger. We raise awareness of solutions on early intervention in stress relief, anxiety and anger management."

 

DREAMS FOR KIDS – PART OF GCE LAB SCHOOL
https://gcelabschool.org/2021/02/exciting-things-to-come-for-gce-lab-school-and-dreams-for-kids/
https://dreamsforkids.org/
From the website: “Dreams for Kids has helped develop young social entrepreneurs for many years. In 2021 the program merged with GCE Lab School which will expand the impact of the Dream Leaders program and bring back the Dreams for Kids award-winning “We are the Change” Conferences.“

 

CHANGING WORLDS - AFTERSCHOOL ARTS AND WRITING PROGRAMS
https://www.changingworlds.org/our-impact/
From the web site: "Changing Worlds exists to foster inclusive communities through oral history, writing and art programs that improve student learning, affirm identity and enhance cross-cultural understanding. Our programming integrates writing, oral history, drama, dance and visual art into uniquely designed curriculums to examine culture, family history and community. This dynamic approach helps participants explore their own backgrounds, promotes cultural understanding and strengthens academic and artistic skills. Our Teaching Artists and Literacy Specialists bring a wealth of professional experience to the classroom and after-school setting. They introduce students to unique cultural perspectives through their artistic mediums and approaches to writing."

 

CHICAGO PUBLIC LIBRARIES OFFER DROP IN HOMEWORK HELP
https://www.chipublib.org/news/free-homework-help/
From the web site: "Since Sept. 2017  drop-in homework help is available for children and their parents at CPL locations citywide. Certified teachers and trained homework helpers get kids focused and help them find the right learning strategies and the best resources for finishing their homework assignments."

 

CIRCLE URBAN MINISTRIES - AUSTIN NEIGHBORHOOD
https://circleurban.org/ministries/youth-program/
From the web site: "Circle Urban Ministries addresses the issue of low standardized test scores using three interrelated strategies that include Self-Image Building, Language and Literacy Development and Life Skills Training. Circle Urban Ministries’ coaches and mentors go above and beyond the traditional expectations to prepare students for success, both academically and socially. We work with great tenacity to overcome the challenges of Academic Shut-Down." Programs are offered at local elementary and high schools.  The C4S After school & Summer Enrichment Programs are fee-based and serves scholars from age 5-13.   Visit web site to see description of the problem, their solution and their program model.

 

COOL CLASSICS - A READING PROGRAM
https://coolclassicschicago.org/
From the web site: "Cool Classics! works with public elementary school students to promote critical thinking and a love of literature. We focus on just one classic book at a time, and in 20 to 25 sessions of varied activities, we build a universe of art, culture, humanities, and thematic ideas around that book. Literally, our students are led to experience how the text of a book opens up a whole world of creative imagination, sharpening the skills one needs for succeeding in the real world."

 

COPS & KIDS CHESS INITIATIVE - CHICAGO
https://rknights.org/checkmate-violence/
From the web site: "The Chicago Public Schools and Renaissance Knights Chess Foundation, in partnership with the Chicago Police Department, developed the Cops & Kids Chess initiative as a year-round after-school program for elementary and high school students which includes a tournament with police officers and student players. The program is intended to promote non-violence and increase positive relationships with youth and police officers while utilizing the game of chess as the vehicle for engagement."


GIRLS MENTORSHIP PROGRAMS OF CHICAGO WOMEN IN  PHILANTHROPY
https://www.cwiponline.org/girls-program
CWIP offers one program for 4th, 5th and 6th grade girls at Holy Family School in North Lawndale.  A second focuses on bringing opportunities for leadership development to girls of all ages. It's not clear if this is limited to students a Holy Family School. Look at the information on the website and ask CWIP for more information.

GIRLS RULE - INFORMAL EDUCATION PROGRAMS FOR GIRLS 7-18
http://www.girlz-rule.org/about.html
From the web site: "Girls Rule! is a goal driven organization whose mission is to empower and aid in the self development of young ladies, ages 7 – 18 who reside in urban communities. Girls Rule! develops research-based informal education programs that encourage girls to take risks and master physical, intellectual and emotional challenges. Major programs address math and science education, pregnancy, drug abuse and HIV prevention, leadership, media literacy, economic literacy, adolescent health, violence prevention and healthy lifestyles."

LION'S PRIDE MENTORING - SCHOOL BASED PEER MENTORING
https://www.lionprideinc.org/
Lion's Pride Mentoring was formed in 2017 at Baker College Prep and has spread to other Chicago schools. It became a  non-profit in 2019. It provides leadership development and college and career skills to upper-grade students who then become peer mentors to freshmen. 

MALE MOGUL INITIATIVE - MENTORING
https://malemogulinitiative.org/
From the web site: "The Male Mogul Initiative seeks to transform under resourced communities by offering youth and returning citizens leadership and entrepreneurial training. Our potential customers will hold qualities of achieving economic freedom, possess leadership qualities, creativity, and ambition. These men will also share an interest in business. The selling point for potential participants will be the opportunity to use their gifts and skill sets to create a business with unlimited profit potential, improving the community in which they live, and financial freedom."

 

MATH MOTIVATORS TUTORING PROGRAM
https://www.actuarialfoundation.org/math-motivators-tutoring-program/
This program was launched in Connecticut and came to Chicago in 2017. It operates in one school thus far. Here's a description from the web site: "The Math Motivators program relies solely on professional actuaries and college student volunteers. The students served do not have access to tutoring, or cannot afford it. The Math Motivators Program provides math tutoring in the high schools, free of charge."

M.E.A.N. GIRLS EMPOWERMENT™ -GIRLS MENTORING PROGRAM
https://www.meangirlsempowerment.org/
From the website: "Manage Emotions Avoid Negativity Girls Inc., affectionately known as M.E.A.N. Girls Empowerment™, is a charitable, tax-exempt 501(c)(3) non-profit organization serving the Chicagoland area. As the only Chicago-based girls’ mentoring program exclusively designed to tackle bullying through education, advocacy, and skill-building, M.E.A.N. Girls Empowerment provides year-round programming that combines mentorship, leadership development, mental health awareness, and community engagement. We address critical topics such as self-confidence, social-emotional learning, and conflict resolution, preparing girls to become resilient leaders in their schools and communities."  This looks like a school-based program with fees for some services.

PROJECT EXPLORATION - FOCUS ON STEM PROGRAMS
https://projectexploration.org/school-based-programs/
From the web site: "Since 1999, Project Exploration has provided a variety of out-of-school-time programs in science, technology and engineering for underrepresented youth in grades 6-12. The program’s skilled facilitators and professionals mentor and lead students in hands-on group activities, introducing them to topics that they find interesting and exciting. This science-rich education addresses challenges to equity, access, and opportunity in public education, higher education, and the professional STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) environment."

 

READING IN MOTION
https://www.readinginmotion.org/aspire-school-literacy-program
From the web site: "Reading In Motion’s goal is to get every student reading at grade level or above during their early years, especially students whose environment or other circumstances put them in greater need of support. To accomplish this, the organization partners with schools and teachers to deliver an engaging and innovative reading curriculum, in both English and Spanish, together with our on-site specialized coaches to inspire students to learn and teachers to grow."

 

REAL YOUTH PROGRAM
http://www.realprogram.org/about.htm
From the web site: "REAL is a Chicago-based, youth-centered program designed to assist children and adolescents in developing critical thinking and effective communication skills needed for life-long learning and success both in and out of school. REAL understands the importance of helping young people find a voice and perceiving themselves, as well as others, as fully human with an innate ability to be viable change agents in their respective communities and in their own lives. REAL offers young people a safe space, within the school environment, to interpret and express who they are by way of arts-based projects, critical literacy activities, and life-skills curriculum. Through dialogue and artistic expression, students become more aware of how to identify and confront personal and social challenges. In the words of one of our student founders, “REAL is a medium of expression for the previously unexpressed.”

 

RENAISSANCE KNIGHTS CHESS FOUNDATION
https://rknights.org/
From the web site: "It is the mission of the Renaissance Knights, an educational organization, to bring the many educational benefits of chess to children and young people throughout the Chicago area by providing a complete chess curriculum, enrichment programs, tournaments and events." Browse the web site to learn more. Our program is specifically designed to cultivate progressive learning for 21st century students and the skills the students acquire are imperative for them to succeed in school and for their future success in the global information society. We use chess as a powerful learning tool to assist students with grasping math concepts more quickly and improving their aptitude for reading comprehension."

 

RIDGEWOOD HIGH SCHOOL LEADERSHIP AND MENTORING PROGRAM
https://www.d234.org/student-life/mentoring-program/
From the web site: "The goal of the Mentoring & Leadership Program at Ridgewood High School is to establish a tiered -network for increased student support and achievement using the unique architecture of engaged community volunteers and stakeholders." Open the PDF brochure on the side to find more descriptive information.

 

SGA YOUTH&FAMILY SERVICES-ROSELAND CHILDREN'S INITIATIVE
https://www.sga-youth.org/services/
From the web site: "With a 105-year history of providing innovative, no cost, comprehensive services in the greater Chicago area, SGA continuously works to help children, families and communities who are facing great challenges to realize their potential. Our services are provided through four program areas, including Youth/Family, Youth Justice, Schools and Community. Services are provided throughout three regions in the greater Chicago area - West, South and City-Wide. SGA helps break the cycle of adversity and provide families with enough opportunity to change their lives and their communities. Our Cycle of Opportunity is passed down through generations, building strong foundations for families in the communities we serve."

 

SPARK - THE POSSIBILITY MOVEMENT - WORKS WITH MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENTS
http://sparkprogram.org/learn/our-organization/chicago-region/
From the web site: "Spark engages communities to provide career exploration and self-discovery opportunities that help middle school students understand, experience and pursue what’s possible. Works with students in Chicago public schools.

 

THE BLOC - TUTORING MENTORING AND BOXING
https://www.theblocchicago.org/
The Bloc uses boxing to attract teens least likely to join tutoring and mentoring groups. Operates in schools on Chicago's West side.

 

THE SUPPORT GROUP
https://thesupportgroup.org/index.php
From the web site: "The Support Group (TSG) is a nonprofit organization servicing Chicago-Land under-served youth from diverse backgrounds and communities since 1989. TSG provides youth with invaluable experiences that will assist them in reaching their full potential, while arming them with tools and skills needed to matriculate post-secondary education, the workforce and beyond. The Support Group is the brain-child of the Executive Director, Bennie Henry in collaboration with NBA legend Tim Hardaway. This important work began in 1989 when Mr. Henry worked with many Chicago-land NBA potential stars equipping them with the tools not only to succeed on the court but to succeed in life. With his passion, drive, and his commitment to the community, Mr. Henry engaged players such as Juwan Howard, Michael Finley, Antoine Walker, and many others. The Support Group has touched thousands of lives throughout its 26 years of service in the community."

 

TRUE STAR MEDIA & FOUNDATION
https://truestarfoundation.org/
From the web site: "True Star programs are hosted in conjunction with our core partners After School Matters and Chicago Public Schools. We are a nonprofit multimedia organization that offers Chicago teens innovative out-of-school activities. True Star Media programs are designed to teach valuable skills that are transferable to the workplace and ultimately raise the bar for future expectations. True Star serves a minimal of 150 students during each 10-week session throughout all its programs. Sessions include fall, spring and summer, which are six weeks long. Students commit to one out of the seven programs per session. Each program has a student teacher ratio of 15/1."

 

URBAN ALLIANCE - INTERNSHIP, TRAINING, MENTORING
https://www.urbanalliance.org/for-young-adults/high-school-students/
From the web site: "Urban Alliance partners with businesses to empower under-resourced youth to aspire, work and succeed through paid internships, formal training and mentorship. Our goal is to give youth access to opportunity for professional growth and experiences."

 

URBAN INITIATIVES - YOUTH SOCCER
https://urbaninitiatives.org/what-we-do/
From the web site: "Our mission is to empower Chicago’s youth to become agents of community change through academic success, healthy living, and leadership development. We drive systemic change by connecting stakeholders and strengthening the social fabric of the community. Work to Play, our flagship program, provides children in grades K-4 with the chance to belong to a soccer team, regardless of skill level. Children are taught important lessons about health, character, and teamwork by their coach. Membership means two practices and one game per week throughout the school year. Ongoing team participation depends on meeting academic and behavioral standards, as measured by their teachers on a weekly basis."

 

Y.E.M.B.A. MENTORING AND BASKETBALL
https://www.yemba-inc.org/programs
From the web site: "Our Mission is to provide a safe and nurturing environment for positive personal development and growth; employing a curriculum that will empower our youth mentally, spiritually and physically. The program operates on the far West Side of Chicago. YEMBA’s Mentoring Empowerment Program is designed to provide students with a solid transitional foundation throughout middle school for social emotional learning (SEL) and character development. The ultimate goal is to ensure that not only are the mentees armed with the knowledge, leadership skills, and decision making tools to support a successful transition from an elementary school environment to a middle school system and educational culture – but also for them to flourish and excel throughout the remainder of their scholastic career, well into adulthood."

 

YOUTH GUIDANCE
https://www.youth-guidance.org/
From the web site: "At Youth Guidance, we believe that no matter what challenges a young person faces, they are more likely to succeed when they have many caring adults in their lives. Our highly trained staff works directly with schools, parents and families to meet kids where they are—physically within schools, socially and emotionally—and help them break cycles of violence, overcome life and academic obstacles, make positive choices, and remain on the right path towards life success. Youth Guidance serves more than 8,000 students in Chicago’s schools. More than 95% of our students are African-American and Hispanic/Latino. Most reside in low income communities." Visit the web site to review the range of programs and determine what schools are being served.