STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) in school and non-school programs

ACE MENTOR PROGRAM - ARCHITECTURE, CONSTRUCTION, ENGINEERING
https://www.acementor.org/
ACE’s mission is to engage, excite and enlighten high school students to pursue careers in architecture, engineering and construction through mentoring and to support their continued advancement in the industry. This is a good example of how industry can connect and mentor young people who might become future workers.

AEROSTAR AVION INSTITUTE - PROVIDES K-12 VAIATION ACADEMIC CURRICULM TO CHICAGO AREA YOUTH
https://avioninstitute.org/programs/
From the website: "All of AeroStar's programs exist with the vision to enhance, promote and support the academic awareness of aviation and aeronautical career path opportunities for students, particularly female, minority, underprivileged and at-risk youth." View this link to see methodology and programs that are offered. 

AUTOMOTIVE MENTORING GROUP - MENTORING VIA AUTOMOTIVE RESTORATION AND CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
https://www.amgmentoring.org/
From the website: "AMG, formed in 2007, supports youth and adults to develop work and life skills as they restore classic cars. The program aids in supporting the participants in earning th eir high school diplomas, enroll in colleges and obtain jobs and apprenticeships in the automotive industry.  AMG teaches automotive repair, including comprehensive bodywork and restoration, as well as light mechanical repair in our three to six-month programming."

BACK OF THE YARDS COMMUNITY COUNCIL - BYNC COMPUTER LAB
https://bync.org/youth-services
From the web site: "The BYNC provides service-learning opportunities for area youth to develop valuable job readiness skills to prepare them for the workforce. In the BYNC computer lab, youth learn basic computer skills through a structured curriculum."

BLACK GIRLS CODE
https://www.wearebgc.org/
The mission of this San Francisco area organization is "To increase the number of women of color in the digital space by empowering girls of color ages 7 to 17 to become innovators in STEM fields, leaders in their communities, and builders of their own futures through exposure to computer science and technology."

CHICAGO CENTER FOR ARTS & TECHNOLOGY (CHICAT)
https://chicat.org/
From the web site: "CHICAT offers life-changing after-school Arts & Technology education for students and innovative vocational training for adults. CHICAT is focused on the connection between art and technology, the power of connecting communities, and engaging and teaching in an inspirational and beautiful environment."

CHICAGO FUTURE CITY COMPETITIONS
https://futurecity.org/
From the web site: "The Future City Competition is a national, project-based learning experience where students in 6th, 7th, and 8th grade imagine, design, and build cities of the future. Students work as a team with an educator and engineer mentor to plan cities using SimCity™ software; research and write solutions to an engineering problem; build tabletop scale models with recycled materials; and present their ideas before judges at Regional Competitions in January. Regional winners represent their region at the National Finals in Washington, DC in February." This page points to web sites for Future City, National Engineer Week, and a variety of professional organizations that could be sources of STEM mentors for Chicago area tutor/mentor programs and schools.

CHICAGO HIGH SCHOOL FOR AGRICULTURAL SCIENCE
https://www.chicagoagr.org/
From the web site: "The Chicago Board of  Education created the Chicago High School for Agricultural Sciences in  July, 1984, and in September, 1985, we opened our doors as the newest  high school in the Chicago Public Schools, attracting students from all  parts of the city.  This school was established  at a time of great concern about the future of agricultural education  and the agricultural industry in general. There is a nationwide effort  underway to broaden the scope of teaching in and about agriculture  beginning at the kindergarten level and extending through adulthood. At  the high school level, there is strong interest in shifting the  curriculum toward agribusiness and plant and animal sciences. Too few  agricultural college graduates are available to fill the need for new  professionals in agricultural science and business.

CHICAGO MOBILE MAKERS – FOCUS ON DESIGN
https://www.chicagomobilemakers.org/about
From the website: “Chicago Mobile Makers creates programming that encourages Chicago youth to become advocates and change-makers in their own communities through design focused skill-building workshops that help train and support future public interest architects, designers and makers.“

CHICAGO ZOOLOGICAL SOCIETY’S CONSERVATION SCHOLARS PROGRAM
https://www.czs.org/KingExplorers
From the web site: "The Chicago Zoological Society’s Conservation Scholars Program is an engaging way for teens to learn more about animals and conservation, network with others and make a difference in their communities while preparing for college and future careers."  Visit the site and learn how to apply.

CODE YOUR DREAMS - UNLOCKING POTENTIAL
https://www.codeyourdreams.org/751643508656
Code Your Dreams is a Chicago-based non-profit with a mission of "empowering youth to solve their community's problems through code".   View this introduction https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ty1sV55wdd0 

COMMONWEALTH FOUNDATION (CHICAGO) - SUPPORTS YOUTH DIGITAL LEARNING
http://commonwlth.org/initiatives/
The Commonwealth Foundation is one of the projects funded by the Chicago HIVE (now Chicago Learning Exchange) digital learning initiative.  It provides a variety of digital learning opportunities for Chicago youth. Browse the site to learn more.

DIGITAL YOUTH DIVAS ENGAGES CHICAGO MIDDLE SCHOOL GIRLS IN STEM
http://divas.digitalyouthnetwork.org/
From the web site: "Digital Youth Divas is an out-of-school program that engages middle school girls, especially those from non-dominant communities, in design-based engineering and computer science activities driven by a narrative story. The program supports girls to develop STEM identities by participating within face-to-face and online spaces to design, create, and re-imagine everyday artifacts (jewelry, hair accessories, music) and activities (dancing and talking to friends) using techniques including collaboration, critique, circuitry, coding, and fabrication."

DIGITAL YOUTH NETWORK - CHICAGO CITY OF LEARNING
https://www.digitalyouthnetwork.org/?ref=dcol#home
DYN is a Chicago project that supports organizations, educators and researchers in learning best practices to help develop our youths’ technical, creative, and analytical skills.

FIRST ROBOTICS - MENTOR BASED STEM PROGRAMS
https://www.firstinspires.org/
From the web site: "The mission of FIRST is to inspire young people to be science and technology leaders, by engaging them in exciting Mentor-based programs that build science, engineering, and technology skills, that inspire innovation, and that foster well-rounded life capabilities including self-confidence, communication, and leadership."

GREEN YOUTH FARM PROGRAM OF CHICAGO BOTANIC GARDEN
https://www.chicagobotanic.org/urbanagriculture/youthfarm
This is one of several programs that the Chicago Botanic Garden offers to encourage urban farming in Chicago. Browse the web site to learn about the Green Farm Program and the Urban Farm Program.

GRUB - GARDEN RAISED BOUNTY
https://www.goodgrub.org/
Garden Raised Bounty (GRuB) in Olympia, WA has a powerful school-based program that works with disconnected, disengaged high school youth. Focuses on agriculture. Could be model for urban schools, neighborhoods.

HACK ILLINOIS - BUILDING HACKING CULTURE
https://hackillinois.org/
HackIllinois, is a) Encouraging students to explore their creativity; b) Empowering students to create meaningful additions to the field of technology; and c) Building a community of peers and mentors through events held at different locations in Illinois. Visit the web site to learn more.

HOPEWORKS ‘N CAMDEN - EDUCATION, TECH & LEARNING
https://hopeworks.org/
From the web site: "Hopeworks ‘N Camden uses education, technology and entrepreneurship to partner  with young men and women as they identify and earn a sustainable future. Together we seize the opportunity to heal and thrive in the midst of violence and poverty."

LEARNING COMPUTER SCIENCE SKILLS - CODE WITH GOOGLE
https://edu.google.com/code-with-google/
From the website: "Code with Google helps to ensure that every student has access to the collaborative, coding, and technical skills that unlock opportunities in the classroom and beyond–no matter what their future goals may be."

LUMITY - FOCUSES ON TEENS, STEM CAREERS, MORE
https://lumity.org/
From the web site: "Lumity is committed to making an impact on the lives of teens and young adults by creating transformational experiences that not only prepare them for STEM careers, but for life. Lumity provides high schools in underserved communities with access to one-of-a-kind, student programming that focuses on essentials such as character building, critical thinking and teamwork, all of which serves as the foundation for success in life, no matter what career path a student chooses. Unlike other programs that take short-term approaches, Lumity’s four-year program supports students through each of their high school years. Our program aims to teach and strengthen students’ critical thinking and problem-solving skills, ability to work in a team and effectively collaborate, develop stronger inter/intra personal skills and teach valuable presentation skills."

MASTER MIX ACADEMY - S.T.E.M. PROGRAM CALLED "DJ SCIENCE."
http://www.mastermixacademy.org/home.html
Master Mix Academy, based in Chicago, goes to a variety of educational facilities throughout Chicago to provide its dj science STEM workshops at there facility.

MATH CIRCLES OF CHICAGO
https://mathcirclesofchicago.org/
From the website: "The Math Circles of Chicago creates opportunities for all children across Chicago to develop a passion for mathematics.  Math Circles of Chicago achieves its mission by providing free, unique math enrichment programs for 5th to 12th grade students of diverse backgrounds." 

NORTH SOUTH FOUNDATION - SUPPORTS INDIAN YOUTH IN US AND INDIA
https://www.northsouth.org/public
From the web site:  "North South Foundation (NSF) is a volunteer driven non-profit organization established in 1989.  Our Mission is to:  a) Develop human resources by giving scholarships to brilliant but needy students in India entering colleges, regardless of religion, gender, caste or creed: b)  Promote excellence in human endeavor by organizing Educational Contests for the kids in USA; c)  Help people achieve success regardless of religion, gender, caste, geographic origin by giving hope to those who may have none"

PROJECT EXPLORATION
https://projectexploration.org/
The material on this site will help: Reduce the distance between natural science and the public especially populations historically underrepresented in professional science... * Inspire and empower urban youth and girls through hands-on experiences with the wonder of paleontology and natural science... * Connect students, teachers and families with authentic science and working scientists.

PROJECT SYNCERE PROVIDES STEM PROGRAMMING TO YOUTH IN UNDER-SERVED CHICAGO COMMUNITIES.
https://projectsyncere.org/
From the web site: "Project SYNCERE works directly with school districts as well as local universities and community organizations to deliver its engineering focused programs.  Through our vast partnerships we are able to impact students during the school day and during out-of-school time.  Our innovative problem-based curriculum has been inspirational in changing the way science and math is taught in a number of schools.  Through our hands-on approach to educating students we have been able to create a spark for them and show them that science and math is fun, cool and rewarding.  The program has helped to raise students’ grades and increase their interest in the STEM fields."

TECH CORPS - OHIO & CHICAGO- HELPS K-12 STUDENTS BUILD THEIR TECHNOLOGY SKILLS
https://techcorps.org/
From the website: "By building partnerships and deploying TECH CORPS signature programs, TECH CORPS is b uilding the framework and infrastructure to swiftly and effeciently meet the changing technology needs of our nation's K-12 students and schools."  

WE ALL CODE - TEACHES TECH TO TEENS
https://www.weallcode.org/our-story/
From the web site: "We All Code exists because we believe every kid deserves to excel in one of the emerging fields of STEM, whether they choose to pursue more education or go straight into careers in computer science. Our mission is to inspire, support, and teach these skills to help them be successful."

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-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."

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.

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.

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.

Multiple Sites and/or Community Based

100 BLACK MEN OF CHICAGO
https://100bmc.org/programs/mentoring/
From the web site: "100 Black Men of Chicago, Inc. will provide positive role models for African-American males throughout the Greater Chicago area by pairing them with successful African-American professionals committed to the intellectual development of youth and the economic empowerment of the African-American community based on the following principles: Respect for Family, Spirituality, Justice and Integrity."

ACE MENTOR PROGRAM - CONNECTS YOUTH WITH BUILDING TRADES, CAREERS
https://acementorchicago.org/
From the web site: "ACE’s mission is to inform and excite high school students about career opportunities in architecture, construction and engineering; encourage students to pursue secondary and post-secondary education that will prepare them for careers in the integrated construction industry; and support the development of basic and technical skills through mentoring relationships."

ALL STARS PROJECT OF CHICAGO
https://allstars.org/locations/chicago/
The All Stars Project uses performance as a tool for youth development and growth, All Stars provides young people the opportunity to develop as learners and performers, onstage and off. Operates in South and West side locations of Chicago.


A STEP AHEAD CHESS PROGRAMS - ENRICHING THE LIVES OF YOUTH WITH CHESS LESSIONS BEYOND THE BOARD
https://astepaheadchess.org/
A Step Ahead Chess, based in Chicago, host virtual chess lessons and tournaments so kids can play from anywhere in the world.  See this article in the Chicago Reader.  This is a fee based program but the website says "Reduced enrollment is available for qualifying families."


BEAT THE STREETS - CHICAGO WRESTLING
https://www.btschicago.org/
BTS Chicago "empowers Chicago youth through wrestling".  They "combine year-round wrestling programs with customized enrichment opportunities so that children can become their best selves. Mentoring, tutoring, workshops and positive relationships combined with the unique power of wrestling changes lives."

BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS OF METROPOLITAN CHICAGO
https://bbbschgo.org/
From the web site: "Big Brothers Big Sisters makes meaningful, monitored matches between adult volunteers (“Bigs”) and children (“Littles”), ages 7 through 19, in communities across the country. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metropolitan Chicago serves youth throughout the Chicagoland area: Cook, DuPage, and Lake Counties in Illinois, and Lake County, Indiana. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metropolitan Chicago offers volunteers different program options based around the same 1:1 mentoring model. BBBSMC has also launched its innovative online mentoring program, Flex Mentoring, which matches local high school students in high impact one-to-one mentoring relationships with corporate professionals while leveraging the mobility of technology. It offers volunteers the flexibility to mentor on their own time and build a personal connection with a child across distances."

BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS OF CHICAGO
https://bgcc.org/our-programs/
Boys & Girls Clubs of Chicago offers a wide variety of youth development and learning programs at its sites across Chicago.

BY THE HAND CLUB - IN FOUR CHICAGO NEIGHBORHOODS
https://bythehand.org/the-solution/
From the web site: "By The Hand has always been known for emphasizing a holistic approach to child development. We literally and figuratively take our kids by the hand and walk alongside them from the time they enroll in our program until they’re walking independently as well-adjusted, responsible adults. We tutor them to academic excellence. We mentor them to make wise, life-defining decisions. And we care for them as our own, meeting their basic nutritional and medical needs." By the Hand Club locations are in Altgeld-Murray, 13015 S Ellis Ave; Austin, 415 N Laramie Ave.; Cabrini-Green, 1000 N Sedgwick St and Englewood, 220 West 45th Place.

CHICAGO HOPES FOR KIDS - HOMELESS EDUCATION PROGRAM
https://www.chicagohopesforkids.org/programs.html
From the web site: "Chicago HOPES for Kids empowers children experiencing homelessness by providing direct academic support in Chicago’s homeless shelters. Children who are experiencing homelessness can fall three to six months behind in school due to their unstable living environment. We help these students unlock their own potential by ensuring that the children receive the necessary academic support needed to keep up in school. More importantly, we seek to foster a positive relationship with learning that will give our students hope for the future."

CHICAGO YOUTH CENTERS - OUT OF SCHOOL TIME PROGRAMS
https://www.chicagoyouthcenters.org/outofschool-time-ost
From the web site: "The Out-of-School Time and Summer Enrichment program is offered at neighborhood Centers and school-based Centers to students ages 6-18. In our club-based program model, students engage in project-based experiences that help them build technical skills and strengthen social-emotional competencies. Our core content areas focus on STEAM, Health and Wellness, Academic Support, Arts, and College and Career Readiness."

CHICAGO YOUTH PROGRAMS, INC. (CYP)
https://chicagoyouthprograms.org/
From the web site: "Founded in 1984 by Northwestern University medical students, what started as the Cabrini Green Youth Program has grown into an organization serving youth and families in at least 30 of the city’s 50 wards.  What is more, CYP has expanded its reach during this time of COVID-19 response and recovery with the implementation of a virtual program platform.  With this platform CYP supports ongoing student engagement amid changing safety guidelines, while also providing volunteers the opportunity to continue to support, and families the chance to engage in new and exciting ways."

DREAM ON EDUCATION - FOCUS ON 6TH-8TH GRADE STUDENTS IN CHICAGO
https://www.dreamoneducation.org/
From the web site: "Our mission is to prepare high-performing, low-income 6th-8th-grade students for the rigor of a high school and college curriculum and challenge them beyond their comfort level, which will enable them to maximize their potential, reach their dreams, and contribute positively to society." Browse the site to learn more.

GIRL FORWARD - SUPPORTING REFUGEE GIRLS
https://www.girlforward.org/
From the web site : "GirlForward is seeking dedicated and enthusiastic volunteers for our Mentoring Program, which matches women mentors with adolescent refugee girls. As a mentor, you will be paired with a mentee in grades 9-12 and will meet with her for at least two hours per week to talk about school, relationships, and careers, and to do fun and engaging activities together. As a mentor, you will make a one-year commitment to GirlForward and will receive individual and group trainings to prepare you for this role."

GIRL SCOUTS OF GREATER CHICAGO AND NORTHWEST INDIANA
https://www.girlscoutsgcnwi.org/en/about-girl-scouts/our-program.html
Scouting programs offer many forms of mentoring and youth development. Visit the site to learn if there is a program in your community.

GRIP OUTREACH FOR YOUTH - CHICAGO
https://www.gripyouth.com/
From the web site: "Our Life-on-Life approach starts by recruiting, training, and EQUIPPING an army of caring adult volunteer mentors. Next, we CONNECTthese mentors to youth through our engaging outreach programs. Our staff then continue to coach our mentors to intentionally pursue and GROW these relationships outside the walls of our programs by spending time with youth–in their homes, schools, churches, and communities. We teach our mentors “throughout your week, as you’re doing life, simply bring your student along with you.” Over time, through persistent and consistent time spent together, Life-on-Life relationships start to form." Visit web site to read more.

HFS CHICAGO SCHOLARS
https://www.hfschicagoscholars.com/get-involved/become-a-mentor
From the web site: "Since 1992, the award-winning HFS Chicago Scholars (HFS) has helped young men and women in high school achieve their educational aspirations. HFS began its concept to help a small group of economically disadvantaged and academically motivated 13-year old students and now it has grown into one of the largest scholarship organizations in the city of Chicago. For the upcoming Academic School Year (2016-17), we will assist over 140 scholars attend some of Chicago’s finest private high schools. An important part of the HFS Chicago Scholars program is providing our scholars a role model to support them through their high school years. This is where you can get involved as a mentor. The impact that a mentor makes on a scholars life is critical as it can leave a positive impression that will impact that scholar’s life as a young adult." Visit site to learn more.

INTONATION MUSIC WORKSHOP (IMW)
http://www.intonationmusic.org/overview/
From the web site: "Intonation kids explore their limitless potential by learning to play instruments and forming their own rick bands. Offered in partnership with schools, park districts, and community organizations, our year-round classes make music accessible to children by providing them with instruments, instruction, mentorship, and the chance to perform on stages across the city. Each Intonation student takes part in a personal and team approach to practice, setting goals and problem solving; and over time, they gain the confidence to take charge of their direction and seek out new experiences."

NEW LIFE CENTERS - CHICAGO
https://newlifecenters.org/programs/
From the web site: "We are neighborhood based Centers that connect youth and young adults with Christ and Community through mentoring, education, and sports. We operate sites in the Humboldt Park and Little Village neighborhoods of Chicago. Each site offers unique programs that respond to the specific requests of our neighbors, most of which fall under three broad categories: Mentoring, Education and Sports."

POLISHED PEBBLES - GIRLS MENTORING
https://polishedpebbles.com/
From the web site: "The mission of the Polished Pebbles Girls Mentoring Program is to provide girls (7-17 years old) with the opportunity of learning the vital life skill of effective communication. Our Polished Pebbles Girls Mentoring program instills confidence in girls to face the challenges of daily life by substituting aggressive forms of communicating and problem solving with new strategies that allow them to gain a solid reputation and respect without retaliating." Programs are offered at a variety of schools and non-school locations.

SEED OF HOPE FOUNDATION
https://www.facebook.com/SeedOfHopeFoundation/
From the web site: "Seed of Hope Foundation (SOH) is a local non-profit that offers life skills programs to teenage girls, specifically the Westchester, Bellwood, Maywood, Broadview, and LaGrange Park areas. Programs include workshops on communication, self-esteem, relationships, goals, literacy, and roundtable discussions on various social topics (bullying, dating, sex, building healthy relationships, choices, professional development and conflict resolution.). The vision of SOH is “to develop emotionally intelligent leaders of integrity and excellence for the generations to come and they are guided by four core principles: integrity, acceptance, nurturing and fun.”

SGA YOUTH AND FAMILY SERVICES - CYCLE OF OPPORTUNITY
https://www.sga-youth.org/services/
From this web site: "By providing free, comprehensive services, SGA helps children, families and communities break the cycle of adversity and embrace opportunity. SGA is consistently successful because of our track record of excellence in developing innovative programming. We find the necessary resources to sustain services, identify the right partnerships and track, measure and improve our outcomes through date-driven solutions. SGA provides a wide range of social services in some of Chicago's most challenged and consistently under-served communities resulting in long-term, community-wide change." View web site to learn more.

THE LUV INSTITUTE MENTORING FOR AGE 16-24
http://www.luvinstitute.org
From the web site: "The Love, Unity & Values (LUV) Institute is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that supports young people, ages 11-24, who face challenges with college and career readiness. We set out to provide the foundational skills they need for successful navigation by using literacy, art, and well-being (LAW) as pathways to the workforce of tomorrow. The LUV Institute is looking for professional men and women to mentor young adults ages 16 to 21 who are completing the Journey to my Better Self Career Empowerment Workshop which is preparing them as they emancipate from the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services."

TRIPLE THREAT MENTORING PROGRAM - MULTIPLE PROGRAMS IN CHICAGO AREA
https://triplethreat.org/triple-threat-mentoring/
From the web site: "To empower urban youth to realize their potential and inspire volunteers to leave a lasting legacy. We’re not just a youth organization. We’re an organization that facilitates relationships between youth and volunteers through our passion-based programs.

WORKING IN THE SCHOOLS
https://witschicago.org/programs
From the web site: "Working in the Schools (WITS) creates positive learning communities through a portfolio of volunteer literacy mentor programs and teacher professional development; a comprehensive design to inspire students' passion for reading." Visit web site to learn more.

UNION LEAGUE BOYS AND GIRLS CLUB
https://ulbgc.org/academic-success-2/
From the web site: "The Union League Club of Chicago operates two Boys and Girls Clubs on the West Side of Chicago, plus four clubs within Chicago Public Schools on the West Side of Chicago and in the Englewood neighborhood of the South Site. The ULC also offers a summer camp in Chicago. Each of the Clubs offers a wide variety of programs at our sites. These programs fall into three core program areas: 1. Academic Success, 2. Good Character and Citizenship and 3. Healthy Lifestyles."

YMCA OF METROPOLITAN CHICAGO - YOUTH AND TEEN LEADERSHIP PROGRAMS
https://www.ymcachicago.org/programs/youth-and-teen-leadership/
From the web site: "The YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago offers multiple leadership programs in safe, welcoming environments throughout the city. Our programs focus on enhancing skills, building confidence, and improving academic performance. By providing young adults the opportunity learn and grow, we are creating a healthier and stronger community." Visit the web site to see range of programs offered.

YWCA METROPOLITAN CHICAGO -STEM PROGRAMS
https://ywcachicago.org/unleashing-youth-family-potential#techgyrls
From the web site: "YWCA is dedicated to eliminating racism, empowering women and promoting peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all. Two STEM programs are offered. Visit the site and see details about 3D Youth™ and TechGYRLS."

College Access & Support Programs that draw youth from throughout Chicago and/or the region

BOTTOM LINE - CHICAGO - SUPPORTS STUDENTS STARTING SENIOR YEAR OF HIGH SCHOOL
https://www.bottomline.org/content/chicago
From the web site: "Bottom Line helps low-income and first-generation-to-college students get to and through college. We are committed to building strong connections with our students, providing them with individual support, and ensuring they have the guidance needed to earn a college degree. We support students starting senior year of high school and continue throughout college for up to six years."

CHICAGO SCHOLARS
https://chicagoscholars.org/programs
From the web site: "The Chicago Scholars Program is designed to assist marginalized high school students overcome the barriers to their collegiate access and success. Going beyond traditional monetary solutions, the Chicago Scholars Program offers five years of best practice programming to get students into college, graduate in four years, and smoothly transition into good-fit careers or graduate study."

COLLEGE MENTORING EXPERIENCE
https://www.collegementoringexperience.org/about
From the web site: "?College Mentoring Experience is a Chicago non-profit organization that provides resources to help youth enter into college and graduate via college tours, scholarships, tutoring and mentorship; we prepare students with academic and soft skills needed to succeed in the 21st century academic and workplace environments. It is our belief that when students are supported; families and communities are impacted."

COMMON GROUND FOUNDATION - SUPPORTS HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS
https://commongroundfoundation.org/
From the website: "Our programs encourage students to set a goal for their high school and college careers and we support the path they set for themselves. Our team of dedicated coaches and mentors work with our students in an individual and group setting. We believe that every child has the opportunity to succeed and lead given the proper resources." Students referred by schools on South and West side of Chicago.

DANIEL MURPHY SCHOLARSHIP FOUNDATION
https://www.dmsf.org/our-programs.html
From the web site: "The mission of the Daniel Murphy Scholarship Fund is to give high school scholarship assistance and educational support to Chicago students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. DMSF seeks to make a life-altering difference in the lives of its Scholars by providing them with the best opportunity to succeed in high school and college.

In addition to providing scholarships, DMSF offers a number of valuable programs which help our Scholars persist toward high school graduation and gain admission to colleges at which they can succeed. Our programs begin before our Scholars enter high school and last until they graduate. Mentors are role models with a special interest in the academic success and personal growth of Scholars. By becoming a mentor to a DMSF Scholar, an adult has a unique opportunity to help influence the life of one of tomorrow’s leaders."

EVANSTON SCHOLARS - A COLLEGE ACCESS PROGRAM
https://www.evanstonscholars.org/
From the web site: "Evanston Scholars is a non-profit organization that improves college access and success for a diverse group of ambitious Evanston students who are traditionally first-generation college entrants, low-income, and students of color, starting with the college admissions process and continuing through graduation. The comprehensive, six-year program offers workshops, mentors, ACT prep, and college counseling to support students with financial and/or academic needs."

HIGHSIGHT
https://www.highsight.org/
From the web site: "HighSight provides scholarships, tutoring, mentoring, leadership development, and college readiness programs that create new possibilities for Chicago high school students from low-income families. The HighSight experience empowers our scholars to excel in high school and graduate from four-year colleges across the country."

INROADS INC. - COLLEGE LINKS PROGRAM
https://inroads.org/#
From the web site: "INROADS' mission is to develop and place talented minority youth in business and industry and prepare them for corporate and community leadership. INROADS College Links is the pre-college component to the INROADS Internship process. Students who participate with INROADS College Links are competitive candidates for INROADS Internship opportunities beginning in their high school senior year!"

LINK UNLIMITED
https://linkunlimited.org/
From the web site: "LINK Unlimited Scholars’ mission is to connect economically disadvantaged African American high school students with mentors, resources, and foundational skills required for success as they advance into, through, and beyond college."

MINDS MATTER - CHICAGO
https://mindsmatterchicago.org/about/
From the web site: "Minds Matter is a non-profit organization whose mission is to transform the lives of accomplished high school students from low-income families by broadening their dreams and preparing them for college success. Our goal is to equip underprivileged high school students with the tools to gain acceptance to a four-year university and navigate the financial aid process. We forge relationships with guidance counselors in various schools throughout Chicago, who recommend their top sophomores to attend our program. Those students who are interested enter a rigorous application process that includes a written personal statement and a phone interview. Each accepted student is then paired with 2 mentors who work together over the next 3 years. These mentors – college graduates and typically young Chicago executives – become role models to the students, and they often keep in touch for many years."

PARTNERSHIP TO EDUCATE & ADVANCE KIDS (PEAK)
https://www.peakchicago.org/
From the web site: "Since 1998, the Partnership to Educate and Advance Kids (PEAK) has worked aggressively to reduce the cycle of poverty and youth violence through a powerful combination of scholarship and the commitment of caring adult mentors for deserving high school youth. PEAK provides full high school scholarships for students to attend Holy Trinity High School. Scholars in the program also work one-on-one with an adult mentor."

PURSUE SCHOLARS - FACEBOOK PAGE
https://www.facebook.com/pursuescholars/
https://www.pursuescholars.org/
From the website: "The problem that currently exists in urban higher education is that those who have a heart to build their communities aren’t properly resourced to receive the education and training they need to be sent back into their communities to create the impact they desire. This is where Pursue seeks to be a change-agent. Pursue Scholars not only identifies young leaders who have a heart for the community, resources them and provides extensive leadership training. Pursue positions them to lead on campus, so that when they return home, they have real-world experience and proven leadership to build the communities they love so dearly. In an effort to continue long-lasting relationships with local churches and parachurch organizations in Chicago, PURSUE Scholars seeks to facilitate a sense of community through partnering Life Coaches with a scholar. This is a way in which we help with a scholar’s discipleship process."

THE SCHULER SCHOLAR PROGRAM - COLLEGE CONNECTIONS MENTORING
https://www.schulerprogram.org
From the web site: "as of 8/2024 the program is not accepting applications for new students."   

THRIVE SCHOLARS - 
https://www.thrivescholars.org/
From the website: "We provide high-achieving students of color from economically under-resourced communities the opportunities they need to thrive at top colleges and in meaningful careers."

Chicago South Tutor/Mentor Programs

A KNOCK AT MIDNIGHT - TEEN REACH PROGRAM
https://akamworks.org/index.php/teen-reach/
From the web site: "The Teen REACH program was designed to create and expand the range of choices and opportunities that enable, empower and encourage youth to achieve positive growth and development, improve expectations and capacities for future success, and avoid and/or reduce risk-taking behavior. The program curriculum encompass workshops and activities that achieve the following outcomes: improved academic performance, increased basic social skills, enhanced life skills, heighten parental involvement and awareness, sustained positive adult mentor relationships, and raised participation in positive recreation, sports and cultural activities."

ALLIANCE FOR COMMUNITY PEACE - AFTERSCHOOL AND SUMMER PROGRAM
https://allianceforcommunitypeace.org/services/
From the web site: "The Alliance for Community Peace is a non – profit , faith-based organization offering structured activities and opportunities for at risk children and youth to: improve academic performance: build self esteem and confidence; enhance social, personal, interaction and decision making skills through supervised learning activities: and develop meaningful work experience leading to success in adulthood. Offers offering after school tutoring, homework assistance, and computer training."

ARK OF ST. SABINA - G.E.M.S MENTORING PROGRAM
https://www.thearkofstsabina.org/gems-mentoring
From the web site: "Programming at the ARK provides constructive outlets for youth who have experienced trauma, empowering them to become leaders in the community. G.E.M.S:  (Giving, Empowering, Mentorship, and Self-Identity), is a female oriented program designed to educate, inspire, and reshape the behaviors of teenage girls. Chicago’s South Side area has been affected by many challenging factors that need not deter our youth from their education, community expansion, and social development."

CENTER FOR COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
http://cfcdevelopment.com/
From the web site: "We are providing services to men and boys in the South Shore community. Youth, Men and Economic Development programs are critical components of CCD. Our Steps To Manhood Program works with boys 7-17 years of age. Our Men’s programs provide services for men ages 18 and older. Those services include accountability partners, bible study groups, and counseling (career, financial, and relationship). The Economic Development programs include the following: entrepreneurship, job training, and real estate redevelopment. We train aspiring entrepreneurs in our How to Start and Run a Business class. Our job training program prepares men and boys in the following areas: creating a resume, interviewing techniques and computer literacy. CCD collaborates with multiple organizations to support the broad needs of mentees and their families. Its close relationship with Christ Bible Church and Hales Franciscan High School gives the Center access to a wide range of services and facilities to accommodate youth."

CONCERNED CHRISTIAN MEN (CCM) MENTORING
http://concernedchristianmen.org/program-overview/mentoring/
From the web site: "CCM strives to shape the young men into healthy, well-rounded individuals through encouraging academic excellence and transformational leadership. CCM operates a variety of activities in schools and churches around South Side of Chicago. Contact org to learn about volunteer opportunities."

FAMILY FOCUS - ENGLEWOOD
http://www.family-focus.org/centers/englewood/
From the web site: "Family Focus serves children of all grade levels. After school activities are offered Monday-Friday. The time immediately following school hours is a time when a lack of a constructive activity or supervision due to a parent’s working schedule can lead to risk-taking behavior. Instead children are brought into an educational and safe environment with activities such as homework help, games centered around STEM lessons, literacy through creative writing, visual and preforming arts, character development and socio-emotional learning, life skills training, and more." Locations in Englewood, Lawndale, Evanston and Aurora.

GARY COMER YOUTH CENTER
https://www.garycomeryouthcenter.org/
From the web site: "For ten years, Gary Comer Youth Center has been enriching the lives of young people from across Chicago’s South Side with academic and enrichment programs that foster future success. Our goal is to help young people expand their horizons outside of the classroom, discovering their passions and fostering growth and achievement." This link points to programs available for high school age youth.

GIRLS OF GRACE YOUTH ORGANIZATION - SUMMER PROGRAM
https://girlsofgraceyouthcenter.org/
From the web site: "Girls of Grace is a non profit organization committed to enriching the lives of girls and young women. We are dedicated to the holistic development of girls between the ages of 10-18."Info on web site describes a summer program only.

IMAGINE ENGLEWOOD IF - YOUTH EMPOWERMENT & LEADERSHIP PROGRAMS
https://www.imagineenglewoodif.org/youthprograms
From the web site: "Imagine Englewood If's programs promote healthy living, neighborhood beautification and empowering youth while encouraging a sense of responsibility. As part of our after school program, we provide tutoring and homework assistance to help Englewood’s youth find success in their educational goals. Young men and women of Englewood have an opportunity to link up with a mentor who can provide job and educational advice and serve as a positive role model.

KIDS OFF THE BLOCK- PROVIDES A MULTI-SERVICE YOUTH PROGRAM
https://www.kidsofftheblockchi.org/programs
From the web site: "The organization reaches out to the most “at-risk” youth in Chicago, IL to provide them with access to a path that leads away from self-destruction and economic impoverishment. In order to achieve its Mission, KOB provides a multi-service youth program which focuses on those aspects of young people’s lives which promote good health, educational achievement, and personal and social growth."

LAWYERS LEND A HAND - MEETS IN CHICAGO LOOP. SERVES YOUTH IN ENGLEWOOD
https://www.lawyerslendahand.org/tutor-kids-in-chicago.html
From the web site: "Lend-A-Hand Tutoring at the Chicago Bar Association (CBA) office in the South LOOP provides free one-to-one tutoring to 50 students from the Englewood community on the south side of Chicago. All of our students attend the  Montessori School of Englewood, a public charter school and our partner in this venture.

S.A.Y. YES! AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM
https://www.cru.org/us/en/communities/innercity/chicago/agape-center.html
From the web site: "S.A.Y. Yes! Centers® are biblically-based youth development programs that take place in an after-school setting through inner-city churches. It is a safe place for at-risk children to gain a solid foundation so they can have a successful future. One site is the Agape Center in the Roseland area of Chicago."

SOUTH CENTRAL COMMUNITY SERVICES - EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS
https://www.sccsinc.org/post/south-central-after-school-program
From the web site: "The Educational Services Department provides academic instruction, independent living and vocational skills, advocacy and supportive services to clients pre-school to young adult. The programs programs work to enhance the academic functioning and development of each client to their highest level of functioning."

ST. TITUS - ONE YOUTH ANTI-VIOLENCE AND MENTORING PROGRAM
http://www.sttitusone.com/sto-youth-anti-violence--mentoring-program/index.html
From the web site: "The St. Titus One Youth Anti-Violence and Mentoring Program was designed to provide youth in the community with a positive outlet and great skills to overcome the daily challenges they face."

TEAMWORK ENGLEWOOD - SUMMER PROGRAMS
https://teamworkenglewood.org/youth/
From the web site: Summer programs include Englewood Codes, which teaches teens how to build mobile phone aps and websites. Also a summer basketball program and a Little League baseball program."

Volunteer-Based Tutor/Mentor Programs serving Chicago South Central Area

ADA S. MCKINLEY YOUTH ACADEMIC PROGRAM
https://www.adasmckinley.org/services/educational-services/
From the web site: "Ada S. McKinley offers Early Intervention tutoring, test preparation, and life-planning counseling to middle school students to help them catch up to and exceed grade-level performance, take the steps to stay on track through high school towards their desired career, and to dream of and prepare for college."

ARAB AMERICAN ACTION NETWORK - AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM
https://aaan.org/programs/childrens-services/
From the web site: "The program comprises of staff, interns and volunteers providing homework assistance, tutoring and mentoring for elementary school students. The program provides a positive environment for youth ages six to twelve where they meet role models who strongly encourage them and enjoy a myriad of activities such as science experiments, field trips and arts and crafts.

AUTOMOTIVE MENTORING GROUP (AMG)
https://www.facebook.com/Automotive-Mentoring-Group-189970774406311/
Automotive Mentoring Group helps under-served youth and adults develop work and life skills as they restore classic cars. AMG helps participants earn HS diplomas, enroll in colleges, obtain jobs and apprenticeships in the auto industry.

BIG BUDDIES YOUTH SERVICES, INC
http://www.auburngreshamportal.org/directory/3422
From the web site: "Services include educational, social, cultural, and charitable services to youth and their families as a preventive approach to fighting juvenile delinquency. Through Academic Enrichment, Parent Support, Tutorial, Academic Advisement, and Cultural Enrichment Programs Bug Buddies Youth Services, Inc. is leading the way to redeeming our youth and brightening our future."

BRIGHT STAR COMMUNITY OUTREACH REIMAGINE MENTORING PROGRAM
https://www.brightstarcommunityoutreach.com/pagere
From the web site: "BSCO’s Mentoring component is designed to both: provide a safe environment for children and youth to enhance their academic and social emotional growth; and to increase the positive attributes of our children and youth through providing them with positive role models that will follow-up with them to ensure they are making the best decisions for their future.  BSCO accomplishes this goal through a mix of in-school, after-school, and out-of-school services.  Through its many offerings, BSCO serves over 200 children and youth annually."

CHICAGO URBAN LEAGUE -EDUCATIONPROGRAMS
https://chiul.org/program/youth/
From the web site: "The Chicago Urban League offers a comprehensive set of age-appropriate programs that includes small group sessions, one-on-one meetings, academic enrichment and job readiness assistance. We meet students where they are and aim to help them thrive academically, socially and emotionally, with the goal of preparing them to compete in a fast-paced and an increasingly global economy."

CHICAGO YOUTH (VIRTUAL) PROGRAMS
https://chicagoyouthprograms.org/programs/
From the web site: "CYP's programs engage youth throughout Chicago long-term, from preschool to college. At each academic and developmental level, program volunteers and staff, develop interventions aimed at helping at-risk youth learn grade appropriate concepts. By combining these educational interventions with a wide variety of recreational, social, health, and career programs, CYP creates its comprehensive formula for success.  Most programming is now done on-line."

CHINESE AMERICAN SERVICE LEAGUE - YOUTH DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM
https://www.caslservice.org/youth/
From the web site: "The Youth Development Program provides a safe, supervised, and welcoming environment that supports the holistic development of youth in grades 6th through 12th—particularly Chinese immigrant and American-born Chinese teens. Middle and high school teens learn leadership skills, engage in community activities, experience a sense of belonging, and become ready to make healthy, responsible choices in their lives."

FIRMAN COMMUNITY SERVICES - SCHOOL AGE PROGRAM
http://www.firmancs.org/programs_sa.html
From the web site: "School-Age is an after-school program that provides educational support, cultural enrichment, and recreational development activities to student ages 6 - 12. It’s open five-days-a-week and full-time during the summer and on school holidays. The program is for low-income parents who are either working, in school, or job training."

FRIENDS OF THE CHILDREN - CHICAGO
https://friendschicago.org/about
The national Friends of the Children began more than 20 years ago and is a unique model where paid "friends" and the organization, stick with youth for 12 or more years. The Chicago chapter started in 2018.

FUTURE TIES AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM
https://futureties.org/about-us/#afterSchool
From the website:  Future Ties, located in Parkway Gardens area, provides homework help and after school activities five days per week, as well as a summer camp when school is not in session. The academic mentorship that Future Ties provides helps young people achieve grades and test scores high enough to be admitted to test-in high schools around the city."

GADS HILL CENTER - BUILDING LEADERS PROGRAM
https://gadshillcenter.org/youth-services
From the web site: "Building Leaders is designed for students ages 13 through high school graduation with the desire and potential to succeed in higher education. The program provides academic support, parent education, and highly individualized assistance to help teens graduate high school and enter college prepared to succeed. The STEAM-focused program provides hands-on learning experience in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math. An out-of-school time academic enrichment program, Building Leaders is free, open after school through 7pm, and is located at Gads Hill Center's site in Pilsen. A Junior Building Leaders Program is an after school program for children ages 5-12 in the Pilsen, North Lawndale, and South Lawndale communities."

GUITARS OVER GUNS - RISE CHICAGO ARTS MENTORING PROGRAM
https://www.guitarsoverguns.org/chicago/
From the website: "Guitars Over Guns’ RISE program (Reach. Inspire. Support. Empower.) is a twist on your typical young professionals board experience. In addition to creating a platform that connects a network of fun, dedicated, socially conscious professionals, RISE aims to provide continued mentorship to graduates of Guitars Over Guns’ middle school programming as they adjust to high school, plan for their futures and explore unique school and work paths that lead to post-secondary success.

HORIZONS CHICAGO - PART OF NATIONAL NETWORK
https://www.horizonsnational.org/about/communities/illinois/
From the web site: "Horizons is a high-quality learning experience, outside of traditional school time, that supports students from low-income families over the course of their Pre-K–12 academic careers. Horizons students attend a six-week summer program on the campus of an independent school, college, or university, and receive additional support throughout the year. By design, you’ll find Horizons programs on independent school, college, and university campuses, rather than in familiar public schools. Horizons makes retention a priority, resulting in average student and staff retention of over 80% annually across the network. Many families are involved for decades as younger siblings make their way through the program and graduates return to volunteer or teach at Horizons." Mentors are peer students, paid teachers, etc.

HYDE PARK ART CENTER - EDUCATION PROGRAMS
https://www.hydeparkart.org/education/
From the web site: "At Hyde Park Art Center you will find out-of-school youth classes for a range of younger students, which typically meet after school or on Saturdays. Our Teen Programs offer tuition-free opportunities for south side youth to develop inside of meaningful environment and grow with a supportive group of peers." Visit the web site to learn more.

INSTITUTO DEL PROGRESO LATINO - SUPPORT FOR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS
https://www.institutochicago.org/apps/pages/index.jsp?uREC_ID=372467&type=d&pREC_ID=837915
From the web site: "Instituto operates two public charter high schools that serve nearly 1,000 Chicago students annually with unique curriculum, extensive supportive systems, and high expectations. Find out more about the Instituto Health Sciences Career Academy (IHSCA) and the Instituto Justice and Leadership Academy (IJLA). Instituto also offers a variety of opportunities for any high school student to join us after school and during the summer for a safe and supportive environment. Students from both Instituto schools and the local community join us for activities such as dance and art programs as well as substantial academic tutoring and college preparation programs. Through our Escalera College Bridge program, Instituto offers additional support to our students beginning in middle school and early in high school, and following them through college enrollment and beyond."

K.L.E.O. COMMUNITY FAMILY LIFE CENTER
http://thekleocenter.org/programs/
From the web site: "KLEO offers a dependable, caring environment and diverse positive outlets for adolescent’s and teens whose life have been impacted by poverty, teen pregnancy, gangs and other challenges. KLEO participates in The Safe Haven program of Chicago Public Schools and the Mayor's Mentoring Initiative."

KENWOOD-OAKLAND COMMUNITY ORGANIZATION-YOUTH DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM
https://kocoonline.org/youth-development/
From the web site: "KOCO's Youth Development Programs cultivate the innate leadership capabilities of youth while providing academic enrichment, social development, and cultural awareness. Since 1997, the Kenwood Oakland Community Organization's Academic and Cultural Enrichment (A.C.E.) Program has taken a multi-faceted approach to youth development."

LADIES OF VIRTUE MENTORING
https://www.lovchicago.org/
From the web site: "Our mission is to instill purpose, passion, and perseverance in girls, ages 9 to 18, while preparing them for college, careers and to become change agents in their communities.

NEW LIFE CENTERS  - LITTLE VILLAGE AFTER SCHOOL AND SUMMER PROGRAMS
https://newlifecenters.org/en/programs/la-semilla
This is one of five New Life Centers locations in Chicago where youth in different age groups receive a wide variety of homework help and academic enrichment. 

OPERATION LINK-UP TEEN MENTORING MINISTRIES
http://www.oluteens.com/web/pageid/30289/pages.asp
From the web site: "Operation Link-Up is a mentoring and empowerment program that ministers to the holistic needs youth between the ages of twelve and eighteen living southwest side of Chicago! We provide our ministry services to teens who desire to excel spiritually, academically, in the arts and socially."

PROJECT VISION
https://projectvisionchicago.org/
From the web site: "Project VISION is a grassroots nonprofit organization with a mission to provide youth of Chicago’s Chinatown and Bridgeport communities with tools for educational, personal, and civic development."

PUI TAK CENTER TUTORING PROGRAM
https://www.puitak.org/children-and-youth
From the web site: "Pui Tak Center is a church-based community center. Our programs focus on serving the 30,000 Chinese living in the Greater Chinatown community which includes Armour Square (Chinatown), Bridgeport, McKinley Park, Brighton Park, Canaryville, and South Loop communities. Pui Tak’s Youth Program offers teenagers in Chinatown different programs to meet their academic and social needs."

SALVATION ARMY MENTORING & CHARACTER BUILDING PROGRAMS IN ENGLEWOOD
https://centralusa.salvationarmy.org/redshield/celebrate-launch-and-landing/
The Salvation Army offers a variety of  programs at its Red Shield Center in Englewood that are intended to "help motivate, encourage and empower youth to be the best they can be and to seek out ways to reach their goals".

SOUTH CENTRAL COMMUNITY SERVICES
https://www.sccsinc.org/post/south-central-after-school-program
From the web site: "The primary communities served by SCCS are: Avalon Park, Burnside, Chatham, Englewood, Greater Grand Crossing, Auburn Gresham, Roseland and South Shore. Based in some of Chicago’s most destitute and disadvantaged neighborhoods, South Central’s staff, continues to diligently address the myriad of economic, educational, psychological and social challenges confronting its constituents. The Educational Services Department provides academic instruction, independent living and vocational skills, advocacy and supportive services to clients pre-school to young adult."

SPASH! CHICAGO - SERVES HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS
https://splashchicago.learningu.org/
From the web site: "Splash! Chicago offers free programs for high school students featuring classes designed and taught by University of Chicago students on anything from squids to the philosophy of superheroes! Our goal is to promote a love of learning and a love of teaching. We run two one-day programs: one in the fall (Droplet) and one in the spring (Splash!) and one five-week program in the winter (Cascade)."

U.N.I.O.N. IMPACT CENTER - MENTORSHIP AND LEADERSHIP PROGRAM
http://www.unionimpactcenter.org/mentorship/
From the web site: "Our primary objective is to implement preventive programs to curve violence in the Back of the Yards neighborhood and neighboring communities. We offer a variety of programs and services for youth and families.”