While this section of the Tutor/Mentor library focuses specifically on various forms of volunteer-based tutoring and/or mentoring programs the links below focus on the broader topic of afterschool and out-of-school-time youth serving organizations, including tutoring and mentoring.


50 STATE AFTERSCHOOL NETWORK - FUNDED BY C.S. MOTT FOUNDATION
http://www.statewideafterschoolnetworks.net/
This site has an interactive map that helps you identify afterschool networks in each state.  It's a great resource to help build collaborations.

A CASE FOR CITY AND STATE LEADERS TO STRENGTHEN ALLIANCES AND BE A FORCE FOR GOOD - BROOKINGS.EDU REPORT
https://www.brookings.edu/essay/why-state-and-local-relationships-matter-to-national-prosperity/#metro-area-data
This 2023 article, titled "The importance of cities and metro areas to state economies",  includes maps for each state showing the share of GDP of metro areas within each state.  The article argues for shared regional interests to move beyond political polarization. 

A COMMUNITY'S GUIDE TO MAKING THE MOST OF OUT-OF-SCHOOL TIME
http://www.niost.org/pdf/MOSTguide.pdf
This PDF guide's full title is "Working Together for Children and Families: A Community's Guide to Making the Most of Out-of-School Time" and is a product of the National Institute on Out-of-School Time.

AFTER SCHOOL MATTERS - CHICAGO
https://www.afterschoolmatters.org/
From the website: "Afterschool Matters is designed to provide after-school activities to Chicago youth, while simultaneously preparing them for the demands of the workplace. By interacting with caring adults and pursuing subjects that interest them, After School Matters students learn skills that are essential to their future success -- like problem solving, critical thinking, and teamwork. In addition, many have the opportunity to build on their experience by working as summer employees or interns in their communities."

AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAMS FOR LOW-INCOME CHILDREN. PROMISES AND CHALLENGES
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10646261/
This is an article written by Robert Halpern, Ph.D., a professor at the Erikson Institute for Graduate Study in Child Development in Chicago, IL.  From the abstract: " This article provides a profile of after-school programs for low-income children, focusing on supply and demand, program emphases, and program sponsors and support organizations. It also discusses the major challenges facing the field in the areas of facilities, staffing, and financing."

AFTERCHOOL ILLINOIS ACT NOW COALITION
http://www.ianetwork.org/?id=57
ACT Now! (Afterschool for Children and Teens Now) is a campaign to give young people in Illinois access to quality afterschool programs. Visit the web site and learn more.

AFTERSCHOOL ALLIANCE
http://www.afterschoolalliance.org/
The Afterschool Alliance was launched publicly in September 1999 as a coalition of public, private, and nonprofit organizations dedicated to raising awareness of the importance of afterschool programs and advocating for quality, affordable programs for all children.

AFTER-SCHOOL PROGRAMS -- FROM VISION TO REALITY
https://www.thirteen.org/edonline/concept2class/afterschool/index.html
Concept to Classroom is an online series of FREE, award-winning professional development workshops covering important and timely topics in education. Offered since 2006.  The workshops are intended for teachers, administrators, librarians, or anyone interested in education -- and there's no technical expertise required. They are self-paced, so you can explore them on your own time and go back as often as you like; you can take all of the workshops, or just one.  This link points to a workshop on Afterschool Programs, titled "From Vision to Reality". This is a comprehensive resource and one you can use at your own pace and learning schedule. Give it a try!

AMERICAN CAMP ASSOCIATION - RESEARCH PAGE
https://www.acacamps.org/resource-library/research/research-reports-summaries-data-maps
Camp and out-of-school time programs offer great opportunities to teach resilience, grit and other habits that help young people become productive adults and effective learners. Research on this web site can be used by any out of school time program leader, board member and/or donor.

BORN THIS WAY FOUNDATION
https://bornthisway.foundation/our-mission/
From the web site: "Born This Way Foundation is committed to supporting the wellness of young people and empowering them to create a kinder and braver world. We achieve this by shining a light on real people, quality research, and authentic partnerships."

CAMPAIGN FOR BLACK MALE ACHIEVERS - RESOURCES
click here
Created by the Campaign for Black Male Achievement and Candid, this curated collection of more than 250 reports offers data, analysis, and recommendations to strengthen the field of Black male achievement.

CHICAGO AREA PROJECT (CAP)
https://www.chicagoareaproject.org/
The Chicago Area Project has over 40 affiliates and special projects throughout the city. Over the years, the programs and issues have changed, just as the neighborhood change. But the democratic ideals of self-determination and self-improvement remain the same and these key principles of the Chicago Area Project continue to serve its neighborhood.

CHICAGO LEARNING EXCHANGE - COMMUNITY
https://chicagolx.org/community/
From the web site: "CLX networks educators, parents, employers, technologists, and researchers; ignites innovation through grants; champions ways to remake learning; and equips educators, youth, and families with skills demanded in the digital age. Scroll through this section to see members."

CHILDREN NOW
https://www.childrennow.org/
Children Now is a research and action organization dedicated to assuring that children grow up in economically secure families, where parents can go to work confident that their children are supported by quality health coverage, a positive media environment, a good early education, and safe, enriching activities to do after school.

CHURCH BUILDINGS AS SPACES TO HOST NON-SCHOOL TUTOR, MENTOR PROGRAMS, COMMUNITY HUBS - ARTICLE
https://www.shareable.net/quebecs-vacant-church-buildings-resurrected-as-community-spaces/
This article shows how vacant churches in Quebec are being re-purposed to serve as community hub.  One section shows how one chursh now is the Quebeck School of Circus Arts.  Use ideas like this to help fill high poverty areas with a wide range of community supports, including volunteer-based tutor, mentor and learning programs.

CONNECTICUT AFTER SCHOOL NETWORK
https://ctafterschoolnetwork.org/
From the web site: "We are a partnership of individuals and organizations promoting young people’s safety, healthy development and learning outside the traditional classroom. We do this by providing training and technical assistance to improve program quality; influencing policy on behalf of youth and families; and expanding funding opportunities."

CORE KNOWLEDGE AND COMPETENCIES FOR AFTERSCHOOL PROFESSIONALS
https://naaweb.org/resources/core-competencies
From the web site: "All professional societies share common characteristics. Among them are a body of knowledge and skills, culture, a code of ethics, and public recognition. The NAA Core Knowledge and Competencies have been developed to enable afterschool and youth development practitioners to demonstrate expertise and gain a higher level of recognition within their communities–particularly from school officials–that has long been sought after."

CREATIVE YOUTH DEVELOPMENT
https://www.creativeyouthdevelopment.org/
From the web site "The National Guild for Community Arts Education, Massachusetts Cultural Council, The President’s Committee on the Arts and the Humanities, and Americans for the Arts together have formed the Creative Youth Development National Partnership. This new coalition is collaborating to organize and accelerate the CYD movement through a collective impact strategy with a common agenda, shared systems and activities, cross-sector engagement, and continuous communications." Browse the web site to learn more and get involved.

ENGAGE EVERY STUDENT - NEW CALL TO ACTION (JULY 2022)
https://engageeverystudent.org/
From the website: "Engage Every Student is a bold new call to action to provide high-quality out-of-school time learning opportunities for every child who wants to participate."  This is an initiative of the U.S. Department of Education and many partners.


ENLACE CHICAGO DIRECTORY OF SERVICES/MAPS - PILSEN, LITTLE VILLAGE AND BRIDGEPORT
https://www.enlacechicago.org/education
From the web site: "Enlace partners with public schools to transform them into safe, accessible community centers and to promote successful transition to high school and post-secondary opportunities. Enlace provides wrap-around family programming that promotes academic achievement, skill building, socio-emotional learning and leadership development in eight local public schools." A map showing the area and partner schools in the area is shown on the site.

EXPANDED LEARNING AND AFTERSCHOOL PROJECT
https://www.expandinglearning.org/
From the web site: "Young people need—and deserve—more from their education. High quality afterschool and summer learning programs powered by school-community partnerships offer young people a variety of hands-on, engaging learning activities that build upon the school day.  The Expanded Learning and Afterschool Project connects you with research, resources and best practices for building affordable and sustainable approaches to expanding learning in your community."

EVERY HOUR COUNTS - A NETWORK OF LEADING INTERMEDIARIES BUILDING AFTER SCHOOL SYSTEMS
https://www.everyhourcounts.org/
From the website: "Every Hour Counts is a network of organizations from across the country that is leading a movement to expand learning beyond school so that all young people can thrive."

FANNING INSTITUTE FOR LEADERSHIP AT U OF GEORGIA
https://www.fanning.uga.edu/
The Fanning Institute web site is a comprehensive resource for organizations that seek to develop youth and adult leaders. The Institute challenges and supports individuals to become productive members of their communities and organizations by learning to lead collaboratively.

FORUM FOR YOUTH INVESTMENT - KNOWLEDGE CENTER
https://forumfyi.org/knowledge-center/
From the web site: "We connect leaders to ideas, services and networks that can help them make more intentional decisions that are good for young people, even in the face of limited resources." The Knowledge Center is an extensive resource. Take some time to become familiar with it.

GEORGIA STATEWIDE AFTERSCHOOL NETWORK 
https://www.afterschoolga.org/ost-interactive-map/
Visit the site and view the interactive map showing afterschool and summer learning programs in Georgia. 

GRANTMAKERS AND THOUGHT LEADERS ON OUT-OF-SCHOOL TIME: SURVEY & AND INTERVIEW REPORT
https://www.wallacefoundation.org/knowledge-center/Documents/Grantmakers-and-Thought-Leaders-on-Out-of-School-Time.pdf
From the web site: "This report takes a look at the priorities of grantmakers that support afterschool or other expanded learning efforts. It also examines the perspectives of key field leaders, including heads of youth-serving nonprofits and researchers. A survey finds that “improved academic achievement” and “increased student engagement” are the most common outcomes funders hope to see from their afterschool/expanded learning giving. For their part, field leaders offer a number of recommendations, including that funders work to move K-12 reform “toward a broader view” of what learning and growth for young people means.”

HARVARD FAMILY RESEARCH PROJECT (1983-2016) ARCHIVE
https://www.gse.harvard.edu/news-tags/harvard-family-research-project
This site includes some of the articles produced by Harvard Family Research Project between 1983 and 2016. They are also available in an archive section of our Global Family Research Project site which you can find through a Google search.

HISTORY OF THE AFTERSCHOOL MOVEMENT
click here
The How Kids Learn Foundation created this "1-hour video documentary on the history of afterschool in America. This is broken into 12 chapters suitable for use in staff training. The documentary is accompanied by a brief learning guide. These materials will be distributed to afterschool programs across the country at no charge."

ILLINOIS PARTNERS FOR HUMAN SERVICES
https://illinoispartners.org/about-us/mission/
From the web site: "Illinois Partners hopes to create a stronger and more stable human service sector in Illinois by developing a collaborative and coordinated approach for creating a more rational system for providing human services; Improving the quality of service by developing common agreement around best operating practices, efficiency and effectiveness; and by Improving support for human services generally by highlighting the value of the human services to communities" 

KALAMAZOO YOUTH DEVELOPMENT NETWORK
https://kydnet.org/
KYDN serves as the intermediary organization for Kalamazoo County's Out-of-School-Time (OST) sector.

MY CHI MY FUTURE - CHICAGO MAYOR'S YOUTH SERVICE INITIATIVE
https://partners.mychimyfuture.org/
From the website: "The mission that we collectively developed for My CHI. My Future. - to connect youth to engaging and safe out-of-school experiences that empower them to cultivate identities, build relationships, and explore future opportunities - remains the same. Our strategies to achieve this must now look different. We have decided to launch My CHI. My Future. as an online hub for youth (and you) to get connected to youth-centered experiences and "spaces" during this time of physical disconnection." Launched in 2020.

NATIONAL 4H COUNCIL
https://4-h.org/
National 4–H Council provides grants, establishes programs/initiatives, designs and publishes curriculum and reference materials, and creates linkages fostering innovation and shared learning to advance the 4–H youth development movement, building a world in which youth and adults learn, grow, and work together as catalysts for positive change. Council partners with 4–H at all levels—national, state and local.

NATIONAL AFTERSCHOOL ASSOCIATION
https://naaweb.org/
From the web site: "We are the national membership organization for professionals who work with and on behalf of children and youth during out-of-school time. NAA’s mission is to promote development, provide education and encourage advocacy for the out-of-school-time community to further the afterschool profession."

NATIONAL ASSOCIATION FOR FAMILY, SCHOOL AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT - NAFSCE
https://nafsce.org/
From the website: "NAFSCE's mission is "advancing high-impact policies and practices for family, school and community engagement to promote child development and improve student achievement."

NATIONAL COLLABORATIVE ON WORKFORCE AND DISABILITY FOR YOUTH (NCWD/YOUTH)
http://www.ncwd-youth.info/about-us/
From the web site: "The National Collaborative on Workforce and Disability for Youth (NCWD/Youth) assists state and local workforce development systems to better serve all youth, including youth with disabilities and other disconnected youth."

NATIONAL CENTER FOR QUALITY AFTER SCHOOL TRAINING TOOLKIT
https://sedl.org/afterschool/resources/toolkit.html
Make the most of afterschool with fun activities that engage students and extend technology learning! In this web site, you will find what the research says about promising practices that work, ways to implement them in your afterschool program, sample lessons, and illustrative videos.

NATIONAL INSTITUTE ON OUT-OF-SCHOOL TIME (NIOST)
https://www.niost.org/
Located at the Center for Research on Women at Wellesley College, NIOST focuses national attention to the importance of children?s out-of-school time. It's goal is to influence policy, increase standards and professional recognition, and spearhead community action aimed at improving the availability, quality and viability of programs serving children and youth. NIOST?s varied initiatives have moved the field forward using three paths: * Research, Evaluation and Consultation * Policy Development and Public Awareness * Training and Curriculum Development. 

NEXT GENERATION AFTERSCHOOL SYSTEM BUILDING - NATIONAL LEAGUE OF CITIES
https://www.nlc.org/initiative/afterschool-and-summer-learning/
The Institute for Youth, Education, and Families has over a decade of experience and knowledge working with cities and municipal leaders to help strengthen local efforts to create, expand and improve afterschool and summer learning opportunities. Through these efforts, municipal-led, citywide afterschool systems and quality summer learning have developed across the nation. Municipal leaders recognize the importance of this work and the essential role that afterschool and summer learning play to improve academics, develop skills and provide exposure to new, stimulating experiences."

PARTNERSHIP FOR AFTER SCHOOL EDUCATION (PASE)
click here https://pasesetter.org/?fbclid=IwAR3vT9hWynue_RvFMzkC9BJWe9Ioc4oIrfWLJnQVpF5at9HajyZb944TtBw
The Partnership for After School Education (PASE) is a child-focused organization that promotes and supports quality afterschool programs, particularly those serving young people from underserved communities.

PROGRAM IN EDUCATION & AFTERSCHOOL RESILIENCY, HARVARD
https://www.pearinc.org/
From the web site: "The PEAR Institute's mission is to create and foster school and afterschool settings in which all young people can be successful. Dedicated to "the whole child–the whole day," PEAR continuously integrates research, theory, and practice for lasting connections between youth development, school reform, and mental health."

PROVIDENCE AFTER SCHOOL ALLIANCE
https://www.mypasa.org/
PASA'S mission is to help close persistent opportunity gaps by expanding and improving quality after school, summer and other out of school time learning opportunities for all the youth of Providence.

SEARCH INSTITUTE
https://searchinstitute.org/
Search Institute is an independent nonprofit organization whose mission is to provide leadership, knowledge, and resources to promote healthy children, youth, and communities. To accomplish this mission, the institute generates and communicates new knowledge, and brings together community, state, and national leaders. 

NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF SOCIAL WORKERS
https://www.socialworkers.org/
This is the National Association of Social Workers web site.

SPARK ACTION! ONLINE JOURNALISM AND ADVOCACY FOR YOUTH
https://sparkaction.org/impact-toolbox/
SparkAction is managed by the Forum for Youth Investment, a nonprofit "action tank" and the founder of the Ready by 21 initiative. SparkAction is an online journalism and advocacy center by and for the child and youth field.  Browse the site to learn more.

THE AHLQUIST CENTER FOR POLICY, PRACTICE AND INNOVATION AT CHILDREN'S HOME & AID
https://www.childrenshomeandaid.org/thecenter/
From the web site: "The Ahlquist Center for Policy, Practice and Innovation aims to:
* Promote effective state and federal public policies and services;
* Improve the quality of services available to vulnerable children and families;
* Incubate innovative practices to improve outcomes and inform public policies."

THE CHILDREN'S PARTNERSHIP
https://www.childrenspartnership.org/
From the web site: "The Children’s Partnership (TCP) is a California–based national children’s advocacy organization committed to improving the lives of underserved children where they live,learn, and play with breakthrough solutions at the intersection of research, policy, and community engagement. Since 1993, TCP has been a leading voice for children and a critical resource for communities across California and the nation, working every day to champion policies that provide all children with the resources and opportunities they need to thrive."

THE DEVELOPMENT SCHOOL FOR YOUTH
https://allstars.org/our-work/programs/development-school-for-youth/
From the web site: "The Development School for Youth (DSY) is the All Stars Project's innovative outside-of-school leadership and business training program.  In partnership with businesses and caring corporate professionals DSY offers supplemental educational, social and internship experiences in a variety of workplace settings. This training prepares inner-city youth to enter the professional workforce, pursue educational opportunities and face challenges in new ways."

THE AMERICAN CHILDREN'S CAMPAIGN'S
https://iamforkids.org/who-we-are/
From the web site: "Since 1992, The American’s Campaign has educated and engaged diverse citizens, stakeholders and experts in a non-partisan way to strategically initiate system change for Florida’s children and families." From the web site: "Since 1992, The Children’s Campaign has educated and engaged diverse citizens, stakeholders and experts in a non-partisan way to strategically initiate system change for Florida’s children and families."

THE FREECHILD PROJECT - COMMUNITY YOUTH DEVELOPMENT
https://freechild.org/2016/01/21/community-youth-development/
From the web site: "Community youth development weaves the growth of young people as they naturally desire to create change in their surrounding environments into the development of their communities. Actively partnering youth and adults to create new opportunities, youth serve their communities while developing their own skills, knowledge and abilities." This is just one of many projects. Browse the site to learn more.

THE NATIONAL PARTNERSHIP FOR STUDENT SUCCESS 
https://www.partnershipstudentsuccess.org/mission-vision/
From the website: "The NPSS helps schools, educators, and communities connect all students with the holistic, people-powered supports they need to learn and achieve their potential."  


THE NATIONAL RESOURCE CENTER FOR YOUTH SERVICES
https://nrcys.ou.edu/
From the web site: "The National Resource Center for Youth Services at the University of Oklahoma, College of Continuing Education has been resourcing the youth services community for more than twenty-five years, providing training and technical assistance to programs in Oklahoma and nationally.

THE SUPPORT GROUP - YOUTH EMPOWERMENT PROGRAMS
https://thesupportgroup.org/
From the web site: "The mission of The Support Group is to execute programs which provide the best opportunities for youth to understand the importance of excelling academically and athletically. Emphasis is placed on academic success, test-taking skills,leadership, and character building.  TSG establishes partnerships with businesses, community and faith-based organizations in an effort to provide ongoing support to youth through empowerment programs." 

THE WALLACE FOUNDATION KNOWLEDGE CENTER
https://www.wallacefoundation.org/knowledge-center/pages/default.aspx
From the web site: "Wallace identifies important problems, funds real-world tests of possible solutions, and disseminates what’s been learned nationally to inform field leaders, policymakers and others who can effect beneficial change.?  The Knowledge Center is a repository of what the Foundation and its partners are learning about the areas in which they work. Included are formal reports produced by researchers on behalf of the Foundation, as well as stories that illustrate innovative ideas in action. Knowledge about what works."

THRIVE CHICAGO COLLECTIVE IMPACT INITIATIVE
https://thrivechi.org/
From the website: "Thrive Chicago's Mission is "To prepare Chicago’s youth for a vibrant future by aligning efforts and outcomes from cradle to career."  Thrive believes "Children must be supported at all stages from cradle to career in order to achieve success. Thrive Chicago believes the only way to accomplish this in a systemic way is to align efforts across sectors and among organizations working at various stages of a child’s development toward adulthood."

UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS EXTENSION AND OUTREACH INITIATIVE
https://extension.illinois.edu/
From the web site: "University of Illinois Extension is the flagship outreach arm of the University. Extension’s statewide network of educators and county-based offices provide programming in economic development, health and nutrition, agriculture and natural resources, and youth development. The U of I Extension and Outreach Initiative was aimed at establishing new partnerships with departments and units across campus."

WHAT KIDS CAN DO
http://www.whatkidscando.org/resources/index.html
From the web site: "What Kids Can Do (WKCD) is a national nonprofit organization founded in the winter of 2001 and operating until Feb. 2018. The site is an archive now, but the resources are still valuable. WKCD documented the value of young people working with teachers and other adults on projects that combine powerful learning with public purpose for an audience of educators and policy makers, journalists, community members, and students.

YMCA OF METRO CHICAGO
https://www.ymcachicago.org/
The YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago prepares Chicago residents for economic independence by providing educational, entrepreneurial, and workforce training and support.

YOUTH DEVELOPMENT IN COMMUNITY SETTINGS: A COMMUNITY ACTION FRAMEWORK (2002) PDF
http://ydol.net/ydsi/pdf/publication_02.pdf
This report outlines a comprehensive strategy for creating and sustaining youth development activities.  I found the PDF while searching for any on-line information about the Chicago Youth Agency Partnership, which was launched in 1994-1995 and had many of the same goals.

YOUTH TODAY - OUT-OF-SCHOOL TIME RESEARCH & RESOURCES
https://youthtoday.org/
Youth Today is a nationally distributed newspaper that provides in-depth coverage of the issues and programs of most interest to those in the child and youth services field. The web site is an extensive resource.  Browse the section with Out-of-School Time research and resources.

ADVENTIST COMMUNITY SERVICES TUTORING & MENTORING
https://www.communityservices.org/our-ministry/tutoring-mentoring/
From the web site:  "ACS Tutoring & Mentoring Program is a cooperative effort between Adventist Volunteer Ministries Network, the volunteer clearinghouse in North America,and Adventist Community Services, the humanitarian agency of the Seventh-day Adventist Church that works within the United States and Bermud.a  ACS Tutoring & Mentoring Program mobilizes voluntary, charitable organizations to meet the learning needs of America's children and youth, particularly those living in low-income households, single-parent families and neighborhoods where violence and other factors not conducive for learning exist."

BE A LIGHT FOR CHICAGO - TELLS STORIES OF CATHOLIC YOUTH SERVING ORGS
https://www.bealightforchicago.org/
This site was launched in 2019 and tells stories of Catholic organizations like Mercy Home, Big Shoulders Fund, Misericordia and Catholic Charities.

BOSTON EDUCATION COLLABORATION ENGAGES CHURCHES
https://www.egc.org/education-collaborative-learn-more
From the web site: "The Boston Education Collaborative (BEC) strategically engages churches,  schools, colleges, and educators to motivate and support underserved  urban youth in gaining the skills they need to become successful,  responsible individuals who have a positive impact on the city and  future generations of students.

BRESEE FOUNDATION (CALIFORNIA)
https://www.bresee.org/
The Bresee Foundation’s mission is to provide comprehensive after-school programs and family services that equip young people to pursue their education, achieve their full potential, and serve others.

BRIGHT STAR COMMUNITY OUTREACH - TURN CENTER
https://www.brightstarcommunityoutreach.com/turnmodel
From the web site: Bright Star "strategy includes developing impactful community development initiatives aimed at facing our largest societal challenges: violence in our communities, poor economic opportunities, inadequate mental health services, homelessness, child safety, and drug abuse. These efforts are designed to strengthen local families and communities, as well as leverage our key partnerships with organizations and businesses that share our passion for seeing renewal in Chicago."   The Turn Center includes a "Counseling component that is dedicated to providing services that minimize negative factors that cause violence and increasing protective influences that yield positive outcomes."

CATHOLIC CHARITIES OF THE ARCHDIOCESE OF CHICAGO - CHILDREN & FAMILY SERVICES
https://www.catholiccharities.net/AboutUs/ServiceAreas/ChildYouthFamilyServices.aspx
From the web site: "Child, Youth and Family Services' mission is to empower children, youth and their families to develop stability and self-reliance by enhancing their education, health, safety and connections to their community.   Our services cover: Child development centers, after school care, services to pregnant and parenting teens, child and family counseling, child welfare programs, case management for maternal & child health. 

CENTER FOR RELIGION AND CIVIC CULTURE, USC
https://crcc.usc.edu/about/
From the web site:  "The Center for Religion and Civic Culture at USC was founded in 1996 to create, translate, and disseminate scholarship on the civic role of religion in a globalizing world. CRCC engages scholars and builds communities in Los Angeles and around the globe. Its innovative partnerships link academics and the faith community to empower emerging leaders through programs like the Passing the Mantle Clergy and Lay Leadership Institute, for African American church leaders, and the American Muslim Civic Leadership Institute."

CHALLENGE TO FAITH LEADERS - 2016 BLOG ARTICLE
click here
Shawn Casselberry wrote this article in response to a Social Justice Conference being held at a church in Cabrini-Green. It's one of several similar themed articles on his blog.


CHRISTIAN ASSOCIATION OF YOUTH MENTORING
https://www.caym.org/
From the web site: "Empowering Christian mentoring ministries to become more effective in their Kingdom work is the primary objective of CAYM. By serving as a source of professionally created promotional materials,  development programs, recruiting materials, and many other resources; we can eliminate the need to “re-invent the wheel” for you."


CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION
https://ccda.org/
From the web site:  "The Christian Community Development Association (CCDA) is a network of Christians committed to seeing people and communities holistically restored. We believe that God wants to restore us not only to right relationship with Himself but also with our own true selves, our families and our communities. Not just spiritually, but emotionally, physically, economically, and socially. Not by offering mercy alone, but by under girding mercy with justice."

COMMUNITY RENEWAL SOCIETY - CHICAGO
https://www.communityrenewalsociety.org/
From the web site: "Community Renewal Society (CRS) is a faith-based organization that works with people and communities to address racism and poverty. CRS transforms society towards greater justice and compassion.  In efforts to empower persons of color and low-income individuals to transform their lives, circumstances and the conditions of their communities, CRS's theory of change connects four primary components: public engagement, public will/opinion, civic demand and public policy/practice change.


CRU YOUTH DEVELOPMENT, SUPPORTS CHURCHES WORKING WITH YOUTH
https://www.cru.org/us/en/communities/innercity/discipleship/youth-development.html
From the web site: "Cru Youth Development, formerly known only as S.A.Y. (Save America's Youth) Yes! Centers for Youth Development®,  trains and supports churches to help youth develop a lifelong, dynamic relationship with Jesus Christ through in-your-life mentoring ministries."


EVALUATION OF A FAITH-BASED WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT STARTUP - 2004
http://comm-org.wisc.edu/papers2004/wilson.htm
This paper titled, "Chicagoland Youth and Adult Training Center: Building Strong Relationships", is an example of an innovative Chicago partnership between faith-based organizations, business, government and education organizations.


FORUM FOR THEOLOGICAL EXPLORATION (FTE)
https://fteleaders.org/?/about
From the web site: "The Forum for Theological Exploration (FTE) is a leadership incubator that inspires young people to make a difference in the world through Christian communities."  Hosted anti-violence meeting and webinar in Chicago on 4/26/2016.


HOLY FAMILY MINISTRIES - AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM
https://www.hfm.org/
From the web site: "Holy Family’s Adventures In Learning After School Program (formerly known as Visions ASP) offers constructive learning activities for children from under-resourced communities in Chicago.  The West Side program serves children at the Holy Family Ministries Center in North Lawndale.  Holy Family serves over 105 children ages K-8 in the after-school programs.  Our programs are open to all who enroll, and offered “first-come, first-served,” without regard to religion, race, previous academic achievement, or ethnicity."


INTERFAITH YOUTH CORE – SUPPORTS COLLEGE LEADERS
https://www.ifyc.org/ili
From the web site: "IFYC works in higher education, partnering with U.S. colleges and universities to make interfaith cooperation a vital part of the college experience, and ultimately a positive force in our society.“


LOVE, INC. - CHURCHES WORKING TOGETHER TO HELP THE POOR
https://www.loveinc.org/affiliate-locations/
From the web site:  "Love In the Name of Christ is a proven model that networks local church ministries and church volunteers, across denominations, to help people in need. Through Love INC, churches and individual Christians are mobilized to work together, along with community organizations and government resources, to provide coordinated help to the poor and needy." 


MESSAGE FROM POPE FRANCIS - WHAT'S THE FOLLOW UP?
http://tutormentor.blogspot.com/2013/12/a-message-from-vatican-whats-follow-up.html
In November 2013 Pope Francis released his first Apostolic Exhortation, Evangelii Gaudium - “The Joy of the Gospel”.  This blog article points to some of the quotes from the document and asks what people will do to embrace this in their own lives and actions.


ST. SABINA CHURCH OUTREACH PORTAL
https://saintsabinaoutreach.org/
St. Sabina Church, located on the far South Side on 79th Street, just West of the Dan Ryan expressway, has a number of programs intended to reduce violence and help youth and families. Browse the web site.


SUNSHINE GOSPEL MINISTRIES - CHICAGO'S WOODLAWN AREA
https://www.sunshinegospel.org/
From the web site:  "Sunshine’s Youth Outreach exists to holistically reach out to the families of Woodlawn through Bible studies, tutoring, sports ministry, hip-hop, and camp. Although our methods may vary depending on the age group, each of our programs centers around exemplifying the life of Jesus Christ. We desire to see young people grow spiritually, academically, and socially."


TECH MISSION CONNECTS PEOPLE, TRAINING AND RESOURCES TO HELP POOR
https://impact.cityvision.edu/
From the web site: "TechMission Online is our consulting and incubation arm, which operates several programs that either help build capacity for those serving under-resourced communities or else address needs often faced in these communities." 


THE EXPECTATIONS PROJECT - FOCUS ON STUDENT'S BEST INTERESTS
https://expectations.org/
The vision of this faith-based organization is shown in these statements from their web site: "Imagine what might be possible if just a handful of people in each of these congregations took it on themselves to ensure the students in these schools had faithful advocates looking out for their best interests.  We believe that the academic achievement gap in U.S. public education can be closed in our lifetimes, but only if people of faith open their hearts, roll up their sleeves, and get to work on behalf of students." 


THE JEREMIAH OPTION - KEEPING FAITH WITHIN TROUBLED TIMES
https://www.theamericanconservative.com/articles/what-would-jeremiah-do/
This article offers a historical model of how people from minority cultures or religions might keep their faith and values while contributing to the overall community well-being.  As America becomes a minority-majority country the Christian White majority might consider this strategy, rather than one of resistance and/or withdrawal.


THE MICAH INIATIVE - FAITH BASED PARTNERSHIP IN RICHMOND, VA
https://micahrva.org/
From the web site:  "The Micah Initiative is a partnership program between churches, synagogues, mosques and other communities of faith in metropolitan Richmond and the Richmond Public Schools for the purpose of supporting the education and the nurture of the children of Richmond."  This is a model that could be duplicated in Chicago and other cities.


UNITED VOICES FOR CHILDREN - RESOURCE LINKS
https://unitedvoicesforchildren.org/links/
From the web site: "United Voices for Children is a coalition of groups and individuals within the Northern Illinois Conference of The United Methodist Church founded in 1979 and dedicated to speak and act on behalf of children, youth and their families who lack the voice of an advocate as well as to nurture and support ministries of the Conference serving these children and youth."


WORLD VISION - GLOBAL FOCUS ON POVERTY AND INJUSTICE
https://www.worldvision.org/our-work
From the web site: "World Vision is a global Christian humanitarian organization. We partner with children, families, and their communities to reach their full potential by tackling the causes of poverty and injustice.

A COLLECTION OF RESOURCES FOR TEACHING SOCIAL JUSTICE
https://www.cultofpedagogy.com/social-justice-resources/
This article focuses on the question "What is Social Justice and How does it fit into education curriculum?" A good resource for educators, tutors and mentors.

ALL TOGETHER NOW: COLLABORATION AND INNOVATION FOR YOUTH ENGAGEMENT
https://circle.tufts.edu/
All Together Now: Collaboration and Innovation for Youth Engagement is a groundbreaking CIRCLE report on how to educate young Americans for political participation in a time of deep polarization.

BRAVE NEW VOICES - INTERNATIONAL YOUTH POETRY FESTIVAL
https://bnv20.youthspeaks.org/
Brave New Voices is an international youth poetry event, organized by youth who have been past participants.  

CHICAGO IS THE WORLD - A PROJECT OF COMMUNITY MEDIA WORKSHOP
https://chicagoistheworld.org/
From the web site:  Mission is "To provide a wide audience to Chicago’s diverse ethnic community and culture through its news outlets, cultural activities, leaders and institutions by providing a rich platform to deliver content and at the same time provide training, resources and other opportunities to ethnic journalists, artists and civic leaders."  This site looks like it has not been updated since 2015. The stories written by Chicago youth are still valuable reading.

COLLECTIVE FOR YOUTH EMPOWERMENT IN STEM AND SOCIETY (CYESS)
https://cyess.org/
CYESS is an  initiative of the Afterschool Alliance which is "leveraging the potential of afterschool programs for civic engagement and STEM learning."  Browse the website to learn more.

COMMUNITY WORK INSTITUTE - SUPPORTS STRATEGIC SERVICE LEARNING
https://communityworksinstitute.org/
CWI seeks to to "support and promote exemplary teaching strategies and practices for K-16 and community programs that support students becoming caring, responsible and active members of their communities.  It's focus is on supporting curriculum that has place as the context, service-learning as the strategy, and sustainability as the goal."

DISCOVERDESIGN.ORG - DESIGN SOLUTIONS FOR REAL-WORLD CHALLENGES
https://discoverdesign.org/
From the web site: "DiscoverDesign.org is an online platform where students, teachers, and mentors come together to design solutions for real-world challenges." Visit the site and view the gallery of past design challenges.

ENGAGING YOUTH FOR POSITIVE CHANGE - CENTER FOR PREVENTION RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT
https://eypc.cprd.illinois.edu/
From the web site: "By engaging youth directly in a collaborative community-based change effort, EYPC aims to give young people the skills, confidence, and experience they need to become effective advocates for positive social change."

GO CAMPAIGN HELPS ORPHANS/CHILDREN THROUGHOUT WORLD
https://gocampaign.org/
From the web site: "GO Campaign is dedicated to helping orphans and vulnerable children throughout the world build a better future.  We are a youth-driven nonprofit that brings together youth everywhere. We cut out the red tape and provide direct access to grassroots projects that improve - and often save - lives of vulnerable children around the globe.

NEXT GEN HQ - EDUCATES TEENS (AGES 12-21 YEARS OLD) ON ENTREPRENEURSHIP
https://www.nextgenhq.com/about-us/our-story
From the web site: "The mission of NEXT GEN HQ is to generate entrepreneurial awareness and understanding among youth through an array of educational programs and hands-on experiences. Works with colleges.

ILLINOIS CIVICS.ORG - FOCUSES ON CIVIC EDUCATION
http://illinoiscivics.blogspot.com/2019/01/civic-education-systems-map-suggests.html?m=1
Illinois Civics focuses on sustained, school-wide commitments to civic learning that will lead to the long-term resuscitation of the state's civic health.  This link points to a unique civics education systems map.  View the map live on Kumu at
https://kumu.io/CivicNow/cluster-map-14-nodes#civics-system-map-reduced-to-14-nodes/civics-addresses-current-difficult-issues

INSPIRE CITIZENS - EMPOWER STUDENTS TO MAKE POSITIVE IMPACT
https://inspirecitizens.org/
From the web site: "Inspire Citizens works on-site with schools, teachers, & students in order to co-design effective professional learning, relevant curriculum enhancements, longitudinal research studies, & engaging learning experiences for deep thinking, global citizenship, & service learning. Our Three Impact Frameworks amplify knowledge, skills, & empathy through a focus on human-centered global competencies that empower students to make positive impact on collective well-being & the sustainable development of the world." Based in Beijing, China.

INTERNATIONAL EDUCATION AND RESOURCE NETWORK
https://us.iearn.org/
From the web site: "iEARN-USA works with educational, youth service, relief and development organizations to facilitate programs where young people can work together to make a meaningful difference in the world. In partnership, we are proud to provide educators and youth with virtual and physical exchange, language, and multimedia opportunities."

KEEPING THE "ACT" IN "SOCIAL ACTIVISM" - ARTICLE
https://edtechendeavours.com/2019/11/25/keeping-the-act-in-social-activism/
For those who mentor or tutor or engage youth in service learning and leadership roles this blog article offers some needed advice.  Take a look.

KQED YOUTH MEDIA IN THE CLASSROOM RESOURCES
https://www.kqed.org/education/
From the website: "Free, ready-to-use lesson plans, videos and resources that promote youth voice and help students practice media making, media literacy and civic engagement.  Find fresh ideas for all grade levels and subjects, aligned to standards like CCSS and NGSS."   Learn about the Youth Media Challenge at https://youthmedia.kqed.org/ and the Election 2024 project at https://youthmedia.kqed.org/election2024

KIDS TALES - TEENAGERS MAKING CHANGE IN THE WORLD
http://kidstales.org/
Description provided by Kevin Hodgson: "Kids Tales provides free writing camps with paths to publication for young writers, often in communities that are struggling.  All camps are organized and run by teenagers. The teens write curriculum, pitch for funding, and created a non-profit. In fact, the entire Kids Tales organization is completely run by teenagers."

LEARNING TO GIVE EDUCATES YOUTH ABOUT PHILANTHROPY
https://www.learningtogive.org/about
Learning to Give educates youth about philanthropy, the nonprofit and volunteer sector, and the importance of giving their time, talent and treasure for the common good. It also helps develop philanthropic behavior and experience, and, empowers youth to take voluntary citizen action for the common good in their classrooms, their lives and their communities. 

MAPPING JUSTICE - EMPOWERING YOUTH THROUGH GEOSPATIAL INNOVATION
https://www.trubel.co/
This is the flagship program of an organization called trubel&co, who's mission is to "champion diverse youth by integrating STEM education with civic innovation to tackle societal challenges. Through our flagship program, Mapping Justice, we empower students to use geospatial technology for social change, fostering data literacy, critical thinking, and community advocacy."

ME TO WE - YOUTH LEADERSHIP PROGRAM
https://www.metowe.com/leadership-programs/
From the web site: "ME to WE is part of a family of organizations—along with WE Day and Free The Children—that empower each of us to make the world a better place.  ME to WE is an innovative social enterprise that provides products that make an impact, empowering people to change the world with their everyday consumer choices. ME to WE measures the bottom line by the people empowered and the lives transformed."

MILDSAUCE PRESENTS IDEAS OF YOUTH IN CHICAGO
https://mildsauce.org/index.php/category/civic-engagement/
From the web site: "Mild Sauce is a webzine covering news and commentary on the people, culture, and events of Chicago. The journalists are young adults (under 25) who live and breathe this city, and are committed to high-quality news and storytelling."  This is a project of Street-Level Youth Media

MOBILIZE.ORG, A CIVIC ENGAGEMENT PLACE FOR YOUTH
https://www.mobilize.org/
Mobilize.org empowers and invests in Millennials to create and implement solutions to social problems.  2017 Note: not certain this org is still active.

NATIONAL YOUTH LEADERSHIP COUNCIL - SUPPORTS SERVICE LEARNING
https://www.nylc.org/default.aspx
From the web site: "For more than 30 years, NYLC has transformed classrooms, empowered teachers, and captivated students by leading the way in providing high-quality, dynamic service-learning content to school districts, classrooms, out-of-school youth programs, and everything in between. Our programs and services develop young leaders, support educators, and advance the field of service-learning."

PREPARE FOR LIFE - LEMONADEDAY
https://www.lemonadeday.org/
Prepared 4 Life  EMPOWERS YOUTH  to become contributing members of society through its core, asset-based*, experiential programs -  Lemonade Day  and the Lemonade Day Experience; Youth organizations, schools, clubs, etc. are encouraged to sign up for the annual Lemonade Day event, which takes place in May. Visit the web site to learn more

SERVICE LEARNING AND CIVIC ENGAGEMENT CONSORTIUM - CHICAGO
https://slcecchicago.info/
From the web site: "The Service-Learning and Civic Engagement Consortium brings together universities with CPS / Chicago Public Schools to promote, support, generate, and advocate for for service-learning and civic engagement practices."

TAKING IT GLOBAL - FOCUS ON YOUTH EMPOWERMENT
https://www.tigweb.org/index.html
From the web site:  "TakingITGlobal's mission is to empower youth to understand and act on the world's greatest challenges.  We use the power of online community to facilitate global education, social entrepreneurship, and civic engagement for millions of youth worldwide." 

THE CESAR E. CHAVEZ FOUNDATION - SERVICE LEARNING
https://chavezfoundation.org/
From the web site: "Through its programming the foundation strives to empower individuals so that they may fully realize their inherent and unlimited potential to make a difference in their own lives, in their communities, and in the world as a whole. All of the Foundation's activities draw from the inspiration and role model of Cesare E. Chavez and other leaders who have proven that one person can change the world."

THE CIVIC ENGAGEMENT RESEARCH GROUP (CERG), AT THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, RIVERSIDE
https://www.civicsurvey.org/
From the web site: "The Civic Engagement Research Group (CERG), at the University of California, Riverside conducts quantitative and qualitative research focused on understanding: The nature of youth civic engagement. The impact of civic learning opportunities and digital media participation on young people's civic capacities and commitments. The quantity, quality, and equality of civic opportunities and outcomes in public schools and other contexts.

UPRISING - YOUTH LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT (UK)
http://www.uprising.org.uk/who-we-are
From the web site: "UpRising is a part time leadership programme designed to open pathways to civil society and create future leaders in public life.  It recruits talented young people from diverse backgrounds and equips them with the skills, experience and confidence to become the leaders of tomorrow and create positive change in their communities."

VOYCE - VOICES OF YOUTH IN CHICAGO EDUCATION
http://voyceproject.org/
From the web site: "Voices of Youth in Chicago Education (VOYCE) is a youth organizing collaborative for education and racial justice led by students of color from five community organizations across the city of Chicago."

WHAT DOES YOUTH CIVIC ENGAGEMENT HAVE TO DO WITH INEQUALITY?
http://wtgrantfoundation.org/youth-civic-engagement-inequality
This is 2018 article by Peter Levine, who leads the Center for Information & Research on Civic Learning & Engagement (CIRCLE).

WRITE4CHANGE
http://www.write4change.org/
Write4Change is building a global collaboration community "designed to connect teachers who believe that young people writing for real and meaningful audiences and purposes can lead to social change.  The Write 4 Change Project provides students opportunities to write for social action, challenge inequality, and make change in and across their communities."

WRITING OUR CIVIC FUTURES - YOUTH VOICE AND PARTICIPATION - OCT 2017
https://educatorinnovator.org/writing-our-civic-futures-october-youth-voice-and-participation/
From the web site: "Writing Our Civic Futures, our collaborative annotation project with Marginal Syllabus, is underway  (Oct. 2017)! October’s conversation examines youth voice and participation, and the tools and strategies young people are using to organize for social change." Visit this site and read more about this project and ways you can get involved.

YOUNG PEOPLE REINVENTING THEIR WORLD - YOUTH AND THE WORLD BANK GROUP
https://www.worldbank.org/en/programs/youth
From the web site: " The World Bank Group wants to empower young people and together contribute to its twin goals: ending poverty and boosting shared prosperity."  Browse the site. Learn more.

YOUTH ACTIVISM PROJECT (ALASKA)
https://youthactivismproject.org/
Youth as leaders is the goal of this site.  It's a meeting place for youth throughout the world.

YOUTH AS SOLUTIONS®  - A PROGRAM OF THE NATIONAL YOUTH LEADERSHIP COUNCIL
https://nylc.org/youth-as-solutions/
From the website: "Youth as Solutions (YaS) is creating a generation of citizens who are passionate about making a positive impact in their schools and communities. Through our self-paced youth leadership program, youth councils/teams – consisting of at least two young people in grades 6-12 along with an adult mentor from a public school, school district, government entity, or nonprofit – positively impact their communities by addressing one of these impact areas: Education, Community Health, Environment, Civics and Democracy."

YOUTH SERVICE AMERICA
https://ysa.org/
From the web site:  "Founded in 1986, YSA supports a global culture of engaged children and youth committed to a lifetime of meaningful service, learning, and leadership. With half the world’s population under age 25, our mission is to help all young people find their voice, take action, and make an impact on vital community issues. Starting in 2016, YSA will focus all our assets and outcomes on achieving the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030."

YOUTH VENTURE
https://www.ashoka.org/en-us/youth-venture
Youth Venture's Vision is a world in which society recognizes, and young people commonly demonstrate, that youth have the ability to bring about lasting positive change in their communities. On the website are resources for young people to start their own community-minded organization. Likewise, the web allows our young entrepreneurs to connect with each other. We have forums, blogs, polls, a downloadable application, and links to other great resources for interested youth.

YOUTH VOICES - A SITE FOR CONVERSATIONS.
https://www.youthvoices.live/
From the web site: "Youth Voices is organized by teachers at local sites of the National Writing Project and in partnership with Educator Innovator."   It is a school-based social network that was started in 2003 by a group of National Writing Project teachers. Students from around the world are posting stories on the site about topics important to them. Browse around. Get involved.

YOUTH VOICES - LETTERS TO THE NEXT PRESIDENT
https://resources.letters2president.org/resource/letters-to-the-next-president-at-youth-voices/
From the web site: "Letters to the Next President 2.0 engaged and connected young people, aged 13–18, as they researched, wrote, and made media to voice their opinions on issues that mattered to them in the 2016 presidential election."

ALTERNATIVES. INC YOUTH DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS - CHICAGO
https://alternativesyouth.org/programming/
From the web site: "At Alternatives’ we believe that youth are already resilient, insightful, and powerful, but they need authentic opportunities to further develop and demonstrate their abilities as leaders and change-makers. Youth in Alternatives’ programs have the opportunity to flip the script, challenge people’s perceptions or them, and elevate their voices on the issues that are most pressing to them. Our highly trained and experienced staff creatively foster these abilities through each of our programs."

ASSOCIATION HOUSE - WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT & TECHNOLOGY CENTER
https://www.associationhouse.org/home/services/workforce-development/
From the web site: "Association House of Chicago serves a multi-cultural community by providing comprehensive, collaborative and effective programs in English and Spanish to promote health and wellness and create opportunities for educational and economic advancement."

BREMAN YOUTH SERVICES - COMMUNITY MENTAL HEALTH AGENCY
https://www.bremenyouthservices.org/
From the web site: "Bremen Youth Services (BYS) is a not-for-profit community mental health agency which has served youth and their families since 1964. Services are available to individuals ages 5-21 and their families. Although the agency serves Bremen Township residents, we are not bound by township lines and welcome anyone in need of services."

CAMP OUT FOR KIDS - SUMMER CAMP OPPORTUNITY
http://www.campoutforkids.org/about/
From the web site: "Throughout the years, Camp Out for Kids has sent children and youth to many different types of camps as well as developed strong relationships with other organizations that provide summer camp experiences and programming."  Visit the web site to see what youth organizations in Chicago they work with and how kids can get involved.

CAROLE ROBERTSON CENTER FOR LEARNING
https://www.carolerobertsoncenter.org/family-programs-services/
From the web site: "The Carole Robertson Center operates three sites in the North  Lawndale, Little Village, and Near West Side communities of urban  Chicago.  The after school and evening program is for community youth, ages 10  through 18. The program provides educational, support, personal  development, mentoring, social, and recreational activities for youth."

CHICAGO HOPES FOR KIDS - SERVES KIDS IN HOMELESS SHELTERS
https://www.chicagohopesforkids.org/
From the web site: "Chicago HOPES for Kids provides educational support for children living in Chicago's homeless shelters. It is our mission to provide our students with the resources and encouragement needed to succeed academically, despite the challenges of homelessness."

FARTHER FOUNDATION - ENABLES STUDENTS TO TRAVEL THE WORLD
https://www.fartherscholar.org/
From the website:  "The Farther Foundation enables students to break free from historic inequities and lack of opportunities based on race, ethnicity and other factors and experience the wider world through educational travel.  Find information on the website about summer programs and student applications.

GIRLS ON THE RUN - AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM
https://www.girlsontherun.org/
From the web site: "Girls on the Run is a life-changing, experiential learning programs for girls age eight to thirteen years old. The programs combine training for a 3.1 mile running event with self-esteem enhancing, uplifting workouts. The goals of the programs are to encourage positive emotional, social, mental, spiritual and physical development." 

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.

HIGHER LEARNING NETWORK - CHICAGO AREA
https://www.higherlearningnetwork.org/
Higher Learning Network’s mission is to empower and teach urban youth and adults how to develop their own natural gifts, talents and abilities: with a focus on life skills, job training and entrepreneurial skills.

KIDS ABOVE ALL (WAS CHILD SERV) - SUPPORT FOR CHILDREN AND FAMILIES
https://www.kidsaboveall.org/what-we-do/
From the web site: ChildServ rebranded as "Kids Above All" in 2020 with the goal of a) investing in kids; b) strengthening families; and, c) help kids who have experienced trauma achieve personal, emotional and social growth.   Visit the website to learn more.

MCGAW YMCA - AFTER SCHOOL YOUTH DEVELOPMENT
https://www.mcgawymca.org/childrens-center/school-age/schools-out/
From the web site: Located in Evanston, IL., "School’s Out is the McGaw YMCA Children’s Center’s afterschool program. Currently, programming is offered in two locations:  1420 MAPLE AVE. and 2010 DEWEY AVE/" 

PEER GROUP CONNECTION (PGC) - CENTER FOR SUPPORTIVE SCHOOLS
https://www.supportiveschools.org/peer-group-connection
From the web site: "Through Peer Group Connection (PGC), CSS trains school faculty to teach leadership courses to select groups of older students, who in turn educate and support younger students. Our goal is to help schools enable and inspire young people to become engaged leaders who positively influence their peers. The CSS peer-to-peer student leadership model taps into schools’ most underutilized resources – students – and enlists them in strengthening the educational offerings of a school while simultaneously advancing their own learning, growth, and development."

READING IS FUNDAMENTAL
https://www.rif.org/
RIF is the oldest and largest children and family literacy organization in the country. The mission of RIF  is to ensure that every child has the opportunity to learn to love reading.

UP 2 US SPORTS - TRAIN AND SUPPORT SPORTS COACHES TO TRANSFORM YOUTH, PROGRAMS AND COMMUNITIES
https://www.up2us.org/our-mission
From the web site: "Up2Us Sports is the nationwide leader in engaging, training and supporting sports coaches to serve as mentors and role models to youth living in some of America’s most underserved communities"