Summer Newsletter 2024

Hello Youth,

We hope you're having an awesome summer! You will find this newsletter packed with inspiring stories, the latest updates, and highlights from the impact of our combined efforts. Together, we're truly making a huge difference in the lives of at-risk youth and their families. We're so grateful for your ongoing commitment and support to our mission.

Sincerely,

Beth Spallone

Director of Philanthropy

YOS Receives Grant for Cook County's

"Stronger Together Initiative"

On June 10, 2024, Jamie Noto, YOS Executive Director, was present when Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle and County Commissioners, along with Cook County Health leaders, announced the award of over $44 million in grants to 53 organizations as part of the health system's Stronger Together: Building a More Equitable Behavioral Health System in Cook County Initiative. This initiative aims to address behavioral health inequities across the region's system of care through increased systems alignment, enhanced system quality, and the expansion of access to early intervention and prevention, treatment, support, recovery, and crisis assessment and care.

YOS is deeply honored to be a grant recipient from the Stronger Together Initiative. Thank you to Cook County Health and the Cook County Government for supporting our work to improve mental health in Cook County.

YOS Launches Nationwide Virtual Fundraiser

Panda Express Fundraiser

On Monday, July 1, 2024, YOS hosted our first virtual fundraiser with Panda Express restaurant! Supporters nationwide placed online orders for pick-up or delivery, and 28% of the day's profits were generously donated to YOS. We want to express our gratitude to everyone who participated; we managed to raise $225 in a single day. All proceeds go towards enhancing and expanding our services.

A Special Shout Out to Carly Gelb

Thank you, Carly, for going above and beyond by coordinating this amazing one-day fundraiser with Panda Express. Supporting YOS has never been easier! Learn how you can host an online Virtual Fundraiser for YOS!

The Art of Wine & Chocolate 2024

A Night to Remember: Celebrating Our 65th Anniversary

What an amazing time! Our Art of Wine & Chocolate Spring Fundraiser was a big hit as YOS celebrated our 65th anniversary in style at Loft on Lake on June 6th, 2024. We were thrilled to welcome over 150 professionals and expand our network of supporters. Guests mingled with our staff, board members, and leadership team while enjoying wine, delicious chocolates, appetizers, and an exciting 50/50 cash raffle that made the night unforgettable.

Thank you to everyone who attended and to our incredible sponsors. Your generosity was crucial in helping YOS raise over $30,000, directly impacting our ability to support thousands of at-risk youths in finding safe homes, staying in school, avoiding substance use, and making positive choices.

IPM Makes An Impact On YOS!

Spring Into Cleaning!

On April 18, 2024, our partners, Integrated Project Management (IPM), teamed up with YOS and provided 100 bags filled with household cleaning supplies. The teamwork demonstrated by IPM volunteers who helped set up and distribute the bags was inspiring. Their efforts positively impacted hundreds of YOS's clients and their families. We are grateful to everyone who participated and had a lot of laughs and fun along the way.