Summer Newsletter | Aug./Sept. 2023

Hello Youth,

On behalf of Youth Outreach Services, we want to thank you so much for your unwavering support and dedication to helping Chicago's most vulnerable youth. This newsletter is full of inspiring stories and the latest updates, illuminating the importance of our work and showing you how you can make a difference. Thank you for joining us on this journey to create a brighter future for our young people.

Community Partner Updates

Kenvue, Feed the Children Teams Up with YOS to Distribute Backpacks to Chicago Area Students

In order for students to excel in school, their individual needs must be met. However, our most vulnerable youth are unable to reach their full potential in the classroom if their basic necessities are not fulfilled.

That's why Kenvue and Feed the Children, a prominent nonprofit organization dedicated to ending childhood hunger, teamed up with Youth Outreach Services to provide over 300 backpacks and school supplies to Chicago area students. The backpacks were filled and distributed on Tuesday, August 8th, at 2411 West Congress Parkway in Chicago.

MAZARS Makes An Impact On YOS!

YOS depends on the kindness and generosity of volunteers, donors, and sponsors to fulfill its mission. On June 5th, 2023, as part of their commitment to give back to the community, MAZARS's Chicago team volunteered to help YOS clean and organize our new Central office.

Their efforts made a significant difference in the working environment, positively impacting YOS's clients, their families, and staff. The teamwork demonstrated by MAZARS's volunteers was inspiring, and we are grateful to everyone who participated while having a lot of laughs and fun along the way. YOS appreciates the support from MAZARS and is thankful for their “WeAREMazars” Days of Service.

See more photos

All Hands Health Network highlights YOS as a Preferred Partner Provider

YOS has been recognized as a preferred partner by the All Hands Health Network - A Lurie Children's Collaboration. This recognition was featured in their monthly newsletter on May 31, 2023.

YOS collaborates with various organizations, including the All Hands Health Network, to ensure that young people aged 12-21 have access to suitable local mental health services that meet their unique needs, strengths, and goals. YOS aims to connect young people with the right providers by working together.

Read the article

Media Highlights

Did you see YOS on the evening news?

CHICAGO (CBS) – CBS 2 News introduces Cook County criminal justice system's new Redeploy Program.

On August 16th, 2023, CBS 2 News showcased the new Cook County Redeploy program, a collaboration with Youth Outreach Services. The program provides specialized treatment to minors in the criminal justice system, working with them and their families to break the cycle of crime. The participants, who are between 12-16 years old, are behind some of the worst crimes tracked in Cook County and have been charged with felony crimes such as armed robbery and carjacking. Tara Molina from CBS 2 News interviewed Monica Montgomery, one of our employees. Watch the Video

If you missed it...

CHICAGO - CBS 2 News

Supports Mental Health Action Day and Shines a Light on YOS

On May 18, 2023, CBS 2 News featured Youth Outreach Services (YOS) as part of Mental Health Action Day on the evening news. Our very own employees, Monica Montgomery and Johnnie Duncan, were interviewed by CBS 2's Andrew Ramos. By shining a light on our organization, CBS 2 was highlighting the meaningful work YOS does in the community.

Watch the video

Positive Changes Are Happening

Welcome to the team!

YOS is pleased to announce the addition of Marcus Guerra as Director of Special Projects to our Redeploy team. With 5+ years of experience leading cross-functional teams to non-profit organizations, Marcus has successfully guided policy changes while building community and business networks throughout the Chicagoland area.

Inspiring Youth Through Activities

Here's a brief look back on some of our youth activities from the summer of 2023

Thank you for all you do and for believing in a world where all young people can grow and thrive. To get the latest updates on what's happening with YOS, follow us on social media.

Sincerely,

Beth Spallone

Director of Philanthropy