We focus on providing opportunities and experiences for youth to promote well-being and success.

Y.O.U.'s afterschool and summer programming is offered at no cost to youth and their families.

Our OST Program fosters social-emotional learning and school success--offering academic support, enrichments, and opportunities for peer connection and fun. On a quarterly basis, Y.O.U. carefully designs and selects developmentally-appropriate program components¹ to engage youth along a path of exposure in our Elementary Program, exploration in our Middle School Program, and experience in our High School Program. Y.O.U. collaborates with more than 50 partner providers to expand experiential learning opportunities in safe and nurturing environments.

Program curricula integrates three integrated areas of learning:

Area of Learning 1 of 3
Academic Support
Daily academic support time including: homework completion, tutoring and literacy support, and supplemental hands-on academic activities to support learning and growth in traditional core academic areas including STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math), Literacy and Social Studies.
Area of Learning 2 of 3
Enrichment & Expanded Learning Opportunities
Activities are offered for youth to explore their interests, learn new things, and work collaboratively to build skills. Activities are offered within the areas of: fine and performing arts, STEAM, social justice and activism, literature and the humanities, farming and culinary arts, and organized sports and fitness
Area of Learning 3 of 3
Social Emotional Learning, Growth, & Development
Our programs emphasize the development of intrapersonal skills, including self-awareness, critical thinking, and self-management, along with interpersonal skills like communication and collaboration. Social-emotional learning is integrated into academic and enrichment programming. Individual and family therapy and case management is also available completely free of charge through our Community-Based Services.

High School Program

Our High School Program offers hands-on learning and preparation for post-secondary life. Experiences including:

Hands-on enrichment activities
Internships
Apprenticeships

The majority of our High School Program takes place at Y.O.U. 's headquarters, just across the street from Evanston Township High School, utilizing spaces such as our state of the art Makerspace, Demonstration Kitchen, and Urban Gardens

Learn more or Enroll

See our OST Sites