Our Community

Evanston is an exceptional place to raise a family because of its racial, ethnic, and economic diversity and its commitment to quality education and outstanding social and recreational programs. Yet the city’s many resources are not within reach of a significant percentage of its population. The young people we see at Y.O.U.’s after-school program are predominantly low income and without access to more traditional after-school activities. Their parents are often unable to give the best support possible because of day-to-day stresses in their lives…long work hours…low pay. Many became parents at a young age, lacking academic and professional opportunities and the foundation needed to succeed. Y.O.U. appreciates these difficulties.

More recently, Evanston has experienced an influx of immigrants and transplants from Chicago’s inner-city. Our new neighbors are seeking the opportunity of the town. Y.O.U. actively reaches out to these new families as well, helping them access the area’s resources and become welcome members of our community.

At each of our seven locations, Y O.U. provides services to over 500 young people and their families annually. The Racial/Ethnic background and gender of our staff/board members and participants are listed below. It should be noted that over 80 percent of our participants are from low income families.