How COVID-19 Continues to Impact our Students
In January, President Biden announced that the national public health emergency declarations related to the COVID-19 pandemic would be lifted on May 11. While reported cases, deaths, and hospitalizations from COVID-19 are down over 80%, the impact of the pandemic is being felt every day in our community.
In Berwyn middle schools, incidents of substance abuse have increased exponentially as students look to self-medicate, resulting in several student suspensions and one overdose. There has also been a staggering increase in incidents of fighting and bullying reported in Berwyn and Cicero middle and high schools with a number of students getting suspended or expelled. Incidents of self-harm have also lead to several hospitalizations. Additionally, our crisis counselors are responding to more than one crisis a week, when students refuse to return home because they don’t feel safe.
“What is going on in our schools is unprecedented. It’s beyond description,” says Tayra Romo, Associate Director of Counseling Services at Youth Crossroads. There is no question that mental health issues are driving a lot of the behaviors we are seeing, and it’s not just the kids. Parents are also experiencing anxiety and depression. The health emergency is our community is not ending on May 11. The youth we serve and our staff will be feeling the effects of COVID for years,” Tayra says.
Show Your Love and Support for Youth Crossroads by Sponsoring or Purchasing Tickets to our Gala in April
Youth Crossroads “Roaring 20’s” Gala takes place on Friday, April 21 at 6 p.m., Crystal Sky Banquets in McCook. Our Gala plays a critical role in supporting our programs and services. Show your support for our staff who have been on the frontlines of the youth mental health crisis and gun violence epidemic for the past 3 years. Become a sponsor or purchase a ticket to the gala today.
Day/Month of the Young Child Celebration and Resource Fair
April is the Month of the Young Child in Cicero, featuring a number of events for families with children under 8. The Month culminates with the Day of the Child Celebration and Resource Fair on April 28, which includes a block party filled with community resources, raffles, entertainment, and lots of fun. For info contact Michelle at micheller@youthcrossroads.org
Parent Cafes Screen and Discuss Nature vs. Nurture Netflix Series
AOK/ECC Parent Ambassadors host Café y Conchas on March 27, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. at Inner City Impact, 2348 S. Laramie Ave. The event gives Cicero parents the most up-to-date information on raising their children. The Netflix Series Nature vs. Nurture will be screened followed by a discussion in Spanish. Snacks will be provided. For info contact Michelle at micheller@youthcrossroads.org
YC’s Workforce Development Program Introduces a Cohort on Mental Health
Are you interested in exploring careers in school mental health care, including working as a school counselor, social worker, or psychologist? Then sign up for YC’s new mental health cohort. Discover strategies for helping youth deal with anxiety, depression, and more, and shadow a mental health professional. Classes start on April 18 and include a $350 stipend. Contact Arafat at ArafatO@youthcrossroads.org
One Step Ahead Scholarship Helps Youth Leadership Students Pay for College
Every year, Youth Development College Interns lead a series of fundraising events for our “One Step Ahead Scholarship (OSA).” So far, the interns have raised over $6,000 through a variety of fundraisers at restaurants in the area. OSA helps students pay for college tuition, books, and supplies. If you would like to support the OSA scholarship contact Bri at BrianiS@youthcrossroads.org
