Gun Violence Prevention Program Success Stories
In 2023, Youth Crossroads introduced an intensive 90-day Violence Prevention Program for 16-24-year-olds in Berwyn and Cicero with a history of violence or association with the criminal justice system. Trauma Counselor, Desmond Feltus (MHS/MHC) provides insights into what is working in the program.
“I am currently working with a student who I started working with last summer when he was going through the legal system fighting serious charges involving firearms. He had been placed in the Juvenile Drug Court for a brief period of time and was under house arrest and probation. The youth was involved with gang activities and had limited coping skills.
Through coaching, he has been able to better understand the trauma that has profoundly impacted his life. We also focused on developing coping skills to deal with situations inside and outside of school. Today, the youth has worked through his legal issues and is currently off probation. The youth is performing well in school and gets along well with others. He has developed a very positive perspective on life and understands how his actions impact his family and the community.”
Youth Crossroads’ Celebrates 50th Anniversary with Gala and Casino Night on April 19
Youth Crossroads celebrates its 50th Anniversary in 2024 with a Gala and Casino Night on Friday, April 19, 6 – 11 p.m. at Crystal Sky Banquets, 7941 47th St. in McCook. The event includes a family-style dinner and dessert table, 3-hour Open Bar and Casino, and Raffles! Tickets are $100 each, and tables of 10 are $975 (before April 5th) Each ticket includes $50 in chips. To sponsor/register for Gala
Alumni Network Gives Youth, Staff, Board Alums Role in YC’s Future
YC’s Alumni Network is planning a dynamic alumni reunion and community block party on Saturday, July 27, featuring live music, DJs, food, drink, games, and a special exhibition of past service-learning trips. In the near future, the Alumni Network hopes to develop a mentorship and guest speaker series to guide, support, and inspire today’s students. Join YC’s Alumni Network by. Contact Ashley.
YC’s 50th Anniversary Events
Youth Crossroads kicked-off its 50th Anniversary year with a Super Bowl themed party at the Joseph C. Vallez Activity Center in Berwyn on February 9. On Tuesday, March 12, YC’s students, staff, and board will be in Springfield to receive a proclamation from the Illinois Senate and House recognizing the tens of thousands of youth and families in our community who have been transformed by YC’s programs and services.
BMO Harris Gives YC $75,000 Grant
BMO Harris Bank has awarded YC a three-year grant of $75,000 to support Counseling Services for Newly Arriving Youth to our Community. YC also recently received a $7,262 from the Lesser Franklin Charitable Trust for general operations. General operations support is critical for the organization to recruit, train, and retain the best staff and spaces to support our programs and services. YC also received a
New Parent Support Group Helps Latinx Parents Support Their Youth
YC is offering a new support group for Spanish-speaking parents who are interested learning about how to best support youth mental health challenges as well as learning to manage their own stress. The support group is also designed to connect parents with other families in the community who can share their own experiences and coping strategies. For information contact Tayra.