Youth Crossroads Inc. thrives on partnerships. A great example of this is the recent collaboration between our Youth Leadership Program (YLP) and Hope Houses Workshop here in Berwyn.
Development of a new line of vintage wooden toys sparked an idea– why not invite the YLP teens to build toys for the Head Start children of Hephzibah Children’s Association of Oak Park. “The workshop exists to grow imaginations, connect people and promote a Family is Key belief; these three organizations working together is magical and heartwarming”, says Steve Lefko, founder and owner of Hope Houses Workshop.
Teens built 60 toys at the workshop over three evenings and learned about woodworking and craftsmanship. Toys included a Jacobs Ladder, Tops, Rubber Band Cars and Trapeze Clown, each with a handwritten and encouraging note for each recipient. Then we took the toys to children in the Head Start Program. It was like Santa Claus in Summer! The children watched a demonstration of each toy and then selected the one they wanted. Huge smiles all around. The adults had as much fun as the kids!
Watch a video about the project here and learn More about Hope Houses Workshop here!