Organization Overview
Founded with a commitment to nurturing the potential within each young individual, You Matter 2 is a youth development organization serving the South Suburban region. We aim to empower 6th-12th grade students to reach their full potential and grow into leaders who can make a significant impact on their communities.
We pride ourselves on the diverse range of programs and initiatives we offer, each designed with the goal of exposing our youth to new experiences, forging strong connections, and promoting active community service. From leadership development in the "Discover U" program, exploration of interests in the "Study Break on Us" initiative, to academic support through "I.G.N.I.T.E.", we provide holistic development opportunities that go beyond conventional education.
Our commitment also extends to our community engagement initiatives, which are aimed at creating positive change in our neighborhoods while celebrating our cultural heritage. Events like the MLK Day of Service, the Homewood-Flossmoor Juneteenth Festival, and Adopt-A-Family, not only bring our communities closer together but also foster a strong sense of social responsibility and cultural pride among our youth.
At You Matter 2, we are more than an organization - we are a community of passionate individuals dedicated to making a difference in the lives of our youth and in the world around us. We believe in the power of unity, the importance of cultural heritage, and the immense potential that resides in every young mind.
Join us in our journey to empower our youth, transform our communities, and create a brighter future, together.
We pride ourselves on the diverse range of programs and initiatives we offer, each designed with the goal of exposing our youth to new experiences, forging strong connections, and promoting active community service. From leadership development in the "Discover U" program, exploration of interests in the "Study Break on Us" initiative, to academic support through "I.G.N.I.T.E.", we provide holistic development opportunities that go beyond conventional education.
Our commitment also extends to our community engagement initiatives, which are aimed at creating positive change in our neighborhoods while celebrating our cultural heritage. Events like the MLK Day of Service, the Homewood-Flossmoor Juneteenth Festival, and Adopt-A-Family, not only bring our communities closer together but also foster a strong sense of social responsibility and cultural pride among our youth.
At You Matter 2, we are more than an organization - we are a community of passionate individuals dedicated to making a difference in the lives of our youth and in the world around us. We believe in the power of unity, the importance of cultural heritage, and the immense potential that resides in every young mind.
Join us in our journey to empower our youth, transform our communities, and create a brighter future, together.
Mission & Vision
Mission
At You Matter 2, we are committed to closing opportunity gaps and empowering South Suburban youth to become confident leaders, engaged citizens, and future changemakers. Through structured enrichment programs, career readiness initiatives, and community engagement opportunities, we address critical societal challenges such as educational inequity, workforce development, mental health, and violence prevention. Our programs provide students with the skills, mentorship, and real-world experiences they need to thrive academically, professionally, and personally—ensuring they see their own potential and their ability to shape the world around them.
Vision
We envision a future where every young person, regardless of background, has the tools, confidence, and support to succeed in life. Through innovative programming and strong community partnerships, we strive to create a generation of socially responsible leaders who are prepared to tackle real-world challenges, drive positive change, and build a more equitable society. At You Matter 2, we don’t just develop students—we cultivate the next generation of visionaries, problem-solvers, and community advocates.
At You Matter 2, we are committed to closing opportunity gaps and empowering South Suburban youth to become confident leaders, engaged citizens, and future changemakers. Through structured enrichment programs, career readiness initiatives, and community engagement opportunities, we address critical societal challenges such as educational inequity, workforce development, mental health, and violence prevention. Our programs provide students with the skills, mentorship, and real-world experiences they need to thrive academically, professionally, and personally—ensuring they see their own potential and their ability to shape the world around them.
Vision
We envision a future where every young person, regardless of background, has the tools, confidence, and support to succeed in life. Through innovative programming and strong community partnerships, we strive to create a generation of socially responsible leaders who are prepared to tackle real-world challenges, drive positive change, and build a more equitable society. At You Matter 2, we don’t just develop students—we cultivate the next generation of visionaries, problem-solvers, and community advocates.
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Our Values
ServiceWe create opportunities for youth to think about the needs of others and ways to take action.
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LeadershipWe empower youth to make decisions and encourage them to use their voice, talents, and passion to make a difference.
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Cultural AwarenessWe believe in the ongoing learning of all cultural backgrounds, to be understanding of all historical and present experiences, and to showcase our uniqueness.
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Inclusion
We honor and respect differences and abilities in those with whom we work, play, and partner.
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Collaboration
We listen, help, support, and learn together for a collective goal.
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Community
We nurture connections that lead to sustainable and impactful change.
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Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Statement
You Matter 2 is committed to a diverse, inclusive, and equitable environment where all board members, staff, volunteers, and members feel respected and valued regardless of gender, age, race, ethnicity, national origin, sexual orientation or identity, disability, education, or other biases. We’re committed to being non-discriminatory and providing equal opportunities for employment, volunteering, and advancement in all areas of our work. We respect the value that diverse life experiences bring to our organization and strive to listen to all views and give them value. We’re committed to modeling diversity, inclusion, and equity and maintaining fair and equal treatment for all.