Youth Development
Our youth development programs are focused on empowering 6th-12th grade students to reach their full potential. We believe that youth are not problems to be solved, but rather they are the problem-solvers of our future. Our programs provide a safe and supportive environment where students can build positive relationships with peers and mentors, develop leadership skills, and explore their passions. Our programs are open to all students who wish to participate, and we encourage everyone to join us on this journey of personal growth and development. Through our youth development programs, we aim to inspire and support the next generation of leaders who will shape our communities and our world.
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Empowering ConnectionsEmpowering Connections is a program for middle and high school students that meets on the 1st and 3rd Sunday of every month. It offers enriching activities for middle school students to develop their self-awareness, social awareness, personal responsibility, self-management, goal-directed behavior, and relationship skills, while high school students gain hands-on experience in identifying community and social issues, creating action plans, and organizing community service projects. The program aims to foster connections, empower students to make a difference, and develop their leadership skills, sense of belonging, and understanding of their identity and values.
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Study Break on UsStudy Break on Us is a program designed for 6th-12th grade students that takes place twice a month. The program provides students with opportunities to take a break from academic studies and explore their interests through art, mental well-being, fitness, and culinary experiences, while also engaging with their peers. The goal of the program is to give students a chance to learn new skills and recharge from their academic workload.
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Discover UThe Discover U program is a college tour program designed to provide high school students with an immersive and comprehensive experience of the college process. The program's mission is to expose students to all aspects of the college experience, including applications, academic majors, future careers, financial aid, extracurricular activities, leaving home, and managing adulthood. The program recognizes that choosing a college is one of the most impactful decisions for a student's life and career, and believes that physically experiencing a college campus is crucial for making an informed decision. By connecting students with universities and informing them about everything that goes into the college experience, the Discover U program helps students navigate the complex and often overwhelming process of choosing a college.
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G.A.M.E. ChangersG.A.M.E. Changers is a summer program for middle school students aimed at preventing summer learning loss and preparing them for the upcoming school year. It provides academic support, skill-building, and enrichment activities in addition to engaging in fun and challenging activities that promote personal growth, social-emotional well-being, and teamwork skills. The program is designed to be interactive, hands-on, and fosters positive relationships among students, teachers, and community members. By providing a safe and supportive learning environment during the summer months, G.A.M.E. Changers promotes academic success, personal growth, and social-emotional well-being for all participating students.
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Community Engagement
Our community engagement initiatives aim to create a positive impact on the communities in which we operate. By providing resources, experiences, and opportunities for individuals to connect, we aim to foster a sense of community and promote social cohesion. Our initiatives are designed to address the needs of the community and offer support in areas such as education, health, and social welfare. We believe that by investing in our communities, we can contribute to the growth and development of our neighborhoods, while also creating meaningful relationships with the individuals who live there.
MLK Day of ServiceMLK Day of Service is an annual event held every January that invites the community to come together and honor the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. by participating in meaningful service projects. The event offers two service projects for participants to engage in: making lunches for South Suburban PADS and tying blankets for Project Kennedy, which benefit children battling cancer. During the event, volunteers will work together to prepare nutritious and delicious lunches that will be distributed to the homeless community through South Suburban PADS, while also crafting warm and comforting blankets to bring comfort to children battling cancer. By coming together to serve others in the community, MLK Day of Service provides an opportunity for individuals to reflect on the importance of service, social justice, and community building, all while making a positive impact in the lives of those who need it most.
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Homewood-FLossmoor Juneteenth FestivalThe Homewood-Flossmoor Juneteenth Festival is an annual event that celebrates African American culture through food, music, dance, and arts. The festival was created in 2021 by You Matter 2, a community initiative that aims to showcase the uniqueness, power, and endurance of African Americans. The festival has quickly grown to become the largest Chicago Southland Juneteenth Celebration, featuring a parade, the first Mr. and Miss Homewood-Flossmoor Juneteenth Royal Court, and promoting Black-owned businesses. The festival is a celebration of Black culture and pride, while also creating a space for the community to come together and honor their ancestors. Through this event, the Homewood-Flossmoor Juneteenth Festival is making history by highlighting the diversity and sense of community in the area, while also promoting awareness and education about Black culture.
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Back to School BashThe Back to School Bash is an annual event held in July that aims to provide students in the local communities with a new backpack filled with school supplies. Its main objective is to raise awareness about the importance of education and community support while celebrating the start of the school year. Having the necessary school supplies is essential for students to succeed in their academic endeavors. The Back to School Bash helps alleviate this burden by providing free school supplies to families in need. In addition to the supplies, families who attend the event can enjoy a fun-filled day with music, jumpy houses, popcorn, snow cones, and face painting. This event serves as a way to bring the community together and support the education of local students.
Adopt-a-FamilyThe Adopt-A-Family program is a heartwarming initiative that aims to support local families in the Chicago Southland area who may be facing difficulties during the holiday season. The program involves shopping for families and fulfilling their Christmas wishlists to bring them joy and happiness. The program emphasizes the importance of supporting those who may be struggling during the holiday season and spreading the spirit of giving and generosity. Through this program, You Matter 2 aims to make a meaningful difference in the lives of local families and show that they are valued and cared for.
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We Scare Hunger TrailThe We Scare Hunger Trail is a unique program that takes place every October, aimed at raising awareness about hunger in the community. As part of the program, a haunted house is organized and facilitated by our youth to provide a spooky experience for members of the community. However, instead of paying an admission fee, visitors are asked to donate non-perishable food items, which will benefit Respond Now, a local organization that helps to feed families in need. This program not only provides a fun and engaging experience for the community but also helps to address the serious issue of hunger and food insecurity that affects many families. By participating in the We Scare Hunger Trail, individuals can make a difference in their community and support those who are struggling to access basic needs.
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Strategic Partners & Sponsors
Each year, You Matter 2 partners with a host of organizations and receives support from sponsors to enhance program offerings, connect youth and families to additional community resources, ensure efforts are not duplicated and work towards collective impact.
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