YMCA of Metro Chicago Community Schools Initiative

The mission of the YMCA of Metro Chicago is to develop strong children, families and communities across Metropolitan Chicago through academic readiness, character development, violence prevention, fitness and healthy living.

The YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago (The Y) has been transforming lives and communities since 1858, providing an array of meaningful services to Chicago-area youth and families. The Y’s nonprofit network of 23 membership centers, 5 resident camps, and over 65 human service programs across the city and suburbs provides everyone with a safe place to learn, play and grow. Motivated by the causes of youth development, healthy living and social responsibility, the Y opens doors, builds character, strengthens neighborhoods and brings families together. The Y has provided services in numerous CPS schools for students in grades K- 8 for over 10 years in various programs, including the Community Schools Initiative (CSI).

At the YMCA of Metro Chicago, we know that low-income children in underserved communities need access to high-quality out-of-school time (OST) programs. That is why the Y’s Community Schools Initiative collaborates with Chicago Public Schools (CPS) and other organizations to provide high-quality programs and services at partner CPS schools for students in grades K-8. The Community Schools Initiative bridges the traditional boundaries of formal and information learning to improve student academic and social outcomes, empower families and develop strong communities.