Help Close the Opportunity Gap

Youth Organizations Umbrella
847-866-1200

Make a donation online and help Y.O.U. provide free services to more than 1,300 youth and their families. The organization’s services range from enriching after-school and summer learning programs, to clinical counseling and crisis intervention. The organization strives to close the opportunity gap by allowing all youth to realize their full potential. Y.O.U. also provides food and gifts for families during the holidays, and it is currently collecting transportation cards, food and other basic necessities for their Street Outreach program. If you are interested in meeting these needs, please contact Marianne Moberly at 847-866-1200 ext. 231.

Enrich Social Opportunities for Middle School Students

Glencoe Junior High Project
847-835-7623

Help teach students the importance of community service and of activities that promote personal growth by making a financial donation online. The Glencoe Junior High Project is a unique not-for-profit managed completely by community members who choose to devote their time and skills to creating opportunities for Glencoe’s middle schoolers. Most of GJHP’s financial support comes from community grants, revenue from their childrens’ play and parent contributions. For more than 40 years, GJHP has been dedicated to providing middle school children in Glencoe with opportunities in community service, the performing arts and social engagement. The organization offers positive choices for students and models social responsibility.

Distribute School Supplies to Children in Need

Back 2 School Illinois
847-268-3550

Volunteer to distribute school supplies to children in low-income families across Chicago in August. Join Back 2 School Illinois, which operates the largest free school supplies program in the state, and equip children of low-income households for success in the classroom. Last year, Back 2 School distributed more than 750,000 items to 20,000 students. The Back 2 School Illinois mission is to create and support educational opportunities that enrich the lives of Illinois children by providing school supplies and other tools students need to thrive both educationally and personally. You can also make a financial contribution on their website. For more information, please email info@b2si.org.

Give Time

Get More Girls in the Game

Girls in the Game
847-268-3550

Volunteer as a one-time guest coach or a weekly assistant for a Girls in the Game after-school program, and help girls across Chicago build their confidence and maintain good health. As a volunteer for Girls in the Game After School you will act as a role model for girls in grades 3-8 and assist with tasks such as taking attendance, demonstrating activities and setting up equipment. Girls in the Game provides sports and fitness opportunities, nutrition and health education, and leadership training to enhance girls’ overall well-being. The organization serves more than 3,000 girls every year. Volunteers must be 18 years or older and agree to a background check and training.

Give Things

Donate Clothes, Shoes and Household Items for Those in Need

St. Vincent de Paul Chicago
773-881-0600

Support St. Vincent de Paul by donating new or gently used clothes, shoes and other household items to any of their three thrift stores located in Chicago (9321 S. Western Ave.), Libertyville (1125 S. Milwaukee Ave.) and Orland Park (7010 W. 159th St.). The Society of St. Vincent de Paul is an international nonprofit organization dedicated to serving the poor by ensuring their basic needs are met. They provide food, shelter and clothing as well as assistance with rent, utility expenses and transportation. The organization’s Chicago council has been helping families in Lake and Cook Counties since 1857. In 2013, they helped more than 780,000 individuals. They operate 43 food pantries and offer a variety of volunteer opportunities. For more information, click here.

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