YOUTH GUIDANCE STORIES
Welcome to the Youth Guidance blog. Here, we aim to educate, inform, and inspire our friends, supporters, and partners by sharing stories of resilience, growth, and positive change in the lives of the youth we serve.
Blueprints for Success: Kaitlyn Palmer’s Vision for Youth-Centered Curriculum
In the heart of Chicago, Kaitlyn Palmer is redefining how youth from strategically undervalued communities discover their potential. A curriculum development leader at Youth Guidance, Kaitlyn’s work is grounded in empowering young people to find their voices, hone their skills, and imagine futures beyond their immediate circumstances. Her approach is rooted in equity, creativity, and a profound belief in the transformative power of education and storytelling. “It’s about centering youth voices,” Kaitlyn explains. “I see it as a disservice if we don’t include them in the process. They need to see themselves reflected in what they’re learning. It’s a non-negotiable for me.” Kaitlyn’s journey to this work wasn’t linear. Originally from Memphis, she moved to Chicago in 2012, searching for a “real job,” as she puts it. She started in social services, working in diverse environments, including residential treatment centers and juvenile detention facilities. "Curriculum has the power to inspire, impact, and revolutionize." — Kaitlyn Palmer, Senior Manager of Professional Learning and Curriculum Development It was during her time as a juvenile detention officer that she realized the potential of curriculum to inspire change. By introducing programs like a literacy initiative for incarcerated girls, she saw how structured, meaningful activities could transform an environment of despair into one of hope and anticipation. “I started Googling and trying things,” she recalls. “When the residents began looking forward to programming, I knew I was onto something. Curriculum has the power to inspire, impact, and revolutionize.” This revelation set her on a path that led to Youth Guidance, where she first worked as a Career Pathways coach. Over time, her role evolved, allowing her to marry her passions for writing and youth development. Kaitlyn’s work is now integral to Youth Guidance’s mission of guiding children to brighter futures. Curriculum’s Impact Kaitlyn’s curricula blend social-emotional learning with post-secondary preparedness, an intersection that equips youth for both the challenges of life and the workforce. Each program in Youth Guidance’s Career Readiness and Success (CRS) department is guided by a structured curriculum, ensuring consistency and intentionality in delivering outcomes. These curricula serve as blueprints that provide youth with actionable tools to navigate post-secondary opportunities while addressing the real-world challenges they face in underserved communities. Using a framework called MHA Skill Blocks, the programs focus on essential skills such as personal mindset, collaboration, and verbal communication. These Skill Blocks are a set of core social, emotional, and cognitive competencies identified as critical for success in college, careers, and life, ensuring that youth are prepared to navigate real-world challenges with confidence and adaptability. “We’re not separating life skills from workforce readiness,” Kaitlyn says. “The programming is holistic, culturally responsive, and designed to reflect the lived experiences of our students.” Curriculum Covers: (left) "Blueprint to Becoming" by Youth Guidance alums Michelle Carlin (digital art) and Jesus Cortes (design); (right) "@Work and Beyond" by Roxy Martinez, former Youth Guidance employee Youth As Co-Creators Kaitlyn’s signature approach, “For Youth, By Youth,” places young people at the center of curriculum development. From focus groups to internships, youth are not just participants but co-creators. They contribute ideas, critique drafts, and even design artistic elements of the curricula. “This model provides equity and validates their voices,” Kaitlyn says. “It teaches skills, offers exposure, and ensures their contributions are not only acknowledged but celebrated. When youth see their work published or their ideas come to life, it’s transformative.” One example of how curricula have inspired innovative programming is Hussle Days, created by Becoming A Man (BAM) counselor Josh Hurley. Drawing from the “Blueprint to Becoming” curriculum—which includes an entrepreneurial component—Hurley designed the program to engage students in hands-on business development. "When youth see their work published or their ideas come to life, it’s transformative." — Kaitlyn Palmer Inspired by the late rapper, community activist, and entrepreneur Nipsey Hussle, interns split into two groups to develop their own shoe-cleaning businesses, designing logos and promotional flyers using Canva. They then pitched their businesses to each other, refining their communication and presentation skills in the process. Following this, the students set up shop inside the building that houses Youth Guidance’s central office in downtown Chicago, offering shoe-cleaning services to local professionals. Through these real-world entrepreneurial activities, they not only earned income but also learned critical life and business skills, including pitching their services and interacting with the community. The impact of Hussle Days was profound. Students were introduced to concepts such as “value creation” and “equity-building” through hands-on activities. They also developed soft skills like communication, time management, and collaboration, which are crucial for future success. The program emphasized the importance of creating a sustainable livelihood aligned with personal values—a principle drawn from Nipsey Hussle’s philosophy of self-empowerment and community building. In addition, students reflected on their experiences in group discussions, solidifying the lessons learned. “It was a different type of hustle,” Kaitlyn explains. “It was deeply community-oriented and pushed against the grain of present-day gig culture. The students practiced skills they’ll carry for life.” BAM Fellowship Initiative (BAM-FI) curriculum cover art by Youth Guidance alum Shaquan Avant The Power of Visibility The intentional design of the youth-informed curricula developed by CRS has yielded significant results. In recent surveys, 96 percent of program participants reported successfully meeting their goals, and 98 percent said they’d recommend the program to peers. Counselors also play a critical role, acting as guides and ambassadors of the curricula. “If the counselors don’t feel a sense of fullness and alignment with the curriculum, it won’t translate to the youth,” Kaitlyn emphasizes. “Their investment is essential, and our training programs are designed to ensure they can embody and champion the work.” This alignment between counselors and curriculum often leads to transformative moments for youth. For instance, a student in the BAM Fellowship Initiative (BAM-FI) program in Washington, D.C., created the cover art for a curriculum and received a printed copy to share with his peers and community. “He was walking around with the biggest smile, holding the curriculum like a trophy,” Kaitlyn recalls, sharing a moment relayed to her by Dr. Christina Sessoms, BAM-FI College & Career Manager. “That’s the power of visibility. It changes how they see themselves and their place in the world.” Youth Guidance marketing and communications intern Stacay Woods contributed to this article.
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Honoring Dr. James P. Comer: A Legacy of Learning, Leadership & Love
As we celebrate Black History Month, we take this moment to honor a pioneer in education and child development: Dr. James P. Comer. His groundbreaking work in social-emotional learning (SEL) and whole-child development has transformed the way schools support students, especially in under-resourced communities. Born in East Chicago, Indiana, in 1934, Dr. Comer grew up understanding the power of education, strong relationships, and community support. His journey led him to earn a medical degree from Howard University and a Master of Public Health from the University of Michigan, setting the stage for his life’s mission: ensuring that students’ social and emotional well-being is prioritized alongside academics. In 1968, he founded the Comer School Development Program at Yale University, pioneering a collaborative, trauma-informed, and relationship-centered approach to education. He believed that when students feel emotionally supported, they are more likely to succeed academically and in life. His “Comer Model” became a blueprint for SEL programs across the country, emphasizing that no significant learning occurs without a significant relationship. Influence on Youth Guidance Programs Dr. Comer’s whole-child philosophy has directly shaped Youth Guidance’s work, inspiring the development of programs such as Becoming A Man (BAM) and Working on Womanhood (WOW). BAM aligns with Comer’s principles by fostering self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and decision-making skills in young men navigating personal and systemic challenges. WOW builds on his legacy by creating safe spaces for young women to heal from trauma, develop resilience, and embrace their full potential. Both programs are rooted in SEL, mentorship, and relationship-building—principles that Dr. Comer proved to be essential in breaking cycles of adversity and empowering students to thrive. A Lasting Impact on Education Dr. Comer’s contributions extend far beyond any single program. Over his career, he has received 49 honorary degrees and was appointed by President Barack Obama to the Advisory Commission on Educational Excellence for African Americans. His influence has shaped national education policy, mental health initiatives, and community-based learning models. His work continues to inspire educators, mentors, and organizations like Youth Guidance to advocate for trauma-informed, equity-focused, and SEL-driven education. Every time a student in a Youth Guidance program learns to process their emotions, build confidence, or make a positive life choice, they embody Dr. Comer’s vision. As we reflect on Black History Month, we recognize Dr. Comer as more than just a scholar—he is a champion for students, a leader in education, and an advocate for equity. His commitment to developing the whole child has changed countless lives and will continue to impact future generations. At Youth Guidance, we are proud to carry forward his work, ensuring that every young person, regardless of their circumstances, has the support and skills to reach their full potential. Thank you, Dr. Comer, for your unwavering dedication to students and the future of education. Your legacy lives on.
Read MoreBreaking the Cycle: Jorge Alvarez’s Journey from Chaos to Hope
Jorge Alvarez’s story begins in the streets of Los Angeles, where his childhood was anything but ordinary. Raised in a household entangled in cartel activity, violence was a constant companion. "I remember being three or four and seeing a stabbing at Christmas," Jorge recalls. "Violence was so normalized that I didn’t even realize how wrong it was until I stepped away from it." Amid the chaos, Jorge struggled to cope. His pain manifested in defiance, fighting, and frequent disruptions at school. By 14, his behavior led to expulsion from the Los Angeles Unified School District, sending him on a turbulent journey through alternative education programs. Yet, amidst the turmoil, a lifeline appeared. The Foster Family That Changed Everything When Jorge entered foster care, he was placed with an African American family whose influence would change the trajectory of his life. "They had family dinners, went to church, and never fought. It was the first time I realized what a healthy family dynamic could look like," he reflects. This newfound stability introduced Jorge to the concept of a future beyond mere survival. "BAM is about giving these boys the tools to become the men they want to be—not the men their circumstances might have predestined them to become." — Jorge Alvarez, BAM Supervisor Determined to rewrite his story, Jorge faced daunting challenges. After aging out of the foster care system, he pursued his high school diploma through an adult education program in Calexico, California, while simultaneously working toward a psychology degree at the University of Mexico. The journey wasn’t easy—Jorge endured grueling four-hour treks in blistering heat and stayed with various family members to make it happen. Finding Purpose in Helping Others His perseverance paid off. Armed with a degree and a determination to help others, Jorge became a certified addiction counselor, dedicating 13 years to working with individuals battling substance abuse. His clients ranged from students in probation schools to undercover officers grappling with addiction. Yet, the emotional toll of the work eventually became too much. "I realized I couldn’t keep going," Jorge says. Searching for a new way to make an impact, he found Youth Guidance’s Becoming a Man (BAM) program in Los Angeles. As a BAM supervisor, Jorge now mentors young men in underserved communities, helping them break free from cycles of adversity he once experienced. "BAM is about giving these boys the tools to become the men they want to be—not the men their circumstances might have predestined them to become," Jorge explains. His approach blends empathy with wisdom gained from his own experiences. "I see parts of myself in so many of them. It’s my mission to be the mentor I needed at their age." The BAM program focuses on group mentoring, teaching emotional regulation, decision-making, and fostering healthy relationships. For many students, it’s their first exposure to a space where vulnerability is celebrated rather than stigmatized. "These young men often feel they have to carry the weight of the world on their shoulders. BAM shows them there’s strength in asking for help," Jorge says. Breaking Cycles, Building Futures Today, Jorge works in the same neighborhoods where he once struggled, serving as a powerful example of what’s possible with the right support. His connection to the students goes beyond surface-level mentorship. Through shared experiences, he helps them navigate challenges with compassion and understanding. "I tell my students, 'Your story doesn’t end here. You can change it. You have the power to write a new chapter," Jorge says. His work is more than a job; it’s a calling rooted in his own journey of transformation. Jorge Alvarez’s life underscores the transformative impact of mentorship. Through his work with BAM, he is not only changing the lives of young men but also reshaping the fabric of his community. "This is my purpose," Jorge says. "This is how I make sense of everything I’ve been through." As Jorge looks to the future, his mission remains clear: to give young men the tools, guidance, and hope they need to break cycles of adversity and create lives of purpose and integrity. In doing so, he is rewriting his own story—and helping others do the same.
Read MoreYouth Guidance and Bears Care: Empowering Chicago’s Youth for a Brighter Future
At Youth Guidance, we are proud to continue our partnership with Bears Care, the charitable arm of the Chicago Bears, as we work together to uplift and empower students across the city. Through programs like Becoming A Man (BAM) and Working on Womanhood (WOW), Bears Care's support has helped us profoundly impact the lives of young people in under-served communities. This collaboration, which includes the invaluable involvement of Bears players, has provided essential funding and brought mentorship, inspiration, and hope to our students. Various Bears players visit schools across Chicago weekly, joining students in their circles. Circles provide a safe and supportive space for middle and high school students to open up, share their experiences, and develop emotional intelligence and social skills. The players engage in meaningful conversations, often sharing their stories of overcoming challenges and achieving success. Whether discussing resilience, leadership, or goal-setting, these interactions leave a lasting impact on our students, showing them that they too can overcome adversity and succeed. Bears linebacker Carl Jones Jr. (center) visits Jordan Community School in Chicago with Bears' vice president of special projects, Pat McCaskey (left) to speak with BAM participants on September 17, 2024. A shining example of this involvement is Justin Jones, who has become a regular participant in BAM and WOW programs. His dedication to empowering young people earned him a nomination for the prestigious Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award, which honors NFL players for excellence both on and off the field. Jones’s commitment mirrors the legacy of Walter Payton, a Bears icon known for his humanitarian work. Expanded Reach Beyond these personal connections, Bears Care has also made significant financial contributions to Youth Guidance, allowing us to expand our programs and provide the resources our students need to thrive academically and emotionally. Their ongoing generosity ensures that we can reach more young people throughout Chicago to help them develop the skills necessary to succeed in school and life. In addition to their ongoing support, the Chicago Bears delivered a truly unforgettable experience to one of our students in 2023 by surprising them with the opportunity to attend Super Bowl LVII. This once-in-a-lifetime moment exemplifies the Bears' deep commitment to making dreams come true for Chicago’s youth. It’s not just about what happens on the field—it’s about showing our students that anything is possible when they stay focused on their goals. As the 2024-25 school unfolds, we are filled with excitement and gratitude for our continued partnership with Bears Care. Our students are incredibly thankful for the opportunities to engage with their role models, and we can’t wait to see the positive impact of this partnership. Defensive lineman Daniel Hardy visits Solorio High School in Chicago to speak with WOW participants. Together, we are building a brighter future for Chicago’s youth—one filled with hope, opportunity, and success. Thank you, Bears Care for your unwavering support of our students and for believing in the power of mentorship, education, and community engagement. We look forward to another transformative year!
Read MoreThe Ripple Effect of Mentorship: Namon Smith’s Journey from BAM Student to Counselor
On a crisp autumn afternoon in 2015, a young sophomore named Namon Smith walked into his first BAM (Becoming A Man)) session at John Hope College Prep. The program, designed to foster emotional intelligence and provide mentorship to young men, became the guiding force Namon didn’t realize he desperately needed. Born and raised in a single-parent household, Namon had grown accustomed to a life of frustration and anger. His father had been in and out of prison since he was in eighth grade, leaving Namon to navigate adolescence without the male role model he craved. "I was the only boy in my house," Namon says. "There was a lot of anger in me, and I didn’t know how to deal with it." Then came BAM. Established by Youth Guidance, the program offers in-school mentoring and social-emotional support to help young men overcome the challenges that often push them toward violence. For Namon, it was an unexpected lifeline, providing not only a safe space to express his emotions but also the strong male role model he had been seeking. That mentor was Rickey Williams-Layfield. Unleashing Potential Rickey's commitment to BAM runs deep. Over his ten years with Youth Guidance, he has worn many hats—counselor, supervisor, curriculum specialist—and mentored hundreds of young men. For Rickey, BAM is not just about preventing violence; it's about helping young men discover their own potential, despite the odds stacked against them. "I see myself in a lot of the students I work with," Namon says. "I know what it’s like to be angry, to feel lost. That’s why I’m so dedicated to showing up for these boys the way Rickey showed up for me." Namon was no exception. Over time, the young man who once struggled with unchecked anger began to blossom. Through the group circles, Namon learned how to process his emotions constructively and lean on the support of his peers. But it was Rickey’s consistent presence—showing up at Namon’s basketball games, staying after hours to talk—that made the real difference. "Rickey came to more of my games than my own family," Namon recalls. "It meant the world to me. He was there when no one else was." That support, Namon says, helped him learn to manage his anger, turning what once threatened to derail his future into motivation to succeed. "He taught me how to be a man and a leader." Today, the student has become the mentor. Namon, now a BAM counselor himself, has come full circle. His journey from troubled teen to mentor is a powerful testament to the transformative power of BAM’s model—a model that recognizes the potential in every young man, regardless of their circumstances. Then and Now: Namon Smith as a BAM student with his counselor, Rickey (left photo); Namon as a BAM counselor attending the graduation of a mentee (right photo). "I see myself in a lot of the students I work with," Namon says. "I know what it’s like to be angry, to feel lost. That’s why I’m so dedicated to showing up for these boys the way Rickey showed up for me." He attends their games, helps them through their challenges, and reminds them, as Rickey reminded him, that they are capable of more than they realize. Paying it Forward For Rickey, watching Namon evolve from a struggling high school sophomore to a confident, capable mentor is one of his proudest moments. "Seeing Namon become a leader in his own right, knowing that I had a part in that—it’s the greatest feeling in the world." But the story doesn’t end here. Both Namon and Rickey have a vision for BAM’s future: expanding the program to reach young men beyond high school. "Real manhood starts after graduation," Namon says. "We need to make sure these young men continue to have guidance as they step into adulthood." As they look to the future, both men remain steadfast in their mission: to break the cycle of violence and empower the next generation of leaders. They know firsthand that the journey from student to mentor is not an easy one, but it is one filled with hope. "BAM changed my life," Namon says. "Now it’s my turn to pay it forward."
Read MoreFrom Student to Mentor: Anais Zayas and Aaliyah Castillo’s Full-Circle Journey of Hope
In 2015, Anais Zayas walked into Kelvyn Park Junior High and High School with a purpose. As a proud product of Chicago Public Schools, Anais had a deep understanding of the challenges young girls in her community faced. She had grown up just around the corner, and now, as a licensed social worker, she returned to give back in a way she wished had been available to her when she was a student. Anais was tasked with launching Youth Guidance’s Working on Womanhood (WOW) program at Kelvyn Park, a group counseling and support program focused on fostering emotional, social, and leadership skills in young women. The WOW program is centered around five core values: self-awareness, emotional intelligence, healthy relationships, visionary goal-setting, and leadership. For Anais, these values were more than words—they were guiding principles she wished she had encountered as a young woman navigating the complexities of adolescence. "I saw how much WOW changed my life," Aaliyah says. "I wanted to be that person for other girls, to help them find their voice and their path the way Anais helped me." One of the first students Anais met that year was Aaliyah Castillo, a bright and energetic freshman who quickly stood out. Aaliyah had a natural charisma, always involved in activities like cheerleading and ROTC, but behind her smile, she was dealing with personal struggles. She had recently lost her grandmother, a figure who had been her biggest source of support. Aaliyah also faced the challenges of growing up in a single-parent household, which often left her feeling alone and unheard. "I was dealing with a lot when I met Ms. Zayas," Aaliyah recalls. "But she was always there. Her energy, her passion—you couldn’t be in a bad mood around her. She made sure I felt heard and supported. When I was down, I knew I could run to her, and everything would be okay." Safe Space The bond between Anais and Aaliyah grew quickly. Anais saw something special in Aaliyah. “She was a natural leader from day one,” Anais remembers. "She had this determination and caring spirit that shone through in everything she did. I knew she would go on to do great things, even back then." Anais provided Aaliyah with the guidance and support she needed to navigate her challenges, both inside and outside the classroom. Through WOW, Aaliyah found a safe space to express herself and began to grow into the confident, self-assured young woman she was meant to be. Inspired by Anais and the impact WOW had on her life, Aaliyah soon began to dream of becoming a social worker herself. She knew she wanted to give back, just as Anais had done for her. "I saw how much WOW changed my life," Aaliyah says. "I wanted to be that person for other girls, to help them find their voice and their path the way Anais helped me." Aaliyah Castillo (left) started as a WOW participant, guided by her mentor Anais Zayas (right). After graduating from high school, Aaliyah pursued her degree in social work, following the path Anais had laid out for her. But their story didn’t end there. Years later, Aaliyah’s journey came full circle when she returned to Kelvyn Park as a graduate student intern for WOW, working side by side with Anais to guide a new generation of young women. Full Circle "When I walked back into the same classroom, not as a student but as an intern, it was surreal," Aaliyah reflects. "I was able to give back to the same girls who were sitting where I once sat. It’s such a blessing to be in this position, to be the mentor I once needed." For Anais, seeing Aaliyah return as an intern was nothing short of remarkable. "I always tell my students that I may never get to see the seeds I plant flourish, but with Aaliyah, I did. Watching her grow from a student to a leader in this program has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. She’s now doing for these girls what I did for her, and that’s the beauty of this full-circle moment." Together, Anais and Aaliyah are a testament to the power of mentorship, showing how one act of guidance can create a ripple effect that changes lives for generations to come. At Youth Guidance, stories like Anais and Aaliyah’s are at the heart of what we do. When you support programs like WOW, you’re helping to create these full-circle moments, where today’s students become tomorrow’s mentors. You’re planting the seeds of hope and opportunity that will continue to grow for years to come.
Read MoreBecoming a Man, Becoming a Father: Corbin Thomas on Guiding Young Men and Supporting Fathers
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Corbin Thomas, a counselor at Randolph Elementary, spends his days guiding young boys through the Becoming A Man (BAM) program, helping them navigate the challenges of adolescence. But when the school day ends, his focus shifts to a different mission—building a community where Black fathers can gather, support one another, and celebrate the often-overlooked victories of fatherhood. From his classroom at Randolph in the Chicago neighborhood of West Englewood, Thomas speaks with the quiet confidence of someone deeply committed to both his students and his community. Since joining Youth Guidance last year, he has led boys from grades six through eight through the BAM program, a school-based initiative that teaches young men critical values like integrity, accountability, and positive anger-expression. For Thomas, these lessons are not only integral to BAM but to his role as a father and ambassador for the Daddy Victory Club. “I always knew I wanted to be part of BAM,” Thomas says, seated in his classroom during the last hour of the school day. “My basketball coach from high school, Jack Solomon, was like a father to me. He was a BAM counselor, and I always saw how much he gave to the boys he mentored. I wanted to do the same.” But Thomas' desire to give back extends beyond his work with young people. His involvement in the Daddy Victory Club, a project spearheaded by Kouri Marshall, founder of the community organization Generation Change, is a personal and powerful reflection of his own journey into fatherhood. Fatherhood Fellowship: Corbin Thomas (center) and his son, Ezra, with Daddy Victory Club founder Kouri Marshall (in "Dad" shirt) and fellow dads during a recent Daddy Stroll. Daddy Strolls Marshall partnered with TeaPotBrew Bakery, a Black-owned business in the South Loop, to create a space where fathers could come together, share experiences, and celebrate the often small but meaningful victories of raising children. The club attracts Black dads—both young and old— who pull up with their newborns in strollers or stand tall with their sprouting teens to take part in a "Daddy Stroll," a 1.5-mile walk from the bakery to Lake Michigan and back. “Kouri came up with the concept, and I knew I had to be part of it,” Thomas explains. “There’s a hunger for spaces like this. Black fathers don’t always have the resources or the support they need. We wanted to create a space where we could fellowship and learn from each other.” The Daddy Victory Club is, in many ways, a response to the lack of visibility and support for Black fathers in mainstream conversations about parenting. According to an often-cited 2013 report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 70 percent of Black fathers reported engaging in daily childcare tasks, a higher percentage than both white and Hispanic fathers. Yet, Thomas notes, these statistics rarely make headlines. “People don’t hear that perspective enough,” he says. “We’re changing that narrative, showing people that Black fathers are present, involved, and committed.” "These kids I’m talking to every day—they might be fathers one day. That’s how important this is. Whether it’s in the classroom or in the community, it’s all about building relationships." — Corbin Thomas, BAM Counselor The club offers a space for fathers to share their experiences—whether it’s advice on getting a baby to sleep through the night, managing sports practices, or just finding balance between work and parenting. For Thomas, the club has been a source of personal growth as well. As the father of a six-month-old son, Ezra, he finds comfort and camaraderie in the stories shared by other fathers. “There’s something powerful about being surrounded by other dads,” he says. “I had the stroller, the diaper bag, everything packed, but there’s still so much to learn. That’s why I need to be around other fathers.” Full Circle Mentorship The Daddy Victory Club isn’t just a space for sharing tips on parenting—it’s also about mentorship. Thomas recalls meeting a young father, barely 19, at one of the club’s gatherings. The young man, pushing a double stroller with two children, reminded Thomas of the importance of community. “He didn’t have the mentorship or support. But he came. He showed up. That’s what this is about—meeting people where they are." This spirit of mentorship is an extension of Thomas' work at Youth Guidance. The core values of BAM—integrity, accountability, positive anger-expression, self-determination, respect for womanhood, and visionary goal-setting—are the same principles he brings to the Daddy Victory Club. “Fatherhood is about having vision,” he says. “You have to set goals for your family and see them through.” The Daddy Victory Club plans to expand beyond Chicago, creating more spaces where Black fathers can connect and support one another. “We want to celebrate the men who are doing great things in their communities,” Thomas says. “There’s so much more we can do.” For now, though, Thomas remains focused on the work in front of him—both in the classroom and in the community. His goal is simple: to shape the lives of the young men he mentors and to provide a space where Black fathers can feel seen and heard. “These kids I’m talking to every day—they might be fathers one day,” Thomas says, his voice thoughtful as he considers the full circle of his work. “That’s how important this is. Whether it’s in the classroom or in the community, it’s all about building relationships.” For Thomas, the role of mentor, counselor, and father is intertwined, each aspect feeding into the other. He isn’t just changing the narrative around Black fatherhood—he’s living it. One conversation, one father, one victory at a time. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
Read MoreBuilding Healthy Schools: Scaling Student and Educator Well-Being Nationwide with Youth Guidance’s EVOLVE Program
Youth Guidance, a leader in evidence-based, school-based programs, is excited to expand its newest initiative, EVOLVE, following a successful pilot phase. EVOLVE is a comprehensive program aimed at enhancing the well-being of both students and educators, creating supportive and thriving school environments. By focusing on a parallel process, EVOLVE helps educators strengthen their own well-being and self-awareness, enabling them to better support their students. This sustainable, relationship-centered approach fosters safe and nurturing school climates where both students and educators can thrive. A 2023 report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention revealed that 42 percent of high school students experienced persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness during the past year. EVOLVE addresses this crisis by offering schools the resources to create safe spaces for students to develop essential life skills, while equipping educators with the tools to integrate these practices into their daily routines. "At Youth Guidance, we believe that every young person deserves to feel safe, valued, and supported," said Michelle Adler Morrison, CEO of Youth Guidance. "EVOLVE is our response to the increasing need for more student and educator support services in schools. We’re providing a scalable solution that builds resilience and fosters belonging, both of which are critical for young people to thrive." The five Core Values of EVOLVE A Scalable Model for Schools Nationwide EVOLVE is built on over a decade of program experience within Youth Guidance’s highly successful evidence-based programs. Designed for national implementation, EVOLVE offers training and resources to educators, enabling them to lead small group “EVOLVE Circles” that promote authentic connections and teach essential life skills. The program offers: Student-centered training for educators to facilitate effectively. Professional development to promote student well-being, academic growth, and educator wellness. Access to EVOLVE(ed), an online learning community offering ongoing coaching and resources. An evidence-informed curriculum covering self-awareness, decision-making, relationship skills, and social awareness. Jewan Garner, Youth Guidance Director of District Partnerships, emphasized EVOLVE’s transformative potential: "We’ve seen firsthand the impact that safe, supportive spaces can have on young people. EVOLVE equips educators with the skills and knowledge they need to facilitate these spaces, making student well-being a sustainable part of school culture." Early Results and Expansion Plans EVOLVE has already been piloted in several school districts, where the results have been overwhelmingly positive. More than 90 percent of students reported benefiting from their participation in EVOLVE Circles, citing improved emotional well-being, stronger peer relationships, and increased confidence in expressing their feelings. "EVOLVE doesn’t just focus on the students. It transforms entire school ecosystems by equipping staff with the tools to support student development and create safe and responsive learning environments." — Nacole Milbrook, Chief Program Officer of Youth Guidance. One student shared, "I learned how to love myself. I’m calmer, and I don’t get mad so easily now." Another added, "They [my Circle] are like my family, and I can tell them anything about my life." Over the year, students showed improved self-regulation, social awareness and perspective taking. Additionally, in one district, the majority of participating students raised their overall average by 1-2 letter grades compared to the previous school year. Feedback from school staff has also been encouraging, with educators praising the program’s ability to foster more meaningful relationships with students and promote a positive school climate. "The biggest win is the relationships that we have with students, the relationships that students have with one another — it is the foundation on which we build everything as a school,” one school principal observed. With demand for effective programs on the rise, Youth Guidance plans to expand EVOLVE to more schools in the 2024-2025 school year, increasing EVOLVE’s reach from 450 students in 10 schools in Chicago and Lake County last year, to 3,400 students across 60 schools in Florida, Illinois, Michigan and Texas this year. Addressing the Mental Health Crisis in Schools EVOLVE is positioned as a timely solution for addressing challenges students face today. The program aligns with national priorities to support students’ well-being and helps schools create environments where students feel connected, valued, and supported. "EVOLVE doesn’t just focus on the students," said Nacole Milbrook, Chief Program Officer of Youth Guidance. "It transforms entire school ecosystems by equipping staff with the tools to support student development and create safe and responsive learning environments." To learn more about EVOLVE and how it can be implemented in your school district, contact info@youth-guidance.org.
Read MoreA Summer to Remember: WOW Students Shine at WeHaKee Camp for Girls
For the second year in a row, students from our Chicago and Waukegan WOW (Working on Womanhood) programs had an unforgettable experience at WeHaKee Camp for Girls, nestled in the serene beauty of Northern Wisconsin. Thanks to our continued partnership with Four Star Fellowship, our young women enjoyed an incredible summer filled with growth, adventure, and lifelong memories. WeHaKee Camp is more than just a summer getaway—it's a place where girls from diverse backgrounds come together to explore the joys of camp life, build lasting friendships, and grow into confident, empowered young women. The camp offers a unique blend of traditional activities and modern programs, all designed to inspire personal growth, leadership, and a strong sense of community. For many inner-city students, the opportunity to attend an overnight camp like WeHaKee is a life-changing experience that goes beyond simply taking a break from their everyday lives. It’s a chance to escape the challenges of their urban environments and immerse themselves in the natural world, discovering their potential in ways that are often inaccessible at home. WeHaKee Camp also played a crucial role in representing Black and Brown girls in nature, centering their joy, brilliance, and magic to foster a strong sense of community and belonging. Surrounded by the beauty of nature, our WOW students engaged in activities such as horseback riding, canoeing, kayaking, archery, and campfire storytelling—experiences that not only build physical skills but also foster a deep connection with the outdoors. For many of our girls, this was their first real exposure to nature, and we hope it sparked a lifelong appreciation for the environment. Holistic Development Beyond the physical activities, our WOW students also focused on building social-emotional skills, leadership abilities, and self-confidence. The camp’s nurturing environment, filled with sunshine, provided the perfect place for our young women to grow and thrive. WeHaKee Camp also played a crucial role in representing Black and Brown girls in nature, centering their joy, brilliance, and magic to foster a strong sense of community and belonging. The cultural immersion aspect of the camp was equally enriching, as our girls interacted with diverse peers and counselors from around the world, including South Africa, Ireland, and London. As rising costs make camps increasingly inaccessible for many Black and Brown families, ensuring that our WOW students have access to affordable, high-quality summer camp experiences is more important than ever for their holistic development and long-term success. This year, we saw significant growth in participation, with over 100 registrants—a testament to the impact and importance of this program. This incredible experience was made possible through the generous funding from Four Star Fellowship and the unwavering support of Camp WeHaKee, ensuring that our WOW students could participate at no cost. We are deeply grateful for this partnership and look forward to continuing to provide these life-changing opportunities for our students.
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