We are excited to share a great opportunity we recently had with Prevention First! They invited Prevention Program Manager, Kaitie Panka, to be the very first guest on their new podcast series, Voices in Prevention. They remembered the YOS Prevention Team’s National Prevention Week activities that Kaitie highlighted during a past event and reached out to […]
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Building Pathways, Not Just Programs. As the Youth Intervention Pathways (YIP) Program Manager, Samantha Mistar is a passionate advocate whose personal commitment is helping transform a pilot program into a powerful, community-rooted force for change. Since joining YOS in May 2023, Samantha and her team have been at the forefront of building the YIP program, a voluntary service that
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Purchase Art of Wine & Chocolate Event Tickets Join us for a delightful evening filled with wine, sweets, and delicious food. You’ll have the chance to mingle with our staff, board members, and leadership team while learning about how we assist over 3,000 young people every year. Your presence and contribution will significantly impact the
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Celebrating Youth Success & Honoring Community Partners Thursday, November 13, 2025 • 6:00–9:00 PMAllSteel, 345 N Morgan Street, Chicago, IL 60607 Youth Outreach Services (YOS) invites you to an unforgettable evening of celebration, gratitude, and giving as we honor 65 years of empowering at-risk youth. This year’s annual fundraiser will spotlight the inspiring achievements of
YOS Annual Fundraiser Read Full Article »
My time at YOS has been truly transformative. When I first arrived, I was carrying the heavy burden of my past, struggling with self-harm, substance abuse, and overwhelming anxiety. The scars on my arms were a constant reminder of the pain I carried within. But now, I stand here, free from those struggles, a testament
Mateo’s Mental Health Journey at YOS Read Full Article »
At first glance, Alicia seems like any other teenager. She loves painting her nails, spending time with friends, and dreams of becoming a nurse. But her bright smile and big personality mask a powerful story of survival, strength, and transformation. Alicia experienced her first panic attack at just eight years old. By 17, she was
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When Christopher S. entered the child welfare system, he had already faced more adversity than most people experience in a lifetime. After losing his father and being separated from his mother due to incarceration, Chris moved through several placements—first an adoptive family, then to a relative’s home, and finally a group home. His journey eventually
When Jessica first came to Youth Outreach Services (YOS), she didn’t want to be there. Dressed in baggy jeans and a tank top, a gang tattoo visible on her neck, her expression made it clear—she was angry, closed off, and unwilling to trust. Referred for court-mandated community service after a violent altercation that resulted in
Anger to Empowerment: Jessica’s Healing Process with YOS Read Full Article »
YOS partners with Yougivegoods to help homeless youth. YOS supports high-risk youth, especially those in crisis due to homelessness or incarceration, by helping them transition to independent living. With this assistance, we can offer meaningful help to those who feel unseen and isolated. You can shop online and donate essential shelter and outreach items today,
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