Purchase Raffle Tickets This is more than a fundraiser—it’s a celebration of transformation, hope, and community. Whether you’re reconnecting with old friends or meeting new allies in this work, we promise an evening full of purpose and joy. The gala features wine tasting, gourmet chocolates, raffles, and entertainment. Allsteel will host this year’s Art of […]
50/50 “Split The Pot” Raffle Tickets Read Full Article »
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
YOS Podcast Feature with Prevention First Read Full Article »
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
September Staff Spotlight – Samantha Mistar Read Full Article »
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
Arturo’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
Alicia’s struggle with anxiety and depression Read Full Article »
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 »