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One bad choice can change the path of a life forever. That’s why Youth Outreach Services (YOS) is so passionate about the services and programs we offer our clients and their families. Everything we do is focused on enabling youth to have brighter futures by making good decisions now, even in the face of major […]

For almost 60 years, Youth Outreach Services (YOS) has maintained its focus on providing opportunities for our clients and their families to thrive, even in the face of challenges. The same holds true for how we manage the organization. In fiscal year 2016, we proactively shaped where YOS is headed to better serve the youth

Phillip’s journey before joining YOS was marked by poor decisions. He had left school, disregarded his mother’s guidance, and engaged in drug selling, leading to his arrest and detainment in juvenile detention. At YOS, Phillip found a supportive environment that fostered self-belief. He completed his probation, a process that included building trust with his parole

Kevin was directed to YOS by the Juvenile Justice Department Drug Court Program, initially exhibiting denial and resistance to the treatment. Despite these challenges, Kevin displayed a remarkable capacity for resilience. Improving his attendance was the initial focus. With regular participation in sessions, Kevin’s counselor worked on transforming his attitude and perspective, laying the groundwork

Jeremy, a teenager with a complex history of developmental, behavioral, and medical challenges, including a regimen of five medications, had been through ten placement homes and was on the verge of leaving a residential facility when Ivan Riley, a foster parent volunteer with Youth Outreach Services, stepped in. Riley, in collaboration with a YOS case

Before joining YOS, 17-year-old Sabrina faced challenges with depression and substance abuse. Through YOS’s art therapy program, she discovered a constructive way to cope with her struggles. Sabrina explains the impact of this creative therapy, saying, “Now, I can control my feelings. I draw and write when I am feeling depressed. I use art as

Marcus, whose childhood was shadowed by gang violence and housing instability, cherished a simple yet profound aspiration: “The best dream for me is a stable home and a nice family,” he said. “That puts the biggest smile on my face.” His life at home was tumultuous, often marked by evictions, leading Marcus to rely on

AJ Styles Barber and Beauty Salon in Oak Park, renowned for its unique and excellent service, recently partnered with YOS for the Summer Youth Employment Program. This initiative offered Jasmine, a participant, valuable insights into how style transcends physical appearance, influencing one’s demeanor and approach to life. The salon is owned by Anthony Jones, a

Roberto’s journey with YOS began amidst challenges such as truancy, curfew violations, and marijuana use, compounded by probation for drug possession and robbery. As a freshman in high school, he found himself at the Illinois Youth Center (IYC), a juvenile detention facility. Two months before his release, Roberto entered the YOS FIT (Family Integrated Therapy)