Auxiliary Board

Looking for a way to get involved in your community, make an impact, and meet new people? Join the Chicago Youth Centers (CYC) Auxiliary Board, a group of early to mid-career professionals, who are passionate about serving Chicago and children of all ages.

If you believe that all children should have the support they need to be their best selves, and you enjoy being part of a collaborative team that gets things done, you could be a great fit for our Auxiliary Board. Please read the following FAQs about the CYC Auxiliary Board to learn more!

+ What does the Auxiliary board do?

• Connects like-minded individuals looking to make a difference through volunteerism and board service
• Increases CYC’s visibility in the Chicago community and supports CYC programming through fundraising events, social activities, volunteer opportunities, and more
• Engages the support and perspective of professionals from across sectors to make a collective impact for children, families, and communities

Members participate in a variety of activities including:
• Lively annual fundraising events, such as Shake & Stir
• Volunteer opportunities with CYC students
• Networking events like happy hours and sports outings
• Promoting CYC as an ambassador
• Engaging your social networks to support CYC events and campaigns
• Opportunities for connection and mentorship with Chicago business leaders on the CYC BOard of Directors

+ What is Shake & Stir?

Shake & Stir is the Auxiliary Board's marquee fundraiser event to support CYC's programs and critical work. This upscale cocktail party takes place in February each year and is attended by 500-600 young professionals. It features live music and performers, dancing, food and drinks, a silent auction, and more.

In partnership with CYC staff, the Auxiliary Board is responsible for selling tickets, securing event sponsorships, finding silent auction items, and making decisions about event logistics.

It's a great opportunity for AB members to build new skill sets, and manage projects. It's also beyond fun! Check out past event photos here.

+ What are the requirements for membership?

• A two-year term commitment
• $100 annual dues
• $1,000 "give/get" commitment
• Attend one hour monthly meetings in-person or via Zoom
• Participation in one Auxiliary Board Committee (Fundraising, Volunteering, or Membership and Engagement)
• Participation in one Shake & Stir event committee

+ What is a "give/get" commitment?

The "give/get" is an Auxiliary Board member's commitment to donating (give) or raising (get) at least $1,000 for CYC. There are many easy and fun ways to meet the give/get: selling Shake & Stir tickets, inviting friends to give during a CYC campaign like Giving Tuesday, hosting a peer-to-peer fundraiser, tapping into your company's gift matching or sponsorships, and more.

The CYC Auxiliary Board has a dedicated CYC staff liasion who can work with you to meet your give/get commitment if you need ideas or support.

+ How do I learn more about CYC's mission and work?

We encourage you to start with this video about CYC's vision, and feel free to watch our other videos to learn more. Another great resources are our Impact Stories, which give you a look into our programming for children, families, and communities.

ready to join?

Click here to submit your application. We’ll be in touch soon!

If you have questions before submitting your application, please contact CYC’s Events Manager at info@chicagoyouthcenters.org.