Chicago Youth Centers to host 2018 Lights on Afterschool events

Photo and Video Opportunity
For Immediate Release
CONTACT:
Anya Rath
312.913.1700 ext. 426
anya.rath@chicagoyouthcenters.org

Chicago Youth Centers to host 2018 Lights on Afterschool events

Events celebrate the importance of afterschool programming in Chicago and its positive impact on youth

CHICAGO, Oct. 22, 2018— In a celebration of the vital impact made by after-school programming, CYC will be hosting Lights on Afterschool events at multiple CYC Centers on Thursday, Oct. 25.

According to the Afterschool Alliance, 65% of students improve homework completion and class participation after going to afterschool programs, and 1 in 2 students improve their math and reading grades. Those results reflect CYC’s success in 2018: 62% of teens increased their GPA in language, English, and History, and 74% of youth, aged 6-13, increased their math and science grades or maintained a B or above. 100% of CYC youth were promoted to the next grade level on time.

CYC’s after-school programming empowers youth of all ages to become successful, caring, and productive adults. CYC Centers focus on STEM, the arts, health and wellness, academic persistence, social-emotional development, and applied skills.

The Lights on Afterschool activities will be among more than an expected 8,000 such events across America as part of Lights on Afterschool, the annual nationwide celebration of after-school programs organized by the Afterschool Alliance.

The media and community are invited to the following CYC events on Oct. 25:

CYC-Sidney Epstein Youth Center in North Lawndale:

• What: Officer Friendly from the 10th District CAPS office will speak on community relations, there will be a family engagement workshop, a “Read for the Record” story time, and s’mores with CYC Chief Operating Officer, Scott Merrow.

• Where: 3415 W. 13th Place, Chicago

CYC-Fellowship House in Bridgeport:

• What: Students will visit stations dedicated to literacy. Activities include reading, crafting, and a STEM activity contest.

• Where: 844 W. 32nd Street, Chicago

CYC-Rebecca K. Crown Youth Center in South Shore:

• What: “Family Spooktacular” will feature a haunted house, spooky stations, and a candy giveaway.

• Where: 7601 S. Phillips Avenue, Chicago

CYC-Elliott Donnelley Youth Center in Bronzeville:

• What: Students will participate in DIY stations, play charades, learn about gardening, and participate in STEAM activities. A representative from WESchools will also be present.

• Where: 3947 S. Michigan Avenue, Chicago

Please contact Anya Rath, CYC Communications Coordinator, to set up interviews with our expert staff and to confirm photo opportunities.

About Chicago Youth Centers (CYC): For hundreds of children and families, CYC is the place where possibility lives. CYC’s early childhood, after-school, and summer programs help children and teens grow socially and emotionally and build skills for the 21st century. By providing opportunities for enrichment and helping them form meaningful relationships, they grow to be caring, successful adults who build bright futures for themselves and their families.