Youth Programs

Empowering Chicago youth ages 6–24 through education, leadership, and paid career opportunities.

OST • Ages 6–13 Chicagobility • 14–15 SYEP • 16–24 Paid Internships

Youth Programs (Ages 6–24)

Empowering children, teens, and young adults through enrichment, mentorship, and paid workforce opportunities. All programs follow strict age eligibility with no exceptions.

Out-of-School Time (OST)

Ages 6–13 • Age Strict

A safe and enriching after-school environment supporting academic growth, creativity, and positive youth development in partnership with DFSS.

  • Homework help and tutoring
  • Arts, music, and cultural activities
  • Mentoring and social-emotional learning
  • Sports, recreation, and teamwork

One Summer Chicago – Chicagobility

Ages 14–15 • Paid Program

Early paid work exposure for younger teens through structured projects, skill-building, and community-based learning experiences.

  • Paid participation
  • Team-based projects
  • Confidence and leadership development

One Summer Chicago – SYEP

Ages 16–24 • Paid Employment

Paid summer employment and workforce training connecting youth to real jobs, professional skills, and future career pathways.

  • Paid work placements
  • Job readiness and financial literacy
  • Career pathway exposure
Important:
All programs operate in partnership with the City of Chicago – Department of Family & Support Services (DFSS). Age eligibility is strictly enforced. Documentation may be required.

Out-of-School Time (OST)

Ages 6–13 • Age Strict

A safe and enriching after-school environment supporting academic growth, creativity, and positive youth development — in partnership with DFSS.

📚
Academics & Tutoring Dedicated daily support that builds classroom confidence and focus.
🎨
Heritage & Creativity Exploring Ethiopian culture through traditional music, dance, and art.
🌱
Mentoring & Growth Fostering leadership and resilience through positive adult guidance.
ECAC OST Program
Safe • Supportive • Fun

After-School

Daily support during the school year focused on homework help and cultural connection.

Summer Program

Full-day engagement featuring STEM, heritage workshops, and educational trips.

Winter Break

A reliable resource for families offering seasonal crafts and academic reinforcement.

Youth Ages 14–15 First Step Program Project-Based • Community-Powered

Chicagobility First Step for 14–15-Year-Olds

Chicagobility is part of One Summer Chicago designed for youth ages 14–15 to gain early career exposure through project-based activities and meaningful experiences in their communities.

Chicagobility youth activity
Chicagobility project-based learning
Chicagobility community experience
What you’ll do
Learn
Build
Grow
Explore careers through guided projects, teamwork, and community activities—designed to help you step confidently into future summer jobs and internships.
1 Learn workplace basics
2 Build skills with projects
3 Get ready for next-level jobs

Summer Youth
Employment

Transforming Futures, Honoring Heritage

Program Goal

Paid Job Placement

SYEP matches youth with meaningful summer jobs that align with their career goals. Participants earn a competitive wage while gaining first-hand experience in professional environments.

2025 PREMIERE

Young Professionals
Pilot Program

📅 April 5, 2025
🚀 Futuristic Journey