Youth Guidance in Chicago
Chicago is home to Youth Guidance’s broadest range of programs, bringing counseling, mentoring, enrichment, family support, college and career preparation, and other opportunities directly to young people and school communities.
Working alongside Chicago schools, families and community partners, we create spaces where young people feel seen and supported, build on their strengths and develop the skills and relationships they need to thrive.
Our Work in Chicago
Across Chicago, Youth Guidance programs meet young people at different stages of their lives and respond to the needs of the communities we serve.
Born in Chicago. Proven Beyond It.
Youth Guidance began in Chicago and has continued to evolve alongside the young people, schools and communities we serve.
Chicago has also been an important home for innovation. Programs developed and strengthened here—including Becoming A Man and Working on Womanhood—have demonstrated what is possible when young people have consistent relationships with caring adults and spaces designed around their strengths and experiences.
Today, lessons learned in Chicago help inform Youth Guidance’s work with young people and communities across the country.
Chicago Impact
Relationships that make a difference.
11,500+
201
Partner
Program Leadership
Nacole Gibson
Chief Program Officer
As Chief Program Officer, Nacole Gibson leads Youth Guidance’s program strategy and operations, helping ensure our programs deliver high-quality, responsive support for young people and communities.
With expertise in clinical psychology, youth development and trauma-informed care, Nacole brings a deep commitment to positive youth development and to strengthening the people and practices that make Youth Guidance programs effective.
Program Strategy Committee
Local leadership. Shared commitment.
Youth Guidance’s Board of Directors’ Committees are composed of individuals who are committed to helping students and program participants in their communities. Each committee member has a strong desire to be actively involved in solving the issues these youth face.
Zachary Judd
Amii Sibley Foster
Mashana Smith