Our Mission & Vision
Family Matters partners with youth, families, and communities to cultivate a way of living in the world that develops strong relationships, meaningful communication, and safe environments for courageous social change.
We seek to build an equitable society for all.
Our Programs & Initiatives
Partners in Learning
Partners in Learning offers youth in 1st through 12th grade the opportunity to engage in after-school one-to-one tutor/mentoring with a dedicated trusted adult volunteer. Sessions take place every week from September through June, with options for modified sessions during the summer to maintain academic gains.
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Principles of Leadership
Small groups of adults are invited to participate in Family Matters’ Respectful Communities communications training. The 10-session, 20-hour course offers in-depth opportunities for participants to practice our three Principles of Leadership in an intimate setting while earning a certificate of completion.
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Project RISE
In Project RISE, teens 13 through 18 participate in after-school leadership, job skill-building, and social justice activities while earning a stipend. The program is an opportunity for youth to explore their interests, build friendships with teens in other schools, and tap into support provided by academic and personal mentorship.
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The Family Matters School
The Family Matters School is a full-time, independent school for children in Kindergarten through 4th grade. Our curriculum is inclusive of diverse learning styles and interests, tailored in particular to offer specialized support for children who thrive outside of a traditional classroom.
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Community Engagement
Family Matters organizes a number of programs focused on matters important to our community. This work includes the North of Howard Together Collective, the Shared Leadership Collaboration, and the Rogers Park Healthy Chicago Equity Zone.
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Summer Programs
Family Matters offers two summer programs, Learning Matters summer camp for children entering 1st through 6th grade, and Chicagobility for teens ages 14 and 15. Youth enrolled in Partners in Learning, Project RISE, and The Family Matters School are invited to work with a dedicated tutor/mentor over the course of the summer to maintain academic gains via a modified Partners in Learning format.
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what they say
“Family Matters is like my family. It’s a big part of me. If I don’t come here, I’m missing something from me. They have great people here who will always support you. I thank Family Matters for the opportunity to be here.“
Family Matters Youth Member
what they say
“It feels like a second home. It’s like nobody can hurt me here.“
Family Matters Youth Member
what they say
“Volunteering in the Family Matters tutoring program offers a window into the future of our city. Working with my student has deepened my understanding of the challenges facing our youth and inspired me as I see them plunge into that future with talent, courage, commitment and joy.“
Family Matters Youth Member
what they say
"The most important thing I receive [at Family Matters] is a family and a place to go if I ever need anything."
Family Matters Youth Member
Our Story
In 1987, 10 families gathered in a small apartment building to discuss the creation of an after-school program for children and families. They dreamed of a place where parents and children could share their experiences, partner with staff to design programs, and work to improve their community.
Join Us
Whether you’re looking to engage with youth, delve into issues around race and equity, share your professional time and talent, or connect with others in the Rogers Park community – we have a place for you! Please consider joining our mailing list and submitting a Volunteer Inquiry form. We’d love to welcome you!
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