I heard about Family Matters through a close friend, now colleague, Brooke Turner. Fast forward a few months and I now work for this wonder-filled organization. As words often fall short of describing these incredible programs, I hope these few paragraphs help you have a better understanding of what Family Matters is working towards:

Family Matters connects at-risk youth and their families in Northeast Rogers Park to opportunities (resources, relationships, and real-world experiences) that support them in actualizing their life goals and building a strong, healthy community. For 29 years, Family Matters has operated programs and initiatives that promote safe space, educational support and leadership development among low-income families.

The 27th Annual Walkathon will raise crucial funds to support Family Matters’ four Youth Programs, which meet after school: Family Connections (literacy and leadership for youth ages 5-12), Boys to Men (Teen Boys Program), Transforming Genius into Powerful love (Teen Girls Program), and Evening Tutoring (during which 40 tutor-mentor pairs meet weekly for academic support and relationship-building).

A few words about the leadership (Program Directors, Interns and Volunteers):

I could not have imagined such capable, invested, and spirited individuals. As these children are navigating the complexities of growing up in an environment that often do not meet all of their needs – Family Matter’s team is able to provide them with a safe space to effectively bring out in them a process for change, positiveness, and a return to the joys of learning through each program and interaction. 

If you are willing and able or would like to hear more (I would love to answer any questions you may have): please consider making a donation to support my walk and Family Matters – every dollar makes a difference!