“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
Our Mission and 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 Mission and Vision
Family Matters partners with youth and families in northeast Chicago to address and overcome structural racism and systemic oppression to build an equitable society.
Our vision is to facilitate personal and collective justice utilizing the Principles of Leadership – developing strong relationships, meaningful communication, and safe environments – for courageous social change.
Our Programs
Family Connections
Leadership and literacy program for children in first through sixth grades
Evening Tutoring
One-to-one tutor/mentor program which pairs youth with adults; tutor/mentoring pairs work together at least once per week throughout the school year
Teen Programs
Focused on academic support, leadership development, advocacy, career planning/preparation, and relationship-building for youth ages 12-19
Summer Programs
Paid internship experiences for teens which include job training and resume building skills, and a project-based summer school for youth in grades two through six
“It feels like a second home. It’s like nobody can hurt me here.”
– 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.
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.
“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 Volunteer
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!
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!
“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
