The Outlet

Here we grow again. Today marked Day 1 of our training for the Illinois Dual Status Youth pilot program. Dual-status youth are simultaneously involved in child welfare and juvenile justice systems.

Through this new pilot, our mentoring program is expanding its reach in the region. Our team is gaining the tools needed to bridge the gap and help stand with our young people. Great training today Ms. Farris!

We can’t wait to get started.

“Children are the living messages we send to a time we will not see.”— Neil Postman

When educator and author Neil Postman wrote those words, he was reminding us that how we guide our youth today completely shapes the world of tomorrow. A strong community isn’t just built on the spaces we share right now, but it’s built on how we prepare the next generation to lead.

Happy Friday. Some of the ladies from The Academy had the chance to visit and experience the Capital Area Career Center.

From exploring future paths to seeing hands-on learning in action, it was such a great experience. What a great way to end the week and get excited about the future.

The Academy program had a cool day exploring the educational pathways at the Capital Area Career Center (CACC).

We brought two different groups of students out today to see the hands-on, project-based learning opportunities right here in our backyard. From tech to trades, CACC is such a cool asset for students in Springfield and our surrounding communities. Keep up the amazing work, CACC.

We are grateful to the leadership and congregation of St. John AME Church for their generous donation of gift cards, given in connection with their 155th Illinois Annual Conference.

We are so thankful for your support, partnership and heart for this region.

This week at The Academy, some of our students dove into creating Vision Boards, a powerful experience that allowed them to dream big and map out their thoughts for their "next and now" seasons.

We were also honored to have our great friend, Keith Treadwell, stop by to share his Vision and story and drop some knowledge on us. Keith is such an inspiration, he has a unique gift for connecting with youth and keeping them engaged. Keep your eyes peeled for him in the producer's seat; he’s making a name for himself in Hollywood and beyond.

Tonight we officially welcoming our newest group of mentees and their guardians to the family. To the parents and families who joined us tonight: thank you for trusting us with your youth. We know how much your son means to you and we are honored to walk alongside you.

Thank you LaDorise Ramsey for sharing your heart tonight and the impact of our community.

A special s/o to the best team, on this side of the Mississippi River.