Youth Options Unlimited (YOU)

We work alongside your student to equip them with the tools needed to thrive as they learn, grow and develop resilience—all in a safe, supportive environment.

For youth ages 12–18

Academics

YOU is open during after-school hours with all-day programming on select school holidays and throughout the summer, providing middle school and high school students with access to help with homework and computer lab time. We also pair youth with volunteer mentors (see TEAM for more information) for extra academic support. In addition, we offer several extensions to build upon classroom learning:

STEM

STEM initiatives include math workshops; a summer architecture camp; a stipend-based coding club with a year-long curriculum, in partnership with UnidosUS and Comcast; Scientists for Tomorrow, in partnership with Columbia College; and Science Innovation and Me, in partnership with After School Matters.

Visionaries

Our multimedia apprenticeship is at the intersection of STEM and the arts, allowing students to explore digital arts—graphic design, photography, and video production—and develop a voice in the process.

Experiential Learning

Job shadowing, field trips and service opportunities help students make connections between classroom instruction and applied learning.

Parent Workshops and Family Nights

Parent workshops and family nights are designed to help you support learning at home and strengthen connections with you student.

Hours:

M–Th, 2:30–7:00 pm
Fri, 1:00–6:00 pm
See Upcoming Events

Location:

West Town – House

Contact:

Wendy Viteri
wviteri@eriehouse.org
(312) 432-2279

Health & Wellness

Our holistic approach supports physical and socio-emotional well-being, helping your student develop leadership skills and greater resilience.

Support Groups

Gender-specific groups offer youth safe spaces for open, honest dialogue on topics such as depression, sexuality and managing stress.

Counseling

Through a partnership with the Chicago School of Professional Psychology, graduate-level interns are available to provide students with individual therapy free of charge.

Youth Council

Participants have a greater voice in program decision-making, meeting weekly to help inform policy, plan fundraisers and weigh in on service learning opportunities.

Sports & Recreation

Access to our on-site gymnasium and other recreation opportunities helps promote fitness, self-esteem and teamwork.

Hours:

M–Th, 2:30–7:00 pm
Fri, 1:00–6:00 pm
See Upcoming Events

Location:

West Town – House

Contact:

Wendy Viteri
wviteri@eriehouse.org
(312) 432-2279

TEAM

TEAM (Tutoring to Educate for Aims and Motivation) pairs your student with a mentor to support them with the tools and resources they need to reach their potential. Our mentors are trained, caring individuals who provide support with academics, goal-setting, exploring college and career possibilities and applying for financial aid and scholarships. We also offer parent workshops to help you promote learning at home, ease your student's transition into high school and support them as they prepare for college.

Hours:

Mondays, 6:00–7:30 PM
Grades 7–9
Wednesdays, 6:00–8:00 PM
Grades 10–12

TEAM runs during the school year only

See Upcoming Events

Location:

West Town – House

Contact:

Yvonne Torres
ytorres2@eriehouse.org
(312) 666-3430

Volunteer

Play an important role in the life of a teen and celebrate their growth as they build a foundation for success, both in school and in life. As a mentor in our TEAM program, you will receive training as well as support from community of mentors at Erie House.

Mentor (7th–9th Grade)

Work 1-on-1 with a student to help them develop good study habits and life skills as they move from middle school to high school.

Ideal Commitment: 1 day/week (Mon, 6:00–7:30 pm) during the academic year

Mentor (10th–12th Grade)

Provide that extra layer of support a student needs to graduate from high school and explore college and career options.

Ideal Commitment: 1 day/week (Wed, 6:00–8:00 pm) during the academic year

Intern

Gain valuable experience while making an impact on students in our program.

Ideal Commitment: At least 2 days/week, 2-3 hours/day

Get Involved