About
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About
Established in East Garfield Community in 1982, Family Cares AFC Mission (FCM) is a 501c3 Non-profit organization that has provided youth and family services to both the West Side and South Side of Chicago for nearly 30 years. These services have included youth employment, after school programming, career development, college readiness, theater, and food services. Our current initiative is Family Cares LIFE CHANGE, which stands for Leaders Ignited For Evident Change. Our target demographic are youth ages 5-24 years old. We believe that the most crucial task at hand is engaging youth within their communities to be the change agents that are needed for overall revitalization. Our initiative focuses on Leadership, Inclusiveness, Financial Literacy, Education/Entrepreneurship, Community Empowerment, Holistic Development, Advocacy, Non-Violence, Guidance, and Employment. We have worked diligently with The Department of Human Services, The Mayor’s Office of Youth Employment and the Chicago Food Depository, local agencies, businesses, and churches to provide these services. These partnerships and efforts have allowed us to successfully employ over 800 youth, provide after school programming, and theatrical productions. Prior to the pandemic, FCM participated in theatrical productions in the AFC Theater, a 2000 seat state of the art facility which is fully equipped.
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All of FCM theatrical productions at the AFC are intended to allow youth to showcase their creativity as well as be taught in all areas of theater including: stage set preparation, sound and lighting, playwriting, and acting. The plays written and performed use beloved tales and put a twist on them by relating them to real life issues that are relevant to the youth. Our theatrical productions includes; “Goldie”, “Annie”, “OZ,” and “The Rise of the Black Man”. These productions are performed to youth from local daycares, elementary, and high schools. Our organization is a long standing pillar in the Auburn Greshman community that has brought radical solutions to youth unemployment and disengagement. We are eager to continue to grow our organization and to continue to equip them with the vital tools to be Leaders that bring radical change.
Mission
Family Cares (AFC) Mission's mission is to bring solutions to youth disengagement through employment, development, outreach, and creative outlets that enables them to be active leaders who bring about change in their communities.
Vision
Family Cares (AFC) Mission's vision is to develop youth into active and engaged leaders who bring radical revitalization to their communities.
What We Do
Provide Employment
Family Cares (AFC) Mission utilizes a band of opportunities made available through its network of partner organizations to provide employment for individuals.
Engage Youth
Family Cares (AFC) Mission offers a series of positive recreational activities and events to help engage youth citywide.
Develop Individuals
We're is working non-stop to make strides in the development of our community by effectuating programs, seminars, and events to provide teaching and guidance.
Serve the Community
Ultimately we aim to revitalize the community, this entails serving in anyway we can. This begins with food-drives, open events, and giveaway donations hosted by Family Cares (AFC) Mission and local partners.
Services
Job Training
Family Cares (AFC) Mission implements job training in all programs and services. We provide job training for youth to acquire skills, knowledge, and job opportunities. We offer training in various industries, provide hands-on training, mentorship, and job placement. Skills like Professionalism, Leadership, Customer Service, Time Management, Critical Thinking, and more are all implemented to help develop individuals and families.
Tutoring & College Readiness
Family Cares (AFC) Mission utilizes its network of partner organizations to provide academic curriculum and resources to youth and individuals in need to help achieve academic success and prepare for college. Our experienced tutors provide one-on-one or group sessions in various subjects, including math, science, English, and social studies, to improve students' understanding and performance. We are committed to helping students reach their full potential and achieve their academic and career goals.
Counseling & Mentoring
Family Cares (AFC) Mission provides counseling and mentoring for youth with a team of dedicated and experienced mentors who offer guidance and support to young people who may be facing challenges or barriers in their lives. Through one-on-one mentoring sessions and group activities, Family Cares (AFC) Mission aims to build positive relationships and create a safe and supportive environment where youth can thrive. By fostering confidence, resilience, and life skills, FCM is making a meaningful impact on the lives of young people in their community.
Community Outreach
Family Cares (AFC) Mission hosts a number of community outreach events in aim to reach our communities and particularly inner city youth. Its purpose is to capture the heart and focus of community members and direct it at a message of hope and change. We welcome community members to opportunities and events.
