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About
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About
Established in East Garfield Community in 1987, Family Cares AFC Mission (FCAM) is a 501c3 nonprofit organization that has been dedicated to providing essential youth and family services to the West Side and South Side of Chicago for nearly 30 years. Our services include youth employment, after-school programming, career development, college readiness, theater, and food services.
Our Family Cares LIFE CHANGE (Leaders Ignited For Evident Change) initiative focuses on empowering youth aged 5-24 to become change agents within their communities. With this we prioritize leadership, inclusiveness, financial literacy, education, entrepreneurship, community empowerment, holistic development, advocacy, non-violence, guidance, and employment.
We've worked diligently with amazing partners like the Department of Human Services, The Mayor’s Office of Youth Employment, the Chicago Food Depository, local agencies, businesses, and churches to deliver these vital services. With thanks to the help of our partners and their combined efforts, we’ve successfully employed over 800 youth, provided after-school programming, and staged theatrical productions.
Before the pandemic, we’ve collaborated theatrical productions with AFC Multicultural Theater, at a state-of-the-art facility with a seating capacity of 2000. Our theatrical productions serve as open platforms for youth to showcase their creativity and become exposed to various aspects of theater production, including stage set preparation, sound and lighting, playwriting, and acting. Each production puts a contemporary twist on beloved tales, addressing real-life issues relevant to our youth audience. Past productions such as “Goldie,” “Annie,” “OZ,” and “The Rise of the Black Man” have been performed to many audiences from local daycares, elementary, and high schools.
Family Cares AFC Mission is a long standing pillar in the Auburn Gresham community, and we’ve brought radical solutions to youth unemployment and disengagement. We are committed to further expanding our organization and equipping young leaders with the necessary tools to effect radical change in their communities.
Mission
Our mission is to bring solutions to youth disengagement through employment, development, outreach, and creative outlets that enable them to be active leaders who bring about change in their communities.
Vision
Our 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.
Our Core Values
LIFE CHANGE
Leadership
Inclusiveness
Financial Literacy
Education
Community Empowerment
Holistic Development
Advocacy
Non-Violence
Guidance & Mentorship
Employment
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