Eleven youth-run programs received grants ranging from $650 to $2000 from the Chicago Area Project’s Youth As Resources Program during a gala ceremony on June 30 at the Chicago Area Project (CAP) office, 55 E. Jackson in Chicago. The grants are funded by the McCormick Tribune Foundation. The grant monies awarded are $17,000. Youth As Resources (YAR) challenges youth to identify community needs and design projects that use their skills, creativity and energy to help others in the community.

The grant program is designed to help fund groups or organizations working with youth as leaders and decision makers. The projects partner youth and adults working together to creatively solve a community issue or need. The Youth As Resources were granted for projects in three categories: Health/Wellness, Violence Prevention and Artistic Expression. Among the grant winners was, Instituto Progreso Latino/Instituto Family Engagement Nights: In an effort to bring a disconnected community together this project is designed promotes intergenerational activities in the East Garfield Community (Pilsen). And Young Women’s Leadership Charter School/Latin Culture Club: The students will create an environment where they can express Latin culture through music, sports, cultural activities, group discussions, food and guest speakers.