Our mural shines a light on the positive impact Chicago Youth Centers (CYC) has across the city. Founded 65 years ago, CYC was inspired by the many ways children, families, and communities connect. Through CYC’s early learning, afterschool, and summer programs, youth ages 15 months to 18 years find joy in learning, grow socially and emotionally, and build skills for the jobs of tomorrow. The organization boldly envisions a Chicago where every child has the resources, experiences, and mentors they need to imagine and build bright futures.

Since CYC offers a continuum of care for a variety of age groups across the city, the mural takes inspiration from the deep and long-lasting connections to the youth, families, and areas they serve. There are so many subjects to explore at CYC: STEAM, health and wellness, dance, gardening, sports, and more! All of these avenues, some featured on the mural, help children discover and realize their full potential, while also helping them create stronger connections in our neighborhoods.

Through bright colors and different scenes of learning and growing opportunities, the mural brings possibility to life for our city’s children, families, and communities. CYC recognizes the immense group effort it takes to deliver transformative programming in the areas they serve. To fully engage children, they involve parents, caregivers, and communities. CYC is much more than afterschool and summer programs–they present pathways to possibility and support youth and families at every stage of learning. Because of their dedication to access, engagement, and community building, CYC is the place where possibility lives for thousands of kids.

Wintrust is a strong supporter of CYC’s programs and we’ve sponsored many of their events. We’re happy to provide the venue space for CYC’s annual gala, which helps raise critical funds for early learning, afterschool, and summer programs. The nonprofit is proud to announce the return of the 6th annual Shake & Stir Gala on February 18, 2022! This exciting James Bond-themed event brings their staff, boards, donors, and sponsors together for a fun-filled evening in support of their life-changing programs. One of CYC’s board of director members, Scott Bachmann, also works with Wintrust.

Soon, CYC will be opening a center in the Calumet Heights neighborhood, where they will deliver early learning, out-of-school time enrichment, and family engagement programming.

CYC’s programs are in full swing and enrollment is open. For more information on CYC’s many activities for youth and families, please visit: chicagoyouthcenters.org