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Empowering Youth. Transforming Communities. Building Futures.

We believe that when young people are given guidance, support, and opportunity — they don’t just survive, they thrive. At Ascend Youth Services, we provide mentorship, housing, re-entry support, and violence prevention programs that uplift at-risk youth and strengthen our neighborhoods.

Why Ascend?

Every year in Cook County, too many young people are lost to cycles of violence, poverty, and instability. Ascend Youth Services exists to interrupt those cycles and create new opportunities — offering hope, safety, and direction to youth who need it most.

Reach and mentor 150+ youth annually

Provide transitional housing and re-entry support to at least 75 young people per year

Launch community-led violence prevention programs in high-need neighborhoods

Improve education, mental health, and employment outcomes for youth in our community

About Us

"We’re not here to save lives — we’re here to help young people realize they’re worth saving, and give them the tools to build the life they deserve."

Ascend Youth Services’ mission is to empower adolescents and at-risk youth by providing comprehensive mentorship, safe housing, and violence prevention programs. Through structured guidance, education, and community support, we equip young individuals with the tools needed to foster their successful transition into adulthood, overcome obstacles, build self-sufficiency, and create a path to success.

Vision Statement: Ascend Youth Services envisions a society where all adolescents, particularly those from underserved communities, have equitable access to resources and opportunities, enabling them to reach their full potential and lead fulfilling lives. We aim to break cycles of violence, homelessness, and justice system involvement, fostering a generation of resilient, self-sufficient, and empowered youth.

Intelligence: We foster a culture of learning, critical thinking, and personal
growth, encouraging youth to make informed decisions and develop problem solving skills.
Integrity: We operate with honesty, transparency, and accountability, ensuring
that our programs and actions align with ethical principles and the best
interests of our youth.
Community: We believe in the power of collective support and collaboration,
working with families, organizations, and stakeholders to create a strong foundation for youth success. 8
Empathy: We approach every young person with understanding and
compassion, recognizing their unique experiences and challenges while
providing tailored support.
● Empowerment: We equip youth with the tools, confidence, and resources they need to take control of their future and become self-sufficient leaders in their communities.
● Guidance: We provide structured mentorship and role models who inspire and
guide young individuals toward positive personal and professional development.

PROGRAMS AND SERVICES

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Youth Mentorship
Program

The Youth Mentorship Program is designed to provide comprehensive support to adolescents, focusing on critical areas crucial for their development.

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Youth Re-entry and Housing Program

The Youth Re-entry and Housing Program provides safe and supportive housing for
adolescents aged 10-24 who are transitioning out of the justice system 

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Legal Status and
Structure

The Violence Prevention Program addresses the root causes of youth violence in the
Chicago South, East, and West sides of Cook County, with future expansion into Indiana.

Legal Status and Structure:

Ascend Youth Services, Inc. is a nonprofit organization incorporated in the State of Illinois and operates as a tax-exempt entity under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. The organization is governed by a Board of Directors, with leadership roles including a Founder, Co-Founder, Chief Financial Officer, and Secretary. The Board is responsible for overseeing strategic direction, financial stewardship, and program development in alignment with the organization’s mission.
Testimonial

Hope What The Say About Us

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Darlene Robertson Web Designer

Listened carefully to Lisa's needs and translated them into a stunning is a website. The design is modern and to calming, with beautiful imagery that captures the essence of Blooming

Darlene Robertson Web Designer

Listened carefully to Lisa's needs and translated them into a stunning is a website. The design is modern and to calming, with beautiful imagery that captures the essence of Blooming

Darlene Robertson Web Designer

Listened carefully to Lisa's needs and translated them into a stunning is a website. The design is modern and to calming, with beautiful imagery that captures the essence of Blooming

Darlene Robertson Web Designer

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