Black lives matter to Chicago Lights.
Building brighter futures.
Dynamic youth development and social services for all
Our Mission
Chicago Lights builds brighter futures for Chicago’s youth and adults through supportive relationships and life-changing programs.
We partner with Chicago’s youth and adults in mentoring, community services, academic support, career development, and arts education.
Empowering Chicago’s Youth
We offer comprehensive programming for youth to help them unleash their potential – because everyone deserves a bright future.
Tutoring
Supporting academic and personal growth
Summer Day
Promoting dynamic summer learning and enrichment
Urban Farm
Growing food, community, and job skills
Dance Academy
Building confidence and creativity through movement
Empowering
Chicago’s Adults
We help adults pursue and reach their goals toward achieving greater stability. Our food, clothing, housing, and other resources help build healthy and fulfilling lives.
Social Service Center
Self-development through supportive services
Our Impact:
Changing Lives
Chicago Lights breaks the cycle of poverty through life-changing programs. We meet people where they are and build trust and true connection, helping thousands of students and adults realize their full potential.
4,000 +
PEOPLE SERVED PER YEAR
50,000 +
PEOPLE SERVED SINCE 1964
Upcoming Events
We offer comprehensive programming for youth to help them unleash their potential – because everyone deserves a bright future.
October Challenge
Run, walk, or bike you way to 26.2 miles The Chicago Lights Associates Board challenges you to complete your own “marathon” throughout the month of October—and no, you do not have to run 26.2 miles straight! Sign up to support Chicago Lights by voluntarily walking,...
You can help change lives
We believe everyone deserves access to the resources they need to thrive.
Volunteer
Build brighter futures. Change lives. Volunteer with Chicago Lights!
Donate
Explore the many ways you can
make a difference.
Be a part of building
brighter futures.
Every dollar you give goes directly toward empowering youth and adults.