Chicago Area Project

The Youth as Resources (YAR) program, part of the Chicago Area Project, aims to engage young people in meaningful community service by providing them with financial resources to make a difference. YAR believes that all youth have untapped talents that can benefit both themselves and their community, and that they can act as responsible partners with adults in addressing critical community needs. The program is guided by the belief that when youth are involved in community service, they develop a sense of connection, civic responsibility, and self-worth. YAR's grant decisions are made by an independent Governing Board of youth and adults from Chicago communities, who are integral to the grant-making process and the operation of the program.