Asian Youth Services - Chicago, Illinois

Asian Youth Services: A Dedicated Resource for Chicago’s Youth

Asian Youth Services (AYS) is a highly regarded non-profit organization deeply committed to supporting and empowering young people in Chicago. Located at 3117 W Lawrence Ave, Chicago, IL 60625, and reachable at Phone: 735178525, AYS operates as a vital education center and youth organization, playing a crucial role in the lives of countless children and teenagers. The organization’s website, asianyouthservices.org, provides comprehensive information about their programs, initiatives, and how individuals can contribute to their mission.

About Asian Youth Services

AYS was established with a clear vision: to provide comprehensive support to Asian American youth and their families, addressing educational needs, fostering positive development, and promoting overall well-being. They recognize the unique challenges faced by many young people, including academic difficulties, social isolation, and a lack of access to resources. The organization’s core philosophy centers around creating a safe and supportive environment where youth can thrive, develop their potential, and become confident and engaged members of the community. Their work is characterized by a dedication to individualized attention and a collaborative approach, working closely with families and community partners to achieve lasting positive outcomes.

Key Specializations and Programs

AYS offers a diverse range of programs tailored to meet the evolving needs of its target demographic. These programs typically encompass:

• Academic Support: Providing tutoring, homework assistance, and test preparation to help students succeed academically.
• Youth Development Programs: Offering a variety of recreational and enrichment activities, such as sports, arts and crafts, and leadership development workshops, designed to foster social skills, build self-esteem, and promote positive behaviors.
• Mentoring Programs: Connecting youth with caring adult mentors who can provide guidance, support, and encouragement.
• College and Career Readiness: Supporting students in their college and career aspirations through college counseling, career exploration workshops, and scholarship assistance.
• Family Support Services: Offering resources and support to families to strengthen their ability to support their children’s development.

The organization’s focus extends beyond merely providing services; it prioritizes creating a holistic environment where young people feel valued, respected, and empowered. It's evident that a significant amount of effort and dedication are invested in ensuring these programs are both effective and engaging for the youth they serve.

Accessibility and Community Impact

AYS is committed to ensuring accessibility for all. The facility at 3117 W Lawrence Ave features a wheelchair accessible entrance, reflecting their dedication to inclusivity. The organization's impact on the Chicago community is considerable, with a demonstrable commitment to improving the lives of young people and families. The consistently positive feedback suggests a strong connection with the community and a genuine desire to address local needs.

Community Feedback and Reputation

Asian Youth Services has garnered a positive reputation within the Chicago community, as evidenced by 14 reviews on Google My Business. The average opinion is a respectable 3.6/5, highlighting a generally favorable perception of the organization’s work. While there's always room for improvement, the consistent positive comments emphasize the value that AYS provides to its clients. The director, Shari, is frequently mentioned for her dedication and compassion, showcasing the personal investment within the organization. Many reviewers praise the organization’s focus on positive activities and its efforts to keep children engaged in school, suggesting a proactive approach to addressing challenging circumstances.

Recommendations for Engagement

Individuals interested in supporting Asian Youth Services have several avenues for involvement. Volunteering offers a valuable opportunity to contribute directly to the organization's programs and initiatives. Donations, both monetary and in-kind, are always welcomed and utilized to expand the reach and impact of AYS’s work. Families seeking support for their children can inquire about available programs and services. Ultimately, Asian Youth Services represents a vital resource for Chicago’s youth, and its continued success depends on the support of the community.

👍 Reviews of Asian Youth Services

Cristina G.

5/5

This is a GREAT organization doing great work to help kids stay in school and programming for positive activities. Shari, the director, is such a hardworking, caring, nice, and compassionate person. She works so hard, and has put so much of her time and energy to help the kids that she serves in a small part of Chicago. She needs more resources, help, and donations. Overall, a great organization, I would recommend highly to anyone to put their time and energy for volunteering, education for their kids, and donations!

ibioso

5/5

Asian Youth Services here in Chicago is an afterschool program located in the county of Albany Park that serves underprivileged youth and helps provide them with food, education, opportunities, and other resources to feed their success. Shari is the woman directing the program on her own for nearly the last forty years. She is such a kind woman making it her life's work to helping these kids find their through potential through education. Although this establishment is not widely known, the community as well as the kids love her and the program!!

Sarah C.

5/5

The work that is done in this organization is by far one of the most impactful for the at-risk youth of Chicago. Seeing the hard work that Shari, the sole woman in charge of this organization, puts in everyday to provide for over 20 children everyday in terms of food and educational enrichment is a blessing to be seen. I will always come to volunteer at this place every time I visit Chicago because this place deserves all of my time and effort!

Moira C.

5/5

Asian Youth Services is a very special place. Shari, the person who runs absolutely everything, is a selfless woman who places the needs of the children here above all and has made it her life work to uplift the community. AYS provides so much to the kids who come here-- none of which could happen without Shari.

Jack W.

5/5

Shari is one of the nicest and most caring individuals I've ever met. She truly cares about all of the kids and does everything in her power to help them and their families out. I would highly recommend contributing to this worthy and meaningful cause!

Elizabeth H.

5/5

Asian Youth Services is an amazing after-school program that works to support at-risk youth by providing academic support and educational enrichment opportunities. Shari started AYS almost a 40 years ago, and has continued to single-handedly provide resources for cohorts of students throughout the years! Shari creates an environment where the kids are excited to come, work with tutors, participate in crafts, music, and dance lessons, and forge a community! If you have the means possible, please support AYS!

Hari N.

5/5

An amazing organization that does incredible work supporting kids from disadvantaged backgrounds (I volunteered with them for a while). AYS is an oasis for these kids and essentially provides a second home and supportive community for them. These kids have grown up under some pretty challenging circumstances; it's awesome to see them overcome this adversity, get through college, and pursue their dreams. AYS provides educational support, emotional support, and everything in between. The kids hail from all types of ethnic backgrounds (not just Asian) and they form unique lifelong bonds with each other. Shari Fenton, the founder, is a second mother to them and she has a heart of gold. Every Chicagoan should volunteer here for at least a day to see the love that permeates this place and to see what a difference a little bit can make.

Rad T.

1/5

This is a mean place ill never bring my kids here the lady "sherry" is bias and she doesnt like "certain people" shes worked there forever! She very controlling but she pretends to be a nice person