Haven Youth and Family Services, a Wilmette-based nonprofit, is dedicated to enhancing mental health and wellness in the Evanston area through a wide array of services, including clinical support, a crisis intervention housing program, and drop-in centers.
One notable initiative is the Illinois Youth Investment Program (IYIP), which expanded to Evanston in July, as confirmed by program case manager Sydney Brock. Funded by the Illinois Department of Human Services, this program connects at-risk youth aged 16 to 24 with local businesses for employment opportunities while offering career guidance, social and emotional support, and more.
“We’ve been engaged in extensive grassroots outreach,” Brock explained. “Our efforts focus on connecting with local businesses and reaching out to high schools and other social service organizations.”
Brock noted that the Youth Job Center has proven to be a valuable resource since the IYIP’s launch in Evanston.
According to Charley Smith, executive director of Haven, the organization can subsidize up to 75% of the salaries for participating youth. The goal is for employers to retain these young individuals as employees after a nine-month period.
Prior to the IYIP expansion, Haven identified certain areas in Evanston as underserved. Smith indicated that the city could greatly benefit from additional services, such as drop-in centers, which are currently only available in Wilmette and Winnetka.
“Haven provides free support to individuals who may not otherwise afford it,” Smith said. “We might have 10 or 12 people visiting our office, all of whom receive complimentary therapy services. While there are many private practices in Evanston, we believe our unique approach—offering prevention services like drop-in centers and the capacity for more intensive intervention and treatment—is crucial.”
Smith highlighted Haven’s commitment to uplifting the LGBTQ+ community alongside its work with at-risk youth. The urgency of this focus is underscored by findings from The Trevor Project’s 2023 U.S. National Survey on the Mental Health of LGBTQ Young People, which revealed that 41% of LGBTQ youth seriously considered suicide, and 58% faced barriers in accessing mental health care.
Jordan Colonna, a crisis coordinator and member of the LGBTQ+ community, praised Haven’s efforts in supporting LGBTQ+ youth.
“I know that the employment program actively seeks to include the LGBTQ population,” Colonna said. “Our drop-in centers cater to all youth, fostering inclusivity and peer connections, which is particularly important for queer youth who may feel isolated or disconnected due to their identity.”
Through these initiatives, Haven Youth and Family Services is making strides toward a healthier, more supportive environment for the youth of Evanston and surrounding areas.
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