Chicago Emerging Stars

05/05/2026

This is the moment everything has been building toward. On Thursday May 14th, these young leaders will take the stage to share the work they’ve been creating, ideas turned into action, voices turned into impact.

This isn’t just a showcase. It’s a celebration of growth, leadership, and what’s possible when young people are trusted to lead.

If you believe in our youth, this is where you need to be. Come show up. Come support. Come witness the work.

📍 Grand Crossing Park - 7655 S Ingleside Ave
🗓 May 14 | 5:30–7:30 PM
🎟 RSVP in bio

An inspiring evening led by youth, for the community where ideas turn into real impact.

05/05/2026

Something powerful is happening this summer. We’re excited to open applications for our Summer Youth Program in partnership with After School Matters.

This is more than a program it’s a space where young people build confidence, step into leadership, and turn ideas into action.

Youth will:
• Work in teams
• Receive mentorship
• Build real skills
• Help bring community ideas to life

And yes participants receive a stipend.

If you know a young person (ages 14–15) who needs a space like this, now is the time.

Applications are open.

05/04/2026

As this work continues to grow, so do the opportunities. We’re opening the door for college students who want more than just an internship but real experience, real responsibility, and real impact.

This summer, we’re looking for individuals who are ready to learn, contribute, and be part of something meaningful.

Open roles:
• Marketing & Communications
• Program Support
• Development & Fundraising
• Operations & Administrative

If you’re looking for a space where you’ll be supported, challenged, and trusted to grow we encourage you to apply.

Chicagoemergingstars.org/careers

05/03/2026

Sometimes, all it takes is seeing something different. New spaces. New energy. New possibilities.

Experiences like this help young people think bigger not just about what exists, but about what they can create. And that shift in perspective matters more than anything.

05/03/2026

Some spaces aren’t easy but they’re necessary. This experience created room for real conversations. Young people asked questions. Shared what they see and feel.

And spoke up in a space where their voices matter.

Because understanding doesn’t happen without dialogue. And change doesn’t happen without courage.

05/02/2026

A few weeks ago, we created space for something simple but necessary. Not a workshop. Not a lesson. Just a moment for young people to connect, laugh, and be themselves.

Because before the leadership, before the ideas, before the impact there has to be trust. There has to be community.

And that’s exactly what this was. This is how the work begins.

04/02/2026

Real conversations. Real growth. Real leadership. 🌟💙

This is what it looks like when young people are given the space to be heard, supported, and empowered to lead.

We’re just getting started.

02/27/2026

We believe young people shouldn’t have to wait to be taken seriously.

That’s why, in partnership with After School Matters, we’re launching Community STARS: Youth Changemakers Lab, a 10-week, youth-led leadership experience where young people ages 14–22 design real community impact projects, build real-world skills, and earn a $400 stipend while doing it.

This isn’t just another after-school program.
This is where youth lead.
This is where confidence grows.
This is where ideas turn into action.

From communication and collaboration to planning and problem-solving, participants will work in teams, receive mentorship, and present their projects at a final showcase proving that their voices matter right now, not someday.

Location: Grand Crossing Park - 7655 S Ingleside Ave, Chicago, IL 60619

Starting Date: Tuesday, March 3rd

Schedule: Mon, Tue, Thur | 4–6PM

Spots are filling, and we’re inviting young leaders across Chicago to step into something meaningful this spring. Apply through After School Matters and rank Community STARS: Youth Changemakers Lab as your #1 choice. If you know a young person ready to build, lead, and grow, share this.

Let’s shape what’s next. 💫

12/23/2025

Joy in motion. 💙🎁 Because of an incredible partnership with the 006th District Community Policing Office, 1,000+ toys were placed into the hands of 300+ families and one of the most beautiful moments was watching youth walk into a room full of toys and hand-pick what they truly wanted to take home. 🧸✨

This wasn’t just a giveaway it was dignity, joy, and community love in real time. We’re grateful to everyone who showed up, supported, and helped make the holidays brighter on Chicago’s South Side.

Together we give. Together we rise.

12/13/2025

Join us for a Holiday Toy Drive on Friday, December 19 at 5PM Hosted by the 006th District at 7808 S. Halsted St.

Toys available for 150+ families. Child must be present at pickup.