We believe that a stable, productive household is a key factor in supporting healthy development and subsequent academic outcomes. To improve student success, our Parent Empowerment Program is designed to strengthen the home environment by providing targeted support to parents/guardians. The program organizes its workshops and activities around the theme of “Strengthening Parents for Student Success.”

As part of our Project Ready programs, parents of students in all grade levels are invited to participate in a variety of workshops that address many of the needs facing our participants’ families. These workshops provide topical information, tools and educational materials to parents/guardians and serve as an introduction to the services and resources available to them.

Family-focused gatherings are planned during every quarter throughout the year for those parents that completed the educational workshop during the previous month. Parents/guardians of students in all grade levels can also request further assistance to address a specific issue for themselves or on behalf of their student through one-on-one meetings.

A family that needs services or assistance beyond the scope of what is provided by Chicago Urban League (public benefits, health, mental health, substance use, disability services) will be provided referrals to external partners.

For more information about our Parent Empowerment Program, contact Jimi Orange, Director of Student and Youth Development at jorange@chiul.org.