History

Mujeres Latinas en Acción has a long history of serving youth in the Pilsen neighborhood. One of the agency's first programs began as a youth outreach and referral service. Today the teen program is called Proyecto Juventud. This program collaborates with other youth agencies to better serve the teen population in the Pilsen/Little Village communities.

Target population

Low-income youth from Pilsen/Little Village area, ages 11 to 17 in need of support and encouragement to reach academic and life skills for success.

Services

Structured activities emphasizing academic guidance and positive life choices, computer classes, supportive counseling, recreational activities and referrals to appropriate agencies.

Staff composition

One Counselor and Program Coordinator that share their time between Proyecto Juventud and other children/youth services.

Advocacy efforts

Pilsen Alliance (Blue Line, UIC expansion and issues affecting the Pilsen community) and members of the 12th District Youth Net operated by the Chicago Department of Human Services.

Trends

Participants currently are all Pilsen area residents. The teens have a high interest in higher education, but we find that most parents do not want their children to attend college outside of the city limits. More parents are requesting counseling services for males to address delinquent behavior. In the past year, the program's female enrollment has increased and males have dropped out resulting in 100% female enrollment.

Domestic Violence / Sexual Assault / Women in Transition / Peace Program /

Parent Support / Latina Leadership / Child Care / SASS / Sanctuary / Mother & Daughter