2011 Community Youth Services (CYS) Fact Sheet

Illinois Department of Human Services
Division of Family & Community Services

Program Description

Target

Youth and Adults.

Eligibility Criteria

Youth and adults in communities with an Area Project.

Purpose

To reduce and prevent juvenile delinquency.

Services

The Community Youth Service (CYS) program is built around organizing community residents into committees to address the problems and issues confronting youth and adults in their communities. CYS workers organize community residents into committees. The role of the committees is to plan, coordinate and implement programs that address issues by assessing needs and developing strategic plans. Community Youth Services workers provide a myriad of resources and technical assistance to community committees, encouraging committees to become a sustainable programs in their community. The committees also advocate around issues that impact their community such as truancy, public housing, public safety public health and employment. The community committees' serve as an inspiration to improve the quality of life for youth, their parents, and community residents. In addition to organizing and advocacy activities, providers and community committees plan and deliver direct services. Examples of direct service activities include homework help, tutorial assistance, recreation, cultural, parent education and educational workshops for adolescents.

Delivery Method

Community Youth Service workers plan and implement organizing, direct and advocacy services for community residents. These services are administered by the Area Project or Provider in conjunction with the community committees

Program Data

Program Accomplishments

• The CYS program worked with 242 community committees comprised of community residents and other stakeholders.
• The CYS program grantees delivered 9,033 services to youth, young adults and their families in 200 communities and 55 counties throughout Illinois.