2023-AR-Final - Flipbook - Page 9
A BRIDGE TO
EACH OTHER
Relationships are at the heart of what we do. As one of our
core values, we intentionally create spaces for youth to build
relationships with each other. By constructing programming
that spans sites and grades, youth have the freedom to step
into leadership roles and see each other as trusted resources.
98% of caretakers say Y.O.U. has helped build their child's
con昀椀dence.
Future Chute Eagles
School transitions can be a nerve-wracking time for youth. In the spring, Chute hosted
Future Chute Eagles for 5th graders at Dawes, Oakton, and Walker who were preparing
to graduate to middle school. Sixth graders served as leaders, planning activities and
tours for the 昀椀fth graders based on their own experiences of being new to the school.
Thanks to this programming, youth were able to start middle school having already made
connections with each other and established a sense of comfort with the school.
Peer Mentorship
As part of Old Orchard’s Leadership Fridays series, 6th and 8th graders participated in
a peer mentorship program that aimed to build social-emotional skills like self-awareness
and personal responsibility. Youth were matched according to their strengths and interests,
with 8th graders serving as role models and mentors who helped the 6th graders integrate
more into the junior high school community. The mentorship program culminated in an
awards ceremony, with mentors and mentees recognizing strengths within each other.
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