Our building is closed today and until further notice because of water damage. Access Living staff is working remotely. Look for more updates to be posted here as they become available.

Youth Programs

 

In-School and Virtual Programs for Youth with Disabilities

Youth Team

YouthTeam@accessliving.org

(312) 640-2100

Access Living offers multiple opportunities and programs for youth with disabilities to learn, grow, build community, and prepare for their futures. At this time, all youth programs are meeting in person, with the flexibility to hold virtual meetings if that is preferred by a school or teacher.

The Disability Justice Mentoring Collective

A smiling person with long brown hair carries a sign reading "I heart my disability."
DJMC youth participate in all kinds of activities, including the annual Disability Pride Parade.

The Disability Justice Mentoring Collective (DJMC) is an award-winning mentoring program that pairs disabled young people with adult mentors. Together, mentoring pairs work on tasks such as:

  • Setting goals
  • Problem solving
  • Building community
  • Taking public transit
  • Acquiring independent living skills

During the program, participants also learn about the history of disability rights, the issues impacting disabled people today, and how to be their own best advocates.

We are always looking for mentors and mentees to join DJMC. Visit the DJMC page to learn more about participation and eligibility.

In-School Programs

Kids in a classroom, listening to their teacher.
Young adults with disabilities can benefit from disability-specific programs.

Access Living offers three programs in schools for students with disabilities:

  • YIELD the Power Workshops teach students with disabilities self-advocacy and leadership skills.
  • Fast Track: Fast Track teaches high school students with disabilities actionable ways to take control of their futures, whether they see themselves entering the workforce or going to college.
  • Reaching Our Dreams: Reaching Our Dreams teaches life skills needed for students with disabilities to live independently.

Community outreach

If you would like representatives from our youth programs to attend an outreach event in your community, or you’d like to have one of our programs offered at your school, please contact a member of our youth team.