Alternatives youth program: Words that matter

The Chicago building that stands on the west side of Sheridan Road, one block south of Lawrence Avenue has some inspiring words – words that matter:

• Stretch
• Renew
• Trust
• Grow
• Share

This is the home of Alternatives youth development agency.

They offer comprehensive, multicultural programs serving more than 3,000 young people and their families each year.

The mission of Alternatives is to facilitate personal development, strengthen family relationships and enhance the community’s well being. Established in 1971 when the community identified substance abuse as a key issue affecting local teens, Alternatives is dedicated serving Chicago's at-risk youth and their families.

Their programs include counseling, leadership development, substance abuse and violence prevention, and academic enrichment.

The programs and services of Alternatives use an asset-based model that focuses on enriching young people's lives by building upon individual strengths within the context of their family and community. They help increase opportunities to succeed and grow as individuals and community members.

Most of all, they value the diversity of the communities – and so Alternatives will partner with more than 100 local organizations and schools.

All this week, my blogs will focus on "words that matter."  Here are some close-up photos of  the words on the Alternatives Building.