Our Core Values
The Principles That Power Our Mission
Youth Mentorship
We believe every young person deserves someone in their corner.
At Chicago Emerging Stars, we know every young person has incredible potential—sometimes they just need a little guidance. Our mentorship program pairs youth with mentors who truly care. These one-on-one relationships aren’t just about advice; they’re about real support to help young people overcome life’s obstacles. Whether it’s advice on school, career dreams, or personal struggles, our mentors are here to listen, help, and guide them through every step.
Career Readiness
We prepare youth for life, not just a job.
The world can feel overwhelming when you’re starting out, but we’re here to make sure young people are ready for whatever comes next. Through our career readiness workshops, we teach the practical skills they’ll need to step confidently into the workforce—things like resume building, interview prep, and how to network. But we don’t stop there. We also give them the tools to understand their own strengths, so they can go after the careers they’ve always dreamed of with confidence.
Community Connection and Empowerment
Strong communities grow from strong connections.
At Chicago Emerging Stars, we create spaces where young people can come together with their neighbors, build meaningful relationships, and strengthen their sense of belonging. Our community engagement efforts focus on collaboration, dialogue, and shared purpose—uniting youth, families, local leaders, and organizations alike. By fostering unity, we’re planting the seeds for long-term change—one relationship at a time.
Leadership Development
Leaders aren’t born—they’re built.
We give young people real-world chances to take on leadership roles, whether it's through community projects or organizing events. By stepping up, they learn how to inspire others, solve problems, and make a real difference. We’re not just preparing them to be future leaders; we’re showing them how to lead today.
Educational Support and College Readiness
Because every dream needs a foundation.
We believe education is one of the most powerful tools a young person can have. That’s why our programs offer hands-on academic support, tutoring, test prep, and personalized guidance through every step of the college application process. From late-night study sessions to last-minute essay edits, we’re right there with them—turning college from a dream into a real, achievable plan.
Youth Empowerment
Confidence is the first step to change.
Our youth empowerment initiatives are built to uplift, inspire, and energize. Through events like back-to-school bashes, youth summits, and leadership retreats, we provide young people with more than just a good time—we give them tools, mentorship, and spaces where they feel seen. The goal is simple: help them step into the world with pride, purpose, and power.
Want to see our values in action?
Click below to hear real stories from the youth, families, and communities we serve.