Octavio Serrano

Youth Service Project

Since 1975, YSP has worked with youth and families in the greater Humboldt Park community of Chicago. YSP's initial programming responded to community concerns about the impact of drugs on youth in the neighborhood. Since that time, YSP has continued to help young people and families overcome challenges. Today, YSP also provides positive alternatives for youth in the neighborhood. Through a spectrum of enrichment opportunities, YSP meets youth's needs while focusing on young people's interests, assets and strengths. YSP works with youth rather than for youth, through program offerings in seven core areas: education, recreation, intervention, prevention, arts and culture, community building, and diversion. Through our services, YSP works with youth and their families to overcome difficulties and stabilize lives. Our programs, focusing on community building, engage youth, their families and the community at large in activities that promote positive youth development.