CHiL Afterschool Program

CHiL facilitates successful transitions to high school through volunteer-based tutoring and mentoring. The afterschool program bolsters improved grade performance and social and emotional learning at the middle schools in Wheeling Township’s Community Consolidated School District 21—Cooper, Holmes, and London, as well as Whitman Elementary School. CHiL serves a high-needs population with 86% of the students qualifying for free or reduced-price lunch. In addition, 28% of the students served by the program are English language learners.

HandsOn Suburban Chicago is recruiting dedicated volunteer mentors for the 2023-24 school year! We are currently accepting applications for mentors to begin in October 2023. Please note that the application process requires a reference check and criminal background check. Training is provided and consists of a self-guided online course with a graded final assessment.

Who: HandsOn Suburban Chicago (HOSC) needs caring and reliable community members like you to serve as mentors for high-needs students, getting them on track to graduate!

What: CHiL is a volunteer-based afterschool program that provides social and emotional support coupled with homework help to low-income middle and elementary school students in Wheeling Township's Community Consolidated School District 21. Under the direction of program staff, volunteer mentors will foster socialization among a small group of students; facilitate social and emotional learning activities; and support students in completing schoolwork.

Where and When: CHiL takes place at Cooper Middle School in Buffalo Grove, Holmes and London middle schools in Wheeling, and Whitman Elementary School in Wheeling. The program will begin in October and run through the second week of May. Volunteer mentors are needed Monday through Thursday from 3:00-4:45 pm (dates and times subject to change). Commit to one or two days per week.

Why: Mentoring is a fun and rewarding experience. In addition to the satisfaction that comes with positively impacting those in need, volunteering in schools is an ideal way to meet new people, enhance your resume, and learn new skills. Mentoring at CHiL is also a great way for college and graduate students to gain field hours.

Impact

Every dollar donated translates to measurable results that support our goal of preparing underprivileged youth to succeed in high school academically, emotionally, and socially.

2021-22

• 89% of students achieved a “C” average or higher

• 77% demonstrated satisfactory school attendance

• 90% met Illinois Social and Emotional Learning standards

2020-21

• 70% of students achieved a “C” average or higher

• 69% demonstrated satisfactory school attendance

• 88% met Illinois Social and Emotional Learning standards

Contact Montana Lechner at montana@handsonsuburbanchicago.org for more information.