KidsMatter PROGRAMS
Our health and development programs focus on the overall social, emotional, and academic well-being of kids.
OUR HISTORY
Edward Hospital created KidsMatter (formerly known as the Naperville Youth Development Coalition) as a community-wide prevention health strategy to combat teenage destructive behaviors and was granted our 501(c)(3) status in 2001.
Recognizing a problem-centered approach which relies heavily on professionals and public-sector resources rarely works by itself, Edward and a team of Naperville community leaders looked for a complementary approach which focuses on the healthy development of all young people, regardless of race/ethnicity/economic background, and requires action by all residents of the community.
OUR LIVELIHOOD
Search Institute’s research-proven 40 Developmental Asset Framework was selected as the infrastructure to help KidsMatter ensure the core building blocks of healthy development were in place for our youth.
This research clearly communicates: the more assets young people have, the less likely they are to engage in many high-risk behaviors such as problem alcohol use, violence/bullying, illicit drug use, and sexual activity and the more likely they are to exhibit positive attitudes and behaviors such as leadership, good health, valuing diversity, success in school and ultimately success in life!
OUR PROGRAMS
TEXT “REACH” TO 741 741
CRISIS TEXT LINE
DEVELOPING CYBER LEADERS
DIGITAL LEADER SUMMIT
PROGRAMS & CURRICULUM
STATE OF THE KIDS
ONLINE TUTORING
POWERMINDS
“KidsMatter’s programs and events have been a part of my life since 2001. It’s incredible to watch the impact that KidsMatter has had on teens in the community. ”
– Dawn Dau, Super Volunteer
NEW PROGRAM COMING SOON!
KidsMatter works hard to help our youth find their pathway regardless if it’s vocational training, a two-year associate’s degree, or a 4+ years college pathway.
We simply want to provide them with the tools they need to be successful in life emotionally, socially and academically.
We believe by providing young people these tools, along with opportunities, relationships, and values, all kids can realize their full potential.
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