This winter, I had the chance to meet some men living in a group home in Naperville. Seven guys, ages 13-17, and several supporting adults who lived on a property called Cornerstone. Cornerstone was founded and is maintained by one of Naperville’s finest nonprofit organizations, 360 Youth Services.
Seven of Naperville’s youth, who were in need and lacked the support necessary to grow fully into their potential, were provided with a welcoming home and a safe place to develop essential life skills. Seven more lives that were not just improved, but transformed into promising futures filled with dreams.
Cornerstone is only one way that 360 has continued to give back to our community and take care of our next generation. 360 Youth Services has several other essential housing programs that work to protect and take care of Naperville’s youth who are in need of support. Two extremely impressive initiatives are the Transitional Housing and Rapid Rehousing programs. Both supply living spaces for youth in need, but beyond simply providing homes, 360 strives to teach independence and critical life skills so that their residents can become self-sufficient and independent members of society.
We live in a wonderful community, in a city known for its wealth; yet, there is still a list of youth that are in need of a home. It is a little embarrassing, honestly. Many in our community are very fortunate, but forget to both appreciate what we have, and remember to give to those less lucky.
My family remembered that this year and made a conscious effort to look out for those in need and there will never be a day I look back and regret that decision. I don’t want anyone to think they’re being “high-roaded” by a 17-year-old. This story is just a gentle reminder that there always be someone with a greater need than you and that your help, whether it be your time, money, or just support, will make a world of difference.
Editor’s Addition: Just in time for Valentine’s Day!
360 Youth Services is hosting a Virtual Valentine’s Chefs Dinner on Sat., Feb. 13. Attendees can learn a “life-skill” to help improve any culinary game when Michelin Star Chef Giuseppe Tentori from Boka Chicago leads cooking instruction, featuring a delicious menu with Whinningham Beef Tenderloin.
Proceeds will help 360 cover gaps in funding programs, and also help advance the new Emergency Shelter Program, a program recently begun to chip away the wait-list for youth experiencing homelessness.
Individual tickets start at $50. Other ticket options and sponsorship packages are available at www.360youthservices.org. Thank you!
