*Open Gym is held only on the nights listed above.
Open Gym means an open door during the school year for kids in 5th - 8th grade to play sports, dance and socialize. The program, which has grown in popularity each year, maintains a staff of volunteers of high school age or older, and at least one police officer at each gym. This is an opportunity for kids to get to meet new people in the community.
The event is held at the West Chicago Middle School, 238 E. Hazel Street, and in the past has included activities such as indoor soccer, basketball, break dancing and socializing.
West Chicago Youth tries to secure the gyms every Friday during the school year, with the exception of occasions when there is another school function or social event like dances or plays.
No admission fee.
Any questions, please contact the West Chicago Police Department - Deputy Chief Uplegger - at (630) 293-2200.
West Chicago Youth offers more than sports. Parterning with the West Chicago Public Library, West Chicago Youth enjoy all the wonderful opportunities offered by a dynamic library system.
Service Projects
West Chicago Youth rises to the occasion when it comes to helping out in the community.
Raking in the joy of service!
One favorite service project takes place in the fall, and last year brought out 151 youth volunteers to assist 30 senior homeowners in clearing leaves from their yards.
Many hands made for light work, and by lunchtime, the young people were enjoying pizza and pop at the Fox Community Center. Judging from the sheer enthusiasm with which the kids approached their task, it was obvious they not only understood the importance of the contribution they were making to the seniors of the community, but they had fun in the process. Photos of the activity provide a snapshot of the hardworking, funloving young people of West Chicago Youth that are leading the way through service!
Special Events Special Events are opportunities to celebrate and share enthusiasm for West Chicago Youth. Whether marching in the annual Railroad Days Parade or having representation at National Night Out, the community's biggest going away party for crime and drugs, West Chicago Youth rocks!
Additional special events will evolve throughout the year, please check back often.
Leadership Opportunities Consider the rewards of volunteering for the youth of the community. Serve as a leader for children in grades 5 - 8! Adult and teen volunteers are needed to support West Chicago Youth's Open Gym program.
Student volunteers must currently be enrolled in high school and parental permission is required. All volunteers are required to pass a background check and must participate in leadership orientation.
"I started volunteering in 1996 and my reason for doing so is because I appreciated what people did for me and I guess it's kind of a way for me of paying back."
- West Chicago Youth Volunteer
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