About
The CYAI Story:
In early 2024, the three of us—each driven by a desire to make a real impact—came together with a shared vision: to create an organization where young people could fully apply their talents and leadership, without the limitations often imposed by traditional youth service roles. Having served on junior boards and participated in numerous volunteer opportunities, we recognized two persistent challenges: too often, we felt disconnected from the communities we were aiming to support, and as teens, we were frequently sidelined from meaningful leadership roles, regardless of our dedication and ability.
100+
Hours of hands-on instruction
2.
Meaningful programs
Expansion into Chicago Public Schools (CPS) System:
Via Press Release (linked on article image): “Now, CYAI is expanding after-school STEM and business programs into Chicago Public Schools. The initiative started at Alexander Graham Elementary on the Southwest Side in September as a pilot for expanding into other city schools. And CYAI is working with programming leaders at the Latin School of Chicago and suburban schools to help lead programs at new and additional sites.
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“We couldn’t be more excited for this next stage of CYAI growth,” said CYAI co-founder Maclane Zich. “From here, our goal is to recruit more youth leaders across Chicago and further our impact with local students.”
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“Our goal has always been to make the programs relatable but impactful,” said CYAI co-founder Nick Derbis. “This offers a great opportunity for us to continue reshaping after-school programming in a wider-reaching CPS system.”
