Youth Outreach Services (YOS) is a Chicago-based non-profit organization that partners with at-risk youth and their families to help them discover what they are capable of achieving. We inspire positive development through a variety of child welfare, counseling, juvenile justice, and prevention services to help overcome challenges such as mental illness, substance use, abuse, and homelessness. Since 1959, YOS has worked with more than 300,000 youth and families, providing community-based support to empower all youth to face life’s challenges with confidence, competence, and dignity.

Juvenile Justice Services

Youth Outreach Services' Juvenile Justice programs provide assessment, counseling, case management, and reentry support to justice-involved youth and their families. Services are designed to reduce recidivism, address behavioral health needs, strengthen family relationships, and help young people successfully transition back to their communities, schools, and positive support systems.

Counseling Services

YOS Counseling Services provide comprehensive behavioral health treatment for youth, young adults, and families facing emotional, behavioral, trauma-related, and substance use challenges. Through individual, family, and group counseling, as well as community outreach and supportive services, clients receive strength-based, culturally responsive care that promotes wellness, resilience, and long-term success.

Prevention Services

YOS Prevention Services empower youth and families with the knowledge, skills, and resources needed to make healthy, positive life choices. Programs are school-based and focus on substance use prevention, teen pregnancy prevention, job readiness, youth employment, and other evidence-based initiatives that strengthen protective factors and support healthy development.

Homeless Youth Services

YOS Homeless Youth Services provide safe housing, supportive services, and case management for youth and young adults experiencing homelessness or housing instability. Programs help participants achieve stable housing, educational and employment goals, life skills development, and greater independence while fostering safety, dignity, and long-term self-sufficiency.