Youth Afterschool Program
Calling all Oak Park middle and high school youth!
Oak Park middle and high school students can enjoy FREE access to the CRC from 3:00-6:00P Monday through Friday when school is in session. During this time, structured and unstructured activities and spaces will be available and supervised by CRC staff including access to the esports lounge, gymnasium, community rooms, and multipurpose room for homework assistance.
Through a partnership with the Community Mental Health Board of Oak Park Township (CMHB), the Youth Afterschool provides regular opportunities for youth to participate in mental wellness workshops designed for adolescents and teens. Workshops are designed to help youth gain and maintain overall mental wellness, share information, and engage in skill-building activities designed to optimize their mental health and create knowledge of available resources. The program does not include any direct counseling, individual therapy, group therapy, or any other intervention provided by a licensed clinician.
Teens cannot sign up for this program without parent approval.
Teen Mental Wellness Programming
4:00-4:45P | Select Wednesdays
Presented by Way Back Inn
How much do you really know about alcohol use? During this workshop, we will play a decision-based game where you will consider real-life scenarios involving alcohol that will help you to learn about the consequences of your choices and understand the importance of responsible decision-making.
Presented by NAMI Metro Suburban
Recognizing things you are thankful for is a proven strategy to give your mental health a boost. During this workshop, you will create your own gratitude journal, and we will help you fill it with prompts and questions to keep your gratitude practice going strong.
Presented by Sarah’s Inn
What makes a healthy relationship, and what makes a toxic one? Is there anything in-between? During this workshop, you will compete in a trivia game, testing your knowledge around healthy relationships and pop culture.
Presented by Ascension Illinois Center for Mental Health, Melrose Park
It can be hard to express feelings when we are afraid of judgement, rejection, negative experiences after being vulnerable with someone, or customs that discourage openness. This art mask activity will help you creatively share how you think others perceive you and how you feel or see yourself.
Presented by Thrive Counseling Center
Coming soon.
Presented by NAMI Metro Suburban
Setting a vision can help you reach a specific goal. During this workshop, you will make a vision board that incorporates your goals for the year. We will discuss the importance of goal setting and help you use magazines, clip art, and other materials to visualize your success.
Presented by CAYR Connections
No two brains work the same, and that’s what makes the world awesome. In this workshop, you’ll create a ‘brain hat’ to show off your unique thinking style, take on brain-bending challenges, and try out simulations that let you experience the world like someone with a different brain.
Presented by Way Back Inn
Is vaping safer than smoking? Is everyone doing it? During this workshop, you will learn all about this and more. We will embark on a team-based escape-style challenge, solving puzzles about the risks and dangers of vaping in an attempt to ‘escape’ in time.
Youth Afterschool Events
Activities
Workshops
