Our Mission

Kidz Express expands opportunities for children and youth who reside in one of the nation’s most under-served and economically distressed communities, Chicago’s South Austin neighborhood.  Our innovative approach to youth development envelops children ages 5 – 14 in a safe environment where peer mentors – young people hired from the community – serve as tutors and role models, providing leadership and love, and helping to guide our charges on a path to successful outcomes in school and life. Our free program operates after school and during the summer, offering meals, academic support, health and wellness care, as well as athletic and artistic pursuits, in a home-away-from-home that functions much like a family. At Kidz Express, our goal is to help every child in our programs unlock the potential within.