It Takes a Village to Raise Whole Families
C.A.R.E. for Youth — Cultivating At-Risk Environments — empowers families to be whole by surrounding young people with mentors, resources, and a community that believes in their future.
We fill the gaps. We build the bridge. We are the village.
The Village Approach
Every child deserves a community that believes in them. At C.A.R.E. for Youth, we are building that village — a network of caring adults, mentors, educators, and community partners who wrap around families in need and walk alongside them toward wholeness.
We don't just mentor — we transform. Through structured programs, accountability, and genuine relationships, we help young people discover who they are, what they're capable of, and where they're headed.
Commitment
Inspiring pro-social friendships and hope
Responsibility
Empowering youth to set and achieve goals
Possibility
Expanding perspectives on life's potential
Support
Building caring, inclusive environments
"We are the village that every child deserves."
— Pastor Ron Thomas, Founder
From a Wide Lens to a Narrow Lens
Many young people see their future through a wide, unfocused lens — full of uncertainty, doubt, and unanswered questions. C.A.R.E. for Youth guides each young person to narrow that lens, helping them identify their specific talents, build genuine self-worth, and chart a clear path toward personal and professional success.
Discover
Identify unique talents and strengths through guided mentorship
Focus
Set specific, achievable goals with accountability partners
Achieve
Build the skills and confidence to reach their full potential
Mind, Body & Soul
We develop the complete young person — not just academics, not just athletics, but the whole human being.
Mind
- Tutoring & Homework Help
- Financial Literacy
- Resume Writing & Interview Skills
- Career Readiness Workshops
- Goal-Setting & Planning
Body
- Community Basketball Leagues
- Outdoor Adventures & Activities
- Physical Health Education
- Team Sports & Recreation
- Bike Rides & Group Outings
Soul
- Conflict Resolution Training
- One-on-One Mentorship
- Self-Worth & Identity Building
- Positive Peer Relationships
- Community Service Projects
Our Programs
Every young person's journey is different. That's why we offer four specialized mentoring programs, each designed to meet youth exactly where they are.
Torchbearer
At-Risk Middle & High School Students
A structured program of support where mentors and youth build trust through one-on-one outings, group adventures, and consistent goal-setting. Mentors and youth meet 10-15 hours monthly for a full year.
About-Face
Chronically Suspended Students
Focused, intensive support for students who have been chronically suspended from school. We work to redirect behavior, rebuild academic confidence, and create a path back to success.
Elevation
Youth in the Juvenile Court System
Engaging youth involved in the juvenile court system through mentorship, accountability, and positive reinforcement. We partner directly with the court system to provide structured support.
Confidante
Elementary School Children
Early intervention mentoring for children from local elementary schools. By starting early, we build the foundation of trust, self-worth, and positive habits that last a lifetime.
Membership Requirements
C.A.R.E. for Youth is not a drop-in program. We are a community built on accountability, consistency, and mutual respect. Every member — youth and mentor alike — commits to these standards.
Consistent Attendance
Members must be active and regular. No occasional drop-ins — we build relationships through consistency.
Grade & Behavior Tracking
The organization will monitor school grades and home behavior as a condition of participation. Transparency is key.
Positive Culture Only
We maintain a strict No Bullying policy. Only positive, encouraging comments are permitted in our programs.
Parent/Guardian Involvement
Youth cannot self-enroll. A parent or guardian must register their child and stay engaged in the process.
Rewards & Incentives
We believe in celebrating progress. Youth who stay committed and meet their goals earn real rewards that recognize their hard work and dedication.
Certifications
Earn recognized certificates for program completion
Gift Cards
Monthly rewards for consistent attendance and effort
Dining Events
Group dinners celebrating milestones and achievements
Basketball Games
Tickets to local and professional basketball games
Career Workshops
Exclusive access to resume and interview prep
Community Recognition
Public acknowledgment of youth achievements
Our Legacy
For over two decades, we've been building community through mentorship, sports, and genuine connection in the Elgin and Dundee townships.
Youth Basketball 1998
Youth Basketball 2000
Youth Basketball 2001
Youth Basketball 2002
Media Recognition
Become a Mentor
We are looking for dedicated adults who can commit 10-15 hours per month for a full year. You'll be matched with a young person based on your specific area of expertise and their needs.
Areas of Expertise We Need:
Enroll Your Child
When you enroll your child in C.A.R.E. for Youth, you're giving them access to a village of support. Here's what to expect:
Your child will be matched with a trained, caring adult mentor
Mentors and youth meet 10-15 hours per month for a full year
Activities include one-on-one outings and group community adventures
We monitor school grades and home behavior to track progress
Youth earn rewards and certifications for consistent participation
Contact Us
Phone
(847) 529-9650Mailing Address
C.A.R.E. for Youth
P.O. Box 682
Carpentersville, IL
Leadership
Pastor Ron Thomas
Founder & Executive Director
With decades of experience mentoring youth in the Elgin and Dundee townships, Pastor Ron has dedicated his life to building the village that every young person deserves.
Board Members
Board member profiles coming soon.