You Matter 2 provides South Suburban youth and families with opportunities to develop leaders and engage communities. Our vision is to empower youth to be confident contributors who transform the communities where they live and learn​. 

We serve over 1,000 6th-12th grade students and families annually in two ways: youth development and community engagement. Our youth development programs are designed to provide 6th-12th grade students with a space to develop positive relationships, leadership skills, and discover their passions. Our approach and belief is that youth are the problem-solvers, NOT problems to be solved. 

Our community engagement initiatives serve as opportunities to connect with and, provide resources and experiences for those who live in our communities by giving out free school supplies at our Back to School Bash, and even organizing the largest Southland Juneteenth Celebration, the renowned Homewood-Flossmoor Juneteenth Festival.

Our Fundraising Gala is a night of celebration for You Matter 2 as we celebrate our impact, look to the future, and honor organizations and individuals through our community awards! Please consider supporting our event by donating gift certificates, merchandise, or services for our silent auction. In exchange, you will receive some excellent community exposure and advertising.  Our fundraising goal is $10,000 which will be used to expand and launch new programming to serve more youth, hire summer youth workers, and support the 2nd Homewood-Flossmoor Juneteenth Festival and inaugural parade. Attendees can support our fundraising goal through our silent auction. You Matter 2 has become one of our community’s greatest treasures, connecting youth and the community with new experiences, service, culture, and so much more. The gala is the perfect way to showcase You Matter 2’s widespread and deep impact on the Chicago Southland. To make this event as exciting and extravagant as we hope, we will need your help!