ABOUT UNACCOMPANIED YOUTH PROJECT, INC.

 Unaccompanied Youth Project Inc. began during the 2014-2015 school year. Friends and family made it possible for the first gifts to be distributed in the 2015-2016 school year to seniors in high schools in two counties in Illinois. Since then, UYP Inc. has become a corporation and a 510(c)(3) registered nonprofit in 2024.

 We gift to seniors in high school who do not live with a parent or guardian while encouraging them to finish their high school careers. We provided them with gifts before winter break and at graduation. We also focus on youth who have aged out of Foster Care but are still involved in the ‘system’. These individuals receive Valentine’s Day gifts. 

 Our mission at Unaccompanied Youth Project, Inc. is to support and encourage the unaccompanied youth in the schools and foster systems in Rockford and the surrounding areas. Our vision is to plant the seeds of hope in young people who are otherwise forgotten and alone. 

 We began by sewing handmade pillowcases filled with goodies and tied them with beautiful bows. We need your help to uplift and encourage at-risk youth, bringing them hope and joy. Together, we can inspire them to believe in themselves and create a positive impact in their lives. 

If you would like to get involved, please visit the Volunteer Opportunities page, or reach out to us at:  unaccompaniedyouthprojectinc@gmail.com