We’re thrilled to share that Kidz Express has been featured in the Austin Weekly News for our impactful peer mentoring program! The article, titled “Austin nonprofit builds community with peer mentors”, highlights how our cross-age mentoring model empowers youth to lead and uplift one another right here in Chicago’s Austin neighborhood.
At Kidz Express, teens from the community take on paid roles as mentors, guiding younger children through structured after-school activities, academic support, and creative outlets like music and art. This approach not only fosters leadership and accountability but also provides relatable role models who understand the challenges our youth face.
One inspiring example is Jada Toy, who began attending Kidz Express at age 7 and now, at 17, leads the 5- to 7-year-old group. “I was always the bad kid myself,” she shared. “Now I’m here telling kids to finish their homework before they can get on the computer. It’s an important job. It’s all I think about when I wake up each morning.”
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A mentor works with young people. (BONNIE McKEOWN / Austin Weekly News contributor) -
Jada Toy with her mentees. (BONNIE McKEOWN/ Austin Weekly News contributor)
Our program, founded over 20 years ago by Duane Ehresman, Warren King, and Doug Low, has grown into a vital community hub. Operating out of a repurposed school building at 5221 W. Congress Parkway, we serve over 50 youth aged 5 to 18, offering not just mentorship but also meals, academic support, and enrichment activities.
We’re honored by this recognition and remain committed to nurturing the potential of every child in our community. Thank you to Austin Weekly News for shining a light on our work!
