Beyond Serving

Identity Groups

SLAM (Society of latino and african american men)

SLAM was founded in response to a glaring organizational need to curate professional support systems for AmeriCorps members who self-identify as men of color. We work to do so by providing personal development & mentorship to participants which includes deliberate training and organized community building over the span of 8 service months. SLAM’s mission is to strengthen African American and Latino AmeriCorps members at City Year through professional development, opportunity management, and mentoring that will enable professional growth, retention, and promotion at City Year.

WOc (Women of color)

WOC was created out of a need to have a space for those who identify as a Woman Of Color (WOC). The interest in WOC affirmed the need to have this space for CYCHI Staff and Corps Members. We all identify as Women Of Color and thus have similar experiences and/or value to bring to the race and gender conversations as we go forward establishing a community among ourselves. Because we all come in different shapes, colors, sizes, and backgrounds; it's about time we talk about our experiences, expertise, struggles, ideas, businesses, celebrations, challenges, and EMPOWER one another while doing so! 

CY Pride

CY Pride’s mission is to establish an inclusive community where our queer corps members and staff can comfortably develop themselves into strong leaders and advocates for change. (CY Pride defines queer as an umbrella term for sexual and gender minorities who are not heterosexual or cisgender.) CY Pride members unpack their identities’ intersections and impact to their service while exploring strategies for supporting our students coming into their own identities. We seek opportunities to expand and lean from one another’s perspectives and utilize our unique experiences to provide support to the Chicago community.

Professional Development Opportunities at City Year Chicago

Deloitte Mentorship

The Deloitte Mentorship program pairs 25 City Year AmeriCorps members to a Deloitte professional mentor to offer professional guidance, assist with career goal setting, and connect their mentee with any resources they may need to achieve their Leadership After City Year (LACY) goals. In addition, all mentors and mentees will meet throughout the year for professional development trainings led by Deloitte on topics such as writing an excellent resume, interviewing skills, and public speaking. 

BraveN Fellowship

Braven Online is an intensive 15-week college level fellowship course that meets once a week for two hours. Fellows will develop the critical skills needed to be successful in the professional workspace through a variety of engaging activities such as mock interviews and a consulting project for a real company. Braven Online Fellows are eligible to receive a $500 stipend upon completion of the Fellowship. Afterwards, Braven will continue to support you on your path toward college graduation and a strong first job.

Additional Opportunities

Throughout your service year, you will engage in resume and cover letter workshops, networking sessions with career professionals in multiple fields, and meet in small groups with peers and a professional mentor.