be_ixf;ym_202404 d_26; ct_50 YES! I want to make a difference TODAY!

Our stories

Read a collection of stories and learn from the perspectives and experiences of our City Year AmeriCorps members, students, partners and alums.

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long view of a library
Education
Building relationships through a shared love of reading
March 8, 2017

During the class reading time, Jolene would cringe when it was her turn to read out loud and often didn’t…

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an elementary student raises his hand with excitement
Education
Spring means serious business in our schools
March 2, 2017

All of the standardized tests my students will be taking soon are rigorous, and for third graders represents a certain…

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city year americorps member sitting with two students doing work as they sit at a large table outside in the school courtyard
The Corps
What do AmeriCorps members do? Build relationships to help students succeed
February 13, 2017

From the start, I knew that in order to be successful, I needed to develop positive relationships with my teammates,…

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AmeriCorps members dancing and singing into a microphone
Our Impact
MLK Day: Making a difference to 3,000 Chicago students
January 19, 2017

This year, City Year Chicago’s Civic Engagement team organized a spectacular day of service at the Marie Curie Metropolitan High…

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A team of three AmeriCorps members walk away from the playground
The Corps
City Year AmeriCorps members own unique responsibilities as coordinators
December 22, 2016

Leading initiatives and planning events are two key components of the City Year AmeriCorps member role. Learn more about these…

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The Corps
A parent’s perspective
October 16, 2016

Service to cause greater than self is one of City Year’s values. As a parent and educator, I have realized…

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Two elementary students pose for the camera
The Corps
A day in the life of a CYSC AmeriCorps member
June 9, 2016

Between the minutes of my first and second alarm, I think of how warm my bed is until my mind…

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A city year americorps member at a chalkboard showing a math problem to two high school students
Our Impact
Champion profile: Einhorn Family Charitable Trust
May 19, 2016

Their multi-year gift, given at the highest level in City Year’s history, is catalyzing the organization’s ability to deepen its…

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Atwood family photo
Our Impact
Champion Profile: the Atwood family

At every stage of City Year’s history, Kristen and Jim Atwood and their family have invested passion, resources and countless…

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Our Impact
Champion Profile: David L. Cohen

For more than two decades, David has worked to advance national service opportunities for America’s young people.

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Diana Davis Spencer photo
Our Impact
Champion Profile: Diana Davis Spencer

The themes of mentorship and education have shaped both Diana Davis Spencer’s life and the areas of focus for her…

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Our Impact
Champion Profile: Dr. Darienne Driver

Dr. Darienne Driver has led Wisconsin’s largest school district since she was appointed in 2014 at age 36, making her…

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National Strategic Partners
National Partners