Plug into something positive.

Become a Mentor.

The Outlet serves boys and young men from single parent homes.

Studies show that young men achieve better outcomes when they have a positive, male role-model in their life. Bryant and Zimmerman (2003) found that Black male adolescents without male role models engaged in more problem behavior than their counterparts with male role models.

The Outlet takes on this issue by pairing Springfield adult men with boys and young men who participate in our programs. These mentors are positive, high-achieving, compassionate individuals from a variety of career fields including business, engineering, teaching, and social services.

But more importantly, they are human beings who care about investing in our next generation.

The Outlet’s goal is to have a mentor for each and every participant.

If you or someone you know would like to know more about becoming a mentor, please email info@theoutletillinois.org or start the process of becoming one now by filling out this application!

 
 

VOlunteer

The Outlet has a variety of volunteer opportunities based on the ever-changing needs of the youth it serves. From landscaping to event planning to guest speaking, there are numerous ways you can get involved.

For us to better assess your volunteer interests, please fill out this application.

 

 

In Memory

Support the Dr. Clarice Ford Scholarship Fund

Dr. Clarice Ford.jpg
 
 

IN loving memory

Dr. Clarice Ford, Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs and Board Member of The Outlet, passed away Sunday, April 19, 2020, at Memorial Medical Center following a brief illness.

Dr. Ford was a community giant and education advocate. She was instrumental in the development of The Outlet over the past 14 years and was a profoundly important voice for students and diversity, dedicated her time to cultivating inclusive communities and ensuring that every student, regardless of background, has an opportunity to succeed.

This scholarship fund will ensure her legacy lives on through the lives of the Springfield youth she cared so much about. Funds raised will be awarded as a college, university, or trade school scholarship to a youth of The Outlet.