It Takes a Village
Our story begins with a simple truth: every child deserves support, opportunity, and hope.
Asia Haywood - Founder
(Photo Coming Soon)
Meet Our Founder: Asia Haywood
Asia Haywood founded Every Child's Village with a deeply personal understanding of the challenges facing Chicago's youth. Growing up on the South Side, she witnessed firsthand how the right support at the right time can change a young person's entire trajectory.
After years working in youth development and seeing the gaps in community support, Asia knew it was time to create something different—an organization that truly embodies the principle that it takes a village to raise a child.
"Every child has potential waiting to be unlocked," Asia says. "Our job is to provide the keys: caring mentors, quality programs, and a community that believes in them."
Today, Every Child's Village serves hundreds of youth across Chicago's South and West Sides, building the village every child deserves.
Mission
To empower Chicago's youth through comprehensive support programs, caring mentorship, and community engagement that breaks the cycle of poverty and builds pathways to success.
Vision
A Chicago where every child, regardless of their zip code, has access to the support, resources, and opportunities they need to reach their full potential and thrive.
Values
Our core values guide every decision we make and every program we create, ensuring we stay true to our mission and the youth we serve.
Our Core Values
Community
We believe in the power of collective action and support.
Empowerment
We help youth discover and develop their full potential.
Equity
Every child deserves access to opportunities regardless of circumstance.
Excellence
We maintain high standards in everything we do.
Hope
We foster optimism and belief in brighter futures.
Why Chicago Needs Us
The statistics are sobering, but they tell an important story about the urgent need for community support and intervention.
Concentrated Poverty
25% of Chicago youth live below the poverty line, with rates even higher in South and West Side neighborhoods where opportunity gaps are widest.
Educational Challenges
41% of CPS students are chronically absent, missing critical learning opportunities and falling further behind their peers.
Limited Support Systems
Many families lack access to after-school programs, mentoring, and resources that middle-class families take for granted.
Proven Impact
Studies show 96% success rate when youth receive comprehensive support—proving intervention works when properly resourced.
How We Build Villages
Our comprehensive approach addresses the whole child—academic, social, emotional, and career development.
Connect
Building trusting relationships with youth and families
Support
Providing academic help, mentoring, and resources
Empower
Developing skills, confidence, and leadership
Sustain
Creating lasting pathways to success and opportunity