Chicago is known for its gun violence, poverty and failing educational system. It’s also home for our amazing kids, who are breaking the cycle and becoming the ones to bring about the change our city so desperately needs.
Dangerous, under-resourced neighborhoods where By The Hand serves represent only six percent of Chicago’s population but account for 16 percent of the city’s homicides.
6% of the Chicago population
16% of the 2024 homicides
93% of children qualify for free and reduced-priced lunches
96% of third-graders at By The Hand partner schools are not meeting reading standards
When you hear about Chicago, you rarely hear about the good. But our kids are becoming fearless crusaders, defenders of others and doers of good. They are sharing abundant life with their family, neighbors and classmates. They are ones making a difference where it is most needed.
Since By The Hand began in 2001, we have taken a holistic approach to providing the individual support every child needs—emphasizing the achievement of measurable goals for academic, physical and spiritual development.
When kids can read at or above grade level, they can graduate with honors.
Average GPA
(Out of 4.0)
Passed all
classes
Made all ABCs
When basic needs are met, kids’ academic performance and behavior improve.
129,745
Hot, nutritious meals served to our students
892
Students received dental checkups and cleaning (267 received additional dental care)
890
Students received eye exams (248 received glasses)
A relationship with Jesus is the foundation for an abundant life.
Professed
Faith in Christ
(Q4 to Q4)
Attended
Church
(Q4 to Q4)
Sariyah started at By The Hand Club when she was just a first grader. Now, as a successful high school student, she’s confident in her plans for her future. She’s thankful to be a part of By The Hand. “I love being here. I love learning more about God.”
read storyAshtyn may only be in fifth grade, but he’s already acquiring tools that will propel him into a successful life. Ashtyn meets with Social Emotional Learning Specialist, Daniel Bell, where he’s scaffolding new skills, starting with increasing his own self-awareness.
read storyFourth-grade Sofia didn’t know much about God before starting at By The Hand. She questioned if He was real and felt indifferent about including Him into her life. But once she began attending By The Hand—North Austin, her heart shifted.
read story
You can play a life-changing role in solving the violence and disparity in Chicago. There are many ways to join–depending on your one unique offering– and each way helps children from under-resourced neighborhoods have abundant life.
Connect with us to find out more.