Community Youth Services (CYS)
Forecasted
Community Youth Services (CYS) supports Illinois youth ages 11–24 by funding community-led planning, prevention activities, and services to reduce violence and delinquency and improve youth health and safety.
Funder: Illinois Department of Human Services
Due Dates (Anticipated): May 2027 (Full application deadline)
Funding Amounts: FY26 benchmark: $50,000 per new community and $100,000 per established community for one year
Summary: Community Youth Services supports community-led planning and prevention activities to reduce violence and delinquency among Illinois youth ages 11–24.
Key Information: FY27 continuation eligibility is limited to current CSA providers funded under CSFA# 26-444-80-0846.
Description
Community Youth Services (CYS) is administered by the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS), through Family and Community Services and the Bureau of Positive Youth Development. It uses systematic community planning to prevent violence and delinquency among Illinois youth ages 11–24. Community residents organize committees to develop and implement strategies, activities, and services that address underlying risk factors and improve youth health and safety.
The program emphasizes community engagement, meaningful youth voice, and connections to existing health, employment, and human services. Its comprehensive approach includes family communication and supervision, life skills development, college and career preparation, and parental expectations. Advocacy to improve physical environments and school climate is also part of the model. The FY27 opportunity is a noncompetitive renewal for existing providers.
