Funds Provide Technology and Mentors to Help At-Risk Youth
Secretary of State and State Librarian Jesse White awarded $464,469 in FY20 Project Next Generation (PNG) grants to 29 public libraries statewide. PNG is a mentoring program administered through Illinois public libraries. Project mentors work with middle and high school students to use various technologies, achieve success through project-based learning and gain life skills such as effective communication, goal setting and conflict resolution.
“I am committed to improving the lives of at-risk youth in Illinois,” said White. “I established this innovative program when I first became Secretary of State to give students an opportunity to receive hands-on experience with the latest technological tools through their local libraries.”
PNG grant recipients include the following public libraries:
Chicago Public Library: $40,000
Chicago Heights Free Public Library: $11,767
Kankakee Public Library: $17,000
Matteson Area Public Library District: $18,400
Projects were awarded grants from the Illinois State Library using federal Library Services and Technology Act funds provided by the Institute of Museum and Library Services. For more information, visit https://www.cyberdriveillinois.com/departments/library/grants/png.html.