EVANSTON – To help at-risk youth develop important life skills and achieve long-term success, State Senator Laura Fine (D-Glenview) is proud to announce the Illinois Secretary of State has chosen the Evanston Public Library to administer the Project Next Generation program.

“This program invests in our youth and provides them with the tools they need to ensure a bright future,” said Fine. “These funds will provide opportunities critical to the success of our children, their families, our community and our state.”

The $39,899 grant was awarded through the Fiscal Year 2021 Project Next Generation program, which is a mentoring program administered through Illinois public libraries. Mentors work with middle and high school students to help them develop skills needed to use technology and find success through project-based learning. Mentors also help students develop life skills, such as effective communication, goal setting and conflict resolution.

The Evanston Public Library is one of 28 public libraries in the state to receive the grant.

In all, the secretary of state awarded more than $550,000 in Project Next Generation grants statewide. The money is provided by the Institute of Museum and Library Services. Grants are awarded to public libraries that serve culturally diverse, low-income and underserved populations.

“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 at their local library.”