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Berwyn, Illinois — January 12, 2026 — The Berwyn Development Corporation (BDC) is proud to recognize Youth Crossroads as the recipient of the 2026 Non-Profit of the Year Award, honoring the organization’s longstanding commitment to supporting youth, strengthening families, and enriching the Berwyn community.

Founded in 1971, Youth Crossroads has served tens of thousands of young people and families in Berwyn, Cicero, Stickney, and surrounding communities. Through partnerships with more than 100 community organizations, Youth Crossroads has built a trusted and comprehensive network of support designed to respond to the complex challenges facing today’s youth and families.

Today, Youth Crossroads provides young people from ages 8 to 24 with opportunities to heal, grow, lead, and thrive. Its wide-ranging programs include workforce development, clinical mental health services, youth development initiatives, early childhood intervention and a parent mentor program, all rooted in a deep belief in the potential of young people and the power of community connection.

“Berwyn’s nonprofit community plays a vital role in shaping a strong, compassionate city, and Youth Crossroads exemplifies that impact every day,” said Fabiola Avitia, chair of the Non-Profit of the Year Award Committee. “For more than five decades, they have shown an unwavering commitment to meeting young people where they are, supporting families through life’s challenges, and helping build pathways to brighter futures for our community.”

The Berwyn Non-Profit of the Year Award honors a Berwyn-based nonprofit organization whose work reflects passion, expertise, and a deep dedication to improving the quality of life for Berwyn residents. Award recipients are nominated by fellow Chamber members and vetted through an Ad Hoc Committee comprised of members of the Berwyn Development Corporation Board of Directors. Final selection is made through a vote of Chamber members, the majority of whom are local business owners and community organizations.

“We are deeply honored to be named Berwyn’s Non-Profit of the Year,” said Youth Crossroads Executive Director Josephine DiCesare. “Berwyn has always been a community that believes in its young people. This recognition affirms the importance of investing in youth, families, and partnerships that help create safe, healthy, and hopeful futures.”

The Berwyn Development Corporation is a public–private partnership with the City of Berwyn that provides Chamber services and economic development support to local businesses. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, the BDC promotes Berwyn as a dynamic destination and advances initiatives that strengthen the local business climate, attract investment, and enhance overall community vitality.

For more information about the Berwyn Development Corporation or the Berwyn NonProfit of the Year Award, please contact Kierra Turpin, BDC Marketing Manager at KierraT@berwyn.net or 708-749-6558.

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