SPRINGFIELD – Chicago Ridge Public Library is the recipient of a $5,740 mentoring grant from the Illinois secretary of state, State Senator Bill Cunningham announced.

The grant was awarded through the 2019 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 with developing life skills, such as effective communication, goal setting, and conflict resolution.

Chicago Ridge is one of 31 public libraries in the state to receive the grant.

“The Secretary of State’s continued support for Illinois public libraries and at-risk youth is commendable,” Cunningham said. “A nominal investment like this in local mentoring will produce untold results, including better grades, higher self-esteem, increased likelihood of going to college, and better preparation for the workforce.”

In all, the Secretary of State awarded more than $526,000 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 Illinois Secretary of State Jesse 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.”

For more information, visit http://bit.ly/PNGgrants.

Senator Cunningham represents portions of Worth, Orland and Palos Townships in the southwest suburbs and the neighborhoods of Mt. Greenwood, Beverly, Morgan Park and Auburn-Gresham in Chicago.