Teens
HPNC welcomes families who receive a childcare subsidy through Illinois Action for Children. Additional financial assistance is available for qualifying families. Find out more and submit your eligibility information on our Sliding Scale Pricing page.
Please note that an annual Access Pass is now required for all program participants and their families for registration into HPNC and on-site partner programs.
Leaders in Training (L.I.T.)
Rising 5th-8th graders
HPNC’s L.I.T. program promotes the positive development of middle school youth by equipping them with the tools needed to build social-emotional skills, become community pathfinders, and advocate for adolescent needs. Using evidence-based curriculum, youth will learn important life skills and discover their own strengths and passions while taking on community leadership, service learning, and entrepreneurship projects. Youth will engage in activities like meaningful debates, weekly self-reflection, team challenges, and youth-led program planning across topics they identify as important.
The L.I.T. Program will consist of a Youth Advisory Board, providing a youth-led platform for participants to give feedback, share input, organize family engagement events, and have a bigger voice in programming planning/activities offered. The Youth Advisory Board will focus on youth empowerment and confidence building, conveying the message that youth can change the world and it starts with their development of strategic planning skills and community engagement.
L.I.T. participants will receive academic support and tutoring, while also providing the same type of support to our Kindergartens and first graders. Program fee is discounted for 7th and 8th grade students.
Counselors in Training (C.I.T.)
Rising 8th - 9th Grade
First Cohort: Summer 2026
Calling all rising 8th and 9th graders! If you’re ready to level up your summer and make a real impact, our Counselor-in-Training (CIT) program is your ultimate adventure. As a C.I.T, you’ll take on the exciting role of a junior staff member, working hands-on in a summer classroom to assist group leaders and support younger campers. But that’s not all—this program is packed with exclusive workshops where you’ll learn the ins and outs of working with kids, leading activities, and building essential leadership skills.
You’ll sharpen your communication, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities, all while having fun and connecting with new friends. Plus, this is your chance to jump-start your journey toward becoming a camp counselor with HPNC through our participant-to-staff pathway—setting you up for future success! Ready to gain experience, make an impact, and have a summer you’ll never forget? Don’t wait—only a few spots available! Your leadership journey starts here.
This program is application based, and campers will be chosen through an interview process. Once registered, prospective campers will receive a link to the application.
Basketball
Spring 2026
Basketball Skills & Drills
April 2 - June 11, 2026
Ages 10-14: Thursdays 5-6 pm & Saturdays 11 am-12 pm
Basketball has been a part of the HPNC story from our very beginning in 1909. Participants develop fundamental skills while broadening players’ knowledge of positions and responsibilities for an increased basketball IQ. At HPNC, players learn age-appropriate skills and sportsmanship through drills and scrimmages.
High School Open Gym
Fridays 4:30-6 pm, starting April 17
Open court basketball connects youth throughout the city with the goal of enjoying the game in a fun and safe environment. The free-play atmosphere provides youth agency with their play under the supervision of HPNC staff.
Book Club
Spring 2026
Book Club is more than just reading—it’s an experience. Each session, youth dive into a shared book while also exploring it through real conversations, creative activities, and hands-on experiences that bring the story to life. From uncovering big themes to debating characters’ choices, Book Club creates space for curiosity, connection, and critical thinking. Whether we’re solving mysteries, making art, or stepping into the world of the story, there’s always something new to discover.
Each participant will receive a book to read, with time built in to read at their own pace. Some weeks will include fun, creative activities inspired by the book—think art, games, or even themed challenges!
This enrichment is perfect for curious readers who want to have fun, make new friends, and experience books in a whole new way. Let the reading adventures begin!
Spring Book: When You Reach Me by Rebecca Stead
Who: Youth ages 9-14
Cost: Free with HPNC Access Pass
MAPSCorps