Youth Programs
Lewistown, Illinois, along with nearby communities such as Canton and Havana, offers a variety of youth services aimed at supporting the development, education, and well-being of young residents. Below is an overview of available programs and resources in the area.
Educational and Developmental Programs
Head Start Programs
The Head Start program, in partnership with the Community Action Partnership of Central Illinois (CAPCIL), provides exceptional early childhood education for children from birth to age five. The program emphasizes active parental involvement, ensuring a supportive learning environment. Services are available in various locations, including Fulton IV Head Start in Lewistown.
Fulton IV Head Start
- Address: 15501 E. Avenue L Lewistown, IL 61542
- Phone: (309) 267-2422
- Website: CAPCIL Head Start
ROYALS – Regional Office Youth Alternative Learning Services
ROYALS offers alternative education programs designed to meet the needs of individual learners, particularly those who have faced challenges in traditional school settings. Programs are available in multiple locations, including Canton.
ROYALS RSSP/Canton
- Location: Canton/McCall School
- Website: ROYALS Programs
Canton Family YMCA – School Age Programs
The Canton Family YMCA provides affordable afterschool care for children in Kindergarten through 6th grade. The program offers a safe, nurturing, and active environment, with locations in Canton and Farmington.
Canton Location
- Address: Eastview School, Canton, IL
- Phone: (309) 647-1616
- Website: Canton Family YMCA School Age Programs
Community Support Services
Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) – Family Community Resource Center
The IDHS Family Community Resource Center in Fulton County provides various services, including crisis assistance for youth aged 11 to 17 who have run away or been displaced from their homes.
- Address: 1329 North Main Street, Lewistown, IL 61542
- Phone: (309) 547-3755
- Website: IDHS Fulton County Office
Lutheran Social Services of Illinois (LSSI) – Canton Children’s Programs
LSSI offers various programs aimed at supporting children and families, including counseling and family support services.
- Address: 700 E. Oak St. #204, Canton, IL 61520
- Phone: (309) 647-3325
- Website: LSSI Canton Children’s Programs
Career Link – Youth Services
Career Link assists young adults aged 16 to 24 with education, training, and employment opportunities, including GED assistance and career exploration.
- Website: Career Link Youth Services
Spoon River College – Adult Education & GED® Program
Spoon River College (SRC) offers free GED® preparation classes at multiple locations, including Canton, Havana, Macomb, and Rushville. To enroll, individuals must be at least 17 years old and withdrawn from high school.
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Services Offered:
✔ GED® Preparation Classes – Free courses to help students prepare for the GED® test
✔ Out-of-School Youth Program – Provides financial incentives for education and career readiness
✔ Career Link Partnership – Assistance for GED® graduates continuing education or entering the workforce -
Enrollment & Fees:
- GED® classes are free, but the official GED® test costs $36 per module ($144 total)
- Additional $10 fee for Illinois High School Equivalency Certificate and transcript after completion
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Contact:
- Phone: (309) 649-6278
- Website: Spoon River College Adult Education
These programs and services collectively aim to provide the youth of Lewistown and surrounding areas with the necessary support and opportunities to thrive academically, socially, and personally.