STARR Community Services International is a nonprofit serving youth ages 5–14 with free, hands-on STEAM programming — robotics, performing arts, astronomy, agriculture, and science. Every program is built to develop real skills, real confidence, and real community.
We believe every child deserves access to high-quality enrichment, regardless of family income. That’s why every STARR program is, and always will be, 100% free.
LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR PROGRAMSAt STARR Community Services International, we believe every young person deserves the opportunity to dream beyond their circumstances. We are more than a program; we are a movement dedicated to breaking cycles of generational inequity by creating clear STEAM pathways to successful careers that raise household incomes. We provide no-cost, high-quality programming beginning as early as Pre-K, ensuring children receive early exposure to Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics. Through hands-on learning, mentorship, career exposure, and dynamic community events, we increase STEAM awareness across generations, inspire curiosity, and empower families.
We envision a future where underserved communities have access to STEAM centers worldwide, serving as hubs of innovation, creativity, and opportunity. These centers will raise STEAM awareness, provide pathways to success, and contribute to increasing household incomes and building generational wealth.
“By scaling our STEAM INTO THE FUTURE model and partnering with additional park districts and youth centers, we aim to create systemic change, empowering communities to thrive and ensuring that no child’s potential is limited by their economic circumstances.”
STARR’s programming directly confronts the environments of intergenerational poverty through four interconnected pillars.
Equipping children as early as Pre-K with STEAM knowledge, ensuring they enter higher education pathways confident and prepared before systemic gaps compound
Aligning curricula with real-world STEAM careers that raise household incomes and create long-term economic stability for underserved families
Empowering parents and local leaders through our Parent Leadership Program to advocate for systemic change and position entire neighborhoods for success
Recognizing that breaking cycles of poverty requires engaging not only youth but also families and communities across generations
Our flagship program is strategically designed to close the education gap and provide early exposure STEAM curricula for youth beginning as early as Pre-K through 8th grade. By targeting children at this formative stage, we ensure they develop strong STEAM foundations early, positioning them for success in advanced coursework and ultimately in careers tied to science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics.
Program components include Robotics and FIRST LEGO League, AI and Coding, Astronomy (in partnership with the University of Chicago Department of Astronomy and Astrophysics), Performing Arts, and Science Experiments. This program is not simply about academic success; it is about preparing youth for careers that will raise household incomes, create generational wealth, and address systemic inequities at their root.
VIEW ALL PROGRAMSWhat began as a community robotics program in Auburn Gresham is now operating in four schools in Lagos, Nigeria. STARR’s model is proven, scalable, and globally relevant. Our vision is to create STEAM centers in underserved communities worldwide, serving as hubs of innovation, creativity, and opportunity that contribute to increasing household incomes and building generational wealth.
STARR programming lives inside the neighborhoods it serves. Through a strategic partnership with the Chicago Park District, we bring no-cost STEAM programming directly into community parks and field houses, removing the transportation and access barriers that too often keep families from reaching enrichment opportunities.
This place-based approach is one part of a broader network of partners, from park districts to schools to community organizations across Chicago, who make our work possible.
SEE OUR STRATEGIC PARTNERSThroughout the year, STARR hosts no-cost, multigenerational events that bring youth, families, and neighbors together to celebrate culture, learning, and community.
A celebration of the cultures represented across our STARR community, connecting families through shared traditions, food, art, and performance
An evening of family fun and connection that gives parents and caregivers a chance to celebrate their STARR Agents alongside neighbors and friends
Our flagship annual community event featuring hands-on STEM activities, robotics, telescope exploration, live performances, and resources from local partners
In neighborhoods where violence and instability can hinder growth, STARR programs and events provide a secure, nurturing environment for exploration and discovery. We intentionally create safe, welcoming spaces where youth and families can gather, learn, and connect. Every STARR staff member and volunteer is background-checked before working with youth. Safety is non-negotiable in every program environment.
STARR Executive Director Katrina Adams shares the vision behind our programs and what drives our commitment to Chicago youth.
Want to learn more about our founder? Visit the Leadership page →
Every young person who walks through our doors carries the potential to lead, to innovate, and to shape their own future. Through mentorship, hands-on STEAM learning, and a community that believes in them, our youth grow from first-time participants into STARR Agents and, ultimately, into the next generation of STEAM leaders.
