Record’s Youth in Journalism Workshop earns funding to expand

The Record North Shore is one of 15 recipients of a new digital-equity grant program from Cook County and City Bureau.

The Digital Equity IMPACT Small Grants Program, according to the county, is “a groundbreaking initiative designed to promote digital inclusion through storytelling and community engagement.” The Record received funding to continue and expand its annual Youth in Journalism Workshop, a free summer intensive for ages 16-22 and aligns with the county’s goal of programs that “amplify community voices, address digital divides and create impactful narratives that advocate for equitable digital access.”

The Youth in Journalism Workshop, which debuted in 2021, is led by Record staff along with diverse and talented industry experts who help lead sessions throughout the program. The workshop aims to inform and enrich students’ understanding of the news industry. Each day, different journalism concepts — such as ethics, interview skills, communications law, and modern and future newsroom models — are reviewed.

“Some (participants) may pursue careers in journalism, while others gain a deeper understanding of trusted storytelling and its critical role in their community,” said Ryan Osborn, The Record’s director of development.

Not only is the workshop free to attend but also a stipend is provided to each participant to cover any transportation costs or lost income from missed work. The stipend is vital to keep the program accessible to interested individuals across the area.

The grant program

Funded by the American Rescue Plan Act and totaling $187,500, the Digital Equity IMPACT Small Grants Program was developed in partnership with City Bureau, a nonprofit journalism lab renowned for its innovative approach to local media and community-centered storytelling.

The initiative is an extension of Cook County’s Digital Equity Action Plan, which prioritizes the key pillars of access, confidence, safety and infrastructure as the foundation for a connected and inclusive county.

“Every community has a story worth sharing, especially when it comes to digital equity,” said Morgan Malone, executive director of City Bureau. “Through this program, we’ve worked alongside Cook County to empower local organizations to elevate their voices and create powerful narratives that address the digital challenges they face. These stories are not just about the struggles but also the solutions and successes. Together, we are building a coalition of storytellers advocating for a more inclusive and equitable digital landscape.”

The Record’s Youth in Journalism Workshop and other awarded projects align closely with the four pillars of Cook County’s Digital Equity Action Plan. By focusing on access, confidence, safety and infrastructure, these initiatives will drive positive, tangible and community-led change. The stories produced will inform policy discussions and help bridge the digital divide. 

“We are thrilled to celebrate these dedicated organizations that are leading the charge in advancing digital equity in their communities,” Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle said in a statement. “These awardees are driving meaningful change and have demonstrated an inspiring commitment to addressing digital inclusion through storytelling. Together, we are paving the way for a more just and equitable digital future across Cook County.”

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