Five Questions with Winnetka Youth Organization

On Sunday from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., Winnetka Youth Organization (WYO) is throwing , at Tower Road Park. Along with a handful of local bands, the event will feature hometown art, crafts and jewelry for sale. The event is co-sponsored with the .

In preparation for the summer soiree, we talked with Kristen Leahy, YO's outreach coordinator, about the event.

Patch: Why do you plan this particular event?

Leahy: The WYO is excited to host the Teen Beach Expo to continue our over 40 year history of providing young people with fun and safe ways to spend their free time and connect with their community. One of our most popular monthly events are our monthly concerts featuring bands made up of local young people and we are thrilled to bring that component of our programming to Tower Beach.

Patch: How long has it been going on?

Leahy: The WYO and the Winnetka Park District work to partner together whenever possible to ensure the young people who live in this community have fun and unique opportunities to enjoy all the resources the Winnetka parks have to offer.

Patch: What's your favorite part?

Leahy: My favorite part of the Teen Beach Expo being able to provide a place for young people to show off their amazing talents and interact with their community and peers in a positive environment.

Patch: How does it fit within WYO's mission?

Leahy: This event stems directly out of the WYO mission to provide young people with opportunities to foster their individual development within a safe and informal environment as well as our commitment to offering a substance-free space for recreation. The WYO, along with co-hosts Haven Youth and Family Services, Erika's Lighthouse, Glencoe Youth Services, and the Winnetka Park District have been working hard to bring this event together so young people have a chance to enjoy themselves, learn about what their community has to offer to them and help with the events organization and entertainment.

Patch: What's something we wouldn't know to expect?

Leahy: While the WYO has partnered with the Winnetka Park District in the past for a teen beach day, this year we have decided to add an "expo" component featuring booths from community organizations, businesses, and young people with skills to show off. There will also be free hot dogs and a raffle with some exciting prizes!

Editor's Note: Check back for photos of the event this week.