Helping Youth Get Out of Their Heads
& Into the World!
Catch The World
We are a certified 501(C)(3) nonprofit dedicated to opening the world of inner city youth through local cultural immersions, career development and skills building, and our yearly birthright journey to Ghana, West Africa. Our mission is to invest in the future of our youth through training and development, access to culture, economic empowerment, and the transformative power of international travel.
Our Mission & Purpose
At CAYTA, our mission is to empower marginalized youth by providing them with access to essential information, resources, and opportunities to succeed. We equip inner city youth with the tools to advocate for themselves through diverse educational resources, ensuring they can achieve their full potential and WIN! Through cultural immersion experiences and career tours, supported by your generous donations, we help youth develop the skills they need to succeed in life and secure livable wages. We are committed to teaching our participants that their future is worth every step of this journey.
How We Serve…
Girls in Tech
& Trades (GRITT)
Girls in Tech and Trades (GRITT) focuses on fostering a supportive environment where girls can explore careers in technology and trades. The program seeks to inspire confidence and competence through hands-on learning experiences, workshops, and community engagement.
Youth Development
& Outreach
Our diverse programming is designed to address the holistic needs of youth, empowering them with essential life skills, mentorship, and opportunities for personal growth. Through a wide range of evidence-based programming, including educational resources, empowerment workshops, and community engagement activities, we serve.
Career Pathways
& International Travel
Through career workshops, mentorship programs, and partnerships with local businesses, we provide invaluable industry exposure. We also assist with obtaining passports, removing barriers to international travel, and offer comprehensive preparation programs that enhance cultural awareness and practical skills.
“It takes a village to raise a child. At CAYTA, we are not just another youth development program. We are a violence prevention and economic development powerhouse, empowering our next generation for better living.”
— Crystal Dyer, President & Founder
Youth Development
Open Enrollment
Chicago’s Austin
If you are 11-21, enroll in our youth development program in Chicago’s Austin community. We are hosting an open house for our Road Map to the Future Program. Earn to learn as much as $900 for improved performance and goal achievement.
East Garfield Park
If you are 11-21, enroll in our youth development program in the East Garfield Park community. We are hosting an open house for our Road Map to the Future Program. Earn to learn as much as $900 for improved performance and goal achievement.
Meet Our Founder
Crystal Dyer
President, Community Advocate
In 2011, Crystal Dyer lost her grandson to Chicago gun violence just a few days from his 18th birthday. Since then, Crystal has worked tirelessly to steer young people away from a life of crime and into a bright future. In 2016, she founded Chicago Austin Youth Travel Adventures (CAYTA) to introduce young people to travel, culture and history. Her goal was to take kids outside of the neighborhood to see something new.
CAYTA’s programming has grown and even garnered citywide attention with features on and in WGN News, Chicago Sun-times, ABC7, and more. In 2023, CAYTA was awarded nearly $200,000 to support youth development in Chicago. She’s also the Chair of Chicago Austin Chamber of Commerce, amongst other accolades. Having served thousands of youth, the best is yet to come!
Community Partners
Support Chicago Youth
Help make a positive impact in the lives of our youth. Your donation has the power to transform the trajectory of Austin area youth. Together, we can create brighter futures.
Purchase A Tee
Support A Youth
Explore our range of products designed to celebrate and promote African cultural heritage. Every purchase supports our programs that empower youth through education, training, and cultural awareness.