12 Youth Travel to Ghana for Juneteenth – A Journey of Heritage & Hope
An Opportunity to Transform Lives
Twelve exceptional students from Chicago’s West Side have the opportunity of a lifetime – a journey to Ghana this June to walk in the footsteps of their ancestors, and see a future beyond their current circumstances. We only have 30 days to make it happen!
More Than a Trip – A Life Altering Experience
For many of these students, this is their first time traveling outside their neighborhood, let alone to another continent. This journey is about more than just visiting a new place – it is about connecting with history, discovering identity, and unlocking possibilities they have never imagined.
At CAYTA (Chicago Austin Youth Travel Adventures), we provide high-risk youth with the resources, mentorship, and experiences they need to succeed. Through educational programs, career preparation, and creative outlets like photography and videography, we empower young individuals to build brighter futures. Participants also engage in heritage-focused projects, including genealogy research, connecting them to their roots and broadening their perspectives.
During their time in Ghana, these students – aspiring in fashion, real estate, graphic design, engineering, and education – will gain firsthand exposure to global career opportunities, financial literacy education, and mental health resources, all while immersing themselves in their cultural heritage.
Help Make This Dream a Reality
Without community support, this trip will not be possible. We have just 30 days to raise $20,000 – every dollar brings us closer to giving these youths an experience of a lifetime.
We are excited to partner with GIVEBUTTER, a free fundraising platform that ensures every dollar raised goes directly toward making this dream a reality.
Become a Sponsor!
We offer the following sponsorship levels
• Silver Sponsor – $3,000
• Gold Sponsor – $5,000
• Platinum Sponsor – $10,000
More Details: www.catchtheworld.org
Why This Matters More Than Ever
Visiting Ghana will provide these studentswith an experience that no classroom can offer. It will give them a profound sense of identity, a global perspective, and the confidence to pursue opportunities they may never have considered possible.
When they return, they will not only have gained knowledge – they will have gained purpose. They will come back as leaders, ready to share their experiences and inspire others in their communities.
See Their Story:
WGN TV Coverage of CAYTA Ghana Trip
Chicago Austin Youth Travel Adventures Feature
For more information about CAYTA:
Visit CatchTheWorld.org or contact Crystal Dyer at info@caytaworld.org, 312-813-6047, 4952 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60651
Social Media:
Crystal Dyer:
Crystal Dyer Bio:
Crystal Dyer is an accredited and Certified Travel Advisor (CTA) and Founder/CEO of Gone Again Travel & Tours. In 2015, she founded the nonprofit Chicago Austin Youth Travel Adventures, Inc. (CAYTA), in memory of her grandson. In 2011, Devin Dyer was shot and killed while attending a birthday party in Chicago’s Austin neighborhood, just days after his 18th birthday. Since then, through CAYTA, she has worked tirelessly to steer young people away from a life of crime and into a bright future.
In addition, Dyer is currently the President of the Austin Chamber of Commerce. She works closely with community organizations such as BUILD, Bethel New Life, Austin Experience, Westside Forward, Prevention Partnership, Austin Coming Together, and Austin Child Care Providers Network. She formerly served on the Executive Board of the Oak Park Chamber of Commerce.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Mika Stambaugh
312.671.3040