Wednesday, May 31, 2017

360 Youth Services’ Operation Snowball


With a degree in pharmacy from the University of Illinois in Chicago, Ted Gladson founded the Gladson Interactive company in 1971, where he served as president until the company was sold in 2005. Today, Ted Gladson is a board member and president of the Chicago Drug Club, a board member of the Illinois Pharmaceutical Travelers Association, and a supporter of 360 Youth Services. 

360 Youth Services is an organization in DuPage County that provides counseling, substance abuse prevention programs, and transitional housing for homeless youth in the area. One of the organization’s projects is a twice-yearly retreat for high schoolers called Operation Snowball. The name comes from the idea that positive impact can snowball as it’s shared with more and more people. 

The program helps teens deal with the issues they may be facing, especially drugs and alcohol addiction, and aims to increase their self-confidence, communication, leadership, and coping skills. Teens work in groups with peer leaders and adults to get to know each other, participate in fun activities, and have discussions about serious topics like dealing with grief. The program encourages a drug-and-alcohol-free lifestyle and fosters connections between people who share those values.

Sunday, May 21, 2017

360 Youth Services


Ted Gladson, Chicago-based founder and former president of Gladson Interactive, gives back to his local community. One of the many nonprofits Ted Gladson donates his time to is 360 Youth Services, which helps young people to succeed in education and life in Chicago and beyond. With counseling, mentoring, and housing programs, the organization gives all young people a chance to grow and thrive.

Founded in 1971 by concerned educators and parents, 360 Youth Services strives to educate young people on the dangers of substance abuse, while also giving those with poor home situations a safe place to stay and the opportunity to continue their education. The programs offered teach youth how to make life-serving choices regarding substance use. It is also considered a safe place for gay, lesbian, transgender, bi-sexual and questioning youth.

Those in the local community who want to be a mentor have the opportunity to volunteer and spend time with young people of ages 18-24. A positive influence in a young person's life can have a lifelong effect. The goal for these youths is for them to become educated, employed and self-sufficient. Volunteers are truly the heart of this committed group.