Who we are

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Children Can Inc. is committed to breaking down systemic barriers faced by marginalized youth, particularly in accessing financial education and personal and professional opportunities to help them advance both in school and the workplace. Through financial literacy programs, business creation initiatives, arts and culture programs, and early intervention strategies, we empower underserved young individuals to realize their potential and chart a path to success regardless of diagnosis or ability.

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What our work is all about

Our mission is to build an inclusive world where autistic, neurodivergent, at-risk, and neurotypical youth can learn and thrive together.

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Our Back Story

At Children Can Inc., we believe every child deserves the chance to thrive, regardless of their background or abilities. Today, 1 in 36 children is diagnosed with autism, yet many schools and communities still lack the resources for full integration.

At the same time, 1 in 6 youth grow up without a mentor, leaving them without the guidance and support needed to navigate life’s challenges. Without strong role models and inclusive environments, children—both neurodivergent and neurotypical—struggle to reach their full potential.

Children Can Inc., established in 1997, originally set out to educate youth in underserved communities. Now, under the renewed leadership of CEO Kasei James, the organization is embracing a more technologically advanced approach to outreach while expanding its mission to foster inclusion, leadership, and youth empowerment.

By integrating innovation with our core values, we are creating an inclusive future where all young people —regardless of ability, diagnosis, or socioeconomic background—have access to mentorship, business development, and meaningful opportunities to thrive.

Get to know how we started

Story From The Founder

CEO Kasei James has dedicated her life to public service, youth advocacy, and mentorship. Growing up, she spent much of her time in Englewood, participating in service projects alongside her mother and engaging in local youth programs that shaped her passion for community and leadership.

With a Bachelor of Science in Public Administration and an MBA, she has worked across multiple states as a Behavioral Health Technician and Counselor supporting at-risk, special-needs, and incarcerated youth.

Her eagerness to gain knowledge in financial literacy education and advocacy for neurodivergent children has reinforced her belief that early intervention and access to the right opportunities can break cycles of poverty, exclusion, and limited potential.

At Children Can Inc., we are committed to equipping children with the tools they need to succeed. Our programs foster mentorship, leadership, and empowerment, ensuring today’s youth grow into compassionate changemakers who will shape a stronger, more inclusive future.

"Every child deserves the chance to shine, and every parent deserves the support to make it happen." – Kasei James

Join us in empowering children and families, building stronger communities, and creating a more inclusive future for everyone. Together, we can make a lasting impact.

Our Goals

Help All Kids Succeed – Give kids and teens the support they need to become leaders, start businesses, and grow their confidence, even if they face tough challenges like money problems or school struggles.
Support Neurodivergent Youth – Create programs that help kids and young adults with different learning and thinking styles. We make sure they get the right tools, job training, and money skills to do well in life.
End Poverty Through Education – Teach families and young people how to learn and master a skill, find good jobs, manage money, and build a better future so they can live happy, stable lives and help their communities grow.

Our Goals

Inspire and empower BIPOC youth to embrace their cultural heritage and develop a sense of pride and identity
Empower BIPOC youth with essential financial knowledge and skills, leading to improved financial well-being
Develop at-risk BIPOC youth to become resilient leaders ready to break the cycle of negative outcomes

Organizational Background

Children Can Inc. was founded to address a critical need in Chicago and surrounding areas: providing early intervention, financial education, and mentorship to youth facing challenges that put their future at risk.

Many young people struggle due to a lack of guidance, engagement, and opportunities, which can lead them down difficult paths. Others struggle simply due to not having the therapies and programs needed to help them navigate through life.

This urgent need inspired the creation of Children Can Inc., with the goal of opening doors that have been closed for too long due to economic hardships and societal barriers.

By focusing on financial literacy, personal development, and early family support, we help young people—including neurodivergent and at-risk youth—develop the skills and confidence to thrive in today’s competitive world.

We encourage youth to embrace their differences, recognizing them as a superpower that sets them apart and equips them for success!

From preschool age to young adulthood, we are committed to creating environments where every child is supported, empowered, and given the tools to succeed.

With compassion, dedication, and a belief in the potential of every individual, we work to break down obstacles and create a future where all youth can achieve their fullest potential and positively impact their communities.