The DuPage County Area Project (DuCAP) traces its roots back to the Chicago Area Project model developed in the 1930s by University of Chicago sociologist Dr. Clifford R. Shaw. His research revealed that when neighborhoods work together, youth outcomes improve. This community-driven approach was later reaffirmed by Northwestern University sociologist John McKnight, whose work emphasized building on the strengths already present within a community.

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In the early 1990s, a group of business and political leaders from DuPage County visited an Area Project Community Committee program in Chicago. They witnessed a powerful belief in action:

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“A neighborhood working together creates the strongest foundation for raising healthy, supported youth.”

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Inspired by what they saw, they committed to bringing this model home.
In 1991, DuCAP was incorporated as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, becoming an affiliate of the Illinois Council of Area Projects, and officially beginning its work of strengthening communities by empowering youth and families.