CHICAGO— EDGE Learning and Wellness Collegiate Community, an organization dedicated to providing young adults the skills and support they need to achieve healthy lifestyles,announced the launch of its first facility in Chicago this August (2011). Located in downtown Chicago near Michigan Avenue and the lakefront, EDGE combines educational and growth opportunities with a structured living environment. “We are truly excited to offer a program that empowers individuals with the capabilities to succeed in life,” said Jason Wynkoop, of EDGE Learning and Wellness. “By offering students firsthand exposure to real-life situations while giving them the right structure and support, we work to lay a foundation for long-term development and success.”
EDGE’s program promotes personal growth by focusing on both wellness and learning. Peer support and community connections create a supportive sober college environment and are augmented by assessments and individual coaching. Edge’s staff members have decades of experience in group settings and take a holistic approach to facilitating development along seven dimensions of
wellness.
A key tenet of EDGE’s approach is student involvement in the greater community through service learning, internships, and summer programs. For individuals who would like to enroll in the program but haven’t selected an educational path, service learning and internships
afford them the chance to participate as part of their transition. EDGE has established relationships with a number of nonprofit organizations and businesses to provide opportunities to get involved and give back to the community. In addition, summer programs in Tibet and Alaska, among other locations, enable students to continue their development year round. EDGE selected Chicago because of the wide range of opportunities within the city. “Many development programs take place in a wilderness setting or manufactured
environment, which effectively isolates participants from real-world situations,” said Chris McLaughlin, Chief Operating Officer for EDGE. “Chicago offers the perfect setting for students to experience world-class educational institutions, arts and culture, and business opportunities while benefiting from structured living and professional support.”
EDGE Learning and Wellness Collegiate Community is currently accepting applications for the fall semester. Students must go
through an orientation session before transitioning to the program on a full-time basis. For more
information, visit www.edgelearningcommunity.com.
About EDGE Learning and Wellness Collegiate Community
EDGE Learning and Wellness Collegiate Community is for young adults motivated to achieve
success in life. We equip students who would benefit from a support-rich, substance-free
environment to be responsible, autonomous adults. The EDGE community is a select
group of young adults who have previously participated in development and wellness programs.
They are committed to building the skills to further their education, pursue new opportunities, and
create an individual plan to achieve their goals.