Who we are.
Summer Up! is a transformative summer program that empowers high school students by connecting them with meaningful summer experiences which prepare them for success in school, college, and their future careers.
“High-quality summer learning plays an important role in the lives of our nation’s young people. Summer learning programs can bolster academic knowledge and skills and connect young people to engaging and enriching learning experiences.”
How we’ve grown.
Since its inception, Summer Up! has expanded year after year, from serving a handful of students to engaging more than 750 participants.
Summer Up! eliminates cost barriers, covering expenses for programming and transportation, ensuring that every qualified student can access meaningful opportunities, including college visits, outdoor adventures, and paid internships.
Summer Up! is designed to make every summer count by providing enriching experiences while still allowing plenty of time for downtime and fun!
“Summer Up! has been a game-changer for North Chicago students, and its expansion will bring those same opportunities to even more communities... a testament to the program’s success and its dedication to breaking down barriers for students.”
Summer Up! is a registered 501(c)(3) organization committed to helping students grow, explore and get ahead, with a 96% recommendation from its participants.
Leadership
KeOne (KEY-OWN) Carter
Executive Director & Founder, Summer Up!
Mrs. KeOne Carter is the Executive Director and Founder of Summer Up!, a nonprofit organization committed to youth development, education, and community empowerment. Born and raised on the West Side of Chicago, she was inspired by her parents—both of whom were lifelong educators—to dedicate her life to unlocking potential in young people and creating access to life-changing opportunities.
Her passion for teaching showed up early. At just six years old, she created an imaginary classroom. By 16, she was interning as a youth supervisor, helping produce public service announcements in underserved communities. She also interned at her aunt’s daycare, gaining early exposure to the importance of nurturing and guiding children.
A proud graduate of Savannah State University (an HBCU), Mrs. Carter earned a Bachelor of Arts in English with a minor in Theater. She went on to receive a Master of Science in Public Service Management from DePaul University and is currently pursuing a doctoral degree.
With experience teaching on both Chicago’s West and South Sides and working in higher education, she helped launch what began as Warhawk Summer Up in 2017. Today, Summer Up! serves nearly 200 youth every year, providing completely free and transformative opportunities in college readiness, academic enrichment, and career development. The program also removes cost and transportation barriers that often prevent students from participating.
At the heart of Summer Up! is a simple but powerful belief: every student deserves the chance to grow, explore new possibilities, and get ahead—without limits.
That’s why we remind every student who walks through our doors: Own Your Future.
Lluviana Arizmendi
Summer Up! Coordinator
Lluviana (YOU-VEE-AH-NAH) Arizmendi is a dedicated professional with a strong background in career navigation, operations, and human resources. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from Concordia University Chicago, with a minor in Spanish and a certification in College and Career Advising.
With extensive experience in mentoring, coaching, and fostering partnerships, Lluviana has successfully supported students and interns in career exploration and professional development. Her roles at North Chicago School District 187 and Cristo Rey St. Martin College Prep highlight her ability to manage complex programs and build meaningful relationships with diverse communities. Fluent in English and Spanish, Lluviana brings exceptional organizational and interpersonal skills to the Summer Up! team.