Elite Youth Outreach is founded by Carl Cannon
Elite was founded in 2005 by Carl Cannon in Peoria, IL in response to a rise in youth-related crime. Drawing on his background in the military and corrections. Carl began engaging local youth and developing programs to keep them out of the system he knew firsthand.
High School Outreach program launches with Peoria area schools
In 2006, Elite partnered with Peoria area high schools to introduce a program focused on job readiness and building self-worth. Since its launch, the High School Outreach program has graduated more than 1,000 students.
K-8 "every-day-in-school" program is introduced
Recognizing that intervention must begin earlier. Elite introduced an "every-day-in-school" program for K-8 students. The program focused on teaching respect., accountability, and the long-term value of education.
Elite Re-Entry program launches at the Peoria County Jail
In 2009, Elite identified a growing need to support individuals returning from incarceration. In response, it launched the 18-week Elite Re-Entry program to help participants successfully transition back into society.
Elite Game Changer Safe School is established
In 2019, Elite launched the state, board-certified Game Changer Safe School to support students who had been suspended or expelled. The program helps students reset behavior and successfully return to their assigned schools.
Elite Community Outreach becomes an independent nonprofit and relocates to Dream Center Peoria
In 2021, Elite became an independent public nonprofit and moved from the Peoria Park District offices to its own space at Dream Center Peoria. This transition strengthened its foundation and positioned the organization to expand its reach and impact in the community.
Elite Community Outreach transitions from the Dream Center to Trewyn Middle School, expanding its reach within Peoria Public Schools
In 2025, Elite transitioned from the Dream Center into
Trewyn Middle School through a partnership with
Peoria Public Schools. The district provided space for
two classrooms and offices, allowing Elite to grow its Game Changer Safe School program and serve more
students in a structured, supportive environment.
Elite Community Outreach establishes a permanent home in downtown Peoria
In 2026, Elite began transforming its future home in downtown Peoria into a centralized hub for its Safe School and Re-Entry programs. This milestone strengthens its ability to expand services, deepen partnerships, and support long-term community impact.
