Investing in the Future of Child Welfare Through Partnership | | |
Strong community partnerships lead to stronger families, and The Baby Fold is pleased to be part of a groundbreaking collaboration that’s doing just that.
Recently, Illinois State University and the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) celebrated the ribbon-cutting of the new Child Protection Training Academy, housed within The Baby Fold campus on Oglesby Avenue in Normal.
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This high-tech simulation lab is one of only a few in the state and represents a major step forward in preparing frontline child welfare professionals for the difficult, complex, and often emotional work of protecting children. The new space includes mock apartments, a doctor’s office, and courtroom environments, allowing child welfare workers to practice real-life scenarios in a safe, supportive, and reflective setting. With help from trained professional actors, the simulations feel authentic and immersive and give a new generation of DCFS workers, private-sector child welfare staff, and ISU students a powerful and practical learning experience.
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We are honored to host this innovative training academy on our campus. It reflects The Baby Fold’s ongoing commitment to creating meaningful community partnerships that improve the lives of children and families. By working together, we will prepare and empower those on the front lines to ensure safer, healthier futures for the most vulnerable among us.
(Photos courtesy of Illinois State University)
| | The Baby Fold Receives National Recognition for Impact | |
The Baby Fold has been honored with the Mission Award from the Methodist Ministries Network (MMN), a national recognition celebrating organizations that lead with heart, vision, and an unwavering commitment to community. The award was presented at MMN’s Annual Meeting in Memphis, TN, and shines a spotlight on the life-changing work happening every day at The Baby Fold.
Each year, MMN selects the winners from its network of more than 70 faith-based human service agencies across the United States. This award recognizes those who embody the spirit of mission through service, leadership, and innovation.
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“This recognition is a testament to the unwavering dedication of our staff, volunteers, and donors who make it possible for The Baby Fold to serve children and families with excellence,” said Clete Winkelmann, CEO of The Baby Fold. “Receiving the Mission Award affirms our resolve to deliver exceptional faith-based, trauma-informed care and we are honored to be recognized.”
The Mission Award follows another milestone achievement for The Baby Fold—EAGLE Accreditation with Commendation, the highest distinction from the Methodist-based accrediting body. These recognitions reflect not only excellence in service, but a powerful commitment to living out faith through meaningful action.
| | Family Support Specialist Receives National Spotlight for Work with Fathers | | |
Jeremy Smith, Family Support Specialist in the Healthy Start program in Urbana, was recently recognized by Healthy Families America (HFA) for his exceptional work supporting and engaging fathers.
The national spotlight came during National Home Visiting Week, with Jeremy featured on HFA and Prevent Child Abuse America’s social media platforms.
Jeremy plays a vital role in building strong, early relationships with families—often beginning during pregnancy—and is especially dedicated to helping fathers feel valued and empowered.
Through individualized support, group activities, and community outreach, he encourages fathers to recognize their unique strengths and take active roles in nurturing safe and supportive home environments.
Congratulations to Jeremy on this well-deserved honor and for his continued impact on families throughout the Champaign-Urbana community!
| | Field Day, Fun, and Farewells - Wrapping Up the Hammitt School Year | | |
The end of the school year has been bursting with celebration at Hammitt Schools and it’s all thanks to the generosity of supporters like you! Because of your care, local children in special education are experiencing the joy of connection, the pride of accomplishment, and the confidence to keep growing.
Students at Hammitt on Willow recently enjoyed a high-energy Field Day filled with indoor and outdoor fun! Water balloon fights, relay races, cotton candy, and hands-on creative stations led by our friends at the Children’s Discovery Museum made for an unforgettable day. Even Scoopy, the beloved Culver’s mascot, made a special appearance! We are especially thankful to our amazing volunteers from Wilber, who gave their time and energy to help make the event a success.
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Over on our Oglesby campus, students were treated to a festive luau, complete with decorations, themed activities, and summer treats. Another group of students headed out for a field trip to the Corn Crib baseball stadium for their Annual Education Day, where they soaked in the sunshine and the excitement of game day.
And of course, we ended the school year with the most meaningful milestone of all: Hammitt School Graduation. This cherished event gave us the chance to recognize the incredible progress our students have made, progress made possible through the specialized and nurturing environment that your compassion helps sustain.
Thank you for making this joyful season—and every success along the way—possible for local children with unique needs.
| | It Takes a Village: Celebrating Foster Parents Who Help Children Thrive | | |
Foster parents do so much more than provide a place to stay. They offer children safety, love, and stability when they need it most.
May is National Foster Care Month, and to celebrate, The Baby Fold hosted a special event for 50 foster families, filled with joy, connection, and heartfelt gratitude. It was a chance to honor their selfless dedication and the life-critical role they play in nurturing and supporting vulnerable children in our community.
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We thank the generous local businesses that helped make this celebration possible: Portillo’s Normal, Donny B’s Gourmet Popcorn and Gifts, Foaming Botanicals, Expressions Body Art & Design, The Forgotten Initiative, Iron Coyote Challenge Park, Bloomington Bison, and the Normal Community High School Interact Club.
It takes a village to support a foster child, and our foster parents are at the heart of that community. Thank you for standing with them as we build a brighter futures together.
| | Family Quick Tips from Baby Fold Therapists | |
Summer break can bring fun and freedom, but for children from hard places, the lack of structure and routine can be difficult.
Here are a few helpful, trauma-informed tips that support emotional regulation and connection during the summer season:
- Talk about upcoming changes early.
Transitions can be tough. Use countdowns and involve children in planning when appropriate.
School routines provide stability. A general daily schedule can ease anxiety and support regulation.
Help camp staff understand your child’s needs, triggers, and calming strategies to set them up for success.
- Make time for connection.
Even 10 minutes of intentional, one-on-one time each day can build trust and emotional security.
- Plan vacations with care.
Keep routines where possible, lower expectations, and define what a “successful” trip looks like for your family.
| | Make a Difference in Just a Tap—With Digital Wallet Giving | | |
Supporting children and families is now easier than ever! In just a minute or two, you can give the gift of hope through Venmo, Apple Pay, or PayPal—fast, secure, and convenient ways to donate to The Baby Fold.
Whether you’re supporting foster care, adoption, or community programs, your gift has a lasting impact. Simply scan the QR code or visit our donation page to get started.
Thank you for helping create brighter futures—one quick gift at a time!
| | Double Your Impact - Unlock Up to $80,000 to Bless Kids! | | |
Because of caring supporters like you, hope is blooming this spring! Already, 124 generous friends have taken advantage of a powerful opportunity to make twice the impact for local children and families.
Right now, every gift is being matched dollar-for-dollar—up to $80,000—thanks to a special challenge from our Board of Directors. That means your kindness will go twice as far to provide healing, stability, and hope to children and families who need it most.
Our Board Vice-Chair, Tom Carroll, shares why this match matters and how your generosity can help transform lives. Click here to watch the video!
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Give by May 30 to plant seeds of hope and healing that grow all year long. Don’t miss this chance to make an even greater impact. Together, we will help children grow into their brightest, strongest selves!
Thank you for joining a community of supporters committed to creating lasting change!
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