News and Notes - January 2026

Dear Friend,

Every January brings new beginnings. Sadly, Greenlight Family Services starts the year with a broken heart. Over the weekend, we learned of the tragic passing of our friend and committed board member, Amy McCarty. Please read on below to learn more about Amy's incredible life.

As we honor Amy's legacy as a board member who truly made a difference through her advocacy and philanthropic support, we enter 2026 with renewed determination to provide the highest quality adoption, guardianship, and counseling services for the most vulnerable families and young adults in Illinois.

Thousands of children across Illinois are still waiting for their chance at a fresh start. These beginnings are made possible through adoption or guardianship. With loving caregivers willing to step up, the hard work of Greenlight's dedicated board and staff, and your unwavering support, Illinois youth find the security they need to look to the future and find it bright.

Throughout 2026, children will find permanency, families will grow stronger, and hope will continue to light the way.

Sincerely,

Maria Nanos, LCSW, PhD

CEO

IN MEMORIAM: AMY MCCARTY

Amy McCarty served as a beloved member of Greenlight's board of directors from 2016 until 2025.

Amy leaves behind a legacy of impact for Illinois children and individuals with disabilities. As an outstanding ambassador for Greenlight, Amy truly walked the walk, amplifying our mission and giving with generosity that knew no bounds.

Beyond Amy's numerous philanthropic achievements, her outstanding legal career stands as a testament to her commitment to justice and compassion. This year, Greenlight will carry on its important work for Illinois children and families in Amy's name.

FORECASTING A BRIGHT 2026

Even with howling wind and piling snow outside, leaders of Team Greenlight gathered around the table yesterday with one clear focus: making 2026 a year of growth and impact.

It may be dark and cold, but brighter days are ahead, and Greenlight is dedicated to shining as a beacon of hope for Illinois youth and families. With collaboration, determination, and a shared vision, Greenlight is charting the path forward, ready to meet challenges head-on and turn plans into meaningful action in the year ahead.

GREENLIGHT WELCOMES

SOCIAL WORK INTERN

Sophia Hess is an MSW student at Loyola University Chicago on the leadership, mezzo, and macro practice (LMMP) track. Sophia is passionate about sexual violence prevention and advocacy, particularly in the young adult population.

Originally from Cleveland, Ohio, Sophia obtained her undergraduate degree from Marquette University in Milwaukee before moving to Chicago. In her free time, she likes to thrift, watch TV with her cat Cora, and explore the city.

Sophia is thrilled to be working within the Greenlight Counseling program as a social work intern.

EDUCATIONAL OUTREACH

AT DEERFIELD HIGH SCHOOL

This month, Director of Programs Angela Berger, LCSW, and our new Loyola University social work intern, Sophia Hess, attended Deerfield High School's "Jump Start Your Career" night, hosted by the College Bound Opportunities (CBO) program.

CBO partners with high schools in the northern suburbs to "mentor, empower and inspire low-income, first-generation Scholars to overcome barriers, graduate college and achieve success in life."

Angela and Sophia met with freshmen and sophomore college students to discuss social work as a career. Afterward, Angela presented on Consent & Mental Health and shared about the Greenlight Counseling Program. Angela was honored to be included in this programming and enjoyed interacting with these fantastic young people and their dedicated mentors!

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