News and Notes - June 2025

Dear Maria,

This pride month, I am proud to announce that Greenlight has deepened our commitment to celebrating and supporting LGBTQ+ youth and families across Illinois.

Within the past year, Team Greenlight completed specialized trainings from the Human Rights Campaign Foundation to ensure that our services are affirming and accessible to all. Greenlight achieved certification as an LGBTQ+ inclusive child welfare agency through the HRC's All Children - All Families program.

At Greenlight, we know that families come in all shapes, sizes, and identities. Love is at the core of family and it deserves to be recognized and celebrated, no matter what it looks like. All families built on the foundation of love deserve respect, compassion, and the resources they need to thrive. Greenlight is here to help.

Happy Pride Month!

Sincerely,

Maria Nanos, LCSW, PhD

CEO

GREENLIGHT CERTIFIED AS LGBTQ+ INCLUSIVE AGENCY

The Human Rights Campaign All Children - All Families (ACAF) program provides training and tiers of recognition to child welfare agencies across the US.

Over the last year, Team Greenlight completed ACAF trainings from the HRC Foundation on best practices for serving LGBTQ+ youth and parents. In addition, Greenlight updated internal policies and documentation to reflect our commitment to inclusivity, affirmation, and non-discrimination.

Greenlight will continue to refine practices and materials to foster a more equal Illinois!

CO-PARENT ADOPTION FOR LGBTQ+ PARENTS

Greenlight continues to offer co-parent (sometimes called second-parent) adoption services for LGBTQ+ parents.

Not every place recognizes equal parental rights for LGBTQ+ families, even with both parents on the birth certificate. Co-parent adoption legally recognizes both parents with the same rights in every state and internationally.

Complete your adoption today.

GREENLIGHT HIRES DIRECTOR OF PROGRAMS AND CLIENT SERVICES

Greenlight recently hired Angela Berger, LCSW, for her depths of experience in program management and clinical services for Illinois youth and families.

Angela worked for the University of Chicago and its Medical Center for 16 years as a Clinical Social Worker and ultimately Program Manager for the Early Intervention Outreach Program.

Before coming to Greenlight, Angela worked at Lurie Children’s Hospital for 11 years, most recently as the Manager of Outpatient Social Work Care Coordination. Angela also serves as part-time adjunct faculty at the University of Chicago Crown School of Social Work, Policy, and Practice.

Welcome to Team Greenlight Angela!

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