During race week in Chicago, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois and partner NASCAR presented Family Focus with a $30,000 gift to support our Healing Care and Practices work. This program addresses trauma at the most critical stage in a child’s development and involves the entire family in the healing process. Preceding the check presentation, we heard from one of our clinical therapists and program participants, who shared a powerful story about how our therapeutic services impact families.

Policy & Advocacy Corner

Our ongoing policy advocacy and community partnerships continue to drive meaningful change and empower our community. These efforts are critical as we strive to make a lasting impact through strategic collaborations.

2024 Policy Partnership

Early this year, Family Focus partnered with Children's Advocates for Change, to help establish and enhance our policy prioritization and advocacy efforts. This collaboration will amplify our voice in advocating for policies that benefit our families and communities.

Afterschool Program Funding Boost

Our afterschool programs are a cornerstone of our mission, offering enriching activities and academic support vital for our participants' well-being. In a major victory, Illinois has allocated $50 million in new funding for afterschool and summer programs in its latest budget bill. This substantial investment will ensure that children and youth in under-funded communities continue to have access to essential programs that foster their growth and development.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to the General Assembly and Governor Pritzker for their continued commitment to this crucial initiative. This funding will make a significant difference in the lives of many young people, helping them achieve their full potential.

Work Permits for All

Family Focus leaders attended a roundtable discussion with Mayor Brandon Johnson to ask for his support with the Work Permits for All Illinoisans (local) and Here to Work (national) campaign. Dara Munson had a seat at the roundtable given that a large number of our Family Focus migrant participants have been in the US for many years and continue to await an opportunity to apply for work authorization. This advocacy achievement yielded positive outcomes, and played a pivotal role in enabling many newcomers to work and support their families and helps immigrants realize their dreams and build a brighter future.

Celebrating Success:

Our First Youth Explosion Event

Family Focus was proud to showcase our after school programs at a special event earlier this summer. Featuring a wide range of activities, including dance, art exhibitions, STEAM projects, musical acts and poetry readings, the culinary arts and more, there was something for everyone. 

“The communities that we serve are brimming with potential, and this one-of-a-kind youth centered event served as a great opportunity to celebrate their creativity and talent," said Sherneron Hilliard, Senior Vice President of Programs and Impact. "Through our diverse afterschool programming, we focus on fostering curiosity and imagination in young people to pursue their dreams and build a brighter future for themselves and their communities”.

Celebrating Preschool Graduates

Every year, Family Focus celebrates our preschool graduates and the beginning of their kindergarten journey – an important marker in their young lives. We also welcome new children to our Hyde Park and South Shore preschools, where their learning adventure is just beginning. Tap below to learn more about our comprehensive preschool programs at Hyde Park and South Shore.

Save the date!

Family Focus Evanston will be holding its Annual Benefit on Thursday, November 14th, 2024. Tickets are on sale now – click below to learn more!

Your generosity makes a lasting impact! Your support today will help us fulfill our mission to strengthen families and their children across Chicagoland.