August Pathways

With school back in full swing, CPA is embracing the excitement of the season alongside our young students as they return to school. Over the past month, our activities have been abundant: from celebrating preschool graduates, to preparing our classrooms for the upcoming academic year. We’re also proud to share that one of our foster children has embarked on their college journey, while another dedicated client is progressing in her nursing studies. Guiding our families through their challenges and ensuring their successes is the core of our mission.

Our impact is amplified through collaborative partnerships with wonderful organizations such as Mesirow, Publicis Sapient, St. Pat’s, and Burns & McDonnell. Truly, the saying “it takes a village” resonates deeply with us, and we’re immensely appreciative of the collective support we receive.

Scroll down to enjoy all that transpired this month and to learn what’s ahead.

Mark Your Calendar 

Check out these fun events we have coming up, and join us! 

Wednesday, September 20: Foster Parent Orientation
Wednesday, September 27: Foster Parent Training
Tuesday, October 31: ELC Fall Festival

CLICK HERE for more event details and volunteer opportunities

* Events open to the public (most of our events are community-based)

Back to School
Get ready for the adventure. But remember, it’s normal to feel some butterflies, too. Check out these expert tips from our in-house clinical psychologist, Dr. Garner, designed to make the transition smoother for both parents and kids. Let’s embark on this new school year together!

CLICK HERE to read Dr. Garner’s tips.

One Child At A TimeLooking to make a positive impact but unsure where to start? Join our passionate community of monthly donors and bring life-saving services to youth and families in need 365 days a year. Your small monthly contribution is one of the simplest but most important ways to make a lasting impact in the lives of our children and create sustainable solutions to poverty and health and racial equity. Giving as little as $1, $5, or $25 each month can show your belief in their potential, support their future success, and ensure we have an emergency relief fund.

CLICK HERE to set up your monthly donation and be a part of something meaningful today! Together, we can create a brighter future for our kids.

Meet A CPA Team Member

Our team consistently explores avenues to engage local corporations in funding and volunteer opportunities with the aim of creating a network of child champions.

Paint Party
A fantastic squad from Mesirow joined us at the ELC, adding a vibrant touch to our classrooms and preparing them for the upcoming fall school year. Mesirow’s dedication has been a cornerstone of our journey, and we can’t thank them enough for being a steadfast CPA ally since the very beginning. Their enduring friendship fills us with gratitude, and we’re thrilled about the future chapters we’ll create together.

CLICK HERE to see more fun painting pictures.

Back to School
A huge shoutout to incredible partners like Old St. Pat’s and Publicis Sapient who consistently stand by our side. A heartfelt thank you for spearheading the collection of school supplies to ensure our kids begin the new school equipped for success. We look forward to our next adventure together!

Welcome Back
Our young learners are back in school, and thanks to the amazing Mesirow team, they were greeted with a heartwarming welcome back sign! Mesirow has been our steadfast partner since day one, and we’re overflowing with gratitude!

A New Sign
A huge shoutout to David Blocker for generously gifting us with this stunning welcome sign at our Early Learning Center! It’s bright and cheery just like the kids inside. David has been a loyal supporter of Children’s Place Association for years, and we’re absolutely thrilled about the incredible partnership we share. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts!

3rd Annual Pickleball Fundraiser a success!
Concluding our third annual pickleball fundraiser with a burst of enthusiasm! The weather was simply perfect, attracting a wonderful crowd eager to play and express their support for Children’s Place Association. Our incredible team, comprised of Algean, Porsche, Shantal, Viviana, Kayla, and Carol, gave it their all and represented like champions. Anticipation is already building for next year’s event – we can’t wait to see what’s in store!

A BIG CPA shoutout to the Joie & Wendi Group from At Properties | Christie’s International Real Estate for hosting this event for us.

If you would like to host a CPA fundraiser, EMAIL US, and let’s get started.

CLICK HERE to see more Pickleball pictures.

Major Company & Foundation Supporters
Abbott, Denim Lounge, Takeda

Major Individual Supporters
Susan Bandes, Theodore Cappas, Anne Carlins, Vicki Franzen, Stephen Galler, Nancy Grupta, Howard Jacob, Laura Kanter, Binita Kwankin & Joe Hmieleski, Nathan Metzger, Richard Moser, Benjamin Roach & Ilana Rosen, David Schuh, Barb Silnes, Eric Wilder

In-Kind Donations
Our Foster Care team received wonderful gifts from Burns & McDonnell.

Sweet cases – 18 (duffle bag filled with teddy bear, blanket, toiletries, other items)

Stem boxes – 30 (decorated boxes filled with various Stem items/activities)
Back to School Packs – 17 (backpacks filled with various school supplies)
Teen Duffles – 15 (duffle bags filled with items for teens – similar to sweet case

Month in Review
One year ago, we proudly introduced the CFSS SMART Goal System – an evidence-based, transformative supportive housing approach. This innovative system has revolutionized how we meet client needs through strategic development. In the spirit of progress, here are the latest goals recently reached:

Hats off to Hannah for conquering her Ride C Goals! She triumphantly graduated from the Malcolm X College Certified Nursing Assistant Program. But Hannah’s journey doesn’t stop here – she’s already forging ahead by enrolling at Chamberlain University for their prestigious Registered Nursing program. Bravo, Hannah! Your achievements are truly inspiring. Congratulations!!!
Congratulations to Amy who set a SMART goal last year to secure housing and receive community case management services. She is now ready to move, has received her new home, and received services to register her son into Pre-K in her new community. Amy will continue to receive medical case management services as she moves forward in this new transition.
Kudos to Beth for setting a SMART goal for her family to transition from CPA housing and enhance their family income. She, along with her husband and son, have secured jobs in Moline, IL, and a new home with CPA’s assistance. Although Beth has received Medical Case Management services, she is currently being transitioned to receive the same support in the Moline, IL region for more localized and streamlined medical management.
Congratulations to the Jones family for such hard work and dedication to achieving their SMART goals!*Names changed for privacy.

Month in Review
Wrapping up an incredible Child Thrive Summer Camp with a smashing bowling event! As we bid farewell to summer, the Child Thrive team is excitedly diving into the next chapter of our journey – continuing our impactful partnership with KIPP through enriching Afterschool Programming. Let’s keep the momentum going!

CLICK HERE to see more Thrive pictures.

Afterschool Programming Resumes
Exciting news ahead! Mark your calendars for September 25th as we kickstart the Child Thrive Afterschool program. Get ready for an incredible journey of learning and fun, featuring dynamic S.T.E.M. explorations and boundless artistic creativity.

Friday’s Are Fun
Brace yourselves for an amazing lineup of programs! But that’s not all – cue the drumroll, please – Thrive Fridays are making a triumphant return! Keep an eye out for exciting updates and juicy details coming your way soon!

Sports Physicals & Pediatric Consultations
Is your child feeling under the weather? From common colds to COVID-19 concerns, we’ve got you covered! Take advantage of our complimentary school-age pediatric consultations offered in collaboration with Rush and Dr. Margi. Every Wednesday (unless Dr. Margi specifies otherwise), from 1–5 pm, we’re available to provide expert guidance and support. Don’t miss out; schedule your appointment today by emailing Diana.

Month In Review
August signals the start of new beginnings! 🌼🎉 This month, we’re waving goodbye to the school year with joy and jumping right in to our new program year enthusiastically!

Graduation Day
Amidst tears of pride and joyous laughter, we gathered to celebrate a heartwarming graduation ceremony for our little ones, as they spread their wings to embark on their kindergarten journey. Since 1998, the Early Learning Center has been dedicated to shaping young minds, boasting a perfect 100% graduation rate. While our hearts swell with excitement for the bright futures that await them, saying goodbye means we’ll dearly miss the radiant smiles that once filled our center every day.

A BIG CPA shoutout to The Salvation Army Freedom Center for hosting our special day, and to all the volunteers that made it possible.

Our teachers asked the graduates about their future aspirations. Check out their adorable answers!

CLICK HERE to see more graduation pictures.

Home Base Recruitment Is On!
Fantastic News! Our Home Based program has openings. Home Visiting starts at age 6 weeks to 3 years. Here are just a few things our dedicated team does with parents to accomplish:

Exploring Early Development: We empower parents with valuable insights into early childhood development, helping them lay strong foundations for their child’s growth.
Nurturing Parent-Child Bonds: Supporting parent bonding ensuring a lifetime of love and connection.
Preparing for Excellence: We’re all about preparing your child for preschool and beyond, guided by our Parents As Teachers curriculum.

But that’s not all! Twice a month, families gather for socializations for parents to connect with other like-minded parents, and the kids get to enjoy playful interactions with their peers.

Do you know someone who would love to be a part of this incredible journey?
EMAIL US or call us at (773) 395-9193! Let’s create a brighter future, one home at a time.

School is Back
The 2023-2024 school year is off to an amazing start! Teachers and kiddos alike are bubbling with excitement for the incredible journey that lies ahead. Let’s all come together with open arms to warmly welcome the newest members to the Crocodile room and ensure they have a fantastic time embracing all the adventures this new school year has in store!

Month in Review
Over the past month, our devoted foster care staff have been working hand in hand with foster parents, ensuring that children and youth are fully prepared for the exciting adventure of the new school year. And here is something heartwarming – we proudly celebrated an incredible milestone: a client who transitioned from foster care to college life! Let’s cheer these incredible moments of growth and achievement.

Kudos!
A BIG congratulations to Patrick and Christina! Their unwavering support and guidance have paved the way for our client’s seamless transition from foster care to the exciting realm of college life at Southern Illinois University. Let’s celebrate their dedication and the bright future they’ve helped shape!

Month In Review
August has been a whirlwind of activity as we assist partners prepping kids for school! In Haiti, determined young scholars overcome challenges to enroll, while the Dominican Republic ushers in an enthusiastic group heading to university. Across the globe in Tanzania, teachers shine by continuing to educate even during treatments. Our primary focus? Nurturing the well-being of these children and paving the way for their limitless futures.

In Haiti, CPI’s partner Zanmi Lasante celebrates 500+ little victories! The Journey-to-9 (J9) initiative guided low-income/new moms with care, education, and postnatal visits for safe motherhood. CPI proudly supports and applauds these heroes, making strides in maternal and neonatal well-being.

CLICK HERE to learn more.

Volunteer. Donate. Join Our Team.
Join in and be part of the positive solution in helping Chicago’s most vulnerable kids. We have a variety of volunteering, support, and engagement opportunities.

Early Learning Center
Fall Festival, Tuesday, October 31, 10 a.m. – Noon
We are seeking 7 to 14 volunteers to help with pumpkin decorating (1 to 2 volunteers per classroom). EMAIL US if you are interested.

EMAIL US if you are interested.

Outreach & Engagement Committee
Volunteers needed to help champion our mission, connect us to new partners/sponsors/donors/volunteers, and build visibility for Children’s Place in the broader community.

For more details on role descriptions and/or to learn more, EMAIL US.

Calling Young Professionals
Looking for young Chicago professionals who are interested in making a positive impact, connect with other young professionals, and have a great time. Join our Junior Board.

CLICK HERE to learn more and apply.

Ongoing Opportunities

There are plenty of volunteer and donation opportunities throughout the year. Check out which might be most suitable for you:

Host a friend & family house party or fundraiser to benefit Children’s Place
Get involved with Adopt a Family
Lead an employee group community service day and/or fun activity day with our kids & youth
and so much more!

CLICK HERE to inquire.

Child and Family Support Services
We have an urgent need to supply funding to support two clients moving. One wheelchair-bound man has just gained custody of his two children due to the passing of their mother, and they need to move into a bigger residence. The second client is graduating from the CFSS program and is moving out. Help us make these transitions a little easier with moving expenses.

CLICK HERE to donate, and add MOVING COSTS in the comments, or EMAIL US for assistance. We are trying to raise $1,000 to help.

Child Thrive

Art supplies (color pencils, canvases, watercolor paper, construction paper, etc.)
STEM kits/supplies (popsicle sticks, tape, glue, glue guns, etc.)
Board games (varying ages from 8+)

EMAIL US if you are able to donate any of these needs.

 Foster Care 

Gift cards (Visa/MC, Walmart, Target) for families in need or in crisis 
Infant car seats (rear-facing only) generally for kids age birth to 12 months
Convertible car seats (forward facing with harness) generally for kids ages 1–3
Booster car seats (forward facing) generally for kids ages 4-7

EMAIL US if you are able to donate any of these needs.

General – All Programs

New or gently used winter clothing
Toiletries, essential household supplies
Baby items (formula, diapers, etc.)

EMAIL US if you are able to donate any of these needs.

Check Out Our Amazon Wish Lists

To learn about CPA openings:

CLICK HERE Family Case Manager
CLICK HERE Parent Educator
CLICK HERE Early Head Start Teacher

CLICK HERE to learn about other existing CPA opportunities.

Invest in a Child’s Future

We believe EVERY child and family deserves equal access to care, safety, and shelter – regardless of circumstances or zip code.  Your support helps us provide critical services to those most affected by serious health issues and extreme poverty.  

Help us keep our promise  to them in creating pathways of hope and well-being by supporting their potential. 

$25 – Allows a child to participate in an education l field trip to a local museum, park, or zoo 
$50 – Supplies grocery gift cards to families in need or crisis 
$100 – One youth or family workshop on financial literacy, workforce development, nutrition/health, or neighborhood safety 
$250 – Provides transportation for families to access health and wellness services and childcare

$500 – Funds 3 weeks of afterschool activities, including the cost of food, transportation, and supplies, to offer a safe, supportive space for children in unsafe neighborhoods

Whether you give a one-time gift or a recurring monthly donation, $5 or $500, your donation directly impacts our children’s future.  Please donate today to support our kids’ and families’ education, health, and economic stability. 

Hope Thrives When Communities Care 

CLICK HERE TO SEE CPA PICTURES

Come join us socially

An easy way to support CPA’s work is by engaging with us on our social media channels. By liking, commenting, and sharing our work, you help us expand our reach bringing in new volunteers, donors, and awareness.