Marching into Spring!
In this month’s newsletter, we’re thrilled to highlight some exciting developments from our agency and partners!
From Mesirow’s impactful fundraisers and a spirited ping-pong tournament to WSIA’s U40 outstanding contribution and a new partnership, the past month has been brimming with noteworthy events. We’re also delighted to recognize the stellar support of Publicis Sapient.
As we gear up for the May 10th Gala, we’re hard at work ensuring it’s a memorable event. Meanwhile, Child Thrive has been bustling with activity, from baking competitions to spring mini-camps and beyond.
With April promising even more excitement, stay tuned for updates and news.
Join us in perusing the highlights of this eventful month below, and stay tuned for a glimpse of what lies ahead.
Upcoming Public Events
- Thursday, April 25, 7:00 – 9:00 pm: WGirls Paint & Sip Fundraiser
- Friday, May 10, 6:30 – 10:30 pm: Champions Gala
- Sunday, August 4: Fourth Annual Pickleball Tournament – details coming.
- Saturday, September 14: First Annual Cornhole Tournament – details coming.
Mesirow – Ping-Pong Anyone?
What a fantastic Ping-Pong tournament hosted by our friends at Mesirow for CPA! Kudos to Ellie Forman and the Peer Connect group for leading the charge. Congratulations to champion Blake Olsen for winning the prestigious Norman Trophy! Huge thanks to Team Mesirow for their continuous support since CPA’s inception. Let’s keep the momentum going as we make a difference in the lives of children and families!
WSIA U40 Partnership
Huge thanks to WSIA U40 for their incredible support! Their generous contribution of over $45K in unrestricted funding is a game-changer for us. Children’s Place Association’s President & CEO, Cinaiya Stubbs, shared our mission at their 2024 Underwriter’s Summit in Phoenix, Arizona, emphasizing our commitment to creating a sustainable impact.
“In a landscape where funding often comes with tight restrictions, this $45K+ in unrestricted support opens up exciting possibilities for innovation and addressing the unmet needs of our community,” said Cinaiya. “We’re thrilled about the opportunities this creates for us to serve even better and look forward to seeing WSIA members in Chicago this October!”
Publicis Sapient – To The Rescue
A Huge CPA shoutout to Publicis Sapient for their incredible support and partnership! Their volunteer support and engagement visits at our Early Learning Center have been invaluable, showcasing the impact of much-needed iPads and new curriculum. Thanks to their fundraising efforts led by Meg Gillard and Sophie Lancaster, all our classrooms now have iPads and updated curriculum! These tools enable real-time documentation, data collection, and seamless lesson planning for our dedicated teachers. During their visit, our students even presented them with a special robot trophy they made, showcasing their creativity and gratitude!.
Champions Gala
Mark your calendars! Our highly anticipated annual Champions Gala is back, and it’s more than just an event—it’s a celebration of resilience, hope, and progress. Join us on May 10th for an unforgettable evening filled with delicious dining, lively dancing, and the warmth of community. As we gather together, let’s reaffirm our commitment to journeying together. Get your tickets today and be part of the magic!
Elevate impact! Sponsor our transformative event. CLICK HERE for details.
Meet CPA Team Members
Check below and see what our amazing teams have been up to over the last month.
Month in Review
Our case management team at CFSS has been hard at work supporting our supportive housing clients, ensuring their paperwork is up to date and helping them progress towards their SMART goals. We’re excited to welcome two new families to WHP, and we’re gearing up to launch the “Community Cafe” soon! This initiative will offer residents a space to socialize, chat with CFSS staff, or simply unwind. Stay tuned for more updates!
Kudos
Hats off to Brittney Parsons and Abbey Whigham for their outstanding work in developing and launching CFSS’ Community Cafe!
Month in Review
March was packed with memorable moments at KIPP. In Art, our kids crafted crowns and tiaras, while also designing their March Madness jerseys. In STEM, they delved into catapult and grabber projects. We welcomed the Chicago Baking Buddies for a sweet Thrive Friday, where the kids whipped up banana bread cupcakes. Family Night was a hit with Uno, Pie Face, and Phase 10 games, plus pizza and snacks. Wrapping up the month, our Spring Break Mini Camp was a whirlwind of Lego building, Tie Dye T-shirts, Movie Day, Game Day, and a thrilling skating rink field trip!
CLICK HERE for more pictures.
Kudos
Jerlisa Clark, a December addition to our team, is beloved by our Thrivers. Child Thrive is thankful for her valuable contributions.
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
Amidst a challenging month, we’ve diligently supported our clients through various placement disruptions. Despite facing instability, we’ve worked tirelessly to offer stability wherever possible. While there have been multiple placement changes, we remain steadfastly committed to providing support.
Kudos
Our DCFS Adoption Representative commended Sean Cline, our foster care case manager, for his exceptional proficiency in completing adoption paperwork. Sean stands out as the best among all case managers the representative has worked with.
Hats off to Christina Gould, our exceptional foster care nurse! DCFS consistently praises her top-notch nursing services and stability within our foster care program. Her full-time and consistent support sets us apart from other agencies.
Month In Review
Our International team has been tirelessly supporting families in Haiti while maintaining partnerships in Tanzania and the Dominican Republic. We extend our deepest gratitude to Zanmi Lasante (Partners in Health, Haiti) for their heroic efforts in delivering aid during the ongoing crisis. Your support can make a difference—consider contributing to our fundraising effort. 100% of donations will directly benefit children and families affected by hunger, disease, violence, housing insecurity, and instability.
Partnerships & Collaborations
Our team consistently explores avenues to engage local corporations in funding and volunteer opportunities with the aim of creating a network of child champions.
Major Company & Foundation Supporters
Alliant
Major Individual Supporters
Ivan Adames, Geoffrey Bernardo, Elizabeth Brines, Karen Brines, Alexandra A. Brzezinski, Scott Culler, Diana Dement, Ross Driscoll, Cheryl Gelfond, Sydney Gurecki, Gary Harper, Eric & Kaite Hoffman, Harry Jardine, Mary Janevic, Corinne Jones, Anna Kirkland, Binita Kwankin, James Mastowski, Leslie McLeod, Allison Miller, Marcus Minardi, Helen Nead, Chris & Jennifer Reddick, Julia Roberts, Hannah Song, Ty Shockley, Mary Ann & Jim Sloand, John & Heather Sweeney, Pauline Taylor, Caroline West, Karen Zylberman
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.
Home-Base Learning
We are looking for a volunteer to come in twice a month on a Monday from 10 am – 1 pm to help sort and organize for the twice-monthly socialization event.
EMAIL US if you are interested in volunteering.
Donor 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 Thrive
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Summer is approaching and we are looking for program partners to help us offer a fun and robust summer filled with activities and field trips.
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Art supplies (colored pencils, canvases, watercolor paper, construction paper, etc.)
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STEM kits/supplies (popsicle sticks, tape, glue, glue guns, etc.)
- Board games (varying ages from 6+)
EMAIL US to donate.
Home-Base Learning
- Children’s clothes from 0 to 3-years-old
EMAIL US if you can donate any of these needs.
Early Learning Center
- Diapers and wipes
- Coats and gloves
- Non-perishable items for family-giving baskets for raffle for families.
EMAIL US to donate.
Foster Care
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Gift Cards: We can always use gift cards to have them on-hand for families who may be in crisis and/or children who experience foster home placement disruptions.
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Car Seats: Infant, convertible, and booster seats needed to use when we place children in their home.
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Foster Homes Licensing Needs: Smoke/CO2 detectors and thermometers for measuring water temperature.
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.
Here are some of the opportunities we are looking for:
Full Time:
- Family Support Specialist
- Health & Mental Health Coordinator (Home-Based)
- Health & Nutrition Aide
- Inclusion Aide
- Licensing & Recruitment Coordinator
- Mental Health & Disabilities Coordinator
- Parent Educator (Home Visitor)
Full Time:
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Teacher Aide, Early Head Start
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Teacher Aide, Head Start
Part Time:
- Youth Coordinator
Seasonal:
- Substitute Teacher
CLICK HERE for more details on open positions and how to apply.
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.
Ready to create change? Your monthly $10 donation, or less, can support health, fight poverty, and address racial challenges. Skip a Starbucks and champion health, racial equity, and emergency relief. Join Child Champions now for a brighter future!
CLICK HERE to make an impact.
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.
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CPI Instagram|Child Thrive Facebook | Child Thrive Instagram |CONTACT US
