Children’s Place Association is excited to announce that Maurice Fears, Sr. is joining our team as the Chief Initiatives Officer for Child Thrive – a collaborative initiative based in West Humboldt Park – a high-need area on Chicago’s West side struggling with gun violence and the impact of structural racism. Mr. Fears will be spearheading the Child Thrive mission of helping transform West Humboldt Park into a neighborhood where every child can thrive.
Child Thrive will expand resources in this underserved neighborhood, including access to primary care, mental health, youth mentoring and economic development in collaboration with local partners – Rush University Medical Center, JPA/Juvenile Protective Association and West Humboldt Park Development Council – at Children’s Place new Child Thrive Community Center.
Mr. Fears brings over 20 years of non-profit experience, focusing on inclusion, equity, and leadership development. He has served as the Executive Director of Teen & Young Adult Advancement for the Greater Joliet Area YMCA. Most recently, he served as the Executive Director of the Kelly Hall YMCA of Metro Chicago.
A lifelong resident of Chicago and an Associate Pastor of his church, Maurice believes that every child should have the support and the opportunity to become successful in life.
Children’s Place Association is honored to have him join the team.