SOS Children's Villages Illinois: The Connection Between Public Health Crises & Child Abuse
Please visit the original post on the SOS Children’s Villages of Illinois website.
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Over the last several month, our world has been facing a health crisis, with the United States not immune to the toll of COVID-19. While this is a significant concern for national and global health and economics, there is another epidemic that affects our communities; one that is exasterbated by the COVID-19 pandemic: child abuse. As April is Child Abuse Prevention Month, SOS Children’s Villages Illinois is working to point out the connection between crisis moments like COVID-19 and an increased rate of child abuse in vulnerable communities. By creating important education around this issue, we are committed to keeping children safe through continued reporting, intervention, and healing services.
What is Child Abuse?
Child abuse presents itself in many forms including physical, emotional, and sexual abuse, as well as neglect. There are several mportant statistics of child abuse to consider to understand the severity of this issue, including:
There are nearly 3 million reports of child abuse in the United States every year.
Reports show that approximately 5 children die every day from abuse and most of these children are under the age of 3.
It’s estimated that 1 in 4 girls are sexually abused before the age of 18 usually by a family member.
90% of child victims know the perpetrator in some way, and 68% are abused by a family member.
In many cases, children are too fearful to tell someone about the abuse they endure, so many cases of abuse and neglect are only reported because someone noticed a sign of abuse. This is why it is so important for communities to learn what the signs of abuse are so that we can prevent it together. Learn more about the signs of child abuse and how you can prevent it here.
How Does COVID-19 Impact Abuse Statistics?
There are a number of factors present during the current health crisis that can contribute to an increase in child abuse.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, many countries and specific states have been asked to maintain social distancing ordinances and remain at home as much as possible. While this is important so that the virus might not spread further, it is affecting other areas of life.
Many parents are experiencing heightened stress due to lack of work, food, resources, and more. By not being able to go to work, unemployment rates have increased, causing these types of financial insecurity. Further, as most schools are currently closed, many parents are required to help educate their children through virutal classes and e-assignments. This comes with increased concern for parents who are working from home full-time, have limited education or language skills, or other barriers. All of these element can cause significant amounts of stress. As stress is a main factor contributing to child abuse, we can draw a correlation between rising instances of both.
As children are remaining in the home with parents who have significantly increased stress levels, there is additional risk of stress being taken out on children through verbal or phyiscal abuse. Additionally, as child are spending most, if not all, of their time at home, reports of child abuse are declining. As educators, coaches, church officials, and community members are often the most common reporters of suspected abuse, those who typically file a report are not in contact with the children. This means that instances of abuse may be going unreported, not allowing for proper intervention to take place.
What You Can Do to Prevent Child Abuse During This Time
It’s a little difficult to report child abuse if you are not in contact with a child during this time of social distancing. However, we can all do our part to diminish the factors that contribute to child abuse. This includes helping a family that you know might be under more stress than usual, whether financially, physically, or mentally. There are practical actions that can make a major difference in helping to decrease stressors in the home of a loved one, peer, student, or community member. Some examples include:
Buying necessary groceries, cleaning supplies, toiletries, and resources for a neighbor with minimal income and dropping it off at their door
Checking in with neighbors, friends, and coworkers on the phone to see if they need any support
Connecting with students and families that you know are of increased risk during this time, such as those who with parents that are unemployed
Sending parents helpful tools for online learning, working from home, and indoor activities
Following up on any reported but unresolved suspected instances of abuse or neglect in the home
Seeking a wellness check on a neighbor, student, or community member who has been absent from virtual gatherings (such as online classroom sessions, virtual church services, and more)
For educators, making sure to follow all professional procedures is important to ensure that privacy and confidentialy is maintained.
Supporting the Children Abuse Prevention Efforts of SOS Children’s Villages Illinois
You can help to spread awareness of Child Abuse Prevention Month in support of SOS Illinois by sharing our blogs, social media posts, and resources on your own social platforms and webpages. By doing so, you not only help to strengthen the awareness of SOS Illinois in the community, but can provide life-saving tools that decrease instances of abuse and neglect.
Feeling extra empowered to make a difference during Child Abuse Prevention Month and the current health crisis? Make a gift to SOS Illinois today to help sustain the programs and services offered to children in foster care and at-risk families, and join our digital connection efforts to get others involved.
SOS Illinois Revisits the History of Foster Care Awareness Month
Each May, the United States honors Foster Care Awareness Month to show support for children in foster care, foster parents, and biological families on their paths towards healing. During Foster Care Awareness Month, and throughout the year, SOS Children’s Villages Illinois encourages all individuals and organizations to play a role in making Illinois a better place for children in foster care. By acknowledging Foster Parents, family members, volunteers, mentors, policymakers, child welfare professionals, and other members of the community who help children and youth in foster care find permanent homes and connections, we change the narrative of the child welfare system. SOS Illinois is proud to join in Foster Care Awareness Month to celebrate all those who make a meaningful difference in the lives of children in care.
History of Foster Care Awareness Month
The United States Department of Health and Human Services established the Children’s Bureau 107 years ago. Since then, the Bureau has worked to assist children in foster care, engage youth in decisions that affect their lives, and support Foster Parents, kinship caregivers, child welfare professionals, and others who help these children. As we raise awareness for children in foster care, SOS Illinois would like to share a brief history of Foster Care Awareness Month in the U.S.:
· Before the creation of the Children’s Bureau in 1912, child welfare and foster care were mainly in the hands of private and religious organizations.
· In 1919, the Children’s Bureau published Minimum Standards of Child Welfare, which affirmed the importance of keeping children in their own homes whenever possible and, when that was impossible, providing a “home life” with foster families.
· In 1923, the Children’s Bureau published Foster-Home Care for Dependent Children, an acknowledgment of the growing preference for foster family care over institutional care.
· During World War II, when more than 8,000 children were evacuated from Europe to the United States, the Children’s Bureau oversaw their temporary placement in U.S. foster homes.
· The Children’s Bureau published “The Rights of Foster Parents” in the May 1970 issue of its journal Children. That same year, the Children’s Bureau sponsored the National Conference of Foster Parents.
· In 1972, the Children’s Bureau sponsored—and President Nixon proclaimed—National Action for Foster Children Week to raise awareness of the needs of children in foster care and recruit more foster parents. The following year, Children published “The Bill of Rights for Foster Children.”
· In 1988, President Reagan issued the first Presidential proclamation that established May as National Foster Care Month.
In support of these efforts, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Children’s Bureau, Administration for Children and Families: Office of Regional Operations, its Child Welfare Information Gateway, and over 20 National Foster Care Partners created a 2020 Campaign Resource Guide: Foster Care as a Support to Families, Not a Substitute for Parents.
Additionally, each year, the U.S. President makes a formal announcement through a Presidential proclamation to support National Foster Care Awareness Month. The White House acknowledges the profound contributions of the individuals and organizations supporting foster and kinship caregivers, and those of community providers and professionals who are helping children in foster care find safe and stable families. All are invited to observe this month by taking time to help children and youth in foster care, and to recognize the commitment of those who touch their lives, particularly celebrating their foster parents and other caregivers.
SOS Illinois Raises Awareness for Children in Foster Care Today
This year, help share the SOS Illinois mission with your co-workers, friends, families, and communities in a number of different ways. Join the conversation to support the children at SOS Children’s Villages Illinois—and all children in foster care. Get your copy of our 2020 Influencer Tool Kit, which includes TEN different opportunities to get involved, key dates, and plenty of information to share with your networks. These ten opportunities offer different levels of time commitment, which allows you to support in a way that works with your schedule.
Celebrate Children and Youth All Year Long
In addition to National Foster Care Month in May, SOS Illinois supports two other special initiative months: National Child Abuse Prevention Month in April and National Adoption Month in November. At SOS Children’s Villages Illinois, we are committed to providing safe, stable, loving homes. We do this by keeping brothers and sisters together in an individual home in the care of a full-time, professional Foster Parent. In doing so, we lay the foundation for rebuilding trust, confidence, and hope for each child in our care. We invite you to support our programs and services. You can donate here to help us continue strengthening families and transforming lives. Together, we are building the future of foster care.
“All Roads Lead to Home”: SOS Illinois Featured on Kennedy Expressway’s Wintrust Mural Building
SOS Children’s Villages Illinois is excited to announce the unveiling of “All Roads Lead to Home” as featured on the Wintrust Mural Building. This Mural, located at 1735 N. Ashland Avenue, Chicago, will be viewable from the Kennedy Expressway—one of the busiest roads in the state. SOS Illinois looks forward to welcoming our community members into our evolving journey as we gear up for Child Abuse Prevention Month and Foster Care Awareness Month.
All Roads Lead to Home Mural
About the Wintrust Mural
The Wintrust Mural, a three-sided building viewable from the Kennedy Expressway owned at operated by Wintrust Financial, stands as voice for nonprofits across the Chicagoland area. The mural, attracting thousands of city-bound commuters each day, sheds light on the missions of some of Illinois most reputable, dedicated, and impact-driven nonprofits committed to making a difference, building experiences, and strengthening our city.
SOS Illinois is honored to have been chosen to be featured on the mural from mid-March through mid-April 2020, creating the perfect introduction to SOS Illinois’ major awareness months: Child Abuse Prevention Month (April) and Foster Care Awareness Month (May).
About “All Roads Lead to Home”
The inspiration for SOS Illinois’ “All Roads Lead to Home” is based on a shared story that for many begins with young, vulnerable lives that have endured abuse or abandonment. The “All Roads Lead Home” mural focuses on bringing much needed awareness to the nearly 500,000 children in foster care in the U.S.
This mural looks to highlight SOS Illinois’ Village model of care, which is an innovative approach to traditional foster care. This model keeps brothers and sisters together in the care of a full-time, professional Foster Parent, living as a family in a single-family home and surrounded with an intentional community of support that includes onsite case management, therapeutic, academic, and recreational services. The Village lays the foundation for rebuilding trust, confidence, and hope for each child in our care. We do this so that children can go on to lead fulfilling lives as adults.
In addition to providing safe, stable, loving homes, we marshal all the resources needed to help children heal and achieve their permanency goals. Whether brothers and sisters are living on our Villages, or moving to their “forever homes,” SOS Illinois is there for every milestone.
Impact of the SOS Illinois Wintrust Mural
Whether zooming passed the Mural in a hurry or stuck in traffic with time to explore its detail, SOS Illinois is grateful for this opportunity for the mural to serve as a new type of “front door” to our organization over the next month.
It is our hope that viewers take away from the mural that there are organizations dedicated to building the future of foster care. As media stories so often focus on the heartbreak and missteps of the foster care system, and as policies are written to protect the most vulnerable lives, we are seeking for this mural to invite viewers into our evolving story; one of hope, persistence, and safety.
With this mural, SOS Illinois aims to show that regardless of the road that is traveled, we will continue to advocate for and support children and families in pursuit of a forever home. For us, we want viewers to recognize that “all roads lead to home” is not a catchphrase, but a promise that we have been keeping for thirty years.
Wintrust’s Longstanding Partnership with SOS Illinois
SOS Children’s Villages Illinois is fortunate to have the long-time partnership of Wintrust, which began during the construction of the 14-homes of the third Village in Chicago’s Roosevelt Square neighborhood more than five years ago. In the years following, Wintrust has offered support at every level of the organization, especially as it relates to spreading awareness of SOS Illinois’ programs and services.
Edward J. Wehmer, Founder/President/CEO of Wintrust Financial Corporation, said, “SOS (Illinois) is a light under a bushel basket. My personal philosophy is you have to give kids a leg up. If you can give someone a leg up, you can change a just one life . . . you can’t get a better feeling than that.”
By supporting SOS Illinois, Wintrust has embodied the notion of giving a “leg up” by making a profound impact on the lives of children in Illinois foster care. With this help, we are strengthening families, stabilizing communities, and building the future of foster care.
Thank you, Wintrust, for once again supporting our children and families with this special feature on the mural!
Inspired by the Mural? Here is How You Can Help
Feeling impacted by the joyous art on the “All Roads Lead to Home” Wintrust mural and wanting to do more? You can help support the children and families we serve by getting involved inside and outside of our Villages and sites.
Throughout the next two months, we will be participating in Child Abuse Prevention Month and raising awareness during Foster Care Awareness Month with various Village events and activities. You can get involved by making a donation in honor of these awareness months, learning about becoming a Foster Parent or Child Welfare Specialist, or getting your copy of our 2020 Influencer Tool Kit that includes ten different opportunities to get involved in spreading awareness of our mission. For information on becoming an Influencer, contact Tina Cisarik at tcisarik@sosillinois.org.
Please view the original post on SOS Illinois’ blog here.
SOS Illinois Given a Four-Star Rating by Charity Navigator
People often ask what sets SOS Children’s Villages Illinois apart from other similar nonprofit organizations, especially those that work with children in foster care. Aside from our unique mode, which is helping to build the future of foster care, we are proud to report that SOS Illinois was given a four-star rating by Charity Navigator, the leading charity evaluator in the United States. With distinctions like this, you can be confident in knowing that investing in the work of SOS Illinois makes a major difference!
About Charity Navigator
Charity Navigator aims to “provide donors with essential information to give them greater confidence in both the charitable decisions that they make and the nonprofit sector.” To achieve this goal, Charity Navigator implements a two-prong approach to evaluating a charity’s reputability. According to Charity Navigator:
“Charity Navigator’s rating system examines two broad areas of a charity’s performance; their Financial Health and their Accountability & Transparency. Our ratings show givers how efficiently we believe a charity will use their support today, how well it has sustained its programs and services over time and their level of commitment to good governance, best practices and openness with information. In the not-too-distant future, we plan to also rate charities’ reporting of their results. We provide these ratings so that charitable givers/social investors can make intelligent giving decisions, and so that the nonprofit sector can improve its performance.”
Nonprofit organizations cannot edit their star rating on Charity Navigator, nor can they simply request their rating be changed. Instead, nonprofit organizations are all held to the same standard when evaluated, ensuring visitors that each organization is assessed without bias, skew, or internal interest.
What Does it Mean to Be a Four-Star Charity on Charity Navigator?
A four-star rating is the highest rating given to nonprofits by Charity Navigator. This rating now places SOS Illinois amongst the top 25% of the 1.5 million charities in the U.S. SOS Illinois was recognized due to our dedication to fiscal responsibility, accountability, and transparency. Our four-star rating from Charity Navigator means that you can feel confident that the gift you make to SOS Illinois is positively impacting the lives of children in foster care.
Informed Giving to a Nonprofit Organization
We all appreciate knowing where our money is going when we donate to a nonprofit organization, and Charity Navigator ensures that you can make an informed decision when giving. For those looking to give, resources like Charity Navigator provide a hub of information where you can vet nonprofit organizations, view financial statements, read details on spending, and more. In doing so, an individual or company is able to determine if, in their eyes and through Charity Navigator’s recommendation, a charity is going to use their funds to create the biggest impact on the community or cause they serve. Having a four-star rating on Charity Navigator demonstrates our dedication to providing direct services to clients and communicating with transparency, ensuring our donors and corporate partners that investing in us is a wise decision.
Support Us Through Charity Navigator
SOS Illinois can now be viewed in Charity Navigator’ s list of four-star organizations. Please consider making a charitable contribution with the knowledge that your funds will go directly to serving the children and families at SOS Illinois!
Why Black History Month Matters for Children in Foster Care
February is Black History Month and as such, SOS Illinois wants to highlight the significance of this month to children in Illinois foster care. The purpose of Black History Month is to celebrate the roles that various African American and Black individuals have played in the United States and to remember the legacy and continuing contributions of the black community in U.S. history.
The common narrative of the black community in America has been one of fighting to overcome barriers, breaking through boundaries, advocating for justice and fairness, and emerging as beacons of hope despite adversity. SOS Illinois believes that these narratives are important for all children in foster care to recognize, especially children of color.
The Disproportional Rates of Black Children in Illinois Foster Care
As part of recognizing Black History Month, it is our responsibility as a foster care agency to call to attention the disproportional rates of black children in Illinois foster care and beyond. Research has shown that “poor and racial and ethnic minority children and their families are disproportionately reported, labeled, and mandated into the child welfare system” (Horton, 1).
While the city of Chicago boasts a diverse population of 38.6% Black, 37.9% White, and 19.6% Hispanic, the population of the Illinois foster care system is disproportionally black. In fact, African American children make up approximately 33% of children in foster care nationwide, but only 15% of the national child population. Additionally, 84% of the children that SOS Illinois serves in our Villages are African American/Black.
Why Is There Such Racial Disproportion in Foster Care?
There are several systematic issues, such as the zoning of neighborhoods and the exodus of non-poor white families from the city to the suburbs, that have historically caused racial segregation, concentrated poverty, and drug and substance abuse in the inner-city. Certain zoning laws combined with white flight from the city resulted in many inner-city neighborhoods becoming primarily black neighborhoods with few resources, causing the cycle of poverty to continue.
This cycle of poverty, as we have written about previously on our blog, is a major contributor to the cycle of national and Illinois foster care, causing children in foster care to reach adulthood without the resources needed to thrive. The few opportunities offered to people living in neighborhoods marked by poverty makes it difficult to offer the best care to children. As a result, adults in these communities often face barriers in parenting, making their children vulnerable to entering the foster care system. As such, we see the cycle perpetuate and a disproportional rate of children of color, especially children who are African American, enter the Illinois foster care system.
At SOS Illinois, we believe it’s important to recognize that there are larger systems at play that are affecting why many black children are ending up in foster care. Acknowledging these systematic barriers is the first step in breaking this cycle.
Creating a Community of Hope for Children in Foster Care
Our unique model at SOS Illinois prioritizes and values diversity, education, wellness, and opportunity. We believe that these values present a different and more empowering narrative for children in foster care. We aim to create a community of hope and a cycle of opportunity so that successful futures may be realized. SOS Illinois communities are mindful in acting with culture sensitivity and affirming cultural differences, allowing the children in our care to celebrate diversity and individuality as they realize that they each have a story to tell.
Overcoming Restrictive Narratives and Celebrating Black History Month
Celebrating the history, legacy, and current impact of Black Americans across industries and communities presents a hopeful narrative for black children in foster care who may not have the stability of permanent role models while they are in care. Help celebrate Black History Month with SOS Illinois by donating to the work we are doing in helping to create a better future for children in foster care.
Transporting Hope: SOS Illinois’ Charitable Fundraiser Gathers Industry Leaders to Support Children in Foster Care
Evening of Hope is the annual fall fundraising event for SOS Children’s Villages Illinois. The funds raised from this event play an incredibly important role in the wellbeing of the children and families we serve, and this year was no exception. Check out the photos of this event at the end of this article!
Evening of Hope 2019 VIP Honorees and Committee Members gathered with SOS Illinois leaders
About Evening of Hope 2019
Held on Thursday, October 10 at the Museum of Contemporary Art in Chicago, Evening of Hope was a celebration of innovation, community, and hope. The event honored the builders and visionaries who keep SOS Illinois charged to continue breaking new ground in Illinois foster care through charitable works of giving and awareness-raising. Over 600 guests enjoyed the street food carving stations, cocktails, silent auction items, DJ R3DLINE, and the incredible museum exhibits featured at Evening of Hope 2019.
VIP Reception Brings Together Illinois Industry Leaders
Leaders in the transportation industry joined board members and sponsors for a special reception prior to the main event that highlighted the important work of SOS Illinois. Evening of Hope 2019 VIP Honorees included: José Alvarez, Illinois Tollway Executive Director; Jamie Rhee, Chicago Department of Aviation Commissioner; Rocky Donahue, PACE Executive Director; Omer Osman, Illinois Department of Transportation Acting Secretary; Bruce M. Marcheschi, METRA Chief Operating Officer and Deputy Executive Director; and Retired Judge Gloria Chevere, Chicago Transit Authority Board Member. Each VIP Honoree shared inspirational remarks on their dedication to the services provided by SOS Illinois.
Welcomed by Board President Jim Wolfe, attendees were thanked by Event Chair and Board Vice President John Trotta who shared, “I am so proud to be in this industry . . . you are amazing, and when you are downstairs you’ll see there are going to be 500-600 people here who care about our kids . . . To see the kids graduate, to see the difference we collectively have made is amazing.”
José Alvarez
VIP Honorees Share Wisdom and Commitment of SOS Illinois’ Mission
José Alvarez, Illinois Tollway Executive Director, who first learned of the SOS Illinois mission during his time at the Chicago Housing Authority, started by discussing Casa Tepeyac, the site in the Back of the Yards Neighborhood, and how he remembered the vacant lot before the facility was built, “The kids that benefit from this, the families that benefit from it, these are the same families I grew up around. These are the same kids I went to high school with. And these are the same kids that may be going to school with my kids. Thanks to organizations like yours, you help kids actually make it home . . . this is a real organization making a real difference for people.”
Jamie Rhee
Jamie Rhee, Chicago Department of Aviation Commissioner shared that she is a DCFS Foster Parent and has been caring for her child since she was 18 months old. She continued, “We owe it to the generations coming to make sure we are providing the best environment for them to succeed . . . we have a vested interest in creating that pipeline for the next generation . . . and that starts with each and every one of us, in this room, every day to say how do we make the north and the west and the south sides of Chicago equal. How do we give equal access to jobs and opportunities and businesses to grow and flourish and be diverse. These kids deserve it.”
Rocky Donahue
Rocky Donahue, PACE Executive Director remarked, “all of you in this room, be it the staff at SOS (Illinois), or the board, or those volunteers, you’re the real honorees . . . this organization does meaningful work that changes children’s lives and families’ lives.” He then continued, “This organization is kind of like PACE. We’re all in the infrastructure business, and we’re all taking individual lives and bringing them into a bigger and broader community and making that community better. What SOS (Illinois) is doing by changing those (children’s) lives and making them a part of the bigger community is really inspirational. As a person who serves the public, and now seeing how well SOS (Illinois) does, just imagine how great our world could be if we could do this the same way.”
Omer Osman
Omer Osman, Illinois Department of Transportation Acting Secretary started by talking about his family of eleven brothers and sisters and how his dad worked to ensure each one attended college. He then shared, “This organization is an international organization. What this organization does is make an immediate impact not only on the individual, but an impact on the family. A whole family, and by extension, a Village. This work is important, I’m so proud to be a part of it.”
Bruce M. Marcheschi, METRA Chief Operating Officer and Deputy Executive Director continued, “There is nothing more important than that strong bond of family. Every child deserves that. Every child deserves an opportunity. Without that, I think you mentioned the future, there is no future. We’re the roadbuilders of their future, so to speak. We need to get them there. Without the support in this room, and the love and the generosity in this room, we wouldn’t have what we have today. And we can’t let this mission falter, we need to keep it going.”
Retired Judge Gloria Chevere, Chicago Transit Authority Board Member, spoke “These words are not only mine, I also have the honor of speaking on behalf of the President of the Chicago Transit Authority, Mr. Dorval Carter, who could not be here today, but he absolutely wanted to be here. I’m thrilled to be here tonight.” She furthered,” SOS (Illinois), the work you are doing to help kids in our community is vital to the future success. I’m thrilled to hear of your 100% graduate rate. Your organization offers them, us, and our community hope . . . I know it makes a difference.”
Judge Gloria Chevere
With that, Tim McCormick, CEO of SOS, Illinois closed the reception with two parting comments, “We have one common story, the stories we heard from each of our VIPs. It’s not about the struggle, it’s about where we go with the hope to get there . . . and the second thing is, we will gather and continue to do this. This is a story worth telling. It gives us hope, as many of us heard, not only for the children and families, but also for our society; and this is what Evening of Hope is about.”
Evening of Hope and Helps Children in Foster Care Flourish
The funds raised at Evening of Hope are crucial in helping SOS Children’s Villages Illinois continue to provide high-quality, exceptional programs and services to children in foster care. At SOS Illinois, our model of care is uniquely different than that of traditional foster care, and we are proud and honored to be able to bring that awareness to Evening of Hope. We are committed to providing safe, stable, and loving homes for children in foster care in Illinois, as well as providing preventative services to at-risk families. Our model of care allows us to keep brothers and sisters together in an individual home in the care of a full-time, professional Foster Parent. In doing so, we lay the foundation for rebuilding trust, confidence, and hope for each child in our care. As a result of this model, we annually celebrate a 100% high school graduation rate compared to the national average of only 50% of youth in foster care.
Evening of Hope 2019 Photos
Professional photos from this event are available for download. Don’t forget to tag us as @sosillinois on Instagram and @soscvi on Facebook when sharing them with your friends! Enter PIN 9669 to download.
Committed to Charitable Giving in Chicago
Evening of Hope is generously supported by both individuals and corporate partners committed to investing in a local charity in Chicago. You can check out the fundraising events full list of sponsors, and learn how you can get involved in building the future of foster care.
How Evening of Hope Makes a Difference at SOS Illinois
Evening of Hope is the annual fall fundraising event for SOS Children’s Villages Illinois. The funds raised from this event play an incredibly important role in the wellbeing of the children and families we serve here, and this year is no exception. We are absolutely ecstatic to be able to not only raise awareness for children in foster care at Evening of Hope 2019 but to also highlight the dedicated work that has gone into creating the Roosevelt Square Community Center – a center that will not only serve the over one hundred children and families cared for at SOS Illinois, but also more than 5,000 people from the surrounding neighborhoods.
About Evening of Hope 2019
Held on Thursday, October 10 at the Museum of Contemporary Art, Evening of Hope is charged with the power of an innovative future for children in foster care and families served by SOS Illinois. Featuring an array of artfully prepared hor d’oeuvres, desirable silent auction items, cocktails and drinks prepared for guests, a DJ spinning music, and an exciting raffle, Evening of Hope 2019 is sure to please sponsors and attendees alike. A list of notable VIPs will soon be shared on our Evening of Hope page; check back often to make sure you stay up to date!
Evening of Hope 2019 Highlights Roosevelt Square Community Center
On June 11, ground broke at our Roosevelt Square Community Center. This year, Evening of Hope will be highlighting the innovative construction phase of the center, celebrating the electrifying and support of our partners, donors, and friends. The Roosevelt Square Community Center will serve the children and families in our Roosevelt Square Village and the surrounding communities, helping expand and enhance the services currently offered. Programs at the center will include academic, therapeutic, social, and recreational support. The center will also feature multi-use spaces for community members to connect to public resources and engage in training, activities, and events; as well as a signature culinary kitchen that will provide food and nutrition education as well as jobs-skills training for the hospitality industry.
Join Us for Evening of Hope and Help Children in Foster Care Flourish
The funds raised at Evening of Hope are crucial in helping SOS Children’s Villages Illinois continue to provide high-quality, exceptional programs and services to children in foster care. At SOS Illinois, our model of care is uniquely different than that of traditional foster care, and we are proud and honored to be able to bring that awareness to Evening of Hope. We are committed to providing safe, stable, and loving homes for children in foster care. Our model of care allows us to keep brothers and sisters together in an individual home in the care of a full-time, professional Foster Parent. In doing so, we lay the foundation for rebuilding trust, confidence, and hope for each child in our care. As a result of this model, we annually celebrate a 100% high school graduation rate compared to the national average of about 50% of youth in foster care.
Your participation in Evening of Hope will help us provide our youth true healing, growth, and personal achievement, among other important areas of development for children and families. You may purchase your tickets or sponsorships to Evening of Hope 2019 at this link.
Don’t forget to share this event with others to help bring awareness to the unique opportunities that will help shape the lives of so many wonderful children in foster care here at SOS Children’s Villages Illinois.
Akiem Hicks, Chicago Bears Defensive Lineman, Visits SOS Childrens Villages Illinois
Thrilling energy filled the atmosphere of SOS Children’s Villages Illinois’ “Tailgate Tuesday” on September 10, 2019. In celebration of the beginning of another academic year, SOS Illinois staff, Foster Parents, children, and volunteers gathered on the green space of the Chicago Village for an afternoon jam-packed with football-themed activities, tailgate treats, and plenty of laughter. Among the buzz was the anticipation of the arrival a special guest who would be paying to our unique Illinois foster care agency: Chicago Bears’ Akiem Hicks.
SOS Illinois Welcomes Akiem Hicks with Open Arms and Cheers
As the gathering awaited the appearance of the Chicago Defensive Lineman, participants filled up their time with plenty of outdoor fun. With the help of volunteers from T-Mobile and PHMG, children enjoyed special games, an “inspiration station”, a table full of crafts, exploration of the community garden, and snacks from the “concession stand.” Despite being filled with energy, the group grew attentive and quiet when the announcement was given that Hicks was making his way down to the re-created football field spray-painted on the grass, complete with a 15-foot high homemade field goal post, where the celebration was being held.
As Hicks strolled up to the sea of children ringing cowbells and holding signs decked-out with his jersey number, parents and staff members snapped quick photos and joined the children in cheers. High-fiving members of the gathering as he passed, Hicks greeted SOS Illinois families with a supportive speech and a wide smile.
Akiem Hicks Offers Wisdom to our Youth
“To me, preparing for the school year is similar to gearing up for a game. You have to get ready, set goals, and stay focused,” Hicks said, joined by his supportive mother, Desiree. “Success on the field or in the classroom is where preparation and opportunity meet.”
Desiree, beaming as she watched her son speak, was praised by SOS Illinois Chief Executive Officer, Tim McCormick, as he introduced her and called her up to the front of the group. McCormick explained that SOS Illinois understands the importance of a supportive caregiver. Sharing in the sentiment, Hicks expressed that he would not be where he is today without the support and love he receives from his mother, whose influence is the reason he feels the need to give back and care for his fellow teammates and communities.
One of those fellow teammates on the Bears, wide receiver Riley Ridley and his older brother, Falcons wide receiver Calvin Ridley, spent a portion of their childhood at SOS Children’s Villages Florida. Seeing major success stories such as these, paired with the encouragement of idols such as Hicks, plays a major part in sparking ambitious spirits in children as they look toward a hopeful future.
“Children in foster care really don’t have a voice,” said McCormick to members of the press. “Often, in the education system, the healthcare system, even in communities, children don’t know some of the things that have been going on, and they feel invisible. When someone like Akiem Hicks of the Chicago Bears comes here, these children realize, ‘Wow, we really are something, and people do care.’”
We’re fortunate that this is not the first time the children at SOS Illinois have enjoyed the support of Chicago Bears athletes. Previously, Anthony “Spice” Adams, former Chicago Bears Defensive Tackle, joined our community to lend his support for foster care in Illinois by running the “Magic Minute” for us to gather gifts for children and families in our care.
Hicks Gifts the Children with Backpacks and Hope
After Hicks’ speech to the children, he was presented with a signed football with every child’s name. He, then, graciously gifted each child with a new backpack to help make the new school year a great success. It was then Hicks’ to join the fun. Activities included Hicks practicing football moves on the faux field with the children, coloring with the younger youth at the inspiration station, and participating as judge of the “touchdown dance competition” hosted for a prize. Each child enjoyed their time with Hicks, many mentioning that it was the most exciting time of the summer season.
Gratitude for Akiem Hicks and the Chicago Bears
We are immensely grateful for the support, empowerment, and kindness of Akiem Hicks and the Chicago Bears team, as well as for the hard work of the Tailgate Tuesday volunteers from PHMG and T-Mobile. Together with your support, we are creating stronger futures for youth in foster care, inspiring the next generation of leaders on – and off the football field.
Get Involved with SOS Illinois in Honor of Akiem Hicks
Feeling encouraged to get involved with our organization? Find your perfect fit at Becoming a Foster Parent, Careers & Internships, Volunteers, or Giving!
Supplied with Love: SOS Illinois’ 2019 Back-to-School Supply Drive
It’s time for SOS Illinois’ 5th Annual Back-to-School Supply Drive, and their partners at the Fashion Outlets of Chicago have teamed up with SOS Illinois again as this year’s Premier Sponsor!
Each school supply donation alleviates the financial strain of back-to-school for our Foster Parents and sets a child on the path to success!
Summer may still be in full swing, but we are turning our focus toward helping the children in our care that are preparing to start another school year. The 5th Annual Back-to-School Drive continues to carry on a meaningful tradition that was created from the growing desire to assist children in foster care with academic support and resources.
As parents know, school supply shopping really adds up. From notebooks to graphing calculators to art supplies – shopping for one child can be quite pricy! According to the National Retail Federation, parents will spend $26.5 billion on K-12 back-to-school necessities this year. For the Foster Parents at SOS Illinois, shopping for SIX CHILDREN is six times the expense. That’s why our Back-to-School Supply Drive provides much-needed to support to our communities through individual contributions, collections from office supply drives, and generous back-to-school promotions from our corporate partners. Your donations this summer ensure that children in foster care can succeed all academic year!
Beat the Heat: Order School Supplies through Amazon on Our SOS Illinois Wish List
Why face the Chicago heat when you can order right from your home? This year, we’ve made it easier than ever before for you to contribute to making the school year a successful and stress-free one for students and Foster Parents alike. Simply click on the Amazon wishlist link below and instantly order supplies for those in need.
You can choose from this list and ship directly to SOS Illinois, or shop the sales in stores and drop off at any convenient SOS Children’s Villages Illinois location during office hours.
What’s more, you can also donate gift cards to Amazon, Walgreens, Walmart and Target so that our Foster Parents are able to make sure that the children in their care have everything they need to start the school year off right.
SOS Illinois’ Amazon Wish List
We also happily welcome supply drop-off directly at any of our locations listed below. Please deliver school supplies to all Chicago locations by August 23, 2019, and to the Lockport Village location by August 2, 2019. Contact the location that is most convenient for you for additional details:
Lockport Village – Deliver Supplies by August 2
17545 Village Lane
Lockport, IL 60441
P: 815-740-7280
F: 815-740-7282
Administrative Office – Deliver Supplies by August 23
216 W. Jackson Blvd., Suite 925
Chicago, IL 60606
P: 312-372-8200
F: 312-372-8202
Chicago Village – Deliver Supplies by August 23
7600 S. Parnell
Chicago, IL 60620
P: 773-783-0500
F: 773-783-0600
Casa Tepeyac – Deliver Supplies by August 23
4538 S. Hermitage
Chicago, IL 60609
P: 773-247-7725
F: 773-247-7794
Roosevelt Square Village – Deliver Supplies by August 23
1200 W. Roosevelt Rd.
Chicago, IL 60608
P: 312-243-1901
F: 312-243-3086
2019 Star Pupil: Fashion Outlets of Chicago
Once again, we are delighted to partner with Fashion Outlets of Chicago as our Premier Sponsor. As part of their annual Back-to-School Celebration, Fashion Outlets of Chicago is inviting guests to visit Concierge Services to receive exclusive offers and incentives, as well as participating in their supply drive.
By donating a new school supply item of a $5 value or more (including the receipt distributed upon purchase), guests will receive a free pass to Chicago’s world-famous Brookfield Zoo. Plus, students and teachers who present their school ID at Concierge Services will receive a free 7-day trial of the Fashion Outlets Savings Pass, available only at the Fashion Outlets of Chicago (a value of $800 in savings).
This promotion begins on July 19 and runs through August 11, 2019. At the end of the promotion, all supplies collected will be donated to SOS Illinois. Learn more about this generous initiative and complete Back-to-School Celebration details at Fashion Outlets of Chicago.
Make a Difference By Contributing Today
In the U.S., there are over 400,000 children in foster care. Contributions and support from individuals and organizations can truly make a difference in helping these children and their families get the school supplies they need, right when they need them. Simple, yet essential items such as a box of sharp crayons or a colorful new binder can give children in foster care the confidence they need to make a fresh start at school.
We encourage you to gather your colleagues together again this year. We are excited to discover what you will help us accomplish for our 4th Annual Back-to-School Supply Drive.
Share your progress and activity on social media, and stay in touch with any questions along the way. Together, by providing essentials like notebooks and pencils, our Foster Parents and children will be able to focus on all the exciting goals they have made for a productive academic year.
It is from these thoughtful contributions that we’ve been able to fill our young students’ backpacks with plenty of school supplies so they can reach their full potential with the tools they need to succeed.
Upgraded SOS Children's Villages Illinois Website!
SOS Children’s Villages Illinois is excited to announce the launch of our upgraded website. The fresh site – conceptualized, designed, and launched in partnership with the digital agency, ArtVersion – offers a user-forward experience with a clean, sleek design, as well as elements that allow for interactive and vibrant viewing during desktop, tablet, and mobile browsing.
The concept behind the site is to move from a semi-responsive site to an adaptable, energetic resource hub that keeps visitors in touch with the lives and stories of those at the very core of our mission, the children and families served across our four Villages and sites.
“Every so often we have the opportunity to work with an organization of such importance and we are honored and thrilled that we can contribute and influence brand visuals and messaging the same way they impact the community,” shared Erin Lentz, Director of Design at Art Version.
“The new design was a strategic collaborative effort to clearly illustrate SOS Children’s Villages Illinois’ mission visually and contextually. We thoroughly enjoyed working with the SOS Illinois Team. Our cross-disciplinary creative team works closely through a highly collaborative process to ensure the best product is delivered to the client to meet their goals. We are proud to be recognized for the work that drives us.”
Users have come to expect an optimized user experience as a basic requirement, and it’s now become a prerequisite implementation strategy across all platforms and devices. The newly optimized site, focused on the user experience, recognizes the growing need to keep an increasingly web-savvy world informed, invested, and involved with the inner workings of SOS Illinois.
Among an array of new interactive elements and resources, three unique features will allow users to gain in-depth awareness of our brand, look inside our decades-long commitment to youth and families, and learn how to invest in the future of foster care.
At the heart of our new website is our revised blog feature, “Our Stories”, which aims to educate our friends and supporters on the many facets that bring SOS Illinois to life.
From details on signature events and fundraising efforts, to interviews with current Foster Parents and SOS Illinois Alum, to updated information on the ever-changing landscape of foster care, “Our Stories” amplifies the voice of our agency and offers calls-to-action, praise for our partners, and opportunities to get more engaged with the communities we serve. Plus, “Our Stories” shares a landing page with other media content, such as Press Releases, Newsletters, and Annual Reports. That way, you’ll always stay on top of SOS Illinois updates!
Inspired by “Our Stories” and interested in seeing how far we’ve come? Don’t forget to check out our new interactive timeline which traces back the founding of SOS Illinois over 25 years ago and further back to its roots in Imst, Austria exactly 70 years ago!
One of the most frequent inquiries SOS Illinois receives is requests for information about becoming a professional Foster Parent at one of our three Village communities in Chicago and Lockport. This position, which sits at the center of our Village Model of Care, involves ten, unique phases of interviewing, hands-on training, and licensure to ensure that each candidate and our community share a mutual fit. As such, it is more necessary than ever to have a website that can house all the details.
On our Foster Parenting page, users can dive into videos, lists, sliders, blog posts, and other interactive tools to learn more about each step between filling out an application and moving into one of our Villages as a Foster Parent. The site even includes a detailed Frequently Asked Questions page for some of the most common questions we receive about serving in our community.
Looking to get in contact with a member of our team to chat about how this position may be a good fit for you? Filling out our quick Foster Parenting Questionnaire is one of the fastest ways to get connected today!
The success of our community and our legacy of care is only made possible with the support of our donors, partners, and friends. With our updated Giving page, investing in SOS Illinois has never been easier.
With online philanthropy growing each year, we know how important it is for you to be able to invest online. Offering a dozen different options for giving, our interactive Giving page highlights twelve key ways that donors can support the next generation of leaders, innovators, and creators. From joining our growing list of monthly Dream Makers, to offering gifts in tribute to a loved one, to hosting your own fundraiser or giving drive, this new page showcases just a sample of opportunities available to those looking to invest in SOS Illinois. And as always, your information is kept safe and secure, making online giving the quickest way to create an impact on children and families at SOS Illinois.
Looking for a way to give back that isn’t offered on our website? Let us know by contacting us at info@sosillinois.org or 312-372-8200 and ask for our Advancement Team.
Each time a new visitor browses our website, your investment grows. By spreading awareness about SOS Illinois, you are helping to ensure that the children and families we serve have their voices and needs heard for years to come. Share our updated site on your social media page, with your company’s community engagement department, or with friends and family interested in supporting at-risk youth. By getting others informed, involved, and invested, you are helping us build the future of foster care. Visit us today – sosillinois.org.
Special Note:
ArtVersion has submitted our site to awwwards.com — which is a site dedicated to awards that recognize the talent and effort of the best web designers, developers, and agencies in the world. In the coming days, we will share a link to online voting. We encourage you to vote to increase our chance of getting an “Award winning site”!