We are so grateful to Studio North and Mirar Media for their generous in-kind support for Shelter's 2026 Gala. Become a sponsor.

Step Inside Shelter’s New Home!

Open House
Wednesday, April 29 from 4-6:00 pm
3227 N. Wilke Rd., Suite 150 in Arlington Heights

Join us for an Open House and ribbon-cutting celebration at our new office! Stop by to learn more about Shelter’s programs, meet our staff, and see how we’re supporting our community. Bring the whole family—there will be kid's activities and light refreshments. Watch your inbox for your invitation.

Pictured L to R: Sara Schnirer, Stronger Together Therapist, Nicole Kawa, Clinical Director, and Natalia Francisco, Clinical Supervisor at the Rooted and Rising Symposium on February 20.

Caring for Those Who Care for Others

On February 20, members of our Clinical Team attended the Rooted and Rising Symposium, hosted by the Children’s Advocacy Center of North and Northwest Cook County at Harper College’s Wojcik Conference Center.

The symposium focused on strengthening resilience through mindful practice, with sessions on whole-person well-being and strategies for managing vicarious trauma. These workshops provided valuable tools to help our professionals care for their own mental health while continuing to provide the best possible care for children and families in our community. Learn more about Shelter's Clinical Program

Staff Strive for Excellence

Congratulations to Clinical Supervisor, Natalia Francsico, who has obtained her LCPC (Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor) licensure and to Behavioral Health Initiative Therapist, Jade Keel, who has obtained her LSW (Licensed Social Worker) licensure. We are so proud of these Clinical Team members who embody Shelter’s core value of being mission-driven as they strive for excellence both professionally and academically. 

Seeking New Board Members to Lead & Inspire

Shelter Youth & Family Services is seeking passionate professionals to join our Board of Directors to help shape the future of our work protecting children, strengthening families, and transforming communities.

 We’re looking for leaders with vision, passion, and integrity who bring diverse perspectives to guide stronger, more inclusive decisions. Experience in fundraising & development and human resources is especially valued to further strengthen our Board’s collective expertise. Contact Christine Roerig, Chief Marketing and Communications Officer, if you are interested.

Board Member Angela Santello
Shares Her "Why"
“It is a privilege to serve on the Shelter's Board of Directors. Having personally endured homelessness during my young adulthood, I deeply understand the transformative power of community support in fostering positive outcomes for at-risk children and young adults during their most vulnerable moments. I am especially grateful for this opportunity to pay it forward and champion Shelter’s vital mission."

Growing From Within: Dorothy Williams' Next HR Chapter

We’re thrilled to announce that Dorothy Williams has been promoted to Human Resources Generalist at Shelter. Dorothy has been a valued member of our HR team, previously serving as a Recruiter, where she supported agency-wide hiring. Known for her thoughtful, organized, and positive approach, Dorothy brings care, professionalism, and growing HR expertise to her new role, where she will continue supporting recruitment and expand her responsibilities across HR operations. Send Dorothy a welcome message.

April is Child Abuse Prevention Month
and You Can Be the Spark of Hope!

The pinwheel symbolizes the joy and innocence every child deserves and our vision of a world where all children grow up in safe and loving homes. This April, you can help make that vision a reality by planting a pinwheel garden at your home or business. Every pinwheel is a reminder that child abuse is preventable and that safe childhoods create brighter futures. Learn how to become a Spark Sponsor — opportunities are available at multiple levels. Contact Christine Roerig, Chief Marketing and Communications Officer, for information. 

Partners Making a Difference

Thank you to the Chicago Bears for helping make Shelter’s new home safer for child survivors of human trafficking. Their recent grant funded an electric security gate, building on a previous gift that supported the installation of our home's security system. We’re grateful to partner with the Bears in keeping survivors safe and supported.

Thank you to our donors and the dedicated volunteers who came out on Saturday, March 14 to support the Shamrock Beer Run and Brew Fest held at Busse Woods. Volunteers helped fuel up runners and shared Shelter's mission with participants. Because of our volunteers and registered runners, Shelter is fortunate to be a beneficiary of this event. We are so grateful to our supporters! Join our volunteer email list to learn how you can get involved.

Work With Purpose

Shelter is now hiring for multiple positions at our new residential therapeutic program for child survivors of human trafficking. Learn how you can be the reason a child has a bright future.