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In this issue:Become a Foster Parent, Open House, CWLA Conference, Mental Health Awareness, Off to the Prom, Get Involved, Jobs at Shelter, and More
Being a Foster Parent Isn't About Being Perfect... It's About Being Present
The idea of becoming a foster parent comes with lots of questions and oftentimes, misconceptions. You might wonder if you’re “qualified enough,” if your home is big enough, or if your life is too complicated. Foster parents come from all walks of life, and the process is more supportive and accessible than most people think.
No “Perfect” Family Required Foster parents must be least 21 years old and come from all backgrounds—single, married, divorced, or partnered.
The Process Is Thorough—but it’s Meant to Support You You and those in your household must pass a criminal background check and child abuse/neglect screening, and complete required training and a home study. Training helps you understand the needs of children in care, while the home study is a chance to talk through your strengths, ask questions, and ensure your home is ready.
You Don’t Need to Be Wealthy You can rent or own your home, and you don’t need a high income—just enough stability to meet your household’s needs and provide a consistent environment.
Space Matters—But It’s Flexible You don’t need a perfect or large house. What’s important is that you have enough space to safely accommodate a child.
Health and Well-Being Are Part of the Picture A basic health screening is required to ensure you are physically and mentally able to support a child and are in a good place to take on the responsibility.
You Won’t Be Doing This Alone Shelter Youth & Family Services provides training, resources, and ongoing support every step of the way.
During National Foster Care Month, learn more about how you can foster hope and provide support to the children who need it most. Contact Shelter's Licensing Specialist, Agata for information.
During National Foster Care Month, we honor the courage and resilience of children in care and recognize the caregivers who support them through life’s most challenging moments.
What does it mean to open your home and heart to a foster child? WATCH NOW
Pictured above: CEO Carina H. Santa Maria cuts the ribbon with Arlington Heights Mayor Jim Tinaglia, Shelter staff share program information with attendees
Open House Shows What's Possible
On Wednesday, April 29, Shelter welcomed the community to our new office in Arlington Heights for a ribbon cutting ceremony and open house. It was truly meaningful to open our doors and share our work with supporters, elected officials, fellow child welfare workers, community members, and others. Guests had the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of what happens inside Shelter Youth & Family Services every day—not just the programs themselves, but the people behind them, and the young lives they impact. It takes a community to build brighter futures, and we are grateful to have the support of so many who care.
Staff Celebrate Teens Heading to Prom
Two teens staying in Shelter’s emergency shelters recently celebrated prom in unforgettable fashion thanks to the care and support of Shelter staff. Our team organized a red-carpet send-off complete with decorations, photos, and a decked-out car to take the teens to the dance. For young people facing difficult circumstances, moments like this can provide joy, confidence, and a sense of normalcy during an uncertain time. Through their actions, Shelter staff remind youth that they are not alone and that their community is cheering them on every step of the way.
MAY IS MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS MONTH
The trauma of entering the child welfare system can have long-lasting emotional and psychological effects. Without proper support, early adversity can lead to anxiety, depression, PTSD, and difficulty in school, work, and relationships. But with the right care, healing is possible.
At Shelter, we address both the physical and emotional well-being of children and families. Our Clinical team provides trauma-informed counseling to children and families in all of our programs, meeting them where they are, whether that is at our emergency shelters, their own home, or in our office. When we support their healing and growth, we unlock a future full of possibility. Learn more.
THRIVING TOGETHER Clinical Director Nicole Kawa, LPC and Clinical Supervisor Natalia Francisco, LCPC attended Thrive Together on May 3 at Arlington Heights Memorial Library to share information about Shelter’s clinical services. Held in honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, the fair brought together 26 local organizations and leaders including State Representatives Mary Beth Canty and Nicolle Grasse who are committed to supporting children and families. Events like Thrive Together highlight the importance of community partners working collaboratively to ensure families receive the mental health resources they need to live to life to their fullest.
DANCE PARTY Saturday, May 30 6:00-10:00 p.m. Lamplighter Inn, Palatine
Join Impact Makers of Palatine for a fun, women-only dance party that benefits Shelter Youth & Family Services!
BUFFALO GROVE PRIDE PARADE Flower Power: Let Love Bloom Sunday, June 7 11:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. Join us as we walk together and stand with the LBGTQ+ community to celebrate love, identity, and inclusion. If you are interested in walking with Shelter, email Karri. Shelter is proud to be a sponsor of this family-friendly event. Click herefor more information.
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.
Shelter Youth & Family Services 3227 N. Wilke Rd., Suite 150 Arlington Heights, IL 60004 24-Hour Referral Line: 847.255.8060 www.shelter-inc.org
Shelter Youth & Family Services is committed to providing safe, inclusive, and supportive resources for youth and families from all backgroundsand identities.
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