Your July Connections features growing housing needs, forever families, CEO news, and more
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In this issue:Demand for More Transitional Housing, Planned CEO Transition, Finding "Forever Families" for Children in Foster Care, New Free Spanish-Speaking Support Group for Moms, Partners Making a Difference, Now Hiring Staff Accountant
EXPANDING HOPE: The Need for More Transitional Housing
Every young person deserves the chance to build a stable, independent future. But for too many young adults, homelessness, trauma, and a lack of support make that journey incredibly difficult.
That's why Shelter is currently seeking a special use permit from the Village of Arlington Heights to increase the capacity of our Transitional Living Program (TLP) from six to ten. Each additional bed would provide another young adult with safe housing, life skills, and the support needed to move toward independence.
TLP Caseworker Gilbert Cuellar recently shared the story of a young man who entered Shelter's program after receiving one final opportunity through Cook County's SEED diversion program. Before arriving at Shelter, he was moving from one family member's home to another, struggling to meet his basic needs.
"Once he had stable housing, he could focus on completing the program instead of putting all his energy into surviving," Gilbert said.
Today, that young man has completed the diversion program, is employed, and is preparing for independent living.
His story reflects the impact of Shelter's Transitional Living Program, which provides up to two years of housing, supportive relationships, and life skills to young adults facing housing instability and at times, navigating mental health challenges or previous involvement with the juvenile justice system.
Director of Residential Programs Caitlyn Lierman explains, "The need for these services continues to exceed the available capacity—not only within our program, but throughout the Chicagoland area."
When asked what the community can do to help, Gilbert's answer was simple: "Give people grace." Behind every statistic is a young person with potential and often the first step toward changing a life is giving someone the opportunity to succeed.
Shelter’s TLP is licensed through the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services and is one of only 23 programs of its kind in the state.
After nearly eight years serving as Shelter’s CEO, Carina H. Santa Maria will transition from her role in September as she pursues a candidacy for the Illinois State Senate. Since sharing her plans in 2025, Shelter’s Board of Directors has been thoughtfully preparing for this leadership transition to ensure a smooth path forward.
“Carina’s leadership has been transformational for Shelter and for the countless children and families whose lives have been touched by our services,” said Lindsay Tintera, President of the Board of Directors. “While we are incredibly proud of her continued commitment to public service, we are equally committed to ensuring a smooth and thoughtful transition that builds upon the strong foundation she has created."
As part of that transition, Carina has been working closely with Chief Development Officer Kristen Daniels, who will take on expanded responsibilities in the months ahead to support continuity and stability.
“Shelter’s mission has always been bigger than any one individual,” said Carina. “I am incredibly proud of what our team has accomplished together and confident in Shelter’s future.”
Shelter’s Board will share more updates in the coming months as we continue building on the strong foundation created by our staff, supporters, and community partners.
FOCUS ON FOSTER CARE Strengthening Children, Families, and Our Team
This past month, two children who spent nearly a decade in the child welfare system finally heard the words they had been waiting for: "You are home." Their adoption was made possible through the unwavering advocacy of Shelter's Foster Care team and everyone who stood by them along the way.
This adoption marked 22 children who achieved permanency through Shelter Youth & Family Services in the last year—an incredible 34% of our team's caseload. These life-changing outcomes included eight reunifications with biological parents, eight adoptions, and six guardianships, giving more children the stability, safety, and lasting connections they deserve.
Supporting those who care for children is also critical to successful outcomes. Recently, Shelter Caseworkers teamed up with Emergency Foster Care parents to participate in the "Shared Waters" resilience workshop through Charted Growth, which focused on navigating transition, responsibility, and emotional fatigue.
In addition, positive results rely upon skilled and committed staff. Congratulations to Shelter's Licensing Specialist Agata Nechev for earning her Master of Social Work (MSW) degree. We are so proud of our employees who are dedicated to continuing education and excellence.
Shelter Youth & Family Services' Healthy Families Program, in partnership with Legacy Medical Center and Brightpoint, has launched Parents Care & Share (Padres Cariñosos que Comparten)—a free, Spanish-speaking support group for new and expectant mothers across Chicago's northwest suburbs.
If you know a Spanish-speaking mom who could benefit from connection, encouragement, and parenting resources, please share this opportunity.
"The goal of Shelter's Healthy Families Program is to support new parents during the first five years of a child's life when healthy development and strong family bonds are established. By creating a Spanish-speaking community where mothers feel understood, supported and connected, we are helping both parents and children build the foundation they need to thrive."
Thank you, Dr. Rebecca (far right) and Reynolds Provisions for donating care packages filled with comfort items for children entering our emergency shelters. These small gifts provide warmth and connection at a time when children may be experiencing trauma or crisis.
Strong Partnerships Create Stronger Communities
Shelter's Chief Development Officer, Kristen Daniels (left), and Healthy Families Program Supervisor, Diane Levy (right), joined Endeavor Health Behavioral Health on June 18 to celebrate the opening of their new outpatient behavioral health facility in Palatine.
We're proud to partner with Endeavor Health through its Community Investment Fund, which supports local nonprofits working to improve lives and expand access to care.
Through this grant, Shelter was able to purchase two vehicles that help clients get to medical appointments, school, and other essential services. When transportation barriers are removed, opportunities for health, stability, and success grow. Is your company or organization interested in becoming a Shelter Champion? Contact Kristen Daniels, Chief Development Officer.
Partners Making a Difference
Thanks to the invaluable support of partner organizations this past month, more youth and families in our community found safety, stability, and hope.
Vernon Township for a generous grant in support of Shelter services provided to Township residents
Emergency Foster Parent Q & A Tuesday, July 28 6:00-7:30 p.m. (in person or virtually) Moretti's Restaurant in Bedford Park
Learn about becoming an Emergency Foster parent with Shelter. We especially encourage bilingual Spanish-speaking families, educators, healthcare professionals, first responders, and individuals with parenting or special needs experience to attend. Register
“Night in the Heights” Wednesday, July 29 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. North School Park
Join Shelter at this inaugural community event organized by the Village of Arlington Heights and Arlington Heights Police Department. Enjoy live music, food trucks, kids’ activities and games, and more. Learn more
Rep the Cause You Care About Shelter’s swag store is always open! When you shop our apparel, drinkware, and accessories, you’re not just showing your support — you’re helping children and families find safety, stability, and hope. Shop today
Now Hiring: Staff Accountant
Shelter Youth & Family Services is seeking a proactive, solutions-focused Staff Accountant to join our team. If you have hands-on experience with QuickBooks and BILL, enjoy improving processes, and want your work to make a direct impact on youth and families in our community, we'd love to hear from you.
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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