A Few More Days to Purchase Your Tickets!

COME CELEBRATE FIVE DECADES OF MAKING A DIFFERENCE
Because of you, we've achieved incredible things, and there's so much more we can do together. Join us at our reimagined gala for an unforgettable evening of impact and hope. Come enjoy a unique culinary experience provided by Paramount Events, laughs supplied by The Second City Works, and music by DJ JL DeLeon! Silent and Live Auctions feature don't-miss experiences, including Family Glamping in the Grand Canyon, Nascar Driving, Bourbon Trail, and so much more. Be the bridge from Shelter's past to a brighter future for children and families in our community. 
Discover more event information and sponsorship opportunities.

Get your tickets by Friday, April 18!

Thank You to Our Sponsors

In Illinois, one in five children will be a victim of child abuse or neglect before the age of 18. The theme of this year's Child Abuse Prevention Month, Powered by Hope, Strengthened by Prevention, calls us to action to commit to a future where every child grows up safe, loved, and full of hope. Prevention isn’t just about avoiding harm – it’s about creating opportunities for families to thrive. Learn more about the protective factors that help parents find the resources, support, and coping strategies they need to parent effectively, even under stress. Research has shown that when Protective Factors are established in a family, the likelihood of child abuse and neglect diminishes. Download this image to tell your social network that you support child abuse prevention. 

From left: Caitlyn Lierman, Residential Director, Gina Ciulla, Associate Director, Carina H. Santa Maria, Executive Director, Congressman Danny Davis, and colleagues from Bright Point.

Talking Child Welfare in Washington D.C.

Last week, Shelter staff attended the Child Welfare League of America (CWLA) National Conference, “Inspiring Change, Igniting Progress," in Washington, DC. Our team met with Senators Durbin and Duckworth, and Congressman Danny Davis (pictured), along with practitioners and innovators from across the country to explore new strategies, share insights, and inspire action to advance family and community well-being. Executive Director, Carina H. Santa Maria, also presented, EOS: Not Just for Fortune 500 Companies, How Nonprofits Can Thrive, a workshop on a business management system Shelter has implemented.

Palatine Students Will Receive Free Counseling

We are so excited to share that thanks to funding from the Cook County Office of Behavioral Health’s Stronger Together grant, Shelter Youth and Family Services is now a community partner with Palatine School District 15 and will provide free mental health services to students within the district, increasing access to youth and families. When we work together, we can accomplish great things!   

Congratulations, Carina!

On April 1, voters in Arlington Heights chose Shelter's Executive Director, Carina H. Santa Maria, to serve as a Trustee. This unique opportunity positions Carina to advocate for policies that align with Shelter’s mission--increasing support for social services, expanding access to care, addressing housing issues, and ensuring strong partnerships between municipalities and social service providers. In her role as both Executive Director and Trustee, Carina will elevate the voice of vulnerable youth and families in local government conversations.

National Volunteer Week is April 20-26
To our dedicated volunteers who give their time, their knowledge, and their hearts… a huge THANK YOU! Your support helps Shelter’s mission and vision continue and provides a lifeline to the youth and families in our community.

Are you passionate about making a difference? Do you want to contribute to creating a safe and supportive environment for our community's youth? Shelter is seeking a dedicated professional to fill the new role of CSEC (Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children) Program Supervisor at our new home for survivors. Join our team and make a lasting impact.