Shifting the Narrative on Abuse and Neglect
Recently, the ICOY Policy Team hosted a panel discussion, “Shifting the Narrative on Abuse and Neglect.” It focused on prevention, policy solutions, and the…
Coming Around Full Circle
I grew up on the south side of Chicago. My mother always emphasized the importance of staying engaged in youth organizations. She felt as…
National Mental Health & Trauma Awareness Month
May marks National Mental Health Awareness Month and National Trauma Awareness Month. This month I reflect on my previous and current work with trauma…
Black History Month Highlight: Project Oz
During Black History Month, ICOY invited member organizations to join the celebration by submitting a blog post highlighting a black hero who has impacted…
Meet the Rising. Elevating. And. Leading. (R.E.A.L.) Youth Initiative
Background of the R.E.A.L. Youth Initiative Rising. Elevating. And. Leading. Youth Initiative (R.E.A.L.) is an unassociated group facilitated by previously incarcerated young people. It…
Meaningful Strategies to Address DCFS/ POS Worker Safety
In the wake of two murders of child welfare workers while on the job, keeping frontline staff and families safe is our top priority….
Homeless & Runaway Youth
Every year, the rate of American families becoming homeless increases. This includes more than 1.6 million children. Furthermore, homeless children are four times more…
Suicide Prevention Month
Authored by: ICOY Trauma Specialist Heshima Mance and ICOY Trauma Intern Emily Waskowitz As September comes to a close, the ICOY Trauma Team reflected…
Back to School with COVID-19
“The COVID-19 vaccines have done an extraordinary job of stamping out disease and death. But as the hypertransmissible Delta variant hammers the United States,…
LGBTQI+ Pride Month: Transgender Awareness
At ICOY, we champion the safety, health and success of Illinois’ children, youth, and families. Within this mission, we strive to create an inclusive…