Statement on Ashley Deckert’s Resignation
It is with mixed emotions that I share the news that Ashley Deckert has been nominated by Rhode Island Governor Daniel McKee to serve…
The Problem With Qualified Residential Treatment Programs in Illinois and the Solution to Repair It
by Ashley DeckertNovember 16, 2022 Illinois is no stranger to the youth mental health crisis and its impact on the state and more specifically…
Health and Human Services Workforce Symposium
Join Illinois Collaboration On Youth (ICOY) and Illinois Partners for Human Services for the first Health and Human Services Workforce Symposium. This hybrid event will support the health…
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…
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….
Child Welfare Workforce Crisis & the Pat McGuire Child Welfare Education Fellowship Program
Child Welfare Workforce Crisis In recent years, the child welfare system has experienced high rates of employee turnover. The workforce is struggling to retain…
Legislation in IL: School Standards for Sex Education and Life-Threatening Allergies
Recently, Governor JB Pritzker signed legislation that updates the state’s standards for sex education in K-12 schools. The voluntary standards will emphasize health, safety,…
Legislation in IL: Inclusive & Safe Learning Environments & Transgender Individuals’ Rights
In recent news, Governor JB Pritzker has signed multiple bills into legislation that directly impact youth in Illinois. Additionally, the “State Second District Appellate Court of Illinois affirmed the expansive protections of…
HB3821 Passes, Creating a Task Force to Examine Racial Disproportionality in the Child Welfare System
CHICAGO – Illinois parents and advocates pushing for critical changes to Illinois’ foster system are celebrating the passage of HB3821, which will create a…
Protect The Inalienable Right To Vote – And Our Democracy
Scores of Americans of all races and nationalities have relentlessly fought for years – and even died – to protect our right to vote….