Illinois Collaboration On Youth

The Intersection of LGBTQ+ Identity and Systems
2025-10-07 10:00 - 12:00 (America/Chicago) | https://icoyouth-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/5EYT41LqT3KGqyrNBbJvRw
Over 30% of youth in the child welfare + justice systems identify as LGBTQIA2S+. Why is this percentage over 3X as much as their representation in the general population? This session will explore the complex and compounding factors that put queer youth at high risk for system involvement. Together we will unpack the societal factors, stigmas, and biases that LGBTQ+ people face historically and contemporarily. Using this knowledge, we will review the protective role service providers have in supporting this population, and best practices to uplift youth in our care to be safe, healthy, supported, and thriving in their individual and communal identities.
Two continuing education credits will be offered for this training. If you would like to request CEUs, you may do so in the evaluation sent after completing this training. For more information on ICOY’s training attendance policy please see here: https://www.icoyouth.org/attendance-policy/

CBAT-O Live Demonstration
2025-10-07 13:00 - 14:00 | https://icoyouth-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/iHVUpIB_RNWzkec8xe8rOA
This live demonstration will support participants in learning how to complete the CBAT-O with detailed step-by-step instructions. This session allows attendees to ask individualized questions regarding the CBAT-O process. If attendees are still seeking support, we encourage them to sign up for our office hours.

Overview of eCornerstone
2025-10-08 09:00 - 11:00 | https://icoyouth-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/MMYG38iNRcmL_U9BRkjhRw
This introductory training will provide participants with an overview of the eCornerstone system including specific data entry information for CCBYS, Redeploy, Teen REACH and Homeless Youth programs. Participants will walk through the process of logging in to eCornerstone and entering client data from enrollment to discharge. By the end of the training, participants will be able to accurately enter client information and successfully utilize the software.
Two continuing education units (CEUs) will be available for participants with social work and professional counseling licenses (LSW, LCSW, LPC, LCPC). If you would like to request CEUs, you may do so in the evaluation survey sent after completing this training. For more information on ICOY’s training attendance policy please see here: https://www.icoyouth.org/attendance-policy/
Trainer: Sam Sorensen

Casey Life Skills
2025-10-15 10:00 - 13:30 | https://icoyouth-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/Oc5DrMDQSASNtd7kRqgpkg
Please join us for this Casey Life skills training, developed by Casey Family Programs, which teaches youth providers how to use life skills assessments with youth in homeless youth and transitioning youth programs. Casey assessments also have applications in a variety of other youth service programs including basic centers, street outreach programs, educational outreach programs and other positive youth development programs. Participants in this training will learn how to partner with young people to assess and develop appropriate case plans and how to use free life skills resources to point young people toward success.
Three continuing education units (CEUs) will be available for participants with social work and professional counseling licenses (LSW, LCSW, LPC, LCPC). If you would like to request CEUs, you may do so in the evaluation survey sent after completing this training. For more information on ICOY’s training attendance policy please see here: https://www.icoyouth.org/attendance-policy/
Trainer: Cheris Larson

Engaged and Empowered: Fundamentals to Trauma-Informed Youth Engagement
2025-10-16 10:00 - 12:00
In this training we will discuss and explore what makes for meaningful youth engagement. To do this, we will unpack the impact of systemic barriers and reframe our understanding of what engagement really means. Through a framework of power-sharing, we will practice skills to increase youth trust and enhance sustainable youth buy-in.
In-Person location: College of Lake County – Lakeshore Campus 33 N Genesee St, Waukegan, IL 60085 Room: S116
Two continuing education credits will be offered for this training. If you would like to request CEUs, you may do so in the evaluation sent after completing this training. For more information on ICOY’s training attendance policy please see here: https://www.icoyouth.org/attendance-policy/

Child Welfare Coalition Call
2025-10-17 11:00 - 12:00, 2025-10-31 11:00 - 12:00 | https://icoyouth-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/dYqxJT7kRpqNQ1yadG9OVg#/registration
Join ICOY and other member organizations on a call to discuss key changes in the child welfare and youth-led arena.
The goal is to create a child welfare system that prepares youth to become successful and self-sufficient. Illinois Collaboration on Youth (ICOY) seeks to focus the attention of Illinois’ elected officials in all branches of government on the systematic challenges facing the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) and the private agencies that deliver many of the services within their communities.
We work continuously with lawmakers and other stakeholders to educate them about the impact of nearly two decades of neglect of this system, and to advocate for the investments and reforms that are needed to fund and sustain the community-based providers of child welfare services.
These calls will take place twice a month and we are asking that all participants register to join.

Restorative Justice 201: Practicing the Principles
2025-10-21 10:00 - 12:00 | https://icoyouth-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/gLEwGc4VSbOt9Wr5Uf7vLA
Restorative Justice 201: Practicing the Principles is a 2 hour virtual training that builds on RJ 101 by exploring how restorative justice principles come to life in complex, real-world situations. Through interactive discussion and applied scenarios, participants will deepen their understanding of shared power, trauma-informed practice, and the role of restorative justice in systems involving court-involved youth. The session will also introduce transformative justice as a complementary framework that pushes even more beyond systems-based approaches. Designed for practitioners working in schools, community-based programs, and youth-serving systems, this training centers healing, accountability, and community repair. Participants will leave with practical tools and deeper insight into embodying restorative justice with care.
Two continuing education units (CEUs) will be available for participants with social work and professional counseling licenses (LSW, LCSW, LPC, LCPC). If you would like to request CEUs, you may do so in the evaluation survey sent after completing this training. For more information on ICOY’s training attendance policy please see here: https://www.icoyouth.org/attendance-policy/
Trainer: Karlyn Boens

LGBTQ+ Learning Community
2025-11-03 11:00 - 12:00, 2025-12-01 11:00 - 12:00
Join us for our monthly LGBTQ+ Learning Community, facilitated by Marlee Goodman, ICOY’s LGBTQ+ Liaison, HRC, and Training & Trauma Initiatives Specialist. These 1-hour conversational and informational sessions will create a space to bring together leaders in the field committed to advancing the rights, safety, and authenticity of queer youth, families, and service providers across the state. Together we will discuss common topics that impact our work and these communities. During these sessions, participants will have the opportunity to collectively share experiences, while crowd-sourcing potential solutions, supports, and resources. Each session will be inclusive and empathetic of ways to support program participants by using a hopeful and non-judgmental approach rooted in collective care and liberation.

Please note that this event is not a training, and as such, no Certificate of Attendance or CEUs will be provided. Everyone is welcome to attend!

Introduction to Motivational Interviewing
2025-11-03 12:00 - 16:00 | https://icoyouth-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/vkg4K_uzRCOHfXD8juYUiA
This ICOY training provides an overview of motivational interviewing and its key elements for effective practice: Values, Ambivalence, Empathy, the Spirit of MI, O.A.R.S, and Eliciting Change Talk. The main focus of motivational interviewing is to partner with the individual to enhance motivation and utilize ambivalence to build a successful plan for making change. Compared with other non-directive counseling, this method is focused and guiding, allowing for more partnership and collaboration.
Please Note: This training is highly interactive and full participation is expected. All participants are required to engage in group discussions, breakout room activities, and have both audio and video on for the duration of the session. Failure to actively participate may affect your eligibility to receive attendance credit, a Certificate of Attendance (COA), or Continuing Education Units (CEUs).Four continuing education units (CEUs) will be available for participants with social work and professional counseling licenses (LSW, LCSW, LPC, LCPC). If you would like to request CEUs, you may do so in the evaluation survey sent after completing this training. For more information on ICOY’s training attendance policy please see here: https://www.icoyouth.org/attendance-policy/

Trainer: Dr. Lori Egizio

Casey Life Skills
2025-11-04 10:00 - 13:30 | https://icoyouth-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/pja5yPRtRtqGyzLhj0BgrA
Please join us for this Casey Life skills training, developed by Casey Family Programs, which teaches youth providers how to use life skills assessments with youth in homeless youth and transitioning youth programs. Casey assessments also have applications in a variety of other youth service programs including basic centers, street outreach programs, educational outreach programs and other positive youth development programs. Participants in this training will learn how to partner with young people to assess and develop appropriate case plans and how to use free life skills resources to point young people toward success.
Three continuing education units (CEUs) will be available for participants with social work and professional counseling licenses (LSW, LCSW, LPC, LCPC). If you would like to request CEUs, you may do so in the evaluation survey sent after completing this training. For more information on ICOY’s training attendance policy please see here: https://www.icoyouth.org/attendance-policy/
Trainer: Sam Hall

The Impact of Trauma on Youth
2025-11-06 10:00 - 12:00 | https://icoyouth-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/wVvatTPTRNiegqCbQKmt7g
During this session participants will dive into understanding the profound impact of trauma on youth. Participants will receive a comprehensive understanding of trauma responses including their relation to Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), brain development, behavior, and more. Additionally, there will be opportunities to explore the concept of Positive Childhood Experiences (PCEs), emphasizing the potential for resilience and growth even in adverse circumstances. Participants can expect to engage in meaningful discussions and learn trauma-informed care response strategies aimed at nurturing resilient youth and supporting families.
Two continuing education credits will be offered for this training. If you would like to request CEUs, you may do so in the evaluation sent after completing this training. For more information on ICOY’s training attendance policy please see here: https://www.icoyouth.org/attendance-policy/

Community Trauma and Resiliency
2025-11-07 09:00 - 11:00 | https://icoyouth-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/9xIolYzpQ6WnLtbLW3o-0A
This session is designed to provide a deeper understanding of community trauma and the systems that cause and perpetuate harm. Participants will identify risk factors driving community violence and its impacts on communities, providers, and respective work they do. Participants can expect to leave the training session with knowledge and tools to address community trauma and build resilient communities.
Two continuing education credits will be offered for this training. If you would like to request CEUs, you may do so in the evaluation sent after completing this training. For more information on ICOY’s training attendance policy please see here: https://www.icoyouth.org/attendance-policy/

ICOY Monthly Member Call
2025-11-12 12:00 - 13:00 | https://icoyouth-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZctfuygqjgpHNTYS3N7bidPfYUUlE0CJmK9
Register below for ICOY’s monthly member call where we’ll provide updates from state and federal agencies on topics related to your work. If you don’t currently belong to a member organization but would like to participate, reach out to ICOY’s Senior Manager of Communications & Outreach, Conor Van Santen, at cvansanten@icoyouth.org.

Trauma Informed De-Escalation
2025-11-13 10:00 - 12:00
This training will present an overview of the factors that can escalate a situation and/or individual. Together we will go through the escalation cycle and responses to each phase, work to understand how to identify our own and others’ conflict styles, trauma responses, and triggers. We will learn practical de-escalation principles and skills to support individuals in ways to engage in a trauma informed framework when facing escalation. Additionally, attendees will learn how to apply a trauma informed care lens to prioritize minimizing re-traumatization and additional harm.
In-Person location: Heartland Community College-Astroth Community Education Center
Address: 1500 W Raab Rd, Normal, IL 61761 Room: ACEC 2210

Two continuing education credits will be offered for this training. If you would like to request CEUs, you may do so in the evaluation sent after completing this training. For more information on ICOY’s training attendance policy please see here: https://www.icoyouth.org/attendance-policy/

ICOY x Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights (ICIRR) Know Your Rights Webinar
2025-11-13 14:00 - 15:00 | https://icoyouth-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_UE4m-iv0ROqU2-fHFJ22Bw?_gl=1*10o2dmd*_gcl_au*MTA4MjU2Mjc4LjE3NTYzMTc2NzUuMTg3NjA0NjY4OC4xNzYyMjc5NzI0LjE3NjIyNzk3MjM.*_ga*MTA0Mzk0MjYyNC4xNzMzMTcyNzkz*_ga_L8TBF28DDX*czE3NjI0NDU4OTQkbzEyMyRnMSR0MTc2MjQ0NjEyNCRqNjAkbDAkaDA.#/registration
Join ICOY as we welcome Andre Gordillo from the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights (ICIRR) for a Know Your Rights webinar presentation. Given the federal action against immigrant communities in and around Illinois, this webinar will help providers get informed about what to do (and what not to do) if and when they interact with federal immigration authorities such as ICE.
The webinar will cover the following key content areas:
Federal Policies & Priorities – Understand current laws and enforcement priorities.
Learn About Your Rights – Know what you and your family are legally entitled to.
Prepare Safety Plans – Make plans for emergencies at home, school, or work.
Report Incidents – Document and share any encounters with law enforcement safely.
Practice – learn how to put all of these things in practice so you and your family know how to respond.

Trauma Informed Supervision for Supervisors
2025-11-14 09:00 - 11:00 | https://icoyouth-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/Qsxyh86YS3uTXBmaTGIegg
This training session is designed for supervisors, managers, and senior leadership to enhance team support and build vital supervisory networks. Together we will explore trauma-informed supervision techniques focusing on relationship building, conflict management, and effective communication strategies. Finally, participants will discuss skills to create a trauma-informed environment for both staff and clients.
Two continuing education credits will be offered for this training. If you would like to request CEUs, you may do so in the evaluation sent after completing this training. For more information on ICOY’s training attendance policy please see here: https://www.icoyouth.org/attendance-policy/

Postive Youth Development
2025-11-17 12:00 - 15:00 | https://icoyouth-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/2ghElQ5NSMuA3pzL1jCl4Q
Understanding Youth Development: Harnessing the Power to Transform Individuals and Communities: History / Core Concepts / Practical Application
This module provides participants the opportunity to ground themselves within the history and theory that have led to positive youth development. Core principles and concepts of youth development as a model to create organizational and community change is offered in contrast to traditional youth services model. Participants have the opportunity to explore practical applications of the model through small group work.
Three continuing education units (CEUs) will be available for participants with social work and professional counseling licenses (LSW, LCSW, LPC, LCPC). If you would like to request CEUs, you may do so in the evaluation survey sent after completing this training. For more information on ICOY’s training attendance policy please see here: https://www.icoyouth.org/attendance-policy/
Trainers: LYTE Collective

Grant Writing 201: Distinct & Unique- Setting Your Organization Apart from Other Grant Applicants
2025-11-18 09:30 - 12:30 | https://icoyouth-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/Un9j2qA2TF-BkVk_TWpvDw
Imagine a grant officer sitting in front of the stack of proposals she received today. How do you ensure that she forwards your proposal on for review? Imagine a grant reader who has two days to review a dozen grant proposals. How do you increase your chances that he will read past your executive summary? Imagine several organizations similar to yours submitting proposals similar to yours. How do you make your proposal stand out from the rest? Although there are no guarantees to securing grants, there are many strategies you can use to distinguish yourself from other applicants.
Trainer: Kristin Olson

CCBYS Management Meeting
2025-11-18 10:00 - 12:30 | https://icoyouth-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/keDbaLrXTJq0snAAkyU8fA
Please join us for the quarterly CCBYS Management Meeting. As a reminder, this meeting is mandatory for each program with the purpose of increasing communication across programs and with the state. Please note: this meeting is only open to organizations that currently receive CCBYS funding from IDHS.

CCBYS 101
2025-12-01 09:30 - 13:00 | https://icoyouth-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/PMVh_pLsTHezZbMOsAbhnA
Join us for this webinar to learn what you need to know in order to effectively provide Comprehensive Community-Based Youth Services (CCBYS) and comply with program regulations.
This training is perfect for crisis workers and new supervisors. Through lectures, case studies, group exercises and role play, participants will learn how to work with youth and their families; how to interact effectively with partners in the community including law enforcement officers, school personnel and child welfare workers; and how to initiate effective case management for clients.
Three Continuing Education Units (CEUs) will be available for participants with social work and professional counseling licenses (LSW, LCSW, LPC, LCPC). If you would like to request CEUs, you may do so in the evaluation survey sent after completing this training. For more information on ICOY’s training attendance policy please see here: https://www.icoyouth.org/attendance-policy/
Trainer: Tiana Cody

Youth Experiencing Housing Instability 101
2025-12-02 10:00 - 2025-12-03 12:00 | https://icoyouth-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/qVAuSjVwSEqOTTtrz3IfWA
This two-day webinar provides supervisory and front-line staff working in DHS funded Homeless Youth programs with essential information they need to ensure effective practice and compliance with the program’s regulations.
Participants will learn how to best engage homeless youth and create the environments and programs that most effectively meet their needs. During this training we will review some of the unique needs and characteristics of the homeless youth population and provide an introduction to best practices for working with these young people through case studies, group discussions, and linkages to resources. Additionally, the workshop will provide information about DHS requirements for Homeless Youth programs, so staff and supervisors can understand how to ensure their compliance with their contract obligations.
Four continuing education units (CEUs) will be available for participants with social work and professional counseling licenses (LSW, LCSW, LPC, LCPC). If you would like to request CEUs, you may do so in the evaluation survey sent after completing this training. For more information on ICOY’s training attendance policy please see here: https://www.icoyouth.org/attendance-policy/
Trainer: Sam Sorensen

Overview of eCornerstone
2025-12-04 10:00 - 12:00 | https://icoyouth-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/xHeAPBagRrC412wv9Gl9ww
This introductory training will provide participants with an overview of the eCornerstone system including specific data entry information for CCBYS, Redeploy, Teen REACH and Homeless Youth programs. Participants will walk through the process of logging in to eCornerstone and entering client data from enrollment to discharge. By the end of the training, participants will be able to accurately enter client information and successfully utilize the software.
Two continuing education units (CEUs) will be available for participants with social work and professional counseling licenses (LSW, LCSW, LPC, LCPC).If you would like to request CEUs, you may do so in the evaluation survey sent after completing this training.
For more information on ICOY’s training attendance policy please see here: https://www.icoyouth.org/attendance-policy/
Trainer: Sam Sorensen

IYIP 3473 Management Meeting
2025-12-04 10:00 - 12:30 | https://icoyouth-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/PmlDL-uWSnmcDN45essHHg
Hello, IYIP 3473 providers! Please join us for today’s management meeting for IYIP providers. As a reminder, this meeting is virtual and is mandatory for each program with the purpose of increasing communication across programs and with the state.

Trauma and Juvenile Delinquency
2025-12-04 12:00 - 14:00 | https://icoyouth-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/tBWEn852QneDxdNHo4McfQ
In this session, participants will examine the critical intersection between trauma and juvenile delinquency, with a focus on how adverse childhood experiences shape youth behavior and involvement in the legal system. The training will help participants identify the characteristics that define “”at-risk”” and “high-risk” youth, while offering practical insights into trauma-informed strategies. Attendees will leave with actionable tools and key focus areas for effectively engaging and supporting high-risk youth through a trauma-informed lens.
Two continuing education credits will be offered for this training. If you would like to request CEUs, you may do so in the evaluation sent after completing this training. For more information on ICOY’s training attendance policy please see here: https://www.icoyouth.org/attendance-policy/

Trauma and Grief
2025-12-05 10:00 - 12:00 | https://icoyouth-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/jHWqUgU9RUGW1KaTskopNw
Dr. Gabor Mate says the antidote to trauma is to grieve. In this session we will explore the many forms of grief through lenses spanning from internalized to environmental. We will explore the complex, compounding, and often ambiguous relationship between grief and trauma. Where does one start, and the other stop? Finally, we will embrace the power of grieving as a tool for healing and examine strategies, models, and practices we can implement with clients, communities, and even within ourselves.
Two continuing education credits will be offered for this training. If you would like to request CEUs, you may do so in the evaluation sent after completing this training. For more information on ICOY’s training attendance policy please see here: https://www.icoyouth.org/attendance-policy/

CYS 201
2025-12-08 10:00 - 13:00 | https://icoyouth-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/2Nv8T6_ESjqUVgZ-TjccNw
In this training, we will discuss building Area Project Boards, Community Committees, and Youth Committees with an emphasis on member retention. Engaging committees and retaining members is essential to the CYS program. Community engagement and activity implementation are the basis for the 8 objectives that CYS is grounded on. We will also dive into discussing how to engage your communities and implement activities to support delinquency and violence prevention in this training.
Three Continuing Education Units (CEUs) will be available for participants with social work and professional counseling licenses (LSW, LCSW, LPC, LCPC). If you would like to request CEUs, you may do so in the evaluation survey sent after completing this training. For more information on ICOY’s training attendance policy please see here: https://www.icoyouth.org/attendance-policy/
Trainer: Emily Middleton

Homeless Youth Management Meeting
2025-12-09 10:00 - 12:30 | https://icoyouth-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/4XPP25WWQ42ByY_bOvU6LQ
Please join us for the quarterly HY Management Meeting. As a reminder, this meeting is mandatory for each program with the purpose of increasing communication across programs and with the state. Please note: this meeting is only open to organizations that currently receive HY funding from IDHS.

Positive Workplace Culture
2025-12-10 09:30 - 11:30 | https://icoyouth-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/LUg2IDTeQkmAEzVKCT8qaw
This training is designed to help organizations cultivate a positive workplace culture that enhances employee satisfaction, productivity, and overall organizational success. Participants will learn the key components of a positive work environment, strategies to foster a supportive and inclusive culture, and practical tools for maintaining a healthy workplace.
Two Continuing Education Units (CEUs) will be available for participants with social work and professional counseling licenses (LSW, LCSW, LPC, LCPC). If you would like to request CEUs, you may do so in the evaluation survey sent after completing this training. For more information on ICOY’s training attendance policy please see here: https://www.icoyouth.org/attendance-policy/
Trainer: Heshima Mance
