Illinois Collaboration On Youth

Trauma Talks: Resilience After Sexual Trauma
2026-04-07 13:00 - 15:00 (America/Chicago) | https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1485349613679?aff=oddtdtcreator
This training will investigate the prevalence of child sexual abuse and sexual trafficking while exploring its impact on youth development specifically pertaining to possible social emotional consequences. This content will highlight the family and community systems and structures that create environments of vulnerability and lead to significant risk factors in youth. Finally, participants will gain an understanding of challenges of expressing the impact of these experiences and give providers tangible tools to support youth in their healing.
Please note, this event/training is not affiliated with or in partnership with IDHS. Everyone is welcome to attend!
Content Warning: Please note that this topic will touch on sensitive topics related to trauma such as the prevalence of child sexual abuse, sexual trafficking, their impacts, and the familial, communal, and societal structures and circumstances that put youth at risk for these experiences. Please be aware that some content may be distressing or triggering for individuals with personal and professional experiences of these and related traumas and challenges. While facilitators will include content warnings for prepared materials, please be aware that there may be self or case related disclosures from participants. We encourage you to practice self-care and feel free to step away at any time. For any additional needs or resources please reach out to our team at trauma_initiatives@icoyouth.org
ICOY currently offers Continuing Education Units (CEUs) for participants with active Social Work and Professional Counseling licenses (LSW, LCSW, LPC, LCPC) only. All CEU requests must be made in the evaluation form.
About the Facilitaor:
Marlee Goodman (she/her) – Marlee Goodman has a strong foundation in direct service, with experience in grief, affinity spaces and identity, community building, and advocacy. Currently serving as a Training + Trauma Specialist, and LGBTQ+ Liaison at ICOY, she leads CARES, ICOY’s for-hire Trauma-Informed Services, and facilitates training and capacity-building to support service providers with gaining tools, skills, and knowledge about trauma-informed care. As an LGBTQ+ Liaison she ensures that ICOY is meeting the needs of organizations serving queer children, youth, families, and service providers across the state. Marlee use trauma-informed principles, restorative and reparative models, and intersectionality to guide every aspect of her work. Her approach to content and facilitation is rooted in her commitment to supporting organizations in their journey to not only dismantle oppressive systems, but to center communities in making healing accessible and sustainable.

LGBTQ+ Learning Community
2026-04-06 11:00 - 12:00 | https://icoyouth-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/bXgD5GkPSPOdD_iB1-BeWw
Join us for our monthly LGBTQ+ Learning Community, facilitated by Marlee Goodman, ICOY’s LGBTQ+ Liaison, HRC, and Manager of Healing-Centered Community Support. 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!

Child Welfare Coalition Call
2026-04-03 11:00 - 12:00, 2026-03-20 11:00 - 12:00, 2026-03-06 11:00 - 12:00 | https://icoyouth-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/Yp_omhpyRjubXz0_6PtQ4A
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.

SavvyFi's Student Loan Wake-Up Call: Are You on the Right Path?
2026-04-02 12:30 - 13:30 | https://icoyouth-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/VNL2gi4pT-C6bPqSu9y__w
SavvyFi’s Student Loan Wake-Up Call: Are You on the Right Path?
Open to all employees of ICOY member organizations

Whether you’re in default on your student loan payments, unsure about your repayment plan, working toward Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF), or holding Parent PLUS loans that may require consolidation before July, this session will help you understand where you stand and what to do next.
You’ll learn:

How to find all your loans and balances
How to get out of default
How to confirm your PSLF progress
What to know about Parent PLUS consolidation deadlines
Recent legislative updates that may affect forgiveness

We’ll also answer your questions live.
If you’ve been avoiding your loans, or just aren’t sure you’re on the right path, this session is for you.
Contact Sr. Manager of Communications & Outreach Conor Van Santen with any questions.

Building Safer Programming By Community Connections
2026-03-31 10:30 - 12:00
Organizations that support the underserved often face challenges to their staff safety. This training focuses on bolstering programs’ internal safety strategies while also bolstering the external footprint.

1.5 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/

Scale Up Your SEL: Define It
2026-03-25 11:00 - 12:30 | https://icoyouth-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/Mov8HSceQOeC1Zuq8BNq-g
Social Emotional Learning (SEL) is an integral part of youth development, but what does “SEL” truly mean within the unique context of your program? In this workshop, “Scale Up Your SEL: Define It,” we will move through the core components of social emotional learning and collaboratively develop a clear, shared understanding tailored to your specific site’s needs and goals. Using established frameworks, such as the widely recognized CASEL 5 competencies participants will reflect on their current program’s unique environment, population, and existing practices to identify how SEL is already present and where there are opportunities for growth. This session is designed for all youth development providers, from frontline staff to program leaders. Come ready to share insights, engage in collaborative problem-solving, and lay the groundwork for a robust, site-specific SEL framework that empowers both your staff and the youth you serve.
Learning Objectives:
* Articulate the five core competencies of social emotional learning using a common framework.
* Identify specific examples of SEL skills as they currently appear in their daily program activities.
* Develop a preliminary action plan for establishing a common language and understanding of SEL among all site staff and stakeholders.
Trainer: Naomi Oster

Overview of eCornerstone
2026-03-24 10:00 - 12:00 | https://icoyouth-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/l88x280pQHa7k_zELf8pHw
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

Restorative Justice 101: Understanding the Relation-Based Discipline
2026-03-23 10:00 - 12:00 | https://icoyouth-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/o0tC13akRIuHMx0oTdx0DQ
In this session, we will create a baseline definition and understanding of what Restorative Justice is, the various ways it can be employed, and the power of change it incurs, because it is rooted in relational awareness of self and community.
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: Christian Simpson

Trauma and Juvenile Delinquency
2026-03-19 12:00 - 14:00 | https://icoyouth-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/jFkyrgurQc2G86D5bn5Wew
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/

Illinois Youth Investment Program (IYIP) 3473 Management Meeting
2026-03-19 10:00 - 12:30 | https://icoyouth-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/2EPB618JTwuGNtov_clLtQ
Please join us for a virtual management meeting for IYIP 3473 providers! As a reminder, this meeting is mandatory for each program grantee with the purpose of increasing communication across programs and with the state. Please note this meeting is for IYIP 3473 providers only!

Restorative Justice 201
2026-03-18 10:00 - 12:00 | https://icoyouth-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/lofGnnwFTHOlQxGh-_wGEg
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

Developmental Trauma and Maternal Stress
2026-03-16 13:00 - 15:00 | https://icoyouth-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/FkTV69psT3G_zEXjjUFk1Q
This session offers attendees a foundational understanding of how trauma and stress can impact us even before birth. While it’s often assumed that children are naturally resilient to stress and trauma, true resilience is dependent on the context and wider systems in which a child develops. Together, we’ll explore key concepts such as maternal buffering, epigenetics, serve and return, and neuroplasticity, examining how these factors can either support or hinder the development of resilience intergenerationally.

Trainer: Marlee Goodman

Comprehensive Community Based Youth Services (CCBYS) Supervisor Training
2026-03-16 10:00 - 12:30 | https://icoyouth-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/Gw8l_2tKSXeairdtLNDIFA
Through interactive engagement, this training will define the role of CCBYS supervisor and administrators by looking at standards, juvenile court act, MRAI, and agency practice.  During this two- and half-hour webinar, we will share important skills and day-to-day learning needed for new staff.  We will also focus on how to engage discretionary clients, community outreach, and community partners. By the end of the training, our goal is to have a set of FAQ for all supervisors to use and a shared understanding of program standards.
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: Tiana Cody

Trauma-Informed and Culturally Responsive Practice: Crisis Recognition and Responses
2026-03-13 09:00 - 10:30 | https://icoyouth-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/d1bFTuQVR2OBrgYr-VVJNw
Crisis Recognition and Responses prepares service professionals to recognize how trauma influences behavior and engagement while applying cultural humility and intersectional awareness. It guides them in effectively managing suicidality, self-harm, and behavioral escalation with sensitivity and competence. The approach also emphasizes thorough safety planning and meeting mandated reporting responsibilities to protect client well-being
Trainer: Heshima Mance

Engaged and Empowered: Fundamentals to Trauma-Informed Youth Engagement
2026-03-12 10:00 - 12:00 | https://www.eventbrite.com/e/engaged-and-empowered-fundamentals-to-trauma-informed-youth-engagement-tickets-1981254927823?aff=oddtdtcreator
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.
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/
Please note that this will be an IN-PERSON training in Northern, IL. Register below!

ICOY Monthly Member Call
2026-03-11 12:00 - 13:00, 2026-02-25 12:00 - 13:00 | https://icoyouth-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/rnBsuXFtSqiNaIICo7AUPg
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.

Community Trauma and Resiliency
2026-03-11 10:00 - 12:00 | https://icoyouth-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/OvrIh_QXThKuDKASZi2ifg
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/

Casey Life Skills
2026-03-10 10:00 - 13:30 | https://icoyouth-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/kVhgK0zuQmWjqGnMgoseXw
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

Restoring Love to Justice: Love, Violence Interruption, & Restorative Care
2026-03-10 10:00 - 12:00 | https://icoyouth-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/ewR8m8x4QcOqd_j-pvtMSQ
Grounded in youth development and community healing, this session explores how love and care can be powerful tools in interrupting cycles of violence. Participants will learn restorative approaches that build trust, safety, and accountability in youth-centered spaces.
Trainer: Issac Carter

The Impact of Trauma on Youth
2026-03-06 09:00 - 11:00 | https://icoyouth-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/IVHf9KuMTueyjyx_GJ5Kfw
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/

CBAT-O Learning Communities
2026-03-05 13:00 - 15:00 | https://icoyouth-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/iDA829zVSyGUR0Eph25fhQ
These learning communities offer a dedicated space to support shared learning, peer-to-peer connection, and organization-wide action planning. Both sessions will be held virtually and will feature presenters who will share their journeys and approaches to strengthening trauma-informed care practices based on their experience utilizing the CBAT-O. Participants will also have time to work independently on a SWOT analysis informed by their CBAT-O report and results.

Community Youth Services (CYS) 101
2026-03-03 10:00 - 13:00 | https://icoyouth-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/kFydo3YASbWIkEqB3rAdZg
The purpose of CYS 101 is to engage providers in intentional, productive, and constructive ways to fulfill grant requirements while recognizing and enhancing their strengths. Training will promote positive outcomes by providing opportunities, fostering positive relationships, and giving the support that is needed to develop mechanisms that enhance program goals and objectives. Topics to be covered include, assessments, reporting, outreach, committee development and engagement.
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
2026-03-03 10:00 - 12:30 | https://icoyouth-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/vmPFwj9pS02uEmhBjXOb2A
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.

CBAT-O Learning Communities
2026-03-02 10:00 - 12:00 | https://icoyouth-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/28iIkqUkTJOSpPLXnzdSyQ

Guiding, Not Telling: Using Motivational Interviewing to Shape Session Focus Together
2026-02-27 09:00 - 12:00 | https://icoyouth-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/kuSTBB7vQfuMxvQWPqehYw
Participants will learn how to collaboratively develop agendas and guide conversations in ways that support, rather than steer, the people they serve. This session introduces core MI strategies for establishing focus while honoring autonomy, enhancing engagement, and creating a shared sense of direction for the work ahead.
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: Gabriela Zapata-Alma

Managing Unconscious Bias
2026-02-25 09:30 - 11:30 | https://icoyouth-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/YdGZNDZXRuSc2p__sWzcKA
Recognize, understand, and manage unconscious bias to create a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive (DEI) workplace. Participants will explore the nature of unconscious bias, its impact on decision-making and behavior, and strategies to mitigate its effects.
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

Reimagining Community: Practice & Application Lab
2026-02-24 12:00 - 14:00 | https://www.eventbrite.com/e/reimagining-community-practice-application-lab-tickets-1977308870058?aff=oddtdtcreator
This in-person workshop is a facilitated learning environment where providers apply the concepts from the virtual series to real scenarios and organizational contexts. The lab focuses on practical skill-building, reflective dialogue, and collaborative problem-solving.
Focus Areas:
• Making meaning of the four core elements of thriving community life: safety, youth voice, belonging through intentional space design, and sustaining the people who hold the work
• Applying the core elements into real provider contexts
• Peer exchange and shared learning across provider sites and roles
What Participants Leave With:
• Concrete strategies for building relational trust with youth and families
• Tools for designing environments where belonging can emerge
• Language and approaches for supporting youth agency and shared leadership
• A personal sustainability plan and organization-specific takeaways.
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
