Older Youth Permanency Training
2026-06-30 09:00 - 2026-07-01 16:00 (America/Chicago) | parkland college, 2400 w bradley Ave, room J-125, Parkland College, 2400 W Bradly Ave, Room J-125
The session is designed for providers working in Family Advocacy Centers (FACs), with youth in foster care, foster parents, & local agencies

Please join Sankofa Safe Child Initiative for a two-day, in-person training held from 9:00am-to 4:00pm each day on Older Youth Permanency. This training is designed for professionals and service providers working in Family Advocacy Centers (FACs), those supporting youth in the foster care system, foster parents, and agencies in surrounding communities who are interested in this work.
Goal: The overall goal of this training is to prepare as many people as possible with the skills and tools necessary to make informed decisions. To be able to commit to providing a lifetime sense of permanency for older youth in case and in community via adoption or other permanency options.
Cost: Free to attend. 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 through the evaluation survey distributed after completion of the two-day training.
Potential trainers: Jacqueline Gilliard-Bright; Lupeda T. Brown; Sandy Hall; Monique A.L. Smith. Two of these folks will be leading this session.
Lunch will be provided on both days!

LGBTQ+ Learning Community
2026-07-06 11:00 - 12:00, 2026-08-03 11:00 - 12:00 | https://icoyouth-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/jBzPUhS3T8S97YjxGJ5WiA
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!

Updates on Illinois' Blueprint for Transformation with Dr. Dana Weiner
2026-07-08 12:00 - 13:00 | https://icoyouth-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_wtFef7LmT9yEcfCLQsvZmQ
Join ICOY for a discussion with Dr. Dana Weiner, Director of the Children’s Behavioral Health Transformation Initiative and Senior Policy Fellow at Chapin Hall, for a progress update on Illinois’ Blueprint for Transformation. Launched by Governor Pritzker in 2022, the initiative is reshaping the state’s children’s behavioral health system around five goals: adjusting capacity, streamlining access, intervening earlier, increasing accountability, and building agility. This webinar will take stock of where implementation stands today and what’s ahead for the system serving Illinois’ children and families.

Poverty and Trauma
2026-07-09 10:00 - 12:00 | https://icoyouth-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/8ToHqfLnRke7p-FsZ9ezZw
Trauma is often understood as a specific event, but it can also exist as an ongoing set of circumstances. Poverty is one of the most common yet frequently overlooked forms of trauma in America. In this training, participants will explore the long-term destabilization and dysregulation associated with poverty through an intersectional, historical, and transgenerational lens. The session will examine how poverty-based trauma shapes individual, interpersonal, and community experiences and systems. Participants will also learn about the resilience and protective factors communities have developed to cope with poverty-related trauma across generations.
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/

Grant Writing 201: Distinct & Unique
2026-07-16 09:00 - 12:00 | https://icoyouth-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/I7FPNLtBQ2--Ao90RLa8yQ
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.
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: Kristin Olson

Youth and Family Engagement: From Participation to Partnership
2026-07-16 10:30 - 13:30 | https://www.eventbrite.com/e/youth-and-family-engagement-from-participation-to-partnership-tickets-1991776061818?aff=oddtdtcreator
This IN-PERSON training is designed to help service providers strengthen relationships with youth and their support networks. Participants will explore both individual and systemic barriers to engagement while examining ways to create meaningful opportunities for youth and caregiver participation. Using a framework rooted in power-sharing and collaboration, participants will practice strategies to increase trust, foster sustainable youth buy-in, and build engagement practices that lead to empowerment within programs and services.
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/

Child Welfare Coalition Call
2026-07-17 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.https://www.icoyouth.org/event/child-welfare-coalition-call-22/

Reimagining Community: Youth Voice & Civic Engagement
2026-07-22 10:00 - 12:00 | https://icoyouth-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/4EWSlV1dSAe5I7dsKgBpXA
This training explores youth agency, decision-making power, and belonging. Supports providers in co-designing engagement practices, exploring youth advisory structures, and other civic engagement methods.
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

De-escalation: A Strengths-Based Approach
2026-07-24 09:00 - 11:00 | https://icoyouth-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/6jMLzJVkQsW5IBqXqY-Fyw
In this training, participants will learn how to recognize the factors that contribute to escalation in both individuals and situations, while considering the broader situational context. Participants will explore the hierarchy of the brain and Dr. Bruce Perry’s 3 Rs to better understand why certain individuals or environments may be more prone to escalation. The session will also examine the full cycle of escalation alongside the Window of Tolerance framework. Through interactive case scenarios and group problem-solving, participants will practice applying strength-based strategies to support regulation and de-escalation.
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/

The Social-Emotional Consequences of Sexual Trauma
2026-07-29 09:00 - 10:30 | https://icoyouth-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/wWP25RZwSvanxD4TCHadtA
Sexual trauma profoundly impacts not only the body and brain, but also a survivor’s emotional world, relationships, identity, and sense of belonging. This training explores the social and emotional consequences of sexual trauma through a trauma-informed and attachment-based lens, helping professionals better understand how trauma shapes self-concept, trust, emotional regulation, and interpersonal functioning. Participants will examine how experiences of sexual harm influences behavior. The training will also address how trauma responses may be misinterpreted as resistance, avoidance, aggression, or instability, when in fact they are adaptive survival strategies. Special attention will be given to the role of attachment injuries, developmental timing, cultural context, and systemic factors that compound the emotional aftermath of sexual trauma. Attendees will gain practical tools to support survivors in rebuilding safety, emotional regulation, relational capacity, and self-worth. Through case examples, reflective discussion, and practical application, this training equips professionals to respond with greater clinical attunement, empathy, and effectiveness.
One and a Half 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

The Impact of Substance Misuse on Family Systems
2026-07-30 13:00 - 15:00 | https://icoyouth-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/q_MCi9IsR4WXv-GOY3dvRg
Trauma does not occur in isolation. It affects entire family systems and impacts relationships, communication, and overall well-being. In this training, participants will focus on understanding and supporting families impacted by substance misuse through a Harm Reduction framework. Together, participants will build language, tools, and resources to better understand stigma and bias and how these dynamics can affect families both internally and interpersonally. The session will also explore the role service providers play in supporting, empowering, and uplifting families affected by substance misuse.
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/

Vicarious Trauma and Fostering Reslilience
2026-07-31 09:00 - 11:00 | https://icoyouth-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/a_4zJDNvTmSNmK8cCp4j6g
Participants will examine the signs, symptoms, and risk factors of vicarious trauma and its impact on those in the caring field. We will explore compounding factors, including moral injury, stress, compassion fatigue, and burnout, as they relate to social services. Through group discussion and reflection, participants will deepen their understanding of self-care, reconnect with their sense of purpose, and develop practical strategies for fostering resilience.
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/

Working with Youth Experiencing Housing Instability: Training for IDHS Homeless Youth Program Providers
2026-08-03 10:00 - 2026-08-04 12:00 | https://icoyouth-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/uTvYkNVISeudBbq8xj6u-A
This two-day webinar is designed specifically for new supervisory and front-line staff working in Illinois DHS-funded Homeless Youth programs. Participants will receive an orientation to both effective practice with youth experiencing homelessness and the program requirements necessary for successful implementation of DHS-funded services.
Topics include understanding the unique needs and experiences of youth experiencing homelessness, engagement strategies, trauma-informed and developmentally responsive practices, case studies, and available resources. Participants will also learn the policies, regulations, documentation expectations, and contractual requirements specific to Illinois DHS Homeless Youth programs to support program compliance and quality service delivery.
This training is intended for staff working in or preparing to work in Illinois DHS-funded Homeless Youth programs. While best practices for serving youth experiencing homelessness are discussed, a significant portion of the training focuses on DHS program requirements and compliance.
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: Cheris Larson

Older Youth Permanency Training
2026-08-04 09:00 - 2026-08-05 16:00 | Fresh Visions Community Church, 1551 J David Jones Pkwy, Fresh Visions Community Church, 1551 J David Jones Pkwy, Springfield

Trauma and Juvenile Delinquency
2026-08-07 10:00 - 12:30 | https://icoyouth-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/zHIGLCjtToqlW8duqbmh_Q
In this session, participants will examine the critical intersection between trauma and juvenile delinquency, with a primary focus on how Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) influence youth behavior and involvement in the legal system. Participants will learn to identify characteristics commonly associated with “high-risk” youth while gaining practical, trauma-informed strategies for engaging and supporting this population. By the end of the training, participants will better understand how life experiences and systemic circumstances contribute to system involvement and how to effectively support youth impacted by these challenges.
Two and a half 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/

Community Asset Mapping
2026-08-11 10:00 - 12:00 | https://icoyouth-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/TCt3AJyeQZ2jo0fHPXeaOg
This interactive, introductory-level training will explore the fundamentals of Community Asset Mapping as a powerful tool for identifying local strengths, resources, and opportunities to support partnership development and long-term sustainability. Over the course of two hours, participants will: Gain a foundational understanding of community asset mapping, including key concepts and types of assets (individual, institutional, physical, cultural, etc.) Explore real-world examples of how asset mapping supports program planning, community engagement, and collaboration Engage in hands-on exercises to practice identifying and categorizing community assets using asset mapping tools and frameworks Learn strategies to apply asset mapping to partnership development and sustainability planning within their own communities or programs.
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/

Restorative Justice 101
2026-08-12 10:00 - 12:00 | https://icoyouth-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/rK-Wi4pBSjWnjC8xy4fsJg
This introductory training provides participants with a foundational understanding of restorative justice principles, practices, and applications. Participants will explore how restorative justice differs from traditional justice approaches while examining its relevance across schools, community-based organizations, workplaces, and youth-serving systems. Through discussion and applied case scenarios, participants will begin developing a restorative lens that centers relationships, accountability, and community.
Learning Outcomes
● Understand the core principles and values of restorative justice.
● Distinguish restorative approaches from traditional justice models.
● Explore practical applications across youth-serving settings.
● Build a foundation for continued restorative practice.
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

ICOY Monthly Member Call
2026-08-12 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.

Moving Beyond Outputs: Framing Long-Term Outcomes to More Effectively Talk About Mission
2026-08-12 13:00 - 15:00 | https://icoyouth-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/3hrHxJ1xSq2SHpezzN3qrw
Many nonprofit organizations work hard to track what they do—meals served, youth engaged, counseling sessions provided, volunteers mobilized—but struggle to communicate the longer-term difference those efforts make. This practical webinar will explore how organizations with limited evaluation capacity can move beyond reporting outputs alone and begin framing meaningful outcomes using information they may already collect. Participants will learn simple, accessible strategies for connecting everyday program data to broader community impact, research-supported outcomes, and even potential economic value. Through real-world examples and straightforward tools, the session will demonstrate how nonprofits can tell a stronger story about mission effectiveness without investing in expensive evaluation systems. Designed especially for small and mid-sized organizations, this webinar will help leaders communicate impact more clearly to funders, boards, donors, and community partners. Participants will leave with practical ideas they can begin applying immediately within their own organizations.
One and a Half 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: Paul Hamann

Restorative Justice 201: ReGeneration Circle: Embodying Restorative Justice Process
2026-08-13 10:00 - 12:00 | https://www.eventbrite.com/e/restorative-justice-201-embodying-restorative-justice-process-tickets-1991774909371?aff=oddtdtcreator
In this an in-person intergenerational circle, with fire as our centering, i want to have the participants ground themselves in the times they’ve experienced loss of something and the grief or hardship that came with it and to also think about what retrieval meant for them—was there healing, was there room for observation, or is there burial beneath the ashes and why? I hope to use this space-time to generate a happening for folks to create space for themselves to heal and to be uplifted by the closeness of others.
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

IYIP-SJ Management Meeting
2026-08-13 10:00 - 12:30
Please join us for an IYIP-SJ quarterly management meeting. The meeting will be held virtually, please register using the link below. If you have any questions, feel free to contact Annie Mattea at amattea@icoyouth.org.

CYS Management Meeting
2026-08-13 10:00 - 12:30 | https://icoyouth-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/cIDzp5nsQTmo02GT1W9CTQ
Join us for the first virtual management meeting of FY27 for CYS providers. This meeting is for organizations that receive IDHS Community Youth Services (CYS) funding. As a reminder, each provider must have at least one representative at this meeting – but we encourage more to attend!

Introduction to Motivational Interviewing-Day 1
2026-08-17 09:00 - 12:00 | https://icoyouth-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/7AhWyPg6TBuPoCoDEkjhsg#/registration
Please join us for a 2-day training of a comprehensive yet accessible introduction to Motivational Interviewing (MI), this session grounds participants in MI’s core principles, evidence base, and real-world applications across supportive service settings. Participants will build a shared vocabulary for MI, practice essential skills, and understand the four key processes that guide MI conversations. They will leave with practical tools they can begin applying immediately to strengthen engagement and support meaningful behavior change.
Six 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/. Please note this is a 2 day training from 9:00am-12:00pm on both days.
Trainer: Gabriela Zapata-Alma

Introduction to the CBAT-O
2026-08-18 10:00 - 11:30 | https://icoyouth-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/1OLH5BGLR0aPF1roHJLYvQ
Hosted by ICOY’s Education & Resource Development Team, this session combines an informational overview and live demonstration of the CBAT-O for IDHS-funded providers and sites. Participants will be guided through the assessment history, purpose, and structure, followed by step-by-step instruction on how to complete it. At least one program manager from each participating agency is required to attend. Questions are welcomed throughout, with dedicated Q&A time at the end of the session. Participants who need additional support after the session are encouraged to register for upcoming office hours.
Please note that this webinar is intended for informational purposes only, and CEUs will not be available for this event.

Reimagining Community: Safe Space Design + Relational Accountability
2026-08-19 10:00 - 12:00 | https://icoyouth-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/hlfOE15ZR-2N7xRXSBNH2A
Focuses on designing environments (physical, emotional, relational) where trust can develop. Draws from restorative practice and environmental/engineering psychology. Providers leave with practical tools and repeatable safe-space design elements.
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

Who Cares About DEI? Why Choosing Each Other is The Way to Go...
2026-08-19 13:00 - 15:00 | https://icoyouth-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/h_JqTCuIQVaCO3h8AyNT2g
This session explores the purpose and function of DEIB+ (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Belonging, and related practices), with particular attention to distinguishing inclusion from belonging. Participants will examine how belonging extends beyond organizational initiatives and emerges through intentional, mutual relationships built on the decision to “choose each other.” Rather than treating belonging as a program or outcome alone, the session reframes it as an ongoing commitment rooted in connection, care, reciprocity, and shared responsibility. Participants will also reflect on the values that exist beneath common DEIB+ language and social trends, identifying practical, sustainable actions that foster meaningful relationships and strengthen cultures of belonging in their communities and organizations.
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: Atena Danner

Homeless Youth Management Meeting
2026-08-20 10:00 - 12:00
Join us for the first virtual managememt meeting of FY27 for Homeless Youth providers. This meeting is for organizations that receive IDHS Homeless Youth funding. As a reminder, each provider must have at least one representative at this meeting – but we encourage more to attend!

RPSA Management Meeting
2026-08-20 10:00 - 12:30
Please join us for this virtual quarterly management meeting for RPSA providers! As a reminder, this meeting is mandatory for each program with the purpose of increasing communication across programs and with the state.

Navigating Grief
2026-08-20 10:30 - 13:30 | https://www.eventbrite.com/e/navigating-grief-tickets-1991775363730?aff=oddtdtcreator
This in-person interactive workshop offers a supportive space to explore the experience of grief and loss. Through guided reflection, discussion, and practical exercises, participants will learn about common grief responses and develop tools for coping with and supporting themselves and others through difficult emotions.
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: Heshima Mance
