Illinois Collaboration On Youth

Community Youth Services (CYS) 201
2026-04-28 10:00 - 13:00 (America/Chicago) | https://icoyouth-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/i4k7T_fzQZukrji-0p9Rkg
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

Neurodiversity 101
2026-04-23 14:00 - 15:30 | https://icoyouth-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/LSma1dC8SvKIZg5uyfnJkg
This training will give providers a foundational understanding of what neurodiversity means and methods of accommodation for a spectrum of youth. This session will also help practitioners develop their own plan for their youth that is culturally responsive and non-punitive. In a field where IEPs and 504 are often not shared outside of the school and in populations where diagnoses are either difficult to come by or racially biased, it’s even more important that practitioners be prepared to support all youth through strategies that plan for the margins, as opposed to a cookie cutter approach for the so-called “average” student. A focus of this training will be exploring free or low-cost accommodations that increase accessibility for both neurotypical and neurodivergent students alike.
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: Andrew Hitzhusen

Disrupting Bias: Bias Impacting Underserved Community Development
2026-04-23 10:00 - 12:00 | https://icoyouth-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/ZciirL9kTbmywHn1EIE8-Q
Designed for organizations working in and with under-resourced communities, this session helps participants identify how bias shapes development outcomes for youth. It offers practical tools to advocate for more equitable investment and program design.
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: Moriah Brewer

Navigating Grief
2026-04-22 10:00 - 13:00 | https://www.eventbrite.com/e/navigating-grief-tickets-1984766471946?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

Executive Leadership as Human Work
2026-04-22 09:00 - 10:30 | https://icoyouth-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/kMcY8B_qTRiErfMPmhMZ0g
Executive leadership in the nonprofit sector requires far more than strategic thinking and operational oversight—it calls for the sustained human work of guiding people, navigating uncertainty, and carrying responsibility for mission and community impact. This webinar explores the often-overlooked personal side of executive leadership and the realities leaders face as they balance the expectations of boards, staff, funders, and the communities they serve. Drawing on practical experience from the field, the session will reflect on the habits, perspectives, and approaches that help leaders remain effective and grounded in their roles. It will also address the importance of self-care as a leadership responsibility—recognizing that sustaining one’s own well-being is essential to sustaining the organization and those it serves. Designed for nonprofit executives and senior leaders, this webinar offers space to consider how leaders can navigate the demands of their role while remaining purposeful, resilient, and human in their work.
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

Positive Youth Development
2026-04-20 12:00 - 15:00 | https://icoyouth-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/YDQCGkTPTSOECv91bm3XcA
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

Child Welfare Coalition Call
2026-04-17 11:00 - 12:00, 2026-04-03 11:00 - 12:00, 2026-03-20 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.

Restorative Justice 101
2026-04-15 10:00 - 12:00 | https://icoyouth-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/T_qb9pnNT9uBlqLWbsXtOQ
RJ 101 is a virtual introduction to restorative justice that provides participants with a foundational understanding of restorative justice principles, practices, and applications. The session will cover the core concepts of restorative justice, explore its differences from traditional justice systems, and discuss its applications in educational settings, workplaces, and the criminal justice system. Interactive elements, such as a case study scenario, will allow participants to engage with the material actively. The training will conclude with a Q&A session and provide resources for further learning.
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

Introduction to Motivational Interviewing
2026-04-09 09:00 - 2026-04-10 12:00 | https://icoyouth-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/ALjwqJQHT0OHS9ywFijx5A
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

ICOY Monthly Member Call
2026-04-08 12:00 - 13:00, 2026-03-11 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.

Grant Writing 201
2026-04-08 09:30 - 12:30 | https://icoyouth-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/e4d-0bFmSP-FB0sDDsGLJA
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/. Please note this is a 2 day training from 9-12pm on both days.
Trainer: Kristin Olson

Trauma Talks: Resilience After Sexual Trauma
2026-04-07 13:00 - 15:00 | 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!

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.

Supporting Youth and Families Impacted by ICE
2026-04-01 10:00 - 11:30
Please join us for our third in-person Learning Community of 2026. As immigration policies and enforcement practices continue to affect communities and service providers in different ways; youth, families, and providers may have questions or need additional support beyond the services typically offered. ICOY, in collaboration with the Illinois Coalition on Immigrant and Refugee Rights (ICIRR), will host this Learning Community to provide a full Know Your Rights training session and create space for providers to connect, share resources, and discuss strategies for supporting the communities they serve. We hope you can join us.

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/

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!

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
