BEGIN:VCALENDAR
VERSION:2.0
PRODID:-//Let It Be Us - ECPv6.17.4//NONSGML v1.0//EN
CALSCALE:GREGORIAN
METHOD:PUBLISH
X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://letitbeus.org
X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Let It Be Us
REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H
X-Robots-Tag:noindex
X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H
BEGIN:VTIMEZONE
TZID:America/Chicago
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0600
TZOFFSETTO:-0500
TZNAME:CDT
DTSTART:20200308T080000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0600
TZNAME:CST
DTSTART:20201101T070000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0600
TZOFFSETTO:-0500
TZNAME:CDT
DTSTART:20210314T080000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0600
TZNAME:CST
DTSTART:20211107T070000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0600
TZOFFSETTO:-0500
TZNAME:CDT
DTSTART:20220313T080000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0600
TZNAME:CST
DTSTART:20221106T070000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0600
TZOFFSETTO:-0500
TZNAME:CDT
DTSTART:20230312T080000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0600
TZNAME:CST
DTSTART:20231105T070000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0600
TZOFFSETTO:-0500
TZNAME:CDT
DTSTART:20240310T080000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0600
TZNAME:CST
DTSTART:20241103T070000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0600
TZOFFSETTO:-0500
TZNAME:CDT
DTSTART:20250309T080000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0600
TZNAME:CST
DTSTART:20251102T070000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0600
TZOFFSETTO:-0500
TZNAME:CDT
DTSTART:20260308T080000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0600
TZNAME:CST
DTSTART:20261101T070000
END:STANDARD
END:VTIMEZONE
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250708T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250708T130000
DTSTAMP:20250617T223819Z
CREATED:20250425T145255Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250617T223819Z
UID:1006616-1751976000-1751979600@letitbeus.org
SUMMARY:Fostering and Adopting Youth with Diverse Medical Needs with Let It Be Us
DESCRIPTION:Let It Be Us offers a series of virtual educational events on topics surrounding Foster Care and Adoption in the State of Illinois. \nInterested in learning about fostering and adopting youth with diverse medical needs? \nJoin Let It Be Us Tuesday\, July 8 at 12:00 PM for our webinar Fostering and Adopting Youth with Diverse Medical Needs. Children with varied medical and developmental abilities are over-represented in child welfare. This webinar will include a panel of parents who have fostered and/or adopted youth with diverse medical needs\, and will also feature Dr. Margaret Scotellaro\, Medical Director of Department of Children and Family Services. We will provide an overview of the strengths and needs of this population and will identify supports that are available to foster/adoptive parents. 1 credit hour will be offered to licensed foster parents who attend. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThis event is completely virtual. Questions may be directed to Erin Janssens at erinjanssens@letitbeus.org. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThis event is free and open to the public\nAccess to this event is completely virtual via Zoom webinar\nRegistration for this event is required\nDuring the event\, attendees will have the opportunity for question & answer
URL:https://letitbeus.org/event/learn-about-medically-complex-adoption-with-let-it-be-us/
LOCATION:ZOOM Webinar
CATEGORIES:Special Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://letitbeus.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Medically-Complex-Webinar-Banner.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250701T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250701T200000
DTSTAMP:20250604T194956Z
CREATED:20250502T151600Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250604T194956Z
UID:1006618-1751396400-1751400000@letitbeus.org
SUMMARY:Learn About Transracial Fostering & Adoption with Let It Be Us
DESCRIPTION:Let It Be Us offers a series of virtual educational events on topics surrounding Foster Care and Adoption in the State of Illinois. \nInterested in transracial fostering and adoption? \nJoin Let It Be Us on Tuesday\, July 1 at 7:00 PM for a powerful and informative virtual event focused on Transracial Fostering and Adoption. This session is designed for prospective and current foster and adoptive parents who want to learn more about the unique experiences\, responsibilities\, and lifelong impact of parenting across racial and cultural lines. Led by professionals with lived and professional experience\, this event will include a discussion featuring transracial adoptive parents and child welfare experts. 1 credit hour will be offered to licensed foster parents who attend. 1 credit hour will be offered to licensed foster parents who attend. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThis event is completely virtual. Questions may be directed to Daisy Taylor at daisytaylor@letitbeus.org. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThis event is free and open to the public\nAccess to this event is completely virtual via Zoom webinar\nRegistration for this event is required\nDuring the event\, attendees will have the opportunity for question & answer
URL:https://letitbeus.org/event/learn-about-transracial-fostering-adoption-with-let-it-be-us/
LOCATION:ZOOM Webinar
CATEGORIES:Special Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://letitbeus.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Transracial-Fostering-and-Adoption-Webinar-Banner_July-1.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250623T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250623T130000
DTSTAMP:20250513T183709Z
CREATED:20250502T143401Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250513T183709Z
UID:1006636-1750680000-1750683600@letitbeus.org
SUMMARY:Rooted & Resilient: Building Resilience for the Adoption Journey with Let It Be Us
DESCRIPTION:Let It Be Us offers a series of virtual educational events on topics surrounding Foster Care and Adoption in the State of Illinois. \nInterested in building resilience for the adoption journey? \nJoin Let It Be Us Monday\, June 23 at 12:00 PM for a supportive online session designed to help potential adoptive parents build emotional and parental resilience. Learn practical self-care tools\, connect with others on the journey\, and gain insight from adoption experts and experienced parents. 1 credit hour will be offered to licensed foster parents who attend. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThis event is completely virtual. Questions may be directed to Erin Janssens at erinjanssens@letitbeus.org. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThis event is free and open to the public\nAccess to this event is completely virtual via Zoom webinar\nRegistration for this event is required\nDuring the event\, attendees will have the opportunity for question & answer
URL:https://letitbeus.org/event/rooted-resilient-building-resilience-for-the-adoption-journey-with-let-it-be-us/
LOCATION:ZOOM Webinar
CATEGORIES:Special Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://letitbeus.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Supporting-Resiliency-in-Adoption-Webinar-Banner.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250602T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250602T130000
DTSTAMP:20250513T184222Z
CREATED:20250425T143652Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250513T184222Z
UID:1006613-1748865600-1748869200@letitbeus.org
SUMMARY:Learn About Strategies for Foster and Adoptive Parents to Support LGBTQIA+ Youth with Let It Be Us
DESCRIPTION:Let It Be Us offers a series of virtual educational events on topics surrounding Foster Care and Adoption in the State of Illinois. \nWant to learn about how you can support LGBTQIA+ youth in your home? \nJoin Let It Be Us Monday\, June 2 at 12:00 PM for our webinar Strategies for Foster and Adoptive Parents to Support LGBTQIA+ Youth with Let It Be Us. This webinar will provide an overview of the LGBTQIA+ population and demographics of youth in care. Current DCFS policy and procedures (Procedure 302 Appendix K – Support and Well-Being of LGBTQIA+ youth) will be reviewed as well as practical strategies for foster/adoptive parents to support LGBTQIA+ youth in their homes. 1 credit hour will be offered to licensed foster parents who attend. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThis event is completely virtual. Questions may be directed to Erin Janssens at erinjanssens@letitbeus.org. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThis event is free and open to the public\nAccess to this event is completely virtual via Zoom webinar\nRegistration for this event is required\nDuring the event\, attendees will have the opportunity for question & answer
URL:https://letitbeus.org/event/learn-about-strategies-for-foster-adoptive-parents-to-support-lgbtqia-youth-with-let-it-be-us/
LOCATION:ZOOM Webinar
CATEGORIES:Special Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://letitbeus.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/LGBTQIA-Webinar-Banner-1.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250527T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250527T200000
DTSTAMP:20250513T184324Z
CREATED:20250429T141245Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250513T184324Z
UID:1006611-1748372400-1748376000@letitbeus.org
SUMMARY:Learn About Trust-Based Relationship Intervention (TBRI) in Foster Care and Adoption with Let It Be Us
DESCRIPTION:Let It Be Us offers a series of virtual educational events on topics surrounding Foster Care and Adoption in the State of Illinois. \nInterested in learning about Trust Based Relationship Intervention? \nJoin Let It Be Us Tuesday\, May 27 at 7:00 PM for our webinar Trust-Based Relationship Intervention. This webinar will discuss the principles of Trust-Based Relational Intervention® (TBRI®) in our webinar designed for foster parents working with children from hard places. This session will cover practical tools to build trust\, empower children\, and correct challenging behaviors with compassion. Learn how to create lasting connections and promote healing through relationship-focused care. 1 credit hour will be offered to licensed foster parents who attend. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThis event is completely virtual. Questions may be directed to Vanessa Baie at vanessabaie@letitbeus.org. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThis event is free and open to the public\nAccess to this event is completely virtual via Zoom webinar\nRegistration for this event is required\nDuring the event\, attendees will have the opportunity for question & answer
URL:https://letitbeus.org/event/learn-about-trust-based-relationship-intervention-with-let-it-be-us/
LOCATION:ZOOM Webinar
CATEGORIES:Special Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://letitbeus.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Trust-Based-Relationship-Intervention-Webinar-Banner-2.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250519T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250519T130000
DTSTAMP:20250513T183532Z
CREATED:20250424T205852Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250513T183532Z
UID:1006604-1747656000-1747659600@letitbeus.org
SUMMARY:Learn About In-Depth Trauma-Informed Care in Foster Care and Adoption Settings with Let It Be Us
DESCRIPTION:Let It Be Us offers a series of virtual educational events on topics surrounding Foster Care and Adoption in the State of Illinois. \nWant to learn about how you can support children with complex emotional needs? \nJoin Let It Be Us Monday\, May 19 at 12:00 PM for our webinar In-Depth Trauma-Informed Care in Foster Care and Adoption Settings. This webinar will focus on trauma-informed care in foster settings. Experts will explore strategies to support children with complex emotional needs. Learn how to recognize trauma responses and create safe\, nurturing environments that promote healing and support you in your role as a foster parent. 1 credit hour will be offered to licensed foster parents who attend. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThis event is completely virtual. Questions may be directed to Vanessa Baie at vanessabaie@letitbeus.org. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThis event is free and open to the public\nAccess to this event is completely virtual via Zoom webinar\nRegistration for this event is required\nDuring the event\, attendees will have the opportunity for question & answer
URL:https://letitbeus.org/event/in-depth-trauma-informed-care-in-foster-settings/
LOCATION:ZOOM Webinar
CATEGORIES:Special Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://letitbeus.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Trauma-Informed-Webinar-Banner-2.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250516T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250516T123000
DTSTAMP:20260818T163631Z
CREATED:20250318T141442Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T163631Z
UID:1006442-1747389600-1747398600@letitbeus.org
SUMMARY:Let It Be Us Adoption Symposium: The Future of Adoption as a Form of Permanency in Illinois
DESCRIPTION:Let It Be Us proudly hosts the Adoption Symposium: The Future of Adoption as a Form of Permanency in Illinois\, bringing together adoption professionals\, policymakers\, child welfare leaders\, and advocates to discuss innovative the need for securing permanent\, loving homes for children in foster care. The event provides a platform for dynamic discussions on the current landscape of adoption in Illinois and the evolving role of adoption in ensuring stability and permanency for waiting children and teens. Let It Be Us now manages the Adoption Listing Service of Illinois as well as the Heart Gallery of Illinois\, both of which are engines designed to provide permanency outcomes within Illinois child welfare.  \nKeynote Speakers & Panel Discussions\nThe Let It Be Us Adoption Symposium features the following speakers from Illinois child welfare:  \n\nHeidi Mueller\, Director of Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS)\nDr. Margaret Scotellaro\, Medical Director of Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS)\, and foster/adoptive parent\n\n\nLaura Adams\, President of iCARE4 Adoptive and Foster Families\n\n\nDr. Susan McConnell\, Founder & Executive Director of Let It Be Us\, and foster/adoptive parent\n\nPanel discussion\, Q&A\, and a buffet lunch to follow. \nFor questions\, contact Susan McConnell at susanmcconnell@letitbeus.org. \n\n\n\n\n 
URL:https://letitbeus.org/event/let-it-be-us-adoption-symposium/
LOCATION:Barrington White House\, 145 W Main St\, Barrington\, 60010\, United States
CATEGORIES:Special Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://letitbeus.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Learn-More-with-LIBU-Events-6.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250512T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250512T130000
DTSTAMP:20250429T180004Z
CREATED:20250424T204315Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250429T180004Z
UID:1006541-1747051200-1747054800@letitbeus.org
SUMMARY:Frequently Asked Questions: Adoption through Foster Care with Let It Be Us -  Adoption Listing Service of Illinois
DESCRIPTION:Let It Be Us offers a series of virtual educational events on topics surrounding Foster Care and Adoption in the State of Illinois. \nAre you interested in adoption through foster care and have some questions about the process? \nJoin Let It Be Us for our webinar Frequently Asked Questions: Adoption through Foster Care on Monday\, May 12 at 12:00 PM. At this informative webinar we will answer the most common questions that families have about the process\, how to register\, how children are matched with families and what to expect along the way. This session will provide valuable insights and information to families that are interested in adopting a child form the Foster Care System in Illinois so they can take the nexts steps in the process with confidence and a better understanding. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThis event is completely virtual. Questions may be directed to Susan McConnell at susanmcconnell@letitbeus.org. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThis event is free and open to the public\nAccess to this event is completely virtual via Zoom webinar\nRegistration for this event is required\nDuring the event\, attendees will have the opportunity for question & answer
URL:https://letitbeus.org/event/frequently-asked-questions-the-adoption-listing-service-of-illinois/
LOCATION:ZOOM Webinar
CATEGORIES:Special Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://letitbeus.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/FAQ-Webinar-Banner-2.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250509T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250509T230000
DTSTAMP:20250408T183021Z
CREATED:20250204T150945Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250408T183021Z
UID:1006306-1746815400-1746831600@letitbeus.org
SUMMARY:Be Mine Gala
DESCRIPTION:Let It Be Us invites you to join us for our Be Mine Gala on Friday\, May 9\, 2025 at The Wellsley. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n \n \nEvery child deserves a safe and loving home. At Let It Be Us\, we believe that finding families for children in foster care isn’t just important—it’s urgent. That’s why we invite you to join us at the 7th Annual Be Mine Gala on Friday\, May 9\, 2025\, at The Wellsley in Chicago’s River North neighborhood. \nThis unforgettable evening is more than just a celebration—it’s a chance to make a difference. With every ticket\, every auction bid\, and every toast raised\, you are directly supporting innovative foster care solutions that place children into loving\, permanent homes. \nWhat to Expect: \n\nAn Elegant Evening: Enjoy a night filled with delicious food\, craft cocktails\, and top-tier entertainment.\nGolden Ticket Raffle: Win the chance to choose a top live auction prize!\nLive Auction: Bid on exclusive experiences and luxury items—all to support foster children in Illinois.\nSpecial Guest Speakers: Hear inspiring stories and celebrate the impact of Let It Be Us.\nNEW! Exclusive After-Party: Keep the night going at our Let It Be Us Lounge (limited to 100 guests). Enjoy an open bar\, gourmet late-night bites\, and an exclusive raffle with four lucky winners!\n\nWhy Attend? \nThis night isn’t just about glamour—it’s about giving hope. Your support fuels programs that match foster children with families\, provide emergency placements\, and create pathways to permanency. Every dollar raised helps Let It Be Us continue our mission to innovate within the child welfare system\, ensuring no child is left behind. \nSecure your spot today—tickets sell fast\, and together\, we can change lives. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\n \n \nPresenting Sponsors\n\n		\n		\n			\n				\n			\n			\n				\n			\n		\nOur Event Sponsors
URL:https://letitbeus.org/event/be-mine-gala/
LOCATION:The Wellsley\, 504 N Wells Street\, Chicago\, IL\, 60654\, United States
CATEGORIES:Special Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://letitbeus.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/be-mine-.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250415T113000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250415T133000
DTSTAMP:20250331T192038Z
CREATED:20250311T212435Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250331T192038Z
UID:1006401-1744716600-1744723800@letitbeus.org
SUMMARY:Ladies Leadership Luncheon with Let It Be Us
DESCRIPTION:Bringing local female leaders together to discuss how adoption from foster care changes girls’ lives\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nJoin Let It Be Us\, Illinois non-profit and licensed child welfare agency\, for the second installment of the Ladies Leadership Luncheon series at the Union League Club of Chicago. \nHosted by the Let It Be Us Board of Directors and Board Member Kaycee Coles\, this daytime event will focus on “Girls in Foster Care – Their Outcomes and Their Future” and feature local experts: \n\nSenator Sara Feigenholtz\, Adoption Advocate and Illinois State Senator\nDr. Susan A. McConnell\, Founder & Executive Director of Let It Be Us\nTakisha Walters\, Foster & Adoption Parent\nNi’Yuana Baker\, Lived Experience Expert\nJocelyn Fetting\, Lived Experience Expert\n\nThe event features an open bar\, a gourmet lunch\, and an opportunity to learn about how adoption from foster care changes the lives of girls in foster care.  \nSponsorship opportunities for the event exist – to learn more\, contact Kaycee Coles\, Let It Be Us Board Member\, at kayceecoles@gmail.com \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSpeaker Bios:\nSenator Sara Feigenholtz \nSara Feigenholtz is a dedicated advocate for child welfare and adoption in Illinois. Serving as a Democratic member of the Illinois Senate since January 2020\, she represents the 6th District\, which encompasses Chicago’s lakefront neighborhoods\, including Lake View\, Lincoln Park\, Buena Park\, and the Near North Side. Prior to her tenure in the Senate\, Feigenholtz served thirteen terms in the Illinois House of Representatives\, beginning in 1995. As an adoptee herself\, Feigenholtz has a personal connection to adoption issues\, which has driven her legislative efforts to reform the child welfare system. She established the first committee on Adoption & Child Welfare in the Illinois House to address systemic challenges and advocate for vulnerable children.  \nFeigenholtz’s unwavering commitment to child welfare and adoption reform continues to impact the lives of countless children and families across Illinois. \n \nKaycee Coles \nKaycee Coles is the organizer of the Ladies Leadership Luncheon\, is a Board Member of Let It Be Us and is on the Fundraising Committee.  Kaycee is a former educator teaching US History and Psychology and she is a licensed reading specialist. She is a mother to three sons. She has worked in the non-profit sector in education\, advocacy\, and legislative areas.  Kaycee was instrumental in co-leading an effort to design\, build and fundraise for an inclusive playground project at Countryside Elementary School.  She is also a member of the Barrington Civic Leaders Program.  \n \nDr. Susan A. McConnell \nSusan McConnell is the Founder and Executive Director of Let It Be Us. She has held the position of Chair of the Permanency Committee for the Illinois Statewide Foster Care Advisory Council for 4 years. She recently graduated from the University of Southern California (USC) with a Doctoral Degree in Social Work. Susan is the mother to four free range young adults\, three of whom joined her family through adoption. She has over 30 years of experience with special needs and open adoption. 
URL:https://letitbeus.org/event/ladies-leadership-luncheon-with-let-it-be-us-2/
LOCATION:Union League Club of Chicago\, 65 West Jackson Boulevard\, Chicago\, Illinois\, 60604\, United States
CATEGORIES:Special Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://letitbeus.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Ladies-Leadership-Luncheon-Header.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250409T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250409T203000
DTSTAMP:20250327T195152Z
CREATED:20250314T023242Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250327T195152Z
UID:1006417-1744225200-1744230600@letitbeus.org
SUMMARY:Adopt From Foster Care with Let It Be Us
DESCRIPTION:Let It Be Us offers a series of virtual educational events on topics surrounding Foster Care and Adoption in the State of Illinois. This webinar focuses on the Adoption Listing Service and the Illinois Heart Gallery. \nJoin us to learn how you can adopt from foster care with the Adoption Listing Service of Illinois at Let It Be Us. All licensed and unlicensed families interested in adopting from the Illinois Foster Care System are welcome. \nIn our Zoom webinar\, we will bring together our experienced foster care and adoption professionals to discuss the unique opportunities of adopting children from the foster care system. The webinar will cover: \n\nChildren Available for Adoption in Illinois – Illinois Heart Gallery: Gain insight into the specific needs of children available for adoption from foster care and learn about the Heart Gallery of Illinois\, an online photo gallery featuring children available for adoption. \nThe Adoption Listing Service: Hear from the Director of the Adoption Listing Service\, who will explain the program\, how to join our database of licensed foster parents looking to adopt\, and how adoption from foster care works – from initial inquiry to adoption finalization.\n\nThis webinar is open to the public – whether you’re considering adoption or are already involved in foster care. Join us to gain valuable insights\, connect with community advocates\, and be part of a conversation that is transforming lives through Let It Be Us.  \n\n\nThis event is free and open to anyone who lives in the state of Illinois\nAccess to this event is completely virtual via Zoom webinar\nRegistration for this event is required\nDuring the event\, attendees will have the opportunity for question & answer\nQuestions may be directed to the Adoption Listing Service at adoptionlistingservice@letitbeus.org
URL:https://letitbeus.org/event/adopt-from-foster-care-with-let-it-be-us/
LOCATION:Illinois
CATEGORIES:Special Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://letitbeus.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Adoption-Listing-Service-of-Illinois-2.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20241017T113000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20241017T133000
DTSTAMP:20250325T165412Z
CREATED:20240820T200549Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250325T165412Z
UID:1006020-1729164600-1729171800@letitbeus.org
SUMMARY:Ladies Leadership Luncheon with Let It Be Us
DESCRIPTION:Bringing local female leaders together to discuss Girls in Foster Care: Their Outcomes and Their Future\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nJoin Let It Be Us\, Barrington non-profit and Illinois licensed child welfare agency\, for the first Ladies Leadership Luncheon at Barrington Hills Country Club.\n\nHosted by the Let It Be Us Board of Directors and Board Member Kaycee Coles\, this daytime event will focus on “Girls in Foster Care – Their Outcomes and Their Future” and feature local experts:\n\n 	Senator Mary Edly-Allen on current Illinois legislation focusing on girls in foster care\n 	Vanessa Baie\, MSW\, LCSW\, Let It Be Us Director of Child Welfare Services\, on outcomes of girls in foster care\n 	Dr. Susan A. McConnell\, Executive Director of Let It Be Us\, on the Future for girls in foster care\n\nThe event features an open bar\, a beautiful lunch\, and an opportunity to learn about the plight of girls in foster care\, their outcomes\, and their future.\n\nSponsorship opportunities for the event exist – to learn more\, contact Kaycee Coles\, Let It Be Us Board Member\, at kayceecoles@gmail.com\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \nSpeaker Bios:\nKaycee Coles\n\nKaycee Coles is the organizer of the Ladies Leadership Luncheon\, is a Board Member of Let It Be Us and is on the Fundraising Committee.  Kaycee is a former educator teaching US History and Psychology and she is a licensed reading specialist. She is a mother to three sons. She has worked in the non-profit sector in education\, advocacy\, and legislative areas.  Kaycee was instrumental in co-leading an effort to design\, build and fundraise for an inclusive playground project at Countryside Elementary School.  She is also a member of the Barrington Civic Leaders Program. \n\nSenator Mary Edly-Allen\n\nSenator Edly-Allen is a mother to four sons\, teacher and a leader fighting for change. As a long time Lake County resident\, Senator Edly-Allen has a history of serving the community as an educator and public servant. She was first elected to the 101st General Assembly as a State Representative. As a Representative\, Mary supported advocates of child welfare as a member of the Illinois Adoption & Child Welfare Committee\, Mental Health Committee\, and Human Services Committee. Elected to the Illinois State Senate in 2022 to represent Illinois’ 31st District\, Mary has continued to be a champion for our Illinois’ youth as Vice Chair of the Health and Human Services Committee and has worked alongside the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) to modernize child neglect and abuse reporting procedures.\n\nVanessa Baie\, MSW\, LCSW\, PhD(c)\n\nVanessa Baie is the Director of Child Welfare Services for Let It Be Us\, leading all social work programs including\, The Foster Parent Recruitment Program\, the Placement Support Program and the Springboard to Adulthood Program. As a champion of women and girls\, Vanessa works every day to secure placements for boys and girls in foster care\, including those awaiting adoption\, and including girls who have been sexually trafficked. Vanessa is completing her PhD in Clinical Social Work at Chicago’s Institute for Clinical Social Work. \n\nDr. Susan A. McConnell\n\nSusan McConnell is the Founder and Executive Director of Let It Be Us. She has held the position of Chair of the Permanency Committee for the Illinois Statewide Foster Care Advisory Council for 4 years. She recently graduated from the University of Southern California (USC) with a Doctoral Degree in Social Work. Susan is the mother to four free range young adults\, three of whom joined her family through adoption. She has over 30 years of experience with special needs and open adoption. \n\n 
URL:https://letitbeus.org/event/ladies-leadership-luncheon-with-let-it-be-us/
LOCATION:Barrington Hills Country Club\, 300 West County Line Road\, Barrington\, IL\, 60010\, United States
CATEGORIES:Special Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://letitbeus.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Ladies-Leadership-Luncheon.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20240510T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20240510T230000
DTSTAMP:20260818T162245Z
CREATED:20240119T033140Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T162245Z
UID:1005791-1715365800-1715382000@letitbeus.org
SUMMARY:Be Mine Gala Celebrating 10 Years of Let It Be Us
DESCRIPTION:Let It Be Us invites you to join us for our Be Mine Gala Celebrating 10 Years of Let It Be Us on Friday\, May 10\, 2024 at the Walden Chicago. \nCocktails | Dinner | Raffle | Live Auction | & more!
URL:https://letitbeus.org/event/be-mine-gala-celebrating-10-years-of-let-it-be-us/
LOCATION:Walden Chicago\, 2145 West Walnut Street\, Chicago\, 60612\, United States
CATEGORIES:Special Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://letitbeus.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/be-mine-header-image-libu.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20230701
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20230801
DTSTAMP:20230522T210258Z
CREATED:20230522T210258Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230522T210258Z
UID:39310-1688169600-1690847999@letitbeus.org
SUMMARY:Santa's Helpers Gift Card Drive
DESCRIPTION:Help support teens and young adults in our Springboard to Adulthood program through our Santa’s Helpers Gift Card Drive this July. With your monetary donations\, we will purchase gift cards for teens and young adults that have aged out of foster care for things like food\, clothing\, gas\, and more. \nBring the joy of Christmas all year round! \n[give_form id=”39307″]
URL:https://letitbeus.org/event/santas-helpers-gift-card-drive/
LOCATION:Illinois
CATEGORIES:Special Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://letitbeus.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Santas-Helper-Drive-cover-photo.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20230615
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20231001
DTSTAMP:20230831T194604Z
CREATED:20230425T211939Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230831T194604Z
UID:39273-1686787200-1696118399@letitbeus.org
SUMMARY:Be Mine Capital Raise Campaign
DESCRIPTION:You are invited to join in on 2023 Be Mine Capital Raise Campaign! While we aren’t hosting our traditional Be Mine fundraising event this year\, rest assured we will be back in February of next year\, our 10th year anniversary\, with a big and more exciting ‘Be Mine’ event. We are so grateful for our generous donors – in 2022\, we raised $145\,000\, and with your help\, our goal for the Capital Raise Campaign is to match or surpass that!\n \nThanks to your support\, Let It Be Us has been able to: \n\nRecruit over 100 families to become licensed foster parents every year\nWork 1:1 and gets 5X more families licensed than most licensed agencies\nDouble our Placement Support cases in 2021 – more than tripled since 2020\nFund all of our programs\, helping our most vulnerable children and teens in foster care\n\nWe hope that we can count on your continued dedication to the mission of Let It Be Us and will support our work by donating to our Be Mine Capital Raise Campaign.  \n[give_form id=”39275″]
URL:https://letitbeus.org/event/be-mine-capital-raise-campaign/
LOCATION:Illinois
CATEGORIES:Special Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://letitbeus.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Be-Mine-2023.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20221215T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20221216T160000
DTSTAMP:20221201T190635Z
CREATED:20220919T170229Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20221201T190635Z
UID:38686-1671098400-1671206400@letitbeus.org
SUMMARY:Toy Drive for Children in Foster Care
DESCRIPTION:Join Let It Be Us as we collect toys for children in Illinois foster care and deliver them throughout the Northern Region of Illinois.\nWe are working together with the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services office in Waukegan\, CASA of Lake County\, and group homes and the gifts will be distributed to the neediest children. \nThe Let It Be Us Toy Drive will be available to receive new\, unwrapped gift donations at the following locations: \n\nHawthorn Woods Country Club\, 1 Tournament Drive\, Hawthorn Woods\, Illinois 60047. Accepting toys till December 16\nPhillips Men’s Wear\, 123 East Station Street\, Barrington\, Illinois 60010. Accepting toys till December 25\nLet It Be Us Headquarters\, 145 West Main Street in Barrington\, Illinois on December 15th and 16th from 9:00 am – 4:00 pm\n\nDonation details: \n\nWe request that toys be new and unwrapped.\nThe gift list will be updated frequently so check.\nDonations of wrapping paper\, ribbon\, and tape would also be appreciated.\n\nThank you to those who are able to participate with us. For corporations who want to participate please contact Susan McConnell\, Executive Director\, at susanmcconnell@letitbeus.org. \n  \nNot able to shop for a gift this year? Make a direct donation to this program by December 14\, and we will shop for you! Visit our direct donation page to make a safe and secure donation.\n\nTOYS REQUESTED\nGift Cards: from Target\, Walmart\, Jewel or Amazon\nPack & Plays\, Crib Sheets\, Etc.\nLegos & Lego Sets\nArt Supplies (any age)\nPAW Patrol Toys\nP J Masks Toys\nPuzzles (any age)\nDinosaur Toys\nAfrican American Dolls (All Ages)\nHatchimals\nPeppa Pig Toys\nMinecraft Games\nPlants Vs Zombies Games\nScience Kits (any age)\nBeyblades Toys\nPolaroid Cameras for Kids\nBakugan Toys\nCraft Kits (any age)\nAmerican Girl Dolls (or similar dolls)\nMega Blocks\nBuilding Blocks\nMelissa & Doug Cleaning Sets & Kitchen Sets\nDungeons & Dragons Games\nBoard Games (any age)\nClunky Puzzles (12 To 24 Months)\nTool Belts\nTool Kits\nBig Wheels\nClue Jr Board Games\nMatching Games\nWater Bottles To Decorate\nJewelry Making Kits (any age)\nMake-up  and Pretend Kits\nLego Dots Toys\nBasketball Hoops For Doorways\nBluetooth Speakers\nBaseballs/Bats\nBaseball Gloves/Mitts\nSlime Kits\nEar Buds\nJenga & Jenga Jr. Games\nChess Sets\nChecker Sets\nEZ Bake Ovens\nCubs/Bears/Bulls Merchandise (any)\nLite Brite Sets\nCrayola Light Board Drawing Tablets\nGo Glam Nail Stampers\nPlay-Doh Kits\nMelissa & Doug Scratch Art Boxes
URL:https://letitbeus.org/event/toy-drive-for-children-in-foster-care-2022/
LOCATION:Barrington’s White House\, 145 West Main Street\, Barrington\, IL\, 60010\, United States
CATEGORIES:Special Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://letitbeus.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/LIBU-Toy-Drive.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20220912T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20220912T210000
DTSTAMP:20260818T163854Z
CREATED:20220621T014413Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T163854Z
UID:38451-1662978600-1663016400@letitbeus.org
SUMMARY:8th Annual Golf Outing
DESCRIPTION:Let It Be Us invites you to join us for our Eighth Annual Golf Outing on Monday\, September 12 at Hawthorn Woods Country Club \nEvent Timing: 10:30 – 9:00 pm | Cocktails & Dinner start at 5:00 pm \n18 Holes of Golf | Lunch\, Cocktails\, & Dinner | Raffle | Live Auction | & more \n \n \nFor more information\, contact Kerry Miller at 630-278-8807.
URL:https://letitbeus.org/event/8th-annual-golf-outing/
LOCATION:Hawthorn Woods Country Club\, 1 Tournament Dr N.\, Hawthorn Woods\, IL\, 60047\, United States
CATEGORIES:Special Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://letitbeus.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Golf-Outing-main-photo-1.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20220708T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20220708T230000
DTSTAMP:20260818T163209Z
CREATED:20220429T041500Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T163209Z
UID:38229-1657306800-1657321200@letitbeus.org
SUMMARY:4th Annual Be Mine Fundraiser
DESCRIPTION:Let It Be Us invites you to join us for our Fourth Annual Be Mine Fundraiser on Friday\, July 8 at Shakou Barrington \nCocktails | Dinner | Raffle | Live Auction | & more! \n  \n     
URL:https://letitbeus.org/event/4th-annual-be-mine-fundraiser/
LOCATION:Shakou Barrington\, 121 West Main Street\, Barrington\, IL\, 60010\, United States
CATEGORIES:Special Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://letitbeus.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/Give-Smart-Banner-3.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20211209T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20211209T160000
DTSTAMP:20211122T162509Z
CREATED:20211021T153923Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20211122T162509Z
UID:37851-1639044000-1639065600@letitbeus.org
SUMMARY:Toy Drive for Children in Foster Care
DESCRIPTION:Join Let It Be Us as we collect toys for children in Illinois foster care and deliver them throughout the Northern Region of Illinois.\nWe are working together with the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services office in Waukegan\, CASA of Lake County\, and group homes and the gifts will be distributed to the neediest children. Collections are being taken at our headquarters\, located at 145 West Main Street Barrington\, Illinois 60010\, from 10:00 am – 4:00 pm on Thursday\, December 9 and Friday\, December 10. \n\nWe request that toys be new and unwrapped.\nThe gift list will be updated frequently so check.\nDonations of wrapping paper\, ribbon\, and tape would also be appreciated.\n\nThank you to those who are able to participate with us. For corporations who want to participate please contact Susan McConnell\, Executive Director\, at susanmcconnell@letitbeus.org. \n\nTOYS REQUESTED\nGift Cards: from Target\, Walmart\, Jewel or Amazon\nPack & Plays\, Crib Sheets\, Etc.\nLegos & Lego Sets\nArt Supplies (any age)\nPAW Patrol Toys\nP J Masks Toys\nPuzzles (any age)\nDinosaur Toys\nAfrican American Dolls (All Ages)\nHatchimals\nPeppa Pig Toys\nMinecraft Games\nPlants Vs Zombies Games\nScience Kits (any age)\nBeyblades Toys\nPolaroid Cameras for Kids\nBakugan Toys\nCraft Kits (any age)\nAmerican Girl Dolls (or similar dolls)\nMega Blocks\nBuilding Blocks\nMelissa & Doug Cleaning Sets & Kitchen Sets\nDungeons & Dragons Games\nBoard Games (any age)\nClunky Puzzles (12 To 24 Months)\nTool Belts\nTool Kits\nBig Wheels\nClue Jr Board Games\nMatching Games\nWater Bottles To Decorate\nJewelry Making Kits (any age)\nMake-up  and Pretend Kits\nLego Dots Toys\nBasketball Hoops For Doorways\nBluetooth Speakers\nBaseballs/Bats\nBaseball Gloves/Mitts\nSlime Kits\nEar Buds\nJenga & Jenga Jr. Games\nChess Sets\nChecker Sets\nEZ Bake Ovens\nCubs/Bears/Bulls Merchandise (any)\nLite Brite Sets\nCrayola Light Board Drawing Tablets\nGo Glam Nail Stampers\nPlay-Doh Kits\nMelissa & Doug Scratch Art Boxes
URL:https://letitbeus.org/event/toy-drive-for-children-in-foster-care/
LOCATION:Barrington’s White House\, 145 West Main Street\, Barrington\, IL\, 60010\, United States
CATEGORIES:Special Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://letitbeus.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/LIBU-Toy-Drive.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20210913T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20210913T220000
DTSTAMP:20260818T160909Z
CREATED:20210611T185735Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T160909Z
UID:37586-1631527200-1631570400@letitbeus.org
SUMMARY:Seventh Annual Golf Outing
DESCRIPTION:Join us on Monday\, September 13 at Hawthorn Woods Country Club for our Seventh Annual Golf Outing\n\n\n\nMonday\, September 13\, 2021\nHawthorn Woods Country Club\nPurchase Tickets HERE\n \nQuestions? Contact Kate Himes or Lisa Hanson Braun.
URL:https://letitbeus.org/event/seventh-annual-golf-outing/
LOCATION:Hawthorn Woods Country Club\, 1 Tournament Dr N.\, Hawthorn Woods\, IL\, 60047\, United States
CATEGORIES:Special Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://letitbeus.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Screen-Shot-2021-06-30-at-12.11.18-PM.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20210709T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20210709T230000
DTSTAMP:20260819T152636Z
CREATED:20210429T043918Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260819T152636Z
UID:37418-1625857200-1625871600@letitbeus.org
SUMMARY:3rd Annual Be Mine Fundraiser
DESCRIPTION:Join us on Friday\, July 9 at Shakou Barrington for\nLet It Be Us 3rd Annual Be Mine Event\n  \n\n\nFriday\, July 9\, 2021\, at Shakou Barrington\n \nCocktails | Dinner | Raffle | Live Auction | & more!\nCocktail Attire\n \nPurchase Tickets Today Here!\n\n\n  \n  \n\n\nSPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES ARE AVAILABLE!\nPlease contact Lisa Hanson Braun for details or download our Sponsorship Packet\n\n  \n\n\n\nPlease note that Let It Be Us is strictly following COVID-19 guidelines from the State of Illinois. The safety and wellbeing of our staff\, our supporters\, and those around us is our first priority – always. If you have any questions on how this event is being held or would like more information on the precautions Let It Be Us is taking\, please reach out to Kate Himes at kate@kateify.com or 224.234.4018.
URL:https://letitbeus.org/event/be-mine-fundraiser-july-2021/
LOCATION:Shakou Barrington\, 121 West Main Street\, Barrington\, IL\, 60010\, United States
CATEGORIES:Special Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://letitbeus.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Screen-Shot-2021-03-08-at-2.22.50-PM.png
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR