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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260825T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260825T193000
DTSTAMP:20260826T022621
CREATED:20260511T185918Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260710T155807Z
UID:1007686-1787680800-1787686200@letitbeus.org
SUMMARY:Learn About Foster Care and Licensing with Children's Home
DESCRIPTION:Let It Be Us offers a series of virtual educational events on topics surrounding Foster Care and Adoption in the State of Illinois. Our Live Foster Parent Recruitment Events are the in-person portion of this series. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAre you interested in learning more about the Illinois child welfare system\, what it means to become a foster parent\, and how to get started? \nJoin Let It Be Us for an informative and inspiring event designed to answer your questions and guide you through the first steps of making a difference in a child’s life with Children’s Home Association of Illinois. This is a relaxed and supportive space to learn\, connect\, and discover how you can be part of something truly life-changing for children in need. \nAt This Event\, You Will Learn: \n\n• What foster care looks like today in Illinois• The process of becoming a licensed foster parent• The types of children who need homes right now• The support available to foster families• Your questions about fostering\n\nAttend In Person or Virtually \nThis hybrid event allows families to attend either in person or virtually via Zoom Webinar. \nIn-Person Location: Community Service Building – 311 W. John H. Gwynn Jr. Ave.\, Peoria\, IL 61605 \nGuests attending in person will enjoy light snacks while connecting with our team and learning more about foster care. This is for families in Peoria\, Tazewell\, and Woodford counties. \n\nThis event is free and open to the public\nAccess to this event is available in-person\, with a virtual option\nRegistration for this event is required\nDuring the event\, attendees will have the opportunity for question & answer\nQuestions may be directed to Cathy Newbury at cathynewbury@letitbeus.org\n\nLet It Be Us is proud to host this educational event to help more children in foster care find safe\, loving homes. We can’t wait to meet you.
URL:https://letitbeus.org/event/learn-about-foster-care-and-licensing-with-childrens-home/
LOCATION:Community Services Building – Children’s Home Association of Illinois\, 311 W John H Gwynn Jr Avenue\, Peoria\, Illinois\, 61605\, United States
CATEGORIES:Children's Home,Learn More with Let It Be Us
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://letitbeus.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Childrens-Home.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260819T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260819T200000
DTSTAMP:20260826T022621
CREATED:20260709T161529Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260715T142753Z
UID:1007976-1787162400-1787169600@letitbeus.org
SUMMARY:Foster and Adoptive Parents Prepare for Back to School with 2 Credit Hours Workshop
DESCRIPTION:Foster parents will receive 2 credit hours towards their license. \nJoin Let It Be Us and Be Strong Families for a Foster Parent Café designed for licensed foster parents. As the school year begins\, take time to pause\, reconnect\, and recharge alongside fellow foster parents. Through guided conversation and shared experiences\, you’ll explore what helps you stay grounded and resilient while building meaningful connections with others who understand the unique journey of foster parenting.  \n\nThis event is free and open to all licensed foster and adoptive families in Illinois. Families will receive 2 credit hours towards their license.\nAccess to this event is completely virtual\, NO in-person options\nRegistration for this event is required\nDuring the event\, attendees will have the opportunity for question & answer\nIf you have any questions\, please contact Daisy Taylor at daisytaylor@letitbeus.org.\n\nFoster Parent Café: Saved by the Bell \nAs the school year kicks off\, join us for a fun\, refreshing conversation about what helps you reset\, recenter\, and recharge. This Foster Parent Café is your chance to reconnect with yourself\, your support system\, and other foster parents. Let’s share what keeps us grounded and resilient as the routines return. \nAbout Foster Parent Cafés: \nFoster Parent Cafés are an opportunity for growth\, connection\, and shared learning. Using one-on-one and group conversations\, the strengths and wisdom of foster parents are celebrated and harnessed to create healthier and happier families. Foster Parent Cafés are a powerful tool for strengthening the Protective Factors that contribute to family well-being. Through open and meaningful conversations\, Foster Parent Cafés encourage caregivers to learn from one another’s experiences by sharing stories\, challenges\, and successes that help participants gain insights and practical advice. Foster Parent Cafés facilitate a sense of community and support among foster parents where they will form connections with others who understand the unique journey of parenting.             \nZoom Info \nIMPORTANT: Continuing Education Credits and Certificates of Completion \nAll Be Strong Families events for foster parents are eligible for continuing education credits for Foster Parent license renewal. Certificates of completion are sent via email within 10-14 business days after an event takes place. If a participant has not received a certificate of completion for an event they attended\, they can reach out to training@bestrongfamilies.net. Attendance forms from each month are sent to IDCFS at the beginning of the following month for processing of continuing education credits. If participants do not see their hours reflected in their DCFS training portal\, they are encouraged to reach out to their assigned point of contact. \nIn order to register\, the last four digits of your social security number are required for Training Credit Approval. \nIn order to fully participate\, participants must join the event from a device that has access to a working microphone and camera. \nAbout Let It Be Us \nLet It Be Us manages adoption through foster care throughout the State of Illinois. To consider working with Let It Be Us\, complete this form. \n\n\nLet It Be Us offers a series of virtual and in-person educational events on topics surrounding Foster Care and Adoption in the State of Illinois.
URL:https://letitbeus.org/event/foster-parent-cafe-saved-by-the-bell/
LOCATION:ZOOM Webinar
CATEGORIES:Children's Home,Learn More with Let It Be Us
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://letitbeus.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/BSFAugust-19_2.png
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260623T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260623T193000
DTSTAMP:20260826T022621
CREATED:20260501T141020Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260617T205757Z
UID:1007650-1782237600-1782243000@letitbeus.org
SUMMARY:Learn About Becoming a Foster Parent 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. Our Live Foster Parent Recruitment Events are the in-person portion of this series. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAre you interested in learning more about the Illinois child welfare system\, what it means to be a foster parent\, and how to get started? \nJoin Let It Be Us for an informative and inspiring event designed to answer your questions and guide you through the first steps of making a difference in a child’s life. This is a relaxed\, supportive space to learn\, connect\, and discover how you can be part of something truly life-changing. \nAt This Event\, You Will Learn: \n\nWhat it means to be a foster parent\nHow the licensing process works\nThe different types of foster care\nHow Let It Be Us supports you every step of the way\n\nThis free event is open to individuals and families throughout Illinois. Whether you live in Chicago\, Evanston\, Cook County\, Lake County\, or any surrounding community\, you are invited to join us. \n\nThis event is free and open to the public\nAccess to this event is available online ONLY\nRegistration for this event is required\nDuring the event\, attendees will have the opportunity for question & answer\nQuestions may be directed to Cathy Newbury at cathynewbury@letitbeus.org\n\nLet It Be Us is proud to host this educational event to help more children in foster care find safe\, loving homes. We can’t wait to meet you.
URL:https://letitbeus.org/event/learn-about-becoming-a-foster-parent-with-let-it-be-us/
LOCATION:ZOOM Webinar
CATEGORIES:Learn More with Let It Be Us,Lutheran Children & Family Services
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://letitbeus.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/General-Foster-Parent-Recruitment_June-23.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260616T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260616T193000
DTSTAMP:20260826T022621
CREATED:20260430T140536Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260522T165502Z
UID:1007647-1781632800-1781638200@letitbeus.org
SUMMARY:Become a Foster Parent with Lutheran Child and Family Services - Mount Vernon\, 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. Our Live Foster Parent Recruitment Events are the in-person portion of this series. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAre you interested in learning more about the Illinois child welfare system\, what it means to be a foster parent\, and how to get started? If yes\, join us for this informative fireside chat with Lutheran Child & Family Services\,  the second-largest community-based child welfare agency in Illinois\, dedicated to improving the well-being of people across the state by protecting children\, strengthening families and building futures for those who have experienced trauma. What you’ll learn:\n\n\n\n\nHow LCFS supports foster parents every step of the way\nAccess to health insurance\, therapy\, and education support for children in your care\nOngoing training\, support groups\, and resources tailored for foster families\nMonthly financial support and funding for daycare\, after-school care\, and extracurriculars\n\nAttend In Person or Virtually \nThis hybrid event allows families to attend either in person or virtually via Zoom Webinar. \nIn-Person Location: Joe’s Pizza & Pasta – 819 Jordan Street\, Mt. Vernon\, IL 62864. \nGuests attending in person will enjoy pizza\, salad\, and soda while connecting with our team and learning more about foster care. \n\n\nTake the first step toward changing a child’s story – register today and join us for this powerful and educational event. If you are licensed or not yet licensed\, live in Mt. Vernon\, Marion\, Centralia\, or the surrounding areas\, you are encouraged to join us!\n \nQuestions may be directed to Cathy Newbury at cathynewbury@letitbeus.org.\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 available in-person\, with a virtual option\nRegistration for this event is required\nDuring the event\, attendees will have the opportunity for questions & answer\, to meet caseworkers\, to hear from experienced foster parents. \nPizza\, salad\, and soda will be served for those attending in-person\n\nLutheran Child & Family Services is committed to being supportive and responsive in collaborating with foster parents in serving children’s needs.  They provide: \n\nA Lutheran Child & Family Services team to provide guidance and support.\nHealth insurance for children placed in your home.\nTherapy\, counseling\, academic counseling and special education services when needed. \nTraining programs\, support groups and newsletters geared to foster families.\nMonthly financial support for the foster children’s basic needs\, including food\, clothing and housing costs.\nFunding for daycare\, after-school care\, and extracurricular activities including sports and art programs for eligible children in foster care. 
URL:https://letitbeus.org/event/become-a-foster-parent-with-lutheran-child-and-family-services-mount-vernon-illinois/
LOCATION:Joe’s Pizza & Pasta\, 819 Jordan Street\, Mount Vernon\, Illinois\, 62864\, United States
CATEGORIES:Learn More with Let It Be Us,Lutheran Children & Family Services
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://letitbeus.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/LCFS_Casual-Conversation.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260611T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260611T130000
DTSTAMP:20260826T022621
CREATED:20260413T173615Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260413T173619Z
UID:1007550-1781179200-1781182800@letitbeus.org
SUMMARY:Navigating YouthCare: What Every Foster Parent Should Know
DESCRIPTION:Let It Be Us offers a series of virtual and in-person educational events on topics surrounding Foster Care and Adoption in the State of Illinois. \nJoin Let It Be Us and YouthCare for an informational webinar designed for current and prospective foster parents. This session will provide an overview of YouthCare HealthChoice Illinois and how managed care supports the medical\, behavioral health\, and overall wellbeing of youth in care and former youth in care. Participants will also learn about care coordination\, key resources\, and how to navigate services to ensure timely access to care. Foster parents can receive 1 hour of credit toward their license for attending. \n\nThis event is free and open to the public\nAccess to this event is completely virtual\, NO in-person options\nRegistration for this event is required\nDuring the event\, attendees will have the opportunity for question & answer\nIf you have any questions\, please contact Daisy Taylor at daisytaylor@letitbeus.org.\n\nFeatured Speaker: John Hall\, M.A. \nJohn Hall\, M.A.\, is a Supervisor\, Operations with YouthCare HealthChoice Illinois. He holds a Master’s Degree in Human Development Counseling and served as a Child Protection Investigator with DCFS for five years. He brings experience across child welfare\, managed care operations\, and behavioral health and crisis intervention in community and hospital settings. At YouthCare\, he leads the Foster Care Liaison Team\, providing strategic oversight\, training\, and coordination to support compliance and improved outcomes for youth in care.
URL:https://letitbeus.org/event/navigating-youthcare-what-every-foster-parent-should-know/
LOCATION:ZOOM Webinar
CATEGORIES:Children's Home,Learn More with Let It Be Us
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://letitbeus.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/YouthCare-June-11.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260609T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260609T193000
DTSTAMP:20260826T022621
CREATED:20260318T211411Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260421T180652Z
UID:1007483-1781028000-1781033400@letitbeus.org
SUMMARY:Become a Foster Parent with Lutheran Social Services of Illinois
DESCRIPTION:Let It Be Us offers a series of virtual and in-person educational events on topics surrounding Foster Care and Adoption in the State of Illinois. \nCould you be the safe place a child needs – right now? \nIf you’ve ever felt a pull to help a child in need but weren’t sure where to start\, this evening is for you. Join Let It Be Us and Lutheran Social Services of Illinois for an informative and welcoming conversation about becoming a foster parent. We are currently seeking compassionate individuals and families interested in both traditional and therapeutic foster care – there is a real and urgent need in our community. \nThis is a relaxed\, no-pressure opportunity to learn what foster care really looks like\, ask questions in a supportive setting\, and explore whether fostering could be the right fit for your family. If you live in Rockford\, Rockton\, Loves Park\, and surrounding areas\, you are encouraged to join us. \nYou don’t have to have all the answers -just a willingness to learn and an open heart. \n\nThis event is free and open to the public\nAccess to this event is completely virtual\, NO in-person options\nRegistration for this event is required\nDuring the event\, attendees will have the opportunity for question & answer\nIf you have any questions\, please contact Cathy Newbury at cathynewbury@letitbeus.org.\n\n\nOne evening can open the door to a lifetime of hope for a child. Join us and take the first step.
URL:https://letitbeus.org/event/become-a-foster-parent-with-lutheran-social-services-of-illinois/
LOCATION:ZOOM Webinar
CATEGORIES:Children's Home,Learn More with Let It Be Us
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://letitbeus.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/LSSI.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260602T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260602T193000
DTSTAMP:20260826T022621
CREATED:20260417T165907Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260417T165911Z
UID:1007605-1780423200-1780428600@letitbeus.org
SUMMARY:Foster Care and Licensing with Arden Shore Child and Family Services
DESCRIPTION:Could you be the safe place a child needs – right now? \nIf you’ve ever felt a pull to help a child in need but weren’t sure where to start\, this evening is for you.Join us for an informative and compassionate virtual event on Foster Care and Licensing with Arden Shore Child and Family Services\, an organization committed to protecting children\, strengthening families\, and building brighter futures for those who have experienced trauma. Engage in open\, candid discussions and share valuable insights in an intimate\, small-group session hosted by Let It Be Us. \nDuring this interactive session\, we’ll talk about:• What foster care looks like today in Illinois• The process of becoming a licensed foster parent• The types of children who need homes right now• The support available to foster families• Your questions about fostering \nJoin us to discover how you can become part of a child’s journey of hope and begin your path to becoming a foster parent. If you live in Lake\, McHenry\, or DuPage Counties\, you are encouraged to join us. \n\n\nThis event is free and open to the public\nAccess to this event is completely online\, NO in-person options\nRegistration for this event is required\nLicensed and unlicensed families are welcome\nDuring the event\, attendees will have the opportunity for question & answer\nQuestions may be directed to Cathy Newbury at cathynewbury@letitbeus.org.\n\nOne evening can open the door to a lifetime of hope for a child. Join us and take the first step. \n\nLet It Be Us offers a series of virtual educational events on topics surrounding Foster Care and Adoption in the State of Illinois. Our Live Foster Parent Recruitment Events are the in-person portion of this series.
URL:https://letitbeus.org/event/foster-care-and-licensing-with-arden-shore-child-and-family-services/
LOCATION:ZOOM Webinar
CATEGORIES:Learn More with Let It Be Us,Recruiting Foster Parents
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://letitbeus.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Arden-Shore-March-17.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260530T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260530T235959
DTSTAMP:20260826T022621
CREATED:20251118T214816Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260421T161546Z
UID:1007153-1780165800-1780185599@letitbeus.org
SUMMARY:Be Mine Gala
DESCRIPTION:Be Mine Gala: A Night to Change Lives \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 8th Annual Be Mine Gala on Saturday\, May 30\, 2026\, at City Hall Venue in Chicago’s West Loop 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. \n \n \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 ANY 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.\nExclusive 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 a live DJ!\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.
URL:https://letitbeus.org/event/be-mine-gala-2/
LOCATION:The City Hall\, 838 W. Kinzie\, Chicago\, Illinois\, 60642\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://letitbeus.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/web-image@4x-1.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260521T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260521T113000
DTSTAMP:20260826T022621
CREATED:20260317T163356Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260501T143855Z
UID:1007475-1779354000-1779363000@letitbeus.org
SUMMARY:Let It Be Us Adoption Symposium: Adoption as a Path to Permanency\, State Leadership in Action\, and Legal Frameworks
DESCRIPTION:Let It Be Us proudly hosts the Adoption Symposium: Adoption as a Path to Permanency\, State Leadership in Action and Legal Frameworks 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. Designed for agency leaders and staff\, this 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. \nFeatured Panelists\n\nHeidi E. Mueller\, Director of the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS)Heidi E. Mueller was appointed by Governor JB Pritzker to serve as acting director of the IllinoisDepartment of Children and Family Services (DCFS) on February 1\, 2024. On March 22\, 2024\, she was unanimously confirmed by the Illinois Senate and became the director.\nPrior to her appointment\, Mueller served as director of the Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice (IDJJ) since 2016. In that role she oversaw the care\, custody and services provided to youth committed to the department by Illinois courts\, including five secure youth centers\, eight aftercare (juvenile parole) offices and five day-reporting centers located throughout Illinois. From2014-2016 Ms. Mueller was IDJJ’s deputy director of programs\, serving as the principal policy-making official for the department’s healthcare\, behavioral health\, vocational and recreational programs. In addition\, Ms. Mueller conceptualized and implemented the core IDJJ intervention and behavioral management programs. She was trained as a social science researcher and started her career in community organizations developing programming and providing direct service to youth and families. Mueller earned her degree in psychology and history from Macalester College\, pursued graduate studies at Stony Brook University\, and earned her Juris Doctorate from theUniversity of Chicago Law School. \n\n\nGenie Gillespie\, JD\, Attorney\, Gillespie Law Group\, LLC \nGenie Gillespie is a respected Chicago-based adoption attorney and founder of Gillespie Law Group\, LLC\, where she focuses her practice on adoption\, assisted reproduction\, and family formation law. With decades of experience\, Genie has guided hundreds of families through the legal complexities of adoption\, including private domestic adoption\, agency adoption\, stepparent and relative adoptions\, and interstate placements. \nKnown for her clarity\, compassion\, and precision\, Genie is a trusted advisor to both families and professionals navigating the legal pathways to permanency. Her work is grounded in a deep understanding of Illinois adoption law and a commitment to ensuring that every child has the opportunity to grow up in a safe\, stable\, and loving home. \nIn addition to her legal practice\, Genie is a frequent speaker and educator on adoption law and policy. She collaborates with child welfare professionals\, agencies\, and advocates to strengthen adoption practices and improve permanency outcomes for children in foster care. \n\nJocelyn Fetting\, MSW\, Child Welfare Advocate\n  \nJocelyn Fetting earned her Master of Social Work from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign in December 2025. She spent 8½ years in the Illinois foster care system\, navigating multiple placements and the Transitional Living Program before aging out at 21. As the oldest of four siblings\, Jocelyn often stepped into caregiving roles\, shaping her commitment to supporting youth in care. \nJocelyn utilized the Illinois DCFS Scholarship while earning both her Bachelor’s (2024) and Master’s degrees (2025)\, which covered her tuition and provided a monthly living stipend that supported her housing stability during college. Entering from a transitional living placement\, she navigated gaps in basic dorm and living necessities. \nShe has been deeply involved in advocacy\, serving as an Illinois Department of Children and Family Services Statewide Youth Advisory Board Intern and mentoring students through the Youth in Care College Advocate Program. She has testified in support of key legislation\, including the Hair Care Bill (HB 5097) and the STAR Hearings Bill\, and was recognized with a Community Hero Award in 2024. In April 2026\, she contributed to a federal House Committee on Ways and Means discussion alongside Melania Trump\, advocating for stronger resources for youth aging out of care. \nJocelyn continues her advocacy through the Illinois Child Welfare Exchange (ICW Exchange)\, where she provides guidance to young people navigating DCFS resources and the transition to adulthood. She remains committed to improving systems for youth in care by combining lived experience\, policy knowledge\, and a passion for social work. \n\n\nLindsay Perlmutter\, JD\, LCSW \nLindsay is the Director of the Adoption Listing Service at Let It Be Us\, where she helps connect waiting children and youth in foster care with safe\, loving\, permanent families across Illinois. She brings extensive experience in child welfare\, adoption\, foster care\, and juvenile justice\, along with a deep commitment to trauma-informed and family-centered practice. \nPreviously\, Lindsay served as Director of Program Development at the Adoption Center of Illinois\, where she implemented evidence-based programs\, led parent education and training initiatives\, and developed inclusive policies and support services for adoptive families. Her background also includes work as a DCFS Post Adoption and Subsidized Guardianship Court Liaison\, where she supported families navigating complex systems and services\, and as an Advocate Supervisor at CASA of Cook County\, where she championed the best interests of children in care. \nMost recently\, Lindsay was a Clinical Social Worker with the University of Chicago Law School’s Mandel Legal Aid Clinic\, focusing on youth involved in the juvenile justice system\, many of whom had experience in foster care. Throughout her career\, she has trained professionals\, advocated for children and families\, and worked to strengthen systems that help young people heal and thrive. Lindsay brings exceptional expertise\, compassion\, and leadership to Let It Be Us. \n \n\n\nDr. Susan A. McConnell\, Founder and Executive Director of Let It Be UsDr. Susan McConnell is the Founder and Executive Director of Let It Be Us\, a child welfare organization she established in 2014 to deliver collaborative\, data-driven\, and innovative solutions for recruitment and placement within Illinois foster care and adoption systems. Under her leadership\, Let It Be Us has become the state’s leading engine for foster home recruitment\, holding multiple agency contracts to recruit families for Emergency\, Therapeutic\, Specialized\, and Traditional Foster Care\, as well as for sibling groups and children with complex medical and mental health needs. Appointed in 2017 by the Director of the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services\, Dr. McConnell currently serves as Chair of the Permanency Committee of the Illinois Statewide Foster Care Advisory Council. In this role\, she works to influence policy and strengthen permanency outcomes for children across the state. \nDr. McConnell was a founding member of the team that launched the Heart Gallery of Illinois\, the state’s child-specific photo listing designed to increase the likelihood of adoption for children in care. She and her team at Let It Be Us have also developed and implemented a proprietary\, comprehensive database of over 1\,100 licensed Illinois foster homes. This platform\, combined with geo targeted search functionality\, serves as the Open Home Navigator\, a statewide tool that accelerates placement for children in emergent and hard-to-place situations.Academically\, Dr. McConnell earned her Doctorate in Social Work (DSW) from the Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work at the University of Southern California. She also holds an MBA and a BS in Management\, Human Resources\, and Recruitment from DePaul University. A lifelong advocate for permanency\, Dr. McConnell is the mother of four children\, three of whom joined her family through adoption\, and brings more than 30 years of experience in open adoption to her work in child welfare. \n\n\nPanel discussion and Q&A to follow. Breakfast will be served. \nFor questions\, contact Kate Soldan at katesoldan@letitbeus.org. \n\n\n\n\n 
URL:https://letitbeus.org/event/let-it-be-us-adoption-symposium-the-future-of-adoption-as-a-form-of-permanency-in-illinois/
LOCATION:Center on Halsted\, 3656 North Halsted\, Chicago\, IL\, 60613\, United States
CATEGORIES:Special Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://letitbeus.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Learn-More-with-LIBU-Events-22.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260518T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260518T203000
DTSTAMP:20260826T022621
CREATED:20260416T184152Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260514T170803Z
UID:1007593-1779130800-1779136200@letitbeus.org
SUMMARY:Navigating Adoption: Microaggressions and Identity Challenges in Adoption with Dr. Amanda Baden and Let It Be Us
DESCRIPTION:Let It Be Us offers a series of virtual and in-person educational events on topics surrounding Foster Care and Adoption in the State of Illinois. \nJoin Let It Be Us for an insightful session with Amanda L. Baden\, Ph.D.\, a leading voice in adoption research\, as she explores how adoptees develop identity across adoption\, race\, and culture. This presentation will examine how stigma can shape adoptee experiences through adoption microaggressions – subtle but impactful forms of bias – and how these dynamics appear in everyday interactions. Attendees will gain the skills to recognize and respond to these experiences\, while also learning about reculturation\, the process through which adoptees reconnect with their birth culture. Through practical frameworks and real-world application\, participants will deepen their understanding of how to support adoptees in building identity\, connection\, and belonging. \n\nThis event is free and open to the public\nAccess to this event is completely virtual\, NO in-person options\nRegistration for this event is required\nDuring the event\, attendees will have the opportunity for question & answer\nIf you have any questions\, please contact Daisy Taylor at daisytaylor@letitbeus.org.\n\nFeatured Speaker: Amanda L. Baden\, Ph.D. \nAmanda L. Baden\, Ph.D. is a nationally recognized adoption researcher and psychologist whose work focuses on adoptee identity\, adoption socialization\, and the impact of stigma. Her research explores how adoptees navigate identity across adoption\, race\, and culture\, including the roles of adoption microaggressions and reculturation – the process of reconnecting with birth culture. Through her work\, she provides valuable frameworks that help caregivers and professionals better understand and support adoptees in building identity\, connection\, and belonging.
URL:https://letitbeus.org/event/navigating-adoption-microaggressions-and-identity-challenges-in-adoption-with-dr-amanda-baden-and-let-it-be-us/
LOCATION:ZOOM Webinar
CATEGORIES:Children's Home,Learn More with Let It Be Us
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://letitbeus.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/RUSH-May-18.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260506T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260506T193000
DTSTAMP:20260826T022621
CREATED:20260327T192441Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260330T174259Z
UID:1007510-1778092200-1778095800@letitbeus.org
SUMMARY:Belonging at School: What Adoptive Families Need to Know with Belonging Education and Let It Be Us
DESCRIPTION:Let It Be Us offers a series of virtual and in-person educational events on topics surrounding Foster Care and Adoption in the State of Illinois. \nFeeling lost in the school system? You’re not alone. Join Let It Be Us and family advocate & school systems expert Max Weinberg\, PhD for a virtual webinar on how to help your child feel truly connected at school and how to advocate effectively when they don’t. Drawing on 25+ years of experience and a research-grounded belonging framework\, this presentation gives adoptive and fostering families a clear map for understanding schools\, building partnerships with educators\, and getting children the support they need. Come with your questions. Leave with real tools. \n\nFoster parents will receive 1 hour credit\nThis event is free and open to the public\nAccess to this event is completely virtual\, NO in-person options\nRegistration for this event is required\nDuring the event\, attendees will have the opportunity for question & answer\nIf you have any questions\, please contact Daisy Taylor at daisytaylor@letitbeus.org.\n\nFeatured Speaker: Max Weinberg\, PhD \nMax Weinberg brings deep expertise in creating environments where adopted\, fostered\, and looked after students feel seen and supported. He is the founder of Belonging Education\, an educational advising practice dedicated to strengthening student belonging through work with families and school leaders. His commitment is rooted in both his own school experiences and his journey advocating for his children. Max holds a Ph.D. in Educational Leadership\, an LBS1 license\, and a bilingual endorsement. His forthcoming book on adoption and foster-affirming schools will be published by Routledge.
URL:https://letitbeus.org/event/belonging-at-school-what-adoptive-families-need-to-know-with-belonging-education-and-let-it-be-us/
LOCATION:ZOOM Webinar
CATEGORIES:Children's Home,Learn More with Let It Be Us
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://letitbeus.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Belonging-May-6-1.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260428T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260428T193000
DTSTAMP:20260826T022621
CREATED:20260317T154222Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260317T154559Z
UID:1007474-1777399200-1777404600@letitbeus.org
SUMMARY:Foster Care and Licensing with Children's Home - Peoria\, Tazewell\, and Woodford\, Illinois Counties
DESCRIPTION:Let It Be Us offers a series of virtual educational events on topics surrounding Foster Care and Adoption in the State of Illinois. \nIf you’ve ever felt a pull to help a child in need but weren’t sure where to start\, this evening is for you. \nJoin Let It Be Us and The Children’s Home for a free live webinar to learn what it really means to become a foster parent in Illinois. This casual\, welcoming conversation will give you the chance to hear directly from foster care professionals and experienced foster parents in a comfortable\, no-pressure setting. \nDuring this interactive session\, we’ll talk about:• What foster care looks like today in Illinois• The process of becoming a licensed foster parent• The types of children who need homes right now• The support available to foster families• Your questions about fosteringThere is a tremendous need for safe\, caring homes for children in our community. By opening your home\, you can provide the stability\, safety\, and hope a child needs during a difficult time.This opportunity is especially relevant for families living in Peoria County\, Tazewell County\, and Woodford County\, but anyone interested in learning more is welcome. Whether you are just exploring the idea or ready to take the next step\, we invite you to join the conversation. \n\nThis event is free and open to the public\nAccess to this event is completely online\, NO in-person option available\nRegistration for this event is required\nDuring the event\, attendees will have the opportunity for question & answer\nIf you have any questions\, please contact Cathy Newbury at cathynewbury@letitbeus.org.\n\n\nOne evening can open the door to a lifetime of hope for a child. Join us and take the first step.
URL:https://letitbeus.org/event/foster-care-and-licensing-with-childrens-home-peoria-tazewell-and-woodford-illinois-counties/
LOCATION:ZOOM Webinar
CATEGORIES:Children's Home,Learn More with Let It Be Us
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://letitbeus.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Learn-More-with-LIBU-Events-9.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260421T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260421T193000
DTSTAMP:20260826T022621
CREATED:20260210T142549Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260210T143825Z
UID:1007411-1776794400-1776799800@letitbeus.org
SUMMARY:Learn About Emergency Foster Care with Shelter Youth & Family Services
DESCRIPTION:Let It Be Us offers a series of virtual educational events on topics surrounding Foster Care and Adoption in the State of Illinois. Our Live Foster Parent Recruitment Events are the in-person portion of this series. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nCould you open your home when a child needs it most? Join us at our in-person event at Giordano’s in Oakbrook Terrace\, IL to learn about being an Emergency Foster Home with Shelter Youth & Family Services. Get all your questions answered!\n \nThese special homes take in children in emergency situations for a limited time\, providing them care and safety at a critical point in their lives. Shelter Youth & Family Services provides Emergency Foster Parents wraparound services\, supporting foster parents and ensuring children receive what they need. Also\, Emergency Foster Parents receive additional financial support. If you are licensed or not yet licensed\, living in Elmhurst\, Arlington Heights\, Palatine\, Oakbrook\, and surrounding northern Chicagoland communities\, you are welcome to join and learn about the extra financial and other supports available to Emergency Foster Parents.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWe are currently specifically targeting the following individuals: \n\nEducation professionals\nEducational support professionals\nMedical care providers\nMental health care providers\nEmergency responders\nIndividuals with parenting experience\nIndividuals with special needs experience\n\nThis event is located at Giordano’s in Oakbrook Terrace – 17W280 West 22nd Street\, Oakbrook Terrace\, IL 60181. Questions may be directed to Cathy Newbury at cathynewbury@letitbeus.org. \n\nThis event is free and open to the public\nAccess to this event is completely in-person\nRegistration for this event is required\nDuring the event\, attendees will have the opportunity for question & answer\nPizza\, salad\, and soda will be served
URL:https://letitbeus.org/event/learn-about-emergency-foster-care-with-shelter-youth-family-services-4/
LOCATION:Giordano’s\, 17W280 W 22nd St\, Oakbrook Terrace\, Illinois\, 60181\, United States
CATEGORIES:Learn More with Let It Be Us,Shelter Youth & Family Services
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://letitbeus.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/5.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260416T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260416T193000
DTSTAMP:20260826T022621
CREATED:20260217T162343Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260319T160347Z
UID:1007428-1776362400-1776367800@letitbeus.org
SUMMARY:Casual Conversation: Foster Care and Licensing with Arden Shore Child and Family Services
DESCRIPTION:Could you be the safe place a child needs – right now? \nIf you’ve ever felt a pull to help a child in need but weren’t sure where to start\, this evening is for you.Join us for an informative and compassionate in-person Casual Conversation on Foster Care and Licensing with Arden Shore Child and Family Services\, an organization committed to protecting children\, strengthening families\, and building brighter futures for those who have experienced trauma. Engage in open\, candid discussions and share valuable insights in an intimate\, small-group session hosted by Let It Be Us. \nMeet with our dedicated staff\, agency caseworkers\, and experienced foster parents as we provide the latest updates on foster care and licensing – and allow you to ask your individual questions. You’ll also learn more about the Illinois child welfare system and the incredible support available to foster families. By offering a stable and loving home\, you can make a profound difference in a child’s life. Join us to discover how you can become part of a child’s journey of hope and begin your path to becoming a foster parent. If you live in Lake\, McHenry\, or DuPage Counties\, you are encouraged to join us. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThis event is located at the Arden Shore Offices – 329 N Genesee St\, Waukegan\, IL 60085. Questions may be directed to Cathy Newbury at cathynewbury@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 in-person\nRegistration for this event is required\nLicensed and unlicensed families are welcome\nDuring the event\, attendees will have the opportunity for question & answer\nRefreshments will be served\n\nOne evening can open the door to a lifetime of hope for a child. Join us and take the first step. \n\nLet It Be Us offers a series of virtual educational events on topics surrounding Foster Care and Adoption in the State of Illinois. Our Live Foster Parent Recruitment Events are the in-person portion of this series.
URL:https://letitbeus.org/event/casual-conversation-foster-care-and-licensing-with-arden-shore-child-and-family-services/
LOCATION:Illinois
CATEGORIES:Learn More with Let It Be Us,Recruiting Foster Parents
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://letitbeus.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Arden-Shore-March-17.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260414T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260414T130000
DTSTAMP:20260826T022621
CREATED:20260318T200921Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260318T200923Z
UID:1007481-1776168000-1776171600@letitbeus.org
SUMMARY:Lunch and Learn: Learn About Adoption through Foster Care with Let It Be Us - Zoom Event
DESCRIPTION:Let It Be Us offers a series of virtual educational events on topics surrounding Foster Care and Adoption in the State of Illinois. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nHave you ever thought about adopting through foster care and have some questions about the process?\n\n\n\n\n\n\nJoin us for our lunch and learn Zoom event to learn how you can adopt through 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 this Zoom event\, our Adoption Recruiter & Training Coordinator\, Erin Janssens\, will discuss the unique opportunities of adopting children from the foster care system. The Zoom event 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 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 Zoom event is open to the public – whether you’re considering adoption or are already involved in foster care. Join us to gain valuable insights and be part of a conversation that is transforming lives through Let It Be Us.  \n\n\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 event\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/lunch-and-learn-learn-about-adoption-through-foster-care-with-let-it-be-us-zoom-event-7/
LOCATION:ZOOM Webinar
CATEGORIES:Learn More with Let It Be Us,Lutheran Children & Family Services
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://letitbeus.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Lunch-and-Learn_April14.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260319T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260319T193000
DTSTAMP:20260826T022621
CREATED:20260126T153931Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260126T153933Z
UID:1007292-1773943200-1773948600@letitbeus.org
SUMMARY:Become a Foster Parent with Lutheran Child and Family Services - O'Fallon\, 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. Our Live Foster Parent Recruitment Events are the in-person portion of this series. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAre you interested in learning more about the Illinois child welfare system\, what it means to be a foster parent\, and how to get started? If yes\, join us for this informative fireside chat with Lutheran Child & Family Services\,  the second-largest community-based child welfare agency in Illinois\, dedicated to improving the well-being of people across the state by protecting children\, strengthening families and building futures for those who have experienced trauma. What you’ll learn:\n\n\n\n\nHow LCFS supports foster parents every step of the way\nAccess to health insurance\, therapy\, and education support for children in your care\nOngoing training\, support groups\, and resources tailored for foster families\nMonthly financial support and funding for daycare\, after-school care\, and extracurriculars\n\n\n\nTake the first step toward changing a child’s story – register today and join us for this powerful and educational event. If you are licensed or not yet licensed\, live in Jefferson County\, Marion County\, Wayne County\, or the surrounding areas\, you are encouraged to join us!\n \nThis event is located at the Lutheran Child & Family Services O’Fallon Office – 711 Insight Avenue\, O’Fallon\, Illinois 62269. Questions may be directed to Cathy Newbury at cathynewbury@letitbeus.org.\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 IN-PERSON\, no virtual options\nRegistration for this event is required\nDuring the event\, attendees will have the opportunity for questions & answer\, to meet caseworkers\, to hear from experienced foster parents. \n\nLutheran Child & Family Services is committed to being supportive and responsive in collaborating with foster parents in serving children’s needs.  They provide: \n\nA Lutheran Child & Family Services team to provide guidance and support.\nHealth insurance for children placed in your home.\nTherapy\, counseling\, academic counseling and special education services when needed. \nTraining programs\, support groups and newsletters geared to foster families.\nMonthly financial support for the foster children’s basic needs\, including food\, clothing and housing costs.\nFunding for daycare\, after-school care\, and extracurricular activities including sports and art programs for eligible children in foster care. 
URL:https://letitbeus.org/event/become-a-foster-parent-with-lutheran-child-and-family-services-ofallon-illinois/
LOCATION:LCFS O’Fallon Office\, 711 Insight Avenue\, O'Fallon\, 62269\, United States
CATEGORIES:Learn More with Let It Be Us,Lutheran Children & Family Services
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://letitbeus.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/LCFS_Casual-Conversation.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260317T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260317T130000
DTSTAMP:20260826T022621
CREATED:20260211T160855Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260211T161228Z
UID:1007413-1773748800-1773752400@letitbeus.org
SUMMARY:Lunch and Learn: Learn About Adoption through Foster Care with Let It Be Us - Zoom Event
DESCRIPTION:Let It Be Us offers a series of virtual educational events on topics surrounding Foster Care and Adoption in the State of Illinois. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nHave you ever thought about adopting through foster care and have some questions about the process?\n\n\n\n\n\n\nJoin us for our lunch and learn Zoom event to learn how you can adopt through 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 this Zoom event\, our Adoption Recruiter & Training Coordinator\, Erin Janssens\, will discuss the unique opportunities of adopting children from the foster care system. The Zoom event 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 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 Zoom event is open to the public – whether you’re considering adoption or are already involved in foster care. Join us to gain valuable insights and be part of a conversation that is transforming lives through Let It Be Us.  \n\n\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 event\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/lunch-and-learn-learn-about-adoption-through-foster-care-with-let-it-be-us-zoom-event-6/
LOCATION:ZOOM Webinar
CATEGORIES:Learn More with Let It Be Us,Lutheran Children & Family Services
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://letitbeus.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Lunch-and-Learn_March-17.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260303T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260303T193000
DTSTAMP:20260826T022621
CREATED:20260116T170240Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260227T152554Z
UID:1007269-1772560800-1772566200@letitbeus.org
SUMMARY:Casual Conversation: Foster Care and Licensing with Children's Home - Peoria\, Tazewell\, and Woodford\, Illinois Counties
DESCRIPTION:Could you be the safe place a child needs – right now? If you’ve ever felt a pull to help a child in need but weren’t sure where to start\, this evening is for you. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nJoin us for an informative and compassionate in-person Casual Conversation on Foster Care and Licensing with the Children’s Home\, an organization committed to protecting children\, strengthening families\, and building brighter futures for those who have experienced trauma. Engage in open\, candid discussions and share valuable insights in an intimate\, small-group session hosted by Let It Be Us. Meet with our dedicated staff\, agency caseworkers\, and experienced foster parents as we provide the latest updates on foster care and licensing – and give you the opportunity to ask your individual questions. You’ll also learn more about the Illinois child welfare system and the incredible support available to foster families. By offering a stable and loving home\, you can make a profound difference in a child’s life. Join us to discover how you can become part of a child’s journey of hope and begin your path to becoming a foster parent. \nThis rewarding role is ideal for those residing in Peoria\, Tazewell\, and Woodford counties. Licensed and unlicensed families are welcome. Make a lasting impact on a child’s life by providing a stable and loving home. \nThis event is located at the Children’s Home Association of Illinois Community Services Building – 311 W John H Gwynn Jr Ave.\, Peoria\, IL 61605. Questions may be directed to Cathy Newbury at cathynewbury@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 in-person\nRegistration for this event is required\nDuring the event\, attendees will have the opportunity for question & answer\nRefreshments will be served\n\nOne evening can open the door to a lifetime of hope for a child. Join us and take the first step. \n\nLet It Be Us offers a series of virtual educational events on topics surrounding Foster Care and Adoption in the State of Illinois. Our Live Foster Parent Recruitment Events are the in-person portion of this series.
URL:https://letitbeus.org/event/casual-conversation-foster-care-and-licensing-with-childrens-home-peoria-tazewell-and-woodford-illinois-counties/
LOCATION:Community Services Building – Children’s Home Association of Illinois\, 311 W John H Gwynn Jr Avenue\, Peoria\, Illinois\, 61605\, United States
CATEGORIES:Children's Home,Learn More with Let It Be Us
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://letitbeus.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Learn-More-with-LIBU-Events-9.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260224T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260224T193000
DTSTAMP:20260826T022621
CREATED:20260115T181354Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260115T202036Z
UID:1007265-1771956000-1771961400@letitbeus.org
SUMMARY:Learn About Emergency Foster Care with Shelter Youth & Family Services
DESCRIPTION:Let It Be Us offers a series of virtual educational events on topics surrounding Foster Care and Adoption in the State of Illinois. Our Live Foster Parent Recruitment Events are the in-person portion of this series. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nCould you open your home when a child needs it most? Join us at our in-person event at Francesca’s Amici in Elmhurst\, IL to learn about being an Emergency Foster Home with Shelter Youth & Family Services. Get all your questions answered!\n \nThese special homes take in children in emergency situations for a limited time\, providing them care and safety at a critical point in their lives. Shelter Youth & Family Services provides Emergency Foster Parents wraparound services\, supporting foster parents and ensuring children receive what they need. Also\, Emergency Foster Parents receive additional financial support. If you are licensed or not yet licensed\, living in Elmhurst\, Lombard\, Chicagoland or the Northern region of Illinois\, you are welcome to join and learn about the extra financial and other supports available to Emergency Foster Parents.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWe are currently specifically targeting the following individuals: \n\nEducation professionals\nEducational support professionals\nMedical care providers\nMental health care providers\nEmergency responders\nIndividuals with parenting experience\nIndividuals with special needs experience\n\nThis event is located at Francesca’s Amici – 174 N York St\, Elmhurst\, IL 60126. Questions may be directed to Cathy Newbury at cathynewbury@letitbeus.org. \n\nThis event is free and open to the public\nAccess to this event is completely in-person\nRegistration for this event is required\nDuring the event\, attendees will have the opportunity for question & answer\nAppetizers\, pasta\, salad\, and soda will be served
URL:https://letitbeus.org/event/learn-about-emergency-foster-care-with-shelter-youth-family-services-3/
LOCATION:Francesca’s Amici\, 174 N York St\, Elmhurst\, Illinois\, 60126\, United States
CATEGORIES:Learn More with Let It Be Us,Shelter Youth & Family Services
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://letitbeus.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/5.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260220T191500
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260220T213000
DTSTAMP:20260826T022621
CREATED:20260128T195206Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260128T200254Z
UID:1007299-1771614900-1771623000@letitbeus.org
SUMMARY:Non-Profit of the Night: Peoria Rivermen Hockey Game
DESCRIPTION:Join Let It Be Us for a Hockey Night for a Cause! Let It Be Us has been chosen to be the Peoria Rivermen’s Non-Profit of the Night for their game on Friday\, February 20th at 7:15 PM against the Evansville Thunderbolts at the Peoria Civic Center. \nWe are selling tickets for lower center seats – just $25 each! A portion of every ticket sold helps fund our mission to recruit and support foster and adoptive families across Illinois.  \n\nLet’s pack the stand and show our community what it means to come together for children and teens who need us most. Every seat sold makes a difference. \nSpecial deals: \n\nFamily Four Pack – 4 tickets for $90\nFoster Parent Discount – foster parents get tickets for $20 each as our way of saying THANK YOU for all you do!\n\n\nFor tickets\, reach out to Cathy Newbury at cathynewbury@letitbeus.org.
URL:https://letitbeus.org/event/non-profit-of-the-night-peoria-rivermen-hockey-game-2/
LOCATION:Peoria Civic Center\, 201 SW Jefferson Ave\, Peoria\, Illinois\, United States
CATEGORIES:Special Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://letitbeus.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Rivermen-February-20-2.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260210T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260210T193000
DTSTAMP:20260826T022621
CREATED:20260102T192250Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260115T161313Z
UID:1007240-1770746400-1770751800@letitbeus.org
SUMMARY:Become a Foster Parent with Lutheran Child & Family Services – Springfield\, 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. Our Live Foster Parent Recruitment Events are the in-person portion of this series. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAre you interested in learning more about the Illinois child welfare system\, what it means to be a foster parent\, and how to get started? Join Let It Be Us and Lutheran Child & Family Services for an informative and inspiring event.  You’re invited to a special in-person event designed to answer your questions and guide you through the first steps of making a difference in a child’s life. This is a relaxed\, supportive space to learn\, connect\, and discover how you can be part of something truly life-changing.\n \nLet It Be Us is proud to host this engaging and educational event in partnership with Lutheran Child & Family Services – the second-largest community-based child welfare agency in Illinois. Together\, we’re dedicated to protecting children\, strengthening families\, and supporting those who have experienced trauma.\n \n\nIf you are licensed or not yet licensed\, living in Lincoln\, Jacksonville\, Springfield\, and surrounding areas\, you are encouraged to join us! Enjoy appetizers\, pizza\, and soda while learning how you can open your heart and home to a child in need.\n \nThis event is located at Monical’s Pizza – 2640 Prairie Crossing Dr\, Springfield\, IL 62711. Questions may be directed to Cathy Newbury at cathynewbury@letitbeus.org.\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 IN-PERSON\, no virtual options\nRegistration for this event is required\nDuring the event\, attendees will have the opportunity for question & answer\nPizza\, salad\, and soda will be served\n\nLutheran Child & Family Services is committed to being supportive and responsive in collaborating with foster parents in serving children’s needs.  They provide: \n\nA Lutheran Child & Family Services team to provide guidance and support.\nHealth insurance for children placed in your home.\nTherapy\, counseling\, academic counseling and special education services when needed. \nTraining programs\, support groups and newsletters geared to foster families.\nMonthly financial support for the foster children’s basic needs\, including food\, clothing and housing costs.\nFunding for daycare\, after-school care\, and extracurricular activities including sports and art programs for eligible children in foster care. 
URL:https://letitbeus.org/event/become-a-foster-parent-with-lutheran-child-family-services-springfield-illinois-2/
LOCATION:Monical’s Pizza\, 2640 Praire Crossing Drive\, Springfield\, Illinois\, 62711\, United States
CATEGORIES:Learn More with Let It Be Us,Lutheran Children & Family Services
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://letitbeus.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/LCFS_Casual-Conversation.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260210T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260210T130000
DTSTAMP:20260826T022621
CREATED:20260114T155427Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260114T155429Z
UID:1007262-1770724800-1770728400@letitbeus.org
SUMMARY:Lunch and Learn: Learn About Adoption through Foster Care with Let It Be Us - Zoom Event
DESCRIPTION:Let It Be Us offers a series of virtual educational events on topics surrounding Foster Care and Adoption in the State of Illinois. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nHave you ever thought about adopting through foster care and have some questions about the process?\n\n\n\n\n\n\nJoin us for our lunch and learn Zoom event to learn how you can adopt through 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 this Zoom event\, our Adoption Recruiter & Training Coordinator\, Erin Janssens\, will discuss the unique opportunities of adopting children from the foster care system. The Zoom event 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 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 Zoom event is open to the public – whether you’re considering adoption or are already involved in foster care. Join us to gain valuable insights and be part of a conversation that is transforming lives through Let It Be Us.  \n\n\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 event\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/lunch-and-learn-learn-about-adoption-through-foster-care-with-let-it-be-us-zoom-event-5/
LOCATION:ZOOM Webinar
CATEGORIES:Learn More with Let It Be Us,Lutheran Children & Family Services
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://letitbeus.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Lunch-and-Learn_February-10-1.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260131T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260131T113000
DTSTAMP:20260826T022621
CREATED:20251212T170745Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260130T145816Z
UID:1007218-1769853600-1769859000@letitbeus.org
SUMMARY:Foster Care & Adoption 101 Seminar
DESCRIPTION:Hosted by Let It Be Us in partnership with Senator Darby Hills and Lake County area elected officials \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFoster Care & Adoption 101 SeminarHosted by Let It Be Us in partnership with Senator Darby Hills and Lake County area elected officials \nJoin us Saturday\, January 31 from 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM at the Libertyville Civic Center for a free\, informative Foster Care & Adoption 101 Seminar designed to help individuals and families learn how they can make a meaningful difference for children in Illinois foster care. Whether you’re just beginning to explore fostering or adoption\, or you’re ready to take the next step\, this session will give you the knowledge and support to get started. \nDuring this seminar\, you’ll hear from knowledgeable guest speakers about the various types of foster care available in Lake County and surrounding areas\, including: \n\n\nEmergency Foster Care \n\n\nSpecialized Foster Care \n\n\nTraditional Foster Care \n\n\nTherapeutic Foster Care \n\n\nYou’ll learn what each pathway entails\, what supports are available\, and how Let It Be Us can guide you through your fostering or adoption journey. \nIf you have any questions\, please contact Kate at katesoldan@letitbeus.org. \nWe look forward to seeing you there and helping you take the next step toward changing a child’s life.
URL:https://letitbeus.org/event/foster-care-adoption-101-seminar/
LOCATION:Libertyville Civic Center\, 135 W Church Street\, Libertyville\, Illinois\, 60048\, United States
CATEGORIES:Special Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://letitbeus.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Hills-Adoption-101-Seminar-SM_2-copy-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260113T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260113T130000
DTSTAMP:20260826T022621
CREATED:20251215T214852Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251215T214855Z
UID:1007225-1768305600-1768309200@letitbeus.org
SUMMARY:Lunch and Learn: Learn About Adoption through Foster Care with Let It Be Us - Zoom Event
DESCRIPTION:Let It Be Us offers a series of virtual educational events on topics surrounding Foster Care and Adoption in the State of Illinois. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nHave you ever thought about adopting through foster care and have some questions about the process?\n\n\n\n\n\n\nJoin us for our lunch and learn Zoom event to learn how you can adopt through 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 this Zoom event\, our Adoption Recruiter & Training Coordinator\, Erin Janssens\, will discuss the unique opportunities of adopting children from the foster care system. The Zoom event 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 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 Zoom event is open to the public – whether you’re considering adoption or are already involved in foster care. Join us to gain valuable insights and be part of a conversation that is transforming lives through Let It Be Us.  \n\n\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 event\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/lunch-and-learn-learn-about-adoption-through-foster-care-with-let-it-be-us-zoom-event-4/
LOCATION:ZOOM Webinar
CATEGORIES:Learn More with Let It Be Us,Lutheran Children & Family Services
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://letitbeus.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Lunch-and-Learn_January-13.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251216T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251216T130000
DTSTAMP:20260826T022621
CREATED:20251124T231101Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251124T231103Z
UID:1007201-1765886400-1765890000@letitbeus.org
SUMMARY:Lunch and Learn: Learn About Adoption through Foster Care with Let It Be Us - Zoom Event
DESCRIPTION:Let It Be Us offers a series of virtual educational events on topics surrounding Foster Care and Adoption in the State of Illinois. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nHave you ever thought about adopting through foster care and have some questions about the process?\n\n\n\n\n\n\nJoin us for our lunch and learn Zoom event to learn how you can adopt through 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 this Zoom event\, our Adoption Recruiter & Training Coordinator\, Erin Janssens\, will discuss the unique opportunities of adopting children from the foster care system. The Zoom event 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 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 Zoom event is open to the public – whether you’re considering adoption or are already involved in foster care. Join us to gain valuable insights and be part of a conversation that is transforming lives through Let It Be Us.  \n\n\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 event\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/lunch-and-learn-learn-about-adoption-through-foster-care-with-let-it-be-us-zoom-event-3/
LOCATION:ZOOM Webinar
CATEGORIES:Learn More with Let It Be Us,Lutheran Children & Family Services
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://letitbeus.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Lunch-and-Learn_December-16.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251213T191500
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251213T213000
DTSTAMP:20260826T022621
CREATED:20251020T180811Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251104T225339Z
UID:1007043-1765653300-1765661400@letitbeus.org
SUMMARY:Non-Profit of the Night: Peoria Rivermen Hockey Game
DESCRIPTION:Join Let It Be Us for a Hockey Night for a Cause! Let It Be Us has been chosen to be the Peoria Rivermen’s Non-Profit of the Night for their game on Saturday\, December 13th at 7:15 PM against the Knoxville Ice Bears. \nWe are selling tickets for lower center seats – just $25 each! A portion of every ticket sold helps fund our mission to recruit and support foster and adoptive families across Illinois.  \n\nLet’s pack the stand and show our community what it means to come together for children and teens who need us most. Every seat sold makes a difference. \nSpecial deals: \n\nFamily Four Pack – 4 tickets for $90\nFoster Parent Discount – foster parents get tickets for $20 each as our way of saying THANK YOU for all you do!\n\n\nFor tickets\, reach out to Cathy Newbury at cathynewbury@letitbeus.org. \n\n\n\n 
URL:https://letitbeus.org/event/non-profit-of-the-night-peoria-rivermen-hockey-game/
LOCATION:Peoria Civic Center\, 201 SW Jefferson Ave\, Peoria\, Illinois\, United States
CATEGORIES:Special Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://letitbeus.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Rivermen-December-13.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251210T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251211T170000
DTSTAMP:20260826T022621
CREATED:20251201T154109Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251201T154151Z
UID:1007204-1765378800-1765472400@letitbeus.org
SUMMARY:Meet Santa at Barrington's White House During the Let It Be Us Toy Drive
DESCRIPTION:Let It Be Us is hosting our Annual Toy Drive at Barrington’s White House – and Santa will be making a special appearance!\n\n\n\nBring your new\, unwrapped toy donations anytime\, and stop by on December 10 & 11 from 3–5 PM when Santa will be on the front porch for photos\, festive fun\, and candy canes for the kids. \nLinks for toys – \nFor children & teens in foster care: https://a.co/hVby0vT \nFor children & teens awaiting adoption: https://a.co/fpUGgK2 \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n 
URL:https://letitbeus.org/event/meet-santa-at-barringtons-white-house-during-the-let-it-be-us-toy-drive/
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/2025/11/Holiday-Open-House.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251210T000000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251211T235959
DTSTAMP:20260826T022621
CREATED:20250822T183855Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251210T134237Z
UID:1006914-1765324800-1765497599@letitbeus.org
SUMMARY:Toy Drive for Children in Foster Care including Those Awaiting Adoption
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 McHenry 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\nLet It Be Us Headquarters\, 145 West Main Street in Barrington\, Illinois on December 10th 2:00 – 7:00 pm and 11th from 2:00 pm – 7:00 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\nSanta will be making a special appearance both days from 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM on the front porch for photos\, festive fun\, and candy canes for the kids. \nThank you to those who are able to participate with us. For corporate sponsorships\, please contact Susan McConnell\, Executive Director\, at susanmcconnell@letitbeus.org. \nNot able to shop for a gift this year? Make a direct donation to this program by December 8\, and we will shop for you! Visit our direct donation page to make a safe and secure donation.\n\nHeart Gallery of Illinois Wish List:\nhttps://a.co/fpUGgK2 \nFor children and teens in foster care:\nhttps://a.co/hVby0vT \nTOYS REQUESTED\nGaming Bed Set \nLegos \nArts/crafts \nBracelet making kits \nSlime/fidget dough \nDiamond art \nDiamond dots \nDinosaur toys \nAnimal toys \nGlass bead kit \nBitzee toys \nMagic the Gathering Starter Kit \nPokemon cards \nPokemon toys \nPower Rangers toys \nMarvel comics \nMP3 Player with corded earbuds \nHot Wheels \nAcrylic nail kit \nGiant stuffed animals \nPAW Patrol toys \nBluey toys \nPress on nails \nFlashcards of the alphabet \nTeenage Mutant Ninja Turtles UNO \nFisher-Price Laugh and Learn Magical Lights Fishbowl \nThank you to our sponsors and toy drop off host-sites:\nPhillips Men’s Wear \nMoran Transportation Company \nSunwellth \nJet’s Pizza \nHuntington Learning Center \nRUSH Kids Pediatric Therapy \nGadbois Family Giving Fund \nBerger Contractors \nRadio Flyer \nBlu Violet Boutique
URL:https://letitbeus.org/event/toy-drive-for-children-in-foster-care-2/
LOCATION:Barrington’s White House\, 145 W Main St\, Barrington\, Illinois\, 60010\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://letitbeus.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/LIBU-Toy-Drive.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251209T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251209T193000
DTSTAMP:20260826T022621
CREATED:20251028T151437Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251028T151439Z
UID:1007067-1765303200-1765308600@letitbeus.org
SUMMARY:Learn About Emergency Foster Care with Shelter Youth & Family Services
DESCRIPTION:Let It Be Us offers a series of virtual educational events on topics surrounding Foster Care and Adoption in the State of Illinois. Our Live Foster Parent Recruitment Events are the in-person portion of this series. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nHave you wondered what happens to children in care who have nowhere to go? Join us at our in-person event at Ella’s Italian Pub in Elmhurst\, IL to learn about being an Emergency Foster Home with Shelter Youth & Family Services. Get all your questions answered!\n \nThese special homes take in children in emergency situations for a limited time\, providing them care and safety at a critical point in their lives. Shelter Youth & Family Services provides Emergency Foster Parents wraparound services\, supporting foster parents and ensuring children receive what they need. Also\, Emergency Foster Parents receive additional financial support. If you are licensed or not yet licensed\, living in Chicagoland or the Northern region of Illinois\, you are welcome to join and learn about the extra financial and other supports available to Emergency Foster Parents.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWe are currently specifically targeting the following individuals: \n\nEducation professionals\nEducational support professionals\nMedical care providers\nMental health care providers\nEmergency responders\nIndividuals with parenting experience\nIndividuals with special needs experience\n\nThis event is located at Ella’s Italian Pub – 100 N York St.\, Elmhurst\, IL 60126. Questions may be directed to Cathy Newbury at cathynewbury@letitbeus.org. \n\nThis event is free and open to the public\nAccess to this event is completely in-person\nRegistration for this event is required\nDuring the event\, attendees will have the opportunity for question & answer\nPizza\, salad\, and soda will be served
URL:https://letitbeus.org/event/learn-about-emergency-foster-care-with-shelter-youth-family-services-2/
LOCATION:Ella’s Italian Pub – Elmhurst\, 100 N York Street\, Elmhurst\, Illinois\, 60126\, United States
CATEGORIES:Learn More with Let It Be Us,Shelter Youth & Family Services
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://letitbeus.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/5.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251204T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251204T200000
DTSTAMP:20260826T022621
CREATED:20251003T173913Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251003T174051Z
UID:1007011-1764869400-1764878400@letitbeus.org
SUMMARY:Candy Cottage For a Cause: Gingerbread Holiday Fundraiser for Foster Care & Adoption
DESCRIPTION:Celebrate the holiday season in the sweetest way! Join Let It Be Us for an adults-only evening of festive fun at Candy Cottage for a Cause. Guided by a professional pastry artist\, you’ll design and decorate your own gingerbread house – think of it as a holiday twist on the popular paint-and-sip parties. No experience required – just bring your holiday spirit and creativity! \nEnjoy a night out with friends while indulging in heavy hors d’oeuvres and sipping from our open bar featuring seasonal signature cocktails. Whether you’re a gingerbread beginner or a decorating pro\, this interactive evening promises laughter\, connection\, and holiday cheer. \nMost importantly\, your participation helps support children and teens in Illinois foster care through programming at Let It Be Us. \nSpace is limited. Reserve your tickets today and be part of a magical night that gives back!
URL:https://letitbeus.org/event/candy-cottage-for-a-cause-gingerbread-holiday-fundraiser-for-foster-care-adoption-2/
LOCATION:Butterfield Country Club\, 2800 Midwest Road\, Oak Brook\, Illinois\, 60523\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://letitbeus.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Candy-Cottage_website.png
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR