IN THIS MONTH'S FAMILY MATTERS ...
“If we’re going to reduce violence, the most important thing we need to know is what the numbers are.”
- Steven Perkins, Director of Field Instruction at Metropolitan Peace Initiatives,
on University of Chicago Crime Lab's Violence Reduction Dashboard
21st Annual DuPage Gala Mpowers families and highlights Behavioral Health
Thanks to empowerment and engagement from our family of board members, sponsors, Host Committee members, and supporters, during our 21st Annual DuPage Gala we’ve raised over $266,000 – and counting! – in support of the nearly 26,000 children and families we serve across DuPage County!
During the DuPage Gala, held virtually and celebrated with several watch parties hosted by DuPage Community Board Members, we highlighted our Behavioral Health services and honored longtime Board Member Paul Pyrcik with our Roger K. Johnson Leadership Award.
A special Mother's Day for survivors of domestic violence
Our Midway Center Community Board organized a LovePurse drive for survivors of domestic violence in our counseling programs! The LovePurse initiative, founded by Comcast's Maria Castro, collects donated purses filled with essentials, personal items, and encouraging notes to help survivors feel loved and supported.
Their drive recently got a helping hand from a few special supporters: thank you to our friends at ULTA Beauty, Esperanza Health Center, and a local Zumba class, as well as Midway Center Community Board Member Griselda Piedra’s kids and their friends, who worked together to contribute 35 purses!
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METROPOLITAN IN THE MEDIA
* Data on Demand: The Power of the UChicago Crime Lab's Violence Reduction Dashboard
University of Chicago
Metropolitan Peace Initiatives' Steve Perkins, Director of Field Instruction, and Kelsy Heinze, Senior Data Analyst, speak to the importance of the University of Chicago Crime Lab's Violence Reduction Dashboard, a key tool supporting MPI's data-driven approach.
* Metropolitan Family Services DuPage Supports Vulnerable Families
Naperville Community Television
Nikki Cameron, Executive Director of our DuPage Center, highlighted the Behavioral Health programs we featured at our recent DuPage Gala, and the range of holistic support Metropolitan offers children and families across our DuPage communities.
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Spotlight on: Lynn, a client in our Southwest Center's Behavioral Health programs
Lynn knew it was time to reach out for help with her mental health when she noticed herself struggling the same way she had seen her sister struggle.
“She didn’t talk to anyone, and I saw how it affected her,” Lynn shares.
She searched online for a Spanish-speaking agency, and found Metropolitan Family Services Southwest, where Katie Reyes, a Social Worker, supported her through not only her mental health concerns, but also her financial challenges.
LYNN'S STORY |
Metropolitan celebrates Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month
May was chosen to celebrate the contributions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders within the United States, specifically to commemorate those of Japanese heritage who first immigrated to the United States and the anniversary of the completion of the transcontinental railroad.
We recognize and uplift the distinct cultures, traditions, and stories. When we amplify the voices of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders, it helps to broaden our understanding and appreciate of their experiences. Learn about their stories with the resources linked here.
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School’s out, but our youth-focused programs are still in session!
With summer just around the corner for many youth in our communities, it is a crucial time to maintain a supportive presence. Cementing your legacy with Metropolitan Family Services will expand positive choices and opportunities during non-school hours, and ensure uninterrupted support of youth through year-round programs. Planned gifts in your will cost nothing today but ensure the consistent support of children in your community this summer, this year, and forever. Start on your free plans and Mpower youth today! |
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