Self-Help Center

Parenting

Parenting (General)

Champaign

Mothers & More of Champaign County This group provides mothers an opportunity to develop connections with other women. These women may include stay-at-home moms, working mothers, mothers making transitions between work and parenting, and mothers who have altered their career paths to care for their children at home. The group provides educational meetings, preg activities, moms-only nights out, leadership opportunities, and e-mail discussion groups. Annual dues are $45, but interested people may attend two events before becoming a member. Scholarship opportunities also exist. Visit the website for more information. On Facebook, look for Mothers & More - Champaign County. Email: mothersandmorechampaign@gmail.com National Website: mothersandmore.org

Parent – Child Interaction Group (2007 F,P) This group is for pregnant women and new parents. Parents get feedback from other parents, and discussions include child development, parental stress, and other topics. Child care is available. Meeting days and times vary. Call or visit the website for current information. Call: Crisis Nursery (217) 337-2730 Local Website: www.crisisnursery.net Write: Parent-Child Interaction Group, Crisis Nursery, 1309 W. Hill St., Urbana, IL 61801

Parent Support Group (Crisis Nursery) This is a program for parents of all ages with infants up to 1 year old in Champaign County who may be at risk for postpartum and perinatal depression. It is a supportive and confidential space for parents to share the ups and downs they are experiencing. Child care is available, and the groups are always free. Meetings are held Tuesdays 11:00 AM-12:00 PM at 1309 W Hill St, Urbana, IL 61801. RSVP before attending. To RSVP, call, text, or email Taylor Wallis. Call: Taylor Wallis (217) 714-2366 Email: twallis@crisisnursery.net Local Website: www.crisisnursery.net

Parent Support Group for Children in the Legal System (2016, F,L) This support group allows parents to connect with other parents who have youth involved in the justice system and learn strategies to help yourself and your child. Meets 1st Thursday, 6:00-7:00 p.m., Youth Assessment Center, 402 Randolph, Champaign. Call: Gabriela Quijada/Rebecca Woodard (217) 239-5933 Email: gquijada@ccrpc.org Email: rwoodard@ccrpc.org

Parent Wonders (1990 A,P) The Mission of the Parent Wonders program of the Developmental Services Center is to build relationships that positively impact young children’s development so that they are ready to succeed and eager to learn. Parent Wonders provides support and services that promote family strengths and positive parent-child relationships. Parent Wonders partners with families to enhance self-sufficiency within family cultural and community foundations. Parent Wonders employs the ISBE Birth to Three Standards as the guide to essential building blocks of future school and life. Call: Nicole Smith, Director of Family Development (217)356-8176 Email: nsmith@dsc-illinois.org Local Website: dsc-illinois.org Write: 1304 W. Bradley Ave. Champaign, IL 61821

Rainbows For All Children (1983 A,P/L) This program offers groups to help children who are grieving the loss of a parent or guardian due to death, divorce, deployment or other loss. Contact Rainbows to find groups. Call: (847) 952-1770 Email: info@rainbows.org National Website: rainbows.org Write: Rainbows for All Children, 1007 Church St., Ste. 408, Evanston, IL 60201

Support Group for Pregnant Mothers and Mothers Raising Infants (2011 A,P) This group is funded by the Beyond Blue grant which comes from the Champaign County Mental Health Board. The program exists as a support to mothers in Champaign County who may be at risk for postpartum and perinatal depression. It is a supportive and confidential space for mothers to share the ups and downs they are experiencing. Groups meet at Crisis Nursery and in rural areas such as Rantoul and Tolono at varying times throughout the year. Child care is available and the groups are always free. Contact Crisis Nursery or check the website for specific dates and times. No prior registration necessary. Call: Taylor Wallis (217) 714-2366 Email: twallis@crisisnursery.net Local Website: www.crisisnursery.net Write: Crisis Nursery, 1309 W. Hill St., Urbana, IL 61801

The Family Table (2013 A,P) This group has round table discussions on family issues such as life skills, relationships, budgeting, surviving through difficult times, and using community resources. The group's goal is to strengthen families. Each quarter a new group meets for four weeks. Call: (217) 607-0546 Email: home@family-advocacy.org Local Website: family-advocacy.org Write: Family Advocacy of Champaign County, 310 W. Church St., Ste. 103, Champaign, IL 61820

McLean

Heart-2-Heart (2003 F,P/L) (!) Heart-2-Heart is a 12-week group for young moms to come together and talk about parenting, healthy relationships, and how to protect their children from harmful people. Meal and childcare provided along with referrals to other services. Call: (312) 424-0200 Email: agarcia@childrenshomeandaid.org Write: 403 S. State Street, Bloomington, IL 61701

Hyped-Up (Helping Young Parents Excel Under Pressure) (2008 A,P/L)This is a fun group for parents with children ages birth to 5 years old. This group provides parents a way to de-stress and relax as they build relationships with other parents. Free child care and a light meal are provided. Call: (312)424-0200 Email: agarcia@childrenshomeandaid.org Local Website: childrenshomeandaid.org Write: Children’s Home + Aid, 403 S. State St., Bloomington, IL 61701

Strike Out Stress (SOS) Support Group (2013 F,P) This group is for mothers to discuss parenting-related stress. Call: (312)424-0200 Email: agarcia@childrenshomeandaid.org Local Website: childrenshomeandaid.org Write: Children’s Home + Aid, 403 S. State St., Bloomington, IL 61701

The Butterfly Project (2009 F,P/L) This group is for women and their children who have experienced, or are currently involved in some form of domestic violence. Call: (312)424-0200 Email: agarcia@childrenshomeandaid.org Local Website: childrenshomeandaid.org Write: Children’s Home + Aid, 403 S. State St., Bloomington, IL 61701


Children with Disabilities / Illnesses

Champaign

C-U Autism Network (1995 F,P/L) This is a support group for anyone living with or working with someone on the autism spectrum. Anyone with autism is also welcome. Phone support, education, and networking opportunities for individuals living with or supporting those with autism spectrum disorders are provided. The group sponsors meetings, workshops, and family/caregiver events, offers opportunities to exchange information on resources, trainings, interventions, legislation, advocacy, and more via e-mail, website, and listserv. Check the website for information on meetings, family events, and workshops. Email: information.cuan@gmail.com Local Website: cuautismnetwork.org Write: C-U Autism Network, P.O. Box 107, Savoy, IL 61874

Baby Fold Parent Support Group (2018, F,P) This parent support group is designed for foster, adoptive, and other parents struggling with emotional and behavioral concerns of their children. We focus specifically on attachment, trauma, and other adoption-related issues. The group’s intent is to provide support to one another while having the opportunity to learn new techniques and strategies for managing parenting difficulties. This group is led by two therapists who have a large amount of experience working with children and families in this area. Phone and email support between groups. Meets the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays of the month, 6:00 – 7:00 p.m., The Baby Fold, 102 E Main, Suite 209, Urbana. Call: (309) 452-1170 Katie Martin, LCPC or Barb Shelton, QMHP (309) 531-0087 Email: kmartin@thebabyfold.org, bshelton@thebabyfold.org, publicrelations@thebabyfold.org

Down Syndrome Network (1989 A,L) This group improves the quality of life of people with Down syndrome and their families through support, education, and public awareness. Meets monthly for activities and events throughout the year. Calendar can be accessed through the website. Call: (217) 778-6702 Email: president@champaigndsn.org Email: secretary@champaigndsn.org Local Website: champaigndsn.org Write: P.O. Box 1143, Champaign, IL 61824 facebook.com/CCDSN-167260799953316/

Illinois Early Intervention (EI) Clearinghouse This clearinghouse identifies and collects research-based early-intervention best-practice information to share with families. It provides a free lending library of parenting and special needs DVDs, books, and journals related to the development of young children with special needs, including autism, Down syndrome, and speech disorders. The staff can help families and service providers find resources. The website has links to other resources in the state and nation. Call: Sarah Isaacs (217) 333-1386 or toll free (877) 275-3227 Email: Illinois-eic@illinois.edu Email: isaacs@illinois.edu Local Website: eiclearinghouse.org Write: Illinois Early Intervention Clearinghouse, Early Childhood and Parenting Collaborative, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Children’s Research Center, Rm. 20, 51 Gerty Dr., Champaign, IL 61820

Linking Educators and Parents (LEAP) (2006 F,P) LEAP is a program of The Reading Group and focuses on strategies to help children cope with dyslexia and find ways to overcome the stress that accompanies it. LEAP serves families, school personnel, and college instructors who deal with students with dyslexia, ADHD and other learning differences. Meets 4 times per year on the 4th Tues. of the month, 6:30-8:00 p.m. The LEAP library of books and DVDs is housed at The Reading Group, 3011A Village Office Place, Champaign. Call: Marilyn Kay (217) 367-0398 Email: mfkay@sbcglobal.net Local Website: www.readinggroup.org Write: Marilyn Kay, 101 W. Windsor, #3114, Urbana, IL61802 Facebook: linkingeducatorsandparents

Parents of Adults with Disabilities (2007 F,P/L) This group brings together parents of adults with disabilities to share ideas and information to improve the quality of life of family members. The group is sponsored by Community Choices, Inc. Speak Out! is a group for teens and young adults with disabilities that meets at the same time. Call: Community Choices (217) 621-1090 Email: communitychoices1@gmail.com Local Website: communitychoicesinc.org Write: Community Choices, Inc., P.O. Box 17551, Urbana, IL 61803

Rural Champaign County Special Ed Cooperative (RCCSEC) This group only provides phone support and a lending library for parents of children who are visually impaired. Call: (217) 892-8877 Local Website: rccsec.org Write: Rural Champaign County Special Ed Cooperative, 807 N. Mattis, Champaign, IL 61821

Speak Out! (2008 F,P/L) This group is for teens and young adults with disabilities. The group helps youth to speak up for their rights, socialize, and have a good time. It meets at the same time as the Parents of Adults with Disabilities support group. The group is sponsored by Community Choices, Inc. Bring snacks and drinks to share. Call: Community Choices (217) 621-1090 Email: communitychoices1@gmail.com Local Website: communitychoicesinc.org Write: Community Choices, Inc., P.O. Box 17551, Urbana, IL 61803

Macon

Autism/Asperger’s Syndrome Support Group for Macon County (2006 F,P) This group provides support for parents, grandparents, relatives, and professionals who live or work with children with autism and Asperger’s syndrome. The group provides time to share, listen, and learn from one another about what can be done to help loved ones with autism succeed in life. Meets monthly at Garfield Montessori School. Call for meeting dates and times. An informal coffee group meets to get to know others and make friends who truly understand. Call Jan to be added to the group e-mail or phone list or for information on resources. Call: Jan Kriisa (217) 855-9890 Email: jankriisa@comcast.net Write: Jan Kriisa, 2187 Hoyt Dr., Decatur, IL 62522

McLean

Central Illinois Down Syndrome Organization (1974 F,L) This organization provides a support group for parents of children with Down syndrome and works to increase public awareness. Has annual Buddy Walk event, and CIDSO Open, a golfing tournament and gala. Facebook page: Central Illinois Down Syndrome Organization. Call: Central Illinois Down Syndrome Organization (309) 452-3264 Email: info@cidso.org Local Website: cidso.org Write: P.O. Box 595, Normal, IL 61761

Central Illinois Spina Bifida Support Group (2000 A,L) The Illinois Spina Bifida Association works to improve the quality of life of children, adults, and families living with spina bifida. ISBA’s programs are available to anyone living with spina bifida in Illinois. There are no membership requirements. Programs are available at no- or low-cost. Central Illinois Community Programs and support groups will resume as Covid safety conditions will allow. Call: Illinois Spina Bifida Association (773) 444-0305 Email: info@i-sba.org Local Website: i-sba.org

Play and Learn (PAL) (2014 F,P) This group is open to any parent who has one or more children with special needs. Free childcare, light meal/snacks and referrals to other services provided. Call: (312) 424-0200 Email: agarcia@childrenshomeandaid.org Local Website: childrenshomeandaid.org Write: 403 S. State St., Bloomington, IL 61701

Peoria

TOUCH – The Organization for Understanding Congenital Hearts (1985 A,P/L) This group empowers families, children, and adults who have congenital or acquired heart defects. The group makes a difference through emotional support, education, and public awareness. The group provides a ‘heartline’ phone support number, newsletter, and annual picnic. Call: (309) 655-3419 Local Website: touchhearts.org

Sangamon

Parent 2 Parent (1999 F,P) This group is for parents of teenagers and young adults with disabilities that focuses on the transition process from school to adult life. These meetings provides an opportunity for parents to become familiar with the agencies and professionals who can ease the transition process. Newsletters and group literature are available. Meets 2nd Tues., 6:00-7:30 p.m., Lawrence Education Adult Center, 101 E. Laurel St., Springfield. National Website: www.sps186.org/parentmentor/ Write: Carolyn Thorpe, Springfield Center for Independent Living, 330 South Grand Ave. West, Springfield, IL 62704

Parent Support Group for Parents Raising Children on the Autism Spectrum (2003 F,P) This support group, sponsored by the Autism Society of Central Illinois, is for parents and caregivers of children with autism spectrum disorders. Group is co-facilitated by Dr. Karen Kirkendall, PhD, a developmental psychologist with a specialty in developmental disabilities, and Catherine Wells, LCPC, a licensed professional counselor specializing in children and families. Meets on the 1st Thurs. of the month, 6:00 to 9:00 p.m., Noll Medical Pavilion, 5220 S. 6th St. Rd., Rm. 1800, Springfield. Call: Karen Kirkendall, PhD (217) 206-7246 or Catherine Wells, LCPC (217) 561-1159 Email: info@autismcil.org Email: autismci2002@gmail.com Local Website: autismcil.org Write: Autism Society of Central Illinois, 5220 S. 6th St. Rd., Ste. 1300, Springfield, IL 62703

Special Needs Social Club The social club is an opportunity for students, ages 5-21, to cultiate friendships, foster peer relationships, and work to develop and support social skills. Activities vary monthly. While the students engage in an activity, parents are provided a learning opportunity, or a chance to connect with other parents or area resources. Activities vary monthly, however they are shared ahead of time. Events are usually held at Erin’s Pavilion, 4965 S. Second St., Springfield, IL 62703. For more information about upcoming events and location, please contact Jerin Olson. Call: (217) 525-3060 Website: www.sps186.org/parentmentor/

Vermilion

Puzzled Minds Vermilion County (2011 F,P/L) This support group is for both families and professionals. If you are a parent with a child, or a professional that works with children who have an autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, OCD, ODD, or a mood disorder, this group is for you. We bring families and professionals together to brainstorm ideas, share resources, advocate for children and offer support. Additional services offered include workshops, Sensory Santa and other family events. Two Roads Crossing, 1101 E. Winter Ave., Danville. Call: Lori Acree (217) 840-5627 (call or text) Email: puzzledmindsvermco@gmail.com Local Website: www.facebook.com/PuzzledMindsVermilionCounty


Early Childhood

Champaign

Parent Wonders (1990 A,P) The Mission of the Parent Wonders program of the Developmental Services Center is to build relationships that positively impact young children’s development so that they are ready to succeed and eager to learn. Parent Wonders provides support and services that promote family strengths and positive parent-child relationships. Parent Wonders partners with families to enhance self-sufficiency within family cultural and community foundations. Parent Wonders employs the ISBE Birth to Three Standards as the guide to essential building blocks of future school and life. Call: Nicole Smith, Director of Family Development (217) 356-9176 Email: nsmith@dsc-illinois.org Local Website: dsc-illinois.org Write: 1304 W. Bradley Ave. Champaign, IL 61821

Tiny Tigers (1981 F,P) This group is for Champaign-Urbana parents and their preschool children, ages 2 1/2 to 5. High school students work under Ms. Perez’s supervision to encourage social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development. This preschool experience focuses on art, literacy, math, science, and free play. The enrollment fee is $20 per semester per child. Meets Tues. and Thurs., Sept.-Nov. and Jan.-March, 9:10-11:35 a.m., Urbana High School, 1002 S. Race St., Urbana. Call: Amanda Rosser or Emily Warner (217) 384-3505 Email: arosser@usd116.org Email: ewarner@usd116.org Write: Amanda Rosser, Tiny Tigers, Urbana High School, 1002 S. Race St., Urbana, IL 61801

McLean

Hyped-Up (Helping Young Parents Excel Under Pressure) (2008 F,P) This is a fun group for parents with children ages birth to 5 years old. This group provides parents a way to de-stress and relax as they build relationships with other parents. Free child care and a light meal are provided. Call: (312) 424-0200 Email: agarcia@childrenshomeandaid.org Local Website: childrenshomeandaid.org Write: Children’s Home + Aid, 403 S. State St., Bloomington, IL 61701


En Espanol

Champaign

Grupo de Apoyo para Madres (2017 F,P) Ven a Crisis Nursery a nuestro grupo en espanol de converzacion y apoyo a madres. Crea una red de apoyo mientras charlamos de temas relacionados a la maternidad, autocuidado, pareja, desarrollo infantil, disciplina, manejo de tantrums y mas. Proveemos guardería durante las sesiones (1 HR) para ninos de 0 a 6 anos. cuidado de ninos durante la sesion, snacks. miercoles de 10am a 11am, Crisis Nursery, 1309 West Hill Street, Urbana. Call: Andrea Fanta (217) 337-2730 Email: afanta@crisisnursery.net Local Website: www.crisisnursery.net

Grupo de apoyo virtual in Espanol: Cada cuarto sábado del mes. Horario: 10:30-12:00. Unirse con audio y vídeo desde una computadora, tableta o teléfono: zoom.us/j/82832198966 Para unirse a este grupo por teléfono con audio solamente: 312-626-6799, ID para la reunión : 82832198966, Clave: 892819 Para obtener más información o para RSVP: joumana@alsachicago.org | 312-931-7127


Fathers

McLean

Dads For Dads (2004 F,P/L) This support group is for any father wanting to grow in his parenting role. It provides an opportunity to meet other dedicated fathers in a confidential and understanding atmosphere. The group discusses various helpful topics, issues, solutions, and resources. Light meal and referrals to other services provided. Child care is available by reservation. Call: (312) 424-0200 Email: agarcia@childrenshomeandaid.org Local Website: childrenshomeandaid.org Write: Children’s Home + Aid, 403 S. State St., Bloomington, IL 61701

INTERSEX

Central Illinois

Intersex Social and Support Group (2023, L) This Zoom group provides support to Intersex individuals, their families, and allies. Individual meetings are currently being offered as well as group meetings. Contact Robbi for meeting times and zoom information. Email: robbirussell00@gmail.com

Parents of LGBT Children

Champaign

UParent (2016, F,L) TThis group is a peer-led support and education group operated through and supported by United Pride of Champaign County. This group is open to parents/guardians of transgender or gender-questioning children of all ages. This is a non-judgemental space for those who want to meet other parents and guardians for support and socialization. Meets second and fourth Monday of each month from 7:00 - 8:00 p.m. Currently meeting on Zoom. Email: info@unitingpride.org Email: martha@gmail.com Local Website: unitingpride.org/#!uparent/c1mup Zoom Information: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82891385378?pwd=L2pMRzlMd3VnaTBNWUtKTzBKeWw1 Zz09 Meeting ID: 828 9138 5378 Passcode: 657448


Pregnancy / Childbirth / Breastfeeding

Champaign

La Leche League of Champaign Urbana (1971 A,L) This international, nonprofit, nonsectarian organization is dedicated to providing education, information, support, and encouragement to women who want to breastfeed. La Leche League of Champaign Urbana offers informal discussions open to any woman interested in breastfeeding. Pregnant women are encouraged to attend. Babies are always welcome at our meetings. A lending library is available. Call: (815) 347-3064 Email: hollywondra@yahoo.com National Website: llli.org

Parent – Child Interaction Group (2007 F,P) This group is for pregnant women and new parents. Parents get feedback from other parents, and discussions include child development, parental stress, and other topics. Child care is available. Meeting days and times vary. Call or visit the website for current information. Call: Crisis Nursery (217) 337-2730 Local Website: www.crisisnursery.net Write: Parent – Child Interaction Group, Crisis Nursery, 1309 W. Hill St., Urbana, IL 61801

Support Group for Pregnant Mothers and Mothers Raising Infants (2011 A,P) This group is funded by the Beyond Blue grant which comes from the Champaign County Mental Health Board. The program exists as a support to mothers in Champaign County who may be at risk for postpartum and perinatal depression. It is a supportive and confidential space for mothers to share the ups and downs they are experiencing. Groups meet at Crisis Nursery and in rural areas such as Rantoul and Tolono at varying times throughout the year. Child care is available and the groups are always free. Contact Crisis Nursery or check the website for specific dates and times. No prior registration necessary. Call: Taylor Wallis (217) 714-2366 Email: twallis@crisisnursery.net Local Website: www.crisisnursery.net Write: Crisis Nursery, 1309 W. Hill St., Urbana, IL 61801

McLean

Pregnancy and Beyond (2007 F,P) This group is open to all expectant parents who want to learn more about pregnancy and raising a baby in today’s world. Gain support, ideas, and encouragement while connecting with others on the same journey. Free child care, a light meal, referrals to other birth-related services, and gifts for attending are provided. Call: (312) 424-0200 Email: agarcia@childrenshomeandaid.org Write: Children’s Home + Aid, 403 S. State St., Bloomington, IL 61701


Relatives Raising Children

McLean

R.O.C.K. (Raising Our Children’s Kids) – McLean County (1986 A,P/L) This support group is for grandparents and other relatives who are raising relatives’ children. It provides resources and a time to share ideas, concerns, and experiences. Child care is provided. A newsletter and group literature are available. Call: (312) 424-0200 Email: agarcia@childrenshomeandaid.org Local Website: childrenshomeandaid.org Write: Children’s Home + Aid, 403 S. State St., Bloomington, IL 61701

Sangamon

Relatives as Parents Network (RAPN) (1995 F,P/L) This educational support group is for all caregivers who are relatives of children. Lunch is provided during meetings. Group literature is available. Please call before attending. Call: (217) 753-8730, ext. 102 Local Website: tppos.org/services.html Write: The Parent Place, 314 S. Grand Ave. W., Springfield, IL 62704-3716


Separation / Divorce (Adults)

Champaign

Divorce/Separation Support Group (Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church, Mahomet) (2010 F,L) This group is open to all who are divorced or separated. Topics include grief, anger, loneliness, healing, etc. The group features biblical teachings and prayers. Meets Weds. evenings in Mahomet. It is offered periodically. Contact Liz Clawson for information on the next group sessions. Call: Liz Clawson (217) 586-2846 Email: clawson@illinois.edu Write: Liz Clawson, Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church, 501 W. State St., Mahomet, IL 61853

DivorceCare (New Horizon Methodist Church) (A,L) This group provides a divorce recovery seminar and support group. It is nondenominational, but does feature biblical teachings. Meets Mon., 6:30-8:30 p.m., New Horizon United Methodist Church, 3002 W. Bloomington Rd., Champaign. Call: Mike Potts, New Horizon Methodist Church (217) 359-8909 Email: mike@newhorizonchurch.org Local Website: newhorizonchurch.org National Website: divorcecare.com

DivorceCare (Meadowbrook Church) (2009 A,L) This divorce recovery seminar and support group is nondenominational, but does feature biblical teachings. Optional workbook fee is $20. Meets Wed., 6:00-8:00 p.m., Meadowbrook Church, 1902 S. Duncan Rd., Champaign. Call: Ron and Deb Bailey (217) 359-9636 or Stacy (217) 351-3019 Email: sbates@meadow.org Local Website: meadow.org National Website: divorcecare.com Write: DivorceCare, Meadowbrook Church, 1902 S. Duncan Rd., Champaign, IL 61822

DivorceCare (The Vineyard Church) (1997 A,L) This group provides a recovery seminar and support group that is nondenominational, but does feature biblical teachings. Child care is available for $1 per hour per child, maximum of $10 per family. For directions to the meeting room, look for signs or go to the Welcome Desk in the church. Meets Tues., 7:00-9:00 p.m., The Vineyard Church, 1500 N. Lincoln Ave., Urbana. Call: Thad Sweet or The Vineyard Church (217) 384-3070 Email: divorcecare@bpeck.com National Website: divorcecare.com Write: Bob or Maureen Peck, The Vineyard Church, 1500 N. Lincoln Ave., Urbana, IL 61801

McLean

Kids’ Turn (2005 F,P/L) This group is for divorced parents to give and receive parenting support. Free childcare and light meal provided. Call: (312) 424-0200 Email: agarcia@childrenshomeandaid.org Local Website: childrenshomeandaid.org Write: Children’s Home + Aid, 403 S. State St., Bloomington, IL 61701


Stepfamilies

Champaign

Stepfamily (1998 F,L) This group provides phone support only to discuss issues about stepfamilies and make referrals to mental health professionals. Call: Debra or Darell Hart (217) 778-8766 Email: debrajoyhart@gmail.com


Teen Parents

Champaign

Healthy Young Families Teen Parent Support Group (1990 A,P/L) This support group provides mutual support, information, and parenting education for teen mothers. Child care, transportation, and dinner is provided. Urbana group meets Tues., 5:00-7:00 p.m., Philo Road Church of Christ, 2601 S. Philo Rd., Urbana. Champaign group meets Thurs., 5:00-7:00 p.m., Temple Baptist Church, 1100 Broadmoor Dr., Champaign. Call for an interview to attend the groups. Call: Teen Parent Coordinator (217) 693-4562 or (217) 398-8080 Local Website: communityelements.org Write: Teen Parent Group Coordinator, Community Elements, 1801 Fox Dr., Champaign, IL61820

Parent Wonders (1990 A,P) TThe Mission of the Parent Wonders program of the Developmental Services Center is to build relationships that positively impact young children’s development so that they are ready to succeed and eager to learn. Parent Wonders provides support and services that promote family strengths and positive parent-child relationships. Parent Wonders partners with families to enhance self-sufficiency within family cultural and community foundations. Parent Wonders employs the ISBE Birth to Three Standards as the guide to essential building blocks of future school and life. Call: Nicole Smith, Director of Family Development (217) 356-9176 Email: nsmith@dsc-illinois.org Local Website: dsc-illinois.org Write:1304 W. Bradley Ave. Champaign, IL 61821

Real Life Young Moms Group (2008 A,L) This group is for moms between 13 and 25. It provides help, support and encouragement so members can reach their full potential and meet their goals while raising their children. A free meal and free child care are provided. Meets Fri. 6:00-8:00 p.m. Salvation Army, 502 N. Prospect Ave., Champaign Call: Shaniece Cooper (217) 356-1176 ext. 114 Email: slcooperymd@gmail.com

Young Lives Group (Champaign) (2008 A,L) This group offers teen moms support and education, relief from the isolation and struggle of their daily lives, and hope for the future. Each meeting includes transportation, a free meal, child care, and fun activities. Meets 1st and 3rd Thurs., 6:00 – 8:00 p.m., during the school year. In the summer there are weekly play dates and a summer camp in July for moms and their babies. Meeting Location: C-U Church 107 S Webber Street, Urbana. Call: Erin Grace (217) 493-9537 Email: gracee321@aol.com National Website: https://younglives.younglife.org/

McLean

Heart-2-Heart (2003 F,P/L) Heart-2-Heart is a 12-week group for young moms to come together and talk about parenting, healthy relationships, and how to protect their children from harmful people. Meal and childcare provided along with referrals to other services. Call: (312) 424-0200 Email: agarcia@childrenshomeandaid.org Write: 403 S. State Street, Bloomington, IL 61701

Number: Year group was formed
A: Affiliated with a state, national or international group
F: Freestanding group
L: Lay run/organized group
P/L: Professional and lay persons share facilitation/organizational roles in group
P: Professional facilitates and/or organizes group meetings