Efforts aim to build stronger families

The U.S. Surgeon General’s recent report “ Parents Under Pressure “ indicated that 48% of parents feel totally overwhelmed by stress most days. As Dr. Vivek Murthy said, “the well-being of parents and caregivers is directly linked to the well-being of their children.” This fact drives the progress of Birth to Five Illinois: Region 1-B-D as we improve Early Childhood support across north Cook County.

Over three years, we have made real progress. Our Family Council of local parents and caregivers partnered with the Early Childhood professionals and community leaders on our Action Council to find out what families need. We held community meetings, focus groups, and created surveys to hear directly from parents and teachers.

What we learned led to action. In May 2024, we released our Regional Action Plan with clear goals: increase awareness of Early Childhood programs and build partnerships with pediatricians and other healthcare providers. Local parents and leaders created these goals together.

Our June 2025 progress report shows real impact: more families know about available resources, providers are collaborating better, and support systems are stronger.

Now we are shifting our focus to Mental and Behavioral Health. Our second community needs assessment shares real stories from local families and highlights programs that help. We are making sure family experiences reach legislators and those making funding decisions at every level.

Our progress is off to a strong start.

•Find our reports: www.birthtofiveil.com/region1bd/#report

•Share your story: www.birthtofiveil.com/stories

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When we support parents, we strengthen our entire community!

Ilinca Wallace

Arlington Heights