Caring in Action: Shelter, Inc. works to end the cycle of child abuse, create safe homes for all
Every child deserves to grow up in a loving home.
But every day there are kids who are abused by their parents or another family member, whether physically or emotionally.
For children and adolescents ages 24 and younger who need help, Shelter, Inc. in Arlington Heights is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
The organization, 1616 Arlington Heights Road, offers group homes, a 24-hour referral line, foster care, emergency and long-term housing, and clinical programs to help with physical and emotional needs.
Shelter also offers individual, group and family counseling sessions in each of its group home facilities.
If you or someone you know is in need of help, call (847) 255-8060.
April is Child Abuse Prevention Month. To raise awareness - and funds for their services - Shelter, Inc. will be offering its blue pinwheel program and 5K Run/Walk for Kidz.
Maria Zeller Brauer, senior director of development for Shelter, Inc., discusses both programs and how you can help.
Q: What is the Shelter Inc.? Give a brief overview of what the organization does and whom you serve.
A: Shelter, Inc. is a social service agency founded in 1975 by an Arlington Heights police officer who, with the support of community members, established emergency housing for children in need.
Today, Shelter has grown and evolved to meet the urgent needs of children and young adults throughout the Chicago metropolitan area.
Our mission is to end the cycle of child abuse by providing a comprehensive network of support to children, their families and our community to create safe, healthy and nurturing homes.
Q: Where do the majority of your donations come from?
A: The majority of our donations come directly from members of our local community, including individuals, corporations and private foundations.
Q: How many people per year do you serve?
A: Shelter serves upward of 500 children and young people each year, whether directly though our programs or by providing referrals for other services.
Q: What are some of your programs?
A: Our programs include two emergency group homes, a transitional living program, foster care, a child abuse prevention program, mental health counseling, and help for young people experiencing homelessness.
Q: Tell us about the blue pinwheel program.
A: The blue pinwheel is a symbol of Child Abuse Prevention Month in April. Community members can "plant" and display the pinwheels in front of their home or business to show their support and raise awareness. You can order your free pinwheels at shelter-inc.org while supplies last.
Q: Tell us about the 5K Run/Walk for Kidz. How can people participate?
A: Shelter's 5K Run/Walk for Kidz is April 23 at Busse Woods, Grove 5, in Elk Grove Village, East Higgins and Arlington Heights roads. The race begins promptly at 9 a.m.
Or, participate virtually from April 1-23 at any time and place of your choosing.
Cost to participate is $30 per person in advance for ages 11 and older; race-day cost is $35. Kids younger than 10 participate for free. Race-day packet pickup is at 8 a.m.
For details or to register to participate, visit shelter-inc.org. All proceeds benefit Shelter's programs and help raise awareness during Child Abuse Prevention Month.
Q: How can readers help if they can't participate in the event?
A: Visit shelter-inc.org to learn more about the work we do and how you can volunteer, donate or attend other events.
Q: What else would you like readers to know?
A: One in five children in Illinois will be the victim of child abuse. Shelter's vision is that every child will grow up in a safe and loving home. We were founded by the community, for the community, and our collective voices have the power to help make that vision a reality.
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5K Run/Walk for Kidz
What: Benefits Shelter, Inc. programs and services
When: In-person: 9 a.m. April 23; Virtually: Anytime or place April 1-23
Where: Busse Woods, Grove 5, in Elk Grove Village, East Higgins and Arlington Heights roads
Cost: $30 per person in advance for ages 11 and older, $35 on race day, free for kids younger than 10
Register: shelter-inc.org.
Pinwheels: Order free pinwheels to show your support for Child Abuse Prevention Month in April at shelter-inc.org.