See What Local Families and Community Members Say They Need for Their Children Across the State

Family & Community Stories

Birth to Five Illinois has created a space for families and community members in every Illinois Region to share their experiences with local Early Childhood programs and services. Through stories about challenges and successes, we can identify the issues and work collectively to mend what is broken, while also celebrating what is working.

Share Your Story

Maggie Koller 2/24/26 Maggie Koller 2/24/26

Being a Foster Parent is Hard; Family Council Helps – By Tia

Joining the Birth to Five Illinois Family Council has allowed my voice to be heard and has provided me the confidence to begin my own foster support group.

Maggie Koller 2/12/26 Maggie Koller 2/12/26

Family Council Impact: Region 51

"I'm very thankful joining the Council because I was able to grow as a mother."

Maggie Koller 2/2/26 Maggie Koller 2/2/26

Voices that Matter: A Father’s Perspective on Family Council

It allows me to share my experiences and speak not just for my family, but also for many families navigating the challenges of raising children.

Maggie Koller 10/30/25 Maggie Koller 10/30/25

Family Council Impact: Region 51

“We're moving forward with of helping families to be able to find resources.”

Maggie Koller 10/30/25 Maggie Koller 10/30/25

There is Hope in the Struggle – By Samantha Balentyne

We have been very blessed and have not had any issues with child care in our community.

Maggie Koller 10/27/25 Maggie Koller 10/27/25

Family Councils’ Positive Impact – By Diana

I found Birth to Five Illinois in a time when I was vulnerable and learning how to be a new parent with all the challenges that come with little ones.

Maggie Koller 10/14/25 Maggie Koller 10/14/25

Family Council Impact: Region 51

“Knowing that I'm not just a person to them, but I'm somebody who matters.”

Maggie Koller 10/8/25 Maggie Koller 10/8/25

Gratitude for Birth to Five Illinois – By Deidra Johnson

I am thankful for our Birth to Five Illinois Councils because the members are diligent about improving the quality of life, learning assistance, and growth for children from birth to age five and their families.

Maggie Koller 9/16/25 Maggie Koller 9/16/25

Family Council Impact: Region 51

“It's my hope that our Regional Action Plan will bridge critical gaps and services for families…”

Maggie Koller 9/11/25 Maggie Koller 9/11/25

Family Council Impact: Region 49

“It's not for me at all. It's for the betterment of my son…”

Maggie Koller 9/10/25 Maggie Koller 9/10/25

Not Alone: How God and Community Carried Me Through Motherhood - By Madison Stamm

Birth to Five Illinois: Region 54 has been a tremendous support for my family by connecting us to valuable resources during my pregnancy and early motherhood.