Birth to Five Illinois Seeks Local Voices for Regional Councils
May 27, 2026
Original coverage in the Ford County Chronicle by Jill Duden.
Birth to Five Illinois’ Region 9 is inviting parents, caregivers, educators and community members to help shape the future of early-childhood services by serving on local action councils and family councils.
Birth to Five Illinois works in every community in the state to assess the early-childhood programs available in each region, understand what local families are saying their children need versus what is available, and bring together community members and leaders to bridge the gap between what exists and what families need.
Action and family councils bring together families and community partners to identify the needs of young children and improve access to programs and resources for families across Illinois. Members have the opportunity to share experiences, collaborate on solutions and help strengthen support systems for children from birth to age 5.
Family councils are designed for parents and caregivers who want to ensure family voices are Birth to Five Illinois’ Region 9 serves Ford and Champaign counties. heard, while action councils include community leaders, educators, health providers and residents committed to improving outcomes for young children.
Local voices matter. When families and communities work together, we can create stronger opportunities for children to thrive.
Birth to Five Illinois’ Region 9 serves Ford and Champaign counties and will be hosting a virtual lunch-and-learn from noon to 1pm om Wednesday, June 24. This is a great opportunity for anyone interested in learning more. Please contact me via email at jduden@birthtofiveil.com for more information and to register.
Residents interested in serving are encouraged to apply and learn more about opportunities in their region through Birth to Five Illinois.
Jill Duden is the regional council manager for Birth to Five Illinois’ Region 9. She can be reached via email at jduden@birthtofiveil.com.