Region 7 Community Network Anchor Coalition Partner Spotlight: Birth to Five Illinois

June 24, 2026

Original coverage in the Region 7 (Westchester) June 2026 Newsletter.

Birth to Five Illinois works in every community across the State to:

• Continually assess the Early Childhood programs available in each Region.

• Understand what is available versus what local families say their children need.

• Bring together community members and civic leaders to bridge the gap between what exists and what families need.

This work brings together parents, caregivers, educators, healthcare providers, and community organizations to better understand local needs and strengthen the supports families rely on.

Their mission aligns closely with Region 7's Community Network Anchor efforts. Both focus on prevention, early intervention, family engagement, and building stronger community connections before challenges become larger barriers later in life. Strong Early Childhood supports can have a lasting impact on healthy development, emotional well-being, school readiness, and long-term family stability.

Birth to Five Illinois brings parents, caregivers, and community partners together to share their experiences, ideas, and concerns. These conversations help strengthen services and create better outcomes for children and families. Through their Family Councils, community conversations, family engagement, resource sharing, and cross-sector partnerships, they help build more connected and responsive systems of care for children and families throughout Illinois.

One engagement opportunity they are offering is the Be Strong Families Parent Café model, welcoming, supportive spaces where parents and caregivers can connect, share experiences, and build community with one another. Birth to Five Illinois' 39 Family & Community Engagement Specialists across the State are being trained in this model so they can partner with local community organizations to bring Parent Cafés to families. These gatherings are designed to open meaningful conversations around parenting, child development, emotional wellness, and family support, helping reduce isolation and strengthen protective factors within the community.

Region 7 is grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with Birth to Five Illinois and looks forward to a continued partnership in supporting children, parents, caregivers, and families across our communities.

Want to get involved?

Learn more about the Birth to Five Illinois Action and Family Councils by visiting: www.birthtofiveil.com/councils.