This summer, elite athletes from all over the globe will convene in Paris to compete on the world’s highest sporting stage. As you prepare to watch the Paris Games with your family—hear about the athletes’ journeys, cheer, and share their dreams as they strive for a spot on the podium—it’s worth recognizing how the athletes […]
The US Centers for Disease Control reports a significant rise in adolescent mental health concerns over the past five years. Even before the shutdown due to COVID-19, the number of teenagers reporting depression symptoms was on the rise. Since 2019, there has been a considerable spike in sadness and hopelessness among adolescents—from 31% of teens […]
Each July, we celebrate Disability Pride Month, commemorating the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) on July 26, 1990. The ADA has become the cornerstone legislation that prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities in employment, public housing, transportation, and other areas. It has been a crucial tool for holding ourselves accountable and creating […]
Nearly every Saturday, 11-year-old Brody wakes up early, not to scroll on his phone and watch YouTube videos, but rather to volunteer alongside his parents and siblings. Brody is one of many children in Chicagoland who steps up to address pressing challenges in our communities, such as poverty, food insecurity, and homelessness. According to Illinois […]
In January, National Alliance of Mental Illness Chicago (NAMI) began operating its own 988 center. 988, formerly known as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, is a phone and text crisis line for people experiencing mental health difficulties, linking callers to local support. 988 is for folks who are experiencing mental health distress, including suicidal crisis, […]
Many teens find the transition from high school to college intimidating. From the possibility of leaving home to the endless choices of classes and career paths, graduating seniors face many stressors during this critical time. The After School Matters University (ASMU) program worked with over 80 ambitious teenagers this spring. They embarked on a journey […]
All that anticipation for summer has led us here, to a sunny, activity-filled July. From 4th of July celebrations to NASCAR races, music festivals and more, it’s going to be a busy, exciting month. To help squeeze the most out of this summer, we rounded up the best things to do in Chicago and the […]
When warmer temps hit Chicago, it’s impossible to stay inside. The blue skies and sunshine past 7 p.m. allow us ample time to take in the natural beauty of the Midwest. There’s so much to explore, from lakeside walks and dog-friendly beaches to waterfalls and state parks. So, why not plan an afternoon or weekend […]
Across the United States, how long you live is determined by where you live. A person’s health is shaped by their environment, their ability to access nature, and the systems that support communities. In Lake County, IL, north of Chicago, often recognized for an abundance of nature, including Lake Michigan, forest preserves, parks, and grassroots-created […]
As a zillennial who appreciates good branding, I love going to health foods stores to see the unnecessary, overly-priced snacks for a splurge. During a recent excursion through the nibbles-and-concoctions aisle, the plethora of pretty packaging featuring the words “golden milk” struck me. This is a prime example of the exoticization and cultural appropriation of […]
