Metropolitan Family Services

As we celebrate Father's Day this weekend, we were honored to have Metropolitan Board Member Lavelle Schaffer share personal insights with CBS Chicago about fatherhood. Lavelle, who overcame homelessness, gained key parenting skills at MFS. Today, he is the Homeless Outreach Liaison Officer with the Chicago Police Department, serving as an inspiration to his family and the community.

How a Chicago police officer's experience with homelessness shapes his work with the unhoused A Chicago police officer who experienced homelessness is now using his role with the department to help people who are unhoused.

On June 19, we recognize Juneteenth, the day in 1865 when people in Galveston, Texas were finally informed of their freedom.

Juneteenth is both a celebration and a reminder of the work that continues. Early observances focused on civic action such as voter education and organizing, reinforcing that freedom and participation go hand in hand.

As we reflect on this history, consider taking steps in your own community. Learn more about the Voting Rights Act, support organizations advancing equity, and make a plan to vote in upcoming elections.

Progress depends on informed and active participation from all of us.

Please join us in celebrating A’Keisha Lee, Policy Analyst in our Government Affairs and Policy Department, on graduating from the 2026 Cultivate Leadership Program.

Since its founding, the Cultivate Leadership program has supported and empowered women of color as leaders by building strong networks and providing the skills needed to excel while challenging barriers to leadership.

The graduation ceremony included a powerful reflection from the cohort through a poem by Lesie Honore:
“This is for the women who are anything but ordinary but the world sees as regular…for the women who look in the mirror to see someone familiar because they rarely see reflections.”

We are proud to celebrate A’Keisha’s achievement and look forward to her continued impact!

“The MLAB Wine Mixer is my favorite event of the year… I was once one of those guests, and now I’m a part of MLAB.” — Peter Klimkow, MLAB Chair

This is more than just a great night out. It is a chance to connect, celebrate, and be part of something that’s making a real difference in our communities. From new faces to familiar ones, every year brings new energy, new relationships, and lasting impact.

Don’t miss your opportunity to be part of it. Bring a friend, grow your network, and experience why this event means so much to so many.

🎟️ Get your tickets now: https://bit.ly/4eCltLT
💛 Support the mission: https://give.metrofamily.org/give/784757 #!/donation/checkout

On Saturday, May 23, 2026, the Altgeld Youth Leadership Program hosted a successful youth-led food pantry serving families in the Altgeld Gardens community.

Thanks to the support of the McDonald’s Community Impact Program, we were able to partner with Top Box Foods and The Common Market to distribute fresh produce and essential pantry items to local residents.

This initiative not only addressed food access but also empowered young leaders to take an active role in supporting their community.

We are deeply grateful for the partnerships and shared commitment that made this event possible. Together, we are investing in healthier families and stronger futures for Altgeld Gardens.

You are invited to a day of connection and community support!

Metropolitan Family Services will host a Community Resource Fair on June 26, 2026, at the North Center Parking Lot (3249 N Central Ave). Families are welcome to explore more than 30 local and citywide resources available for infants, children, and adults.

This event is a great opportunity to learn about essential services, connect with community organizations, and access helpful supports all in one place.

Attendees can also enjoy free giveaways, raffles, and snacks throughout the event. We look forward to welcoming you and your family.

The North Center recently hosted a community baby shower for 24 expecting and new families, creating a space of support, education, and connection.

Families received important information about safe sleep practices and car seat safety, along with essential supplies including diapers, wipes, formula, breast pumps, baby clothing, and hygiene items. The celebration also included a raffle featuring strollers and pack and plays.\

We are deeply grateful to PNC for both volunteers and generous donations, and to our amazing community partners for helping make this event possible:
Share Our Spare
EverThrive Illinois
Chicago Department of Public Health
Iglesia Evangelica Emanuel
State Representative Will Guzzardi
Ald. Ruth Cruz, 30th Ward
State Representative Eva-Dina Delgado
PNC Grow Up Great

At Addison Children’s Center, we are excited to partner with community organizations this summer to create enriching and memorable experiences for our students.

We were delighted to host Medinah Shrine Therapy Dogs, giving children the opportunity to interact with both small and large therapy dogs. The visit brought so much excitement, joy, and curiosity as students connected with the dogs and learned more about them.

These experiences go far beyond the moment. They support emotional well-being, build confidence, and create positive, lasting memories. We are thankful for partners who help make this kind of impact possible.

The North Center recently hosted a community baby shower for 24 expecting and new families, creating a space for connection, education, and support.

Families received important information about safe sleep and car seat safety, along with essential items made possible through generous donations. Each participant went home with supplies such as diapers, wipes, formula, breast pumps, baby clothes, and hygiene items.

The event also included a raffle featuring strollers and pack and plays to help families prepare for their growing needs.

We are incredibly grateful to PNC for providing both volunteers and donations, along with our community partners:
Share Our Spare
EverThrive Illinois
State Rep. Will Guzzardi - 39th District
30th Ward Alderwoman Ruth Cruzz
State Representative Eva-Dina Delgadoo
Chicago Department of Public Health Family Connects Chicago
Emanuel Church Chicago

Thank you for helping make this meaningful day possible for families in our community.