Libertyville, IL – Senator Darby Hills (R-Barrington Hills) helped bring together Let It Be Us and colleagues from both sides of the aisle to lead a Foster Care and Adoption 101 Seminar in Libertyville. The event brought together families, advocates, and community members with a shared commitment to supporting children in foster care and those waiting for adoption.
“Every seat was filled, and when attendees were asked who was interested in adopting, nearly every hand went up, a touching reminder of how deeply people in our community care,” said Senator Darby Hills. “I am grateful to work alongside my colleagues and across the aisle who share this commitment to supporting families, empowering parents, and giving every child the chance to grow up in a safe, loving home.”
Illinois has approximately 18,000 children and teens in foster care but only about 9,000 foster families statewide. Closing that gap starts with awareness and support, which is why events like this and adoption and foster organizations like Let It Be Us play such a vital role in connecting families with the tools and encouragement needed to make a real difference.
“Thank you to Senator Hills and her colleagues for supporting us as we recruit new foster and adoptive homes in Lake and the surrounding counties,” said Dr. Susan McConnell, Founder and Executive Director of Let It Be Us. “Lake County is in dire need of licensed foster homes and we predict that this event will produce many, many new homes to care for Lake County’s most vulnerable children.”
The seminar offered attendees the opportunity to learn from experts, including Dr. Susan McConnell, Founder and Executive Director of Let It Be Us, about the real-life experiences of foster and adoptive families, available resources, and ways community members can get involved. Topics included navigating the foster care system, adoption, and supporting children at every stage of their journey.
Senator Hills highlighted her ongoing legislative efforts to strengthen support for children and families, including the Healing Through History Act, SB 2895, which ensures families have the information and resources needed for stable, successful placements, and SB 2869, legislation that would require DCFS to publicly report how many children in state care are reported missing, how many are found, and how many remain missing.
“This event was about education, empowerment, and helping families understand the meaningful impact they can have in a child’s life,” said Senator Darby Hills. “Whether you are considering foster care, adoption, or simply supporting families in your community, you are part of a network that changes lives every day. Together, we can ensure that children grow up feeling valued, safe, and loved.”
For more information about Let It Be Us and how to get involved, visit letitbeus.org.