Collaboration in Action: Empowering Families and Communities Through Trusted Partnerships

What started as a chance meeting at an after-school conference in Dallas, Texas, more than 800 miles away, has blossomed into a transformative partnership between Bobbie Hinden of Family Focus and Marianne Pokorny of YWCA Metropolitan Chicago. Their paths crossed again years later at an Alliance for Human Services (AHS) meeting, turning that initial encounter into a powerful collaboration focused on strengthening families and empowering communities. Hinden’s current service on the AHS Board is a testament to the lasting impact of that connection.

“Reconnecting with Bobbie through AHS has allowed us to expand our partnership and involve additional organizations in Lake County, collectively enhancing the early childhood infrastructure and improving programming in North Chicago and beyond,” says Pokorny.

Several partner initiatives aim to enhance early childhood education and support services in North Chicago, including the Early Childhood Enrollment Grant, North Chicago Planning Grant, and North Chicago Collaboration Grant. YWCA Metropolitan Chicago has received funding through these grants to expand services like the Child Care Assistance Program and Head Start. Additionally, the North Chicago Collaboration Grant strengthens partnerships among 24 organizations to improve the quality and accessibility of early childhood programs in the region, contributing to a stronger educational infrastructure.

The Early Childhood Enrollment grant partnership has significantly boosted enrollment in the Child Care Assistance Program over the past year. In June, 3,707 children were enrolled; by September, the number increased by 10% to 4,061, adding 354 new children. By December, enrollment grew to 4,378—an 18% rise, with 671 new children. By May, the number reached 4,659, reflecting a 26% increase from June, with 952 additional children benefiting from the program.

Pokorny hosts a monthly collaboration meeting that brings together 25 diverse organizations from various sectors, including early childhood, technology, mental health, and children's museums—creating a space for sharing needs and identifying new partners. This open, collaborative environment strengthens services for children and families throughout the Chicago area.

“Each month, the YWCA hosts a meeting where we ask every participant, 'What is your Y?’ This question helps us understand both the personal and organizational purpose of each attendee, fostering meaningful connections that lead to productive brainstorming,” says Pokorny.

“At Family Focus, we believe in the power of partnership—there’s no need to reinvent the wheel when we can move forward together. By collaborating with trusted organizations, we amplify our impact and ensure families receive the best support possible,” Hinden affirms.

Supporting Families & Providers Through Uncertain Times
YWCA and Family Focus are navigating significant challenges as families continue to struggle. Service providers are working hard to keep their doors open while families remain hesitant to leave their homes, making it difficult to engage in center-based programs. Home visitors are also feeling the pressure as they continue their vital work in uncertain times.

“The success of our shared mission to support early childhood development is built on a foundation of trust, allowing us to collaborate effectively and ensure that every child receives the support they need to thrive,” says Pokorny. “We are fortunate to have such incredible partners, and through our collective collaboration, we can strengthen our efforts and provide even more meaningful support to the communities we serve.”

In today’s unpredictable political climate, nonprofit organizations are facing numerous challenges, including funding uncertainty, policy shifts, and regulatory changes. Families are feeling the strain, unsure about the future of vital services like early childhood education, child care assistance, and social support programs. Nonprofits, especially those serving underserved communities, are confronting heightened demand for services while grappling with concerns over potential funding cuts. This environment requires resilience, adaptability, and collaboration to ensure continued service delivery.

“As we navigate these challenging times, the importance of trust, cooperation, and collaboration among organizations cannot be overstated. By working together, we not only address immediate needs but also lay the foundation for a brighter, more equitable future. The strength of our partnerships is what keeps us resilient,” says Lisa Pugliese, Executive Director of AHS.

Advocacy for early childhood programs and fair pay for employees is critical, as many dedicated professionals are leaving due to inadequate compensation. Ensuring fair pay is key to retaining skilled professionals who are committed to supporting the growth and development of young children.

Collaboration among community organizations, educators, and families is essential for supporting children's school readiness, fostering a holistic approach to their developmental needs, and providing the resources, skills, and support necessary for academic and social success.

“Being part of the Alliance for Human Services provides invaluable opportunities to connect with like-minded organizations working toward a common goal. Whether you're joining or renewing your membership, the benefits are immense access to resources, collaborative support, and the ability to drive meaningful change in our communities,” says Alicia Garcia, AHS Chair.

Looking Forward: Strengthening Families Through Trust and Collaboration
Family Focus and YWCA Metropolitan Chicago share a common goal: to provide essential services to the early childhood population, with a particular focus on developmental skills and behavioral health, ensuring that children are set up for lifelong success.

“Collaboration is vital—we can’t do this alone. By strengthening our partnerships, we can do more to support our communities and ensure that quality programs receive the funding they deserve,” says Hinden.

In FY24, Family Focus served 190 children and 154 families through its home visiting programs, completing over 2,500 visits. Just seven months into FY25, they have already reached over 150 children and are on track to exceed their goal of 165. Since launching the Doula Services Program in December 2023, three bilingual doulas have supported 27 women throughout pregnancy, labor, childbirth, and postpartum care.

In the same year, Family Focus served over 6,603 families, impacting more than 19,500 individuals across Cook, DuPage, Kane, Kendall, and Lake counties, covering over 2,500 square miles. Their innovative, high-quality programs, grounded in anti-racism and social justice, help families build social capital and achieve upward economic mobility, empowering them to reach their full potential.

“Thanks to our ongoing partnerships, the YWCA Head Start Partnership program has not only reached full enrollment but now serves 189 children across several communities in Lake County, providing critical early childhood education and support in North Chicago, Waukegan, Zion, Round Lake Beach, and Grayslake,” Pokorny adds.

Both organizations are grateful for the strong partnerships they’ve built, recognizing that in today’s unpredictable climate, collaboration and trust are essential in working toward their shared goal of strengthening families and communities.

Mission of AHS
Enhance the delivery of services by providing leadership that convenes Lake County human service sector stakeholders and fosters collaboration.

Learn more about joining the Alliance as a member, here.

Mission of YWCA Metropolitan Chicago
YWCA Metropolitan Chicago is dedicated to eliminating racism, empowering women and promoting peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all.

Mission of Family Focus
Family Focus invests in strengthening families and their children in Chicago and NE Illinois so they build social capital and achieve upward economic mobility through high-quality innovative programs and services, grounded in anti-racism and social justice.

Did you know…
The North Chicago Collaboration, with Family Focus as a core partner, unites approximately 24 organizations committed to supporting the community. Key partners include the Alliance for Human Services, Family Focus, Kids Above All, and HACES. This collaborative effort is focused on strengthening families and empowering communities through shared resources and coordinated programs.