Now in its 122nd year, one of Chicago's most underrated, unsung, and longest-standing charities, the Juvenile Protective Association (JPA), continues its mission.
Last Saturday, over 200 supporters, teachers, social workers, clinicians, board members, and friends of the program gathered to honor, celebrate, and fundraise for the organization that was first started back in 1901 by the iconic Jane Addams.
Although Addams surely couldn't have envisioned back then a celebratory banquet at RPM, complete with cocktails, dinner, live auction, and a DJ, she did share the original vision that still holds true even today for JPA: to improve the social and emotional well-being and functioning of vulnerable Chicago children so they can reach their fullest potential at home, in school, and in our communities.
Much of the work is done by JPA's dedicated crew of social workers, clinicians, and therapists who now work in 25 different Chicago Public Schools, assisting teachers and providing much-needed individual counseling and support for some of our most troubled elementary and junior high populations.
JPA President and CEO, Karen Foley, spoke of the mission at the banquet, and mentioned some of the current trends and developments, while board president Bob Johnson and Banquet Chair Melissa Levy gave the opening remarks. All spoke of the continued growing need for assistance to some of our most troubled youth, and the importance of keeping them in school.
From there, auctioneer extraordinaire Jason Lamoreaux rocked the house with style and enthusiasm, raising much-needed funds by challenging the crowd to bid high and bid often during the live auction which included items such as Taylor Swift tickets (and an autographed guitar), a 5-day 4-night trip to London highlighted by tickets to two games to watch our very own Chicago Cubs play, and front row viewing for this summer's NASCAR Chicago race which included a guided track tour and full VIP experience.
The highlight of the evening was hearing from one of JPA's own social workers and therapists, Jillian Howard, who spoke of the realities of the mission and her job. Jillian gave an example of the real work being done by JPA's dedicated staff, emphasizing the difference they can make in one child's life—many who have been victims of domestic violence and as such often have trouble in the school setting.
The need is great, and JPA's 122-year-old mission continues on.
For more information on this wonderful organization, check out their website at www.jpachicago.org.
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