The Wraparound Center recently held a remarkable community resource event at their location, 1419 S. Folkers Ave., Peoria, IL 61605. Co-sponsored by CIRC (Central Illinois Resource Center), the event brought together agencies from across the Peoria area to connect families with resources and services available throughout every stage of life.
“The goal was to gather agencies from around Peoria and provide a place for people to learn about resources that help throughout someone’s lifespan,” said Dr. Myskeshia Mitchell, Director of the Wraparound Center and Community-Based Social-Emotional Learning.
The event was not only an opportunity for families to learn about available resources, but also a celebration of the community. Attendees enjoyed free hot dogs, and students had the chance to participate in a fun raffle featuring a variety of prizes, including puzzles, artwork, and grab bags filled with essentials such as water bottles.
“It was amazing to see how many different resources our community has available. We are fortunate to have the Wraparound Center at Trewyn. We are very fortunate that we can quickly help families who are in need,” said Cory Brown, principal of Trewyn.
Throughout the event, three mini sessions provided attendees with information about resources designed to support people of different ages and needs. Age Central shared resources available to seniors and grandparents who are helping raise Peoria Public Schools students. Trillium Place provided information for parents on helping teens manage their emotions, recognize signs of distress, and understand current trends that may affect their well-being. The Wraparound Center also highlighted its role as a one-stop resource for students and families, connecting them with services that can help meet basic needs, including food pantry and clothing assistance, therapeutic services, affordable housing guidance, and more.
For Jake Partee, who co-sponsored the event with CIRC, one of the most meaningful parts of the day was seeing families make those connections firsthand.
“I myself loved seeing children and families walk through the event, connecting with resources and watching facial expressions when they find out that help is there for them,” Partee said.
Families also had the opportunity to enjoy horseback riding provided by the River City Rough Riders. Based near Hanna City, Illinois, the River City Rough Riders is an outreach program and ranch that connects youth and younger children, particularly those from the west side of Peoria.
By bringing local organizations, families, and students together in one place, the event showed the wide range of resources available throughout the Peoria community while creating an inviting space for families to learn and connect.
To learn more about the Wraparound Center and stay connected with the work they are doing in the community, follow the Wraparound Center on Facebook and visit their page on the Peoria Public Schools website. Community members can also check out the Center’s Wishlist and consider donating if they are able. Every contribution helps support their continued efforts to connect students and families with the resources and services they need.