Aunt Martha’s is looking for energetic, loving and committed people who are interesting in helping children, ages newborn to 18.

Foster Parents provide temporary and permanent living environments for children until they reach permanency through return home to their biological families, adoption, subsidized guardianship, or other goals deemed appropriate for youth.

Our next information meeting is scheduled from 6:00p to 8:00p on Thursday, January 13, 2011, and will be held at the Chicago Pullman Library (11001 S. Indiana Ave., Chicago, IL 60628).

If you’d like to learn more about what it takes to be a foster parent, please contact our Foster Care Licensing Unit at 708.210.2454 to reserve your seat.

Aunt Martha’s is looking for energetic, loving and committed people who are interesting in helping children, ages newborn to 18.

Foster Parents provide temporary and permanent living environments for children until they reach permanency through return home to their biological families, adoption, subsidized guardianship, or other goals deemed appropriate for youth.

Our next information meeting is scheduled from 6:00p to 8:00p on Tuesday, January 18, 2011, and will be held at the Logan Square Library (3030 W. Fullerton Ave., Chicago, IL 60647).

If you’d like to learn more about what it takes to be a foster parent, please contact our Foster Care Licensing Unit at 708.210.2454 to reserve your seat.

Mark your calendar for another Trivia Night to benefit Aunt Martha’s Youth Service Center. Trivia Night will be held on Thursday, February 3, 2011 at Flossmoor Station.

Gather a team of 2 to five players, pick a winning name and join the fun at Flossmoor Station located in Flossmoor at 1035 Sterling Avenue. Your participation raises funds for Aunt Martha’s youth, only a $10 donation per person to play! Food and beverages are available for purchase. Pub Quiz started in England and has hit Chicago and the south suburbs as TRIVIA NIGHT. Trivia is great fun, challenging and very competitive.

Contact Sarah Hamilton at shamilton@auntmarthas.org for information or to reserve a table!

Aunt Martha’s is looking for energetic, loving and committed people who are interesting in helping children, ages newborn to 18.

Foster Parents provide temporary and permanent living environments for children until they reach permanency through return home to their biological families, adoption, subsidized guardianship, or other goals deemed appropriate for youth.

Our next information meeting is scheduled from 6:30p to 8:30p on Thursday, January 20, 2011, and will be held at the Grand Prairie Public Library (3479 W. 183rd St., Hazel Crest, IL 60429).

If you’d like to learn more about what it takes to be a foster parent, please contact our Foster Care Licensing Unit at 708.210.2454 to reserve your seat.

Aunt Martha’s is looking for energetic, loving and committed people who are interesting in helping children, ages newborn to 18.

Foster Parents provide temporary and permanent living environments for children until they reach permanency through return home to their biological families, adoption, subsidized guardianship, or other goals deemed appropriate for youth.

Our next information meeting is scheduled from 6:30p to 8:30p Thursday, January 27, 2011, and will be held at the Elgin Township Building (729 S. McLean Blvd., Elgin, IL 60123).

If you’d like to learn more about what it takes to be a foster parent, please contact our Foster Care Licensing Unit at 708.210.2454 to reserve your seat.

Mark your calendar for another Trivia Night to benefit Aunt Martha’s Youth Service Center. Trivia Night will be held on Thursday, November 4, 2010 at Flossmoor Station. Gather a team of 2 to five players, pick a winning name and join the fun at Flossmoor Station located in Flossmoor at 1035 Sterling Avenue. Your participation raises funds for Aunt Martha’s youth, only a $10 donation per person to play! Food and beverages are available for purchase. Pub Quiz started in England and has hit Chicago and the south suburbs as TRIVIA NIGHT. Trivia is great fun, challenging and very competitive. Contact Sarah Hamilton at shamilton@auntmarthas.org for information.

Aunt Martha’s Holiday Gift program invites caring individuals, organizations, faith-based groups and businesses to brighten the holidays for Aunt Martha’s most needy children, youth and families.

For 23 years, Aunt Martha’s donors have been making sure that more than 3,000 children and youth living in Aunt Martha’s residential and foster homes, homeless youth and low income families receive holiday gifts. Many will not receive a gift without your help. It’s easy to help.

Be a Partner
The easiest way to help is to send a check or donate online with your credit card and we will purchase children’s gifts for you. Your donation helps us to purchase gift cards for teens and families. We have found that our teens appreciate gift cards which allow them the opportunity to shop for themselves! And our low income parents appreciate gift cards to purchase gifts for their children. With your help we are also able to provide them with gift cards for a holiday meal!

Sponsor a Program Drive
Coordinate with your friends, family or co-workers or host a party and ask guests to bring a gift card or new and unwrapped toy or gift. A list of recommended items will be provided. We suggest a gift value of $25. Please contact us by November 10th and we request delivery of gifts or gift cards by December 10th.

Sponsor a Residential Home
Companies, clubs, faith-based groups and families pool their resources to help youth living in a specific residential home. These youth have special needs, are at-risk or are young mothers with small children. Each home generally houses eight residents and each resident fills out wish list. Because this will be the only holiday experience for these young people and we want to do the best we can for them, we suggest gifts valued at $150 - $200 per resident. You have a chance to make a lasting impact on a young person. And we invite you to share in the home’s holiday party where your gifts are distributed. Please contact us by November 1st to participate in celebrating with a residential home.

For information on how you can get involved contact: Nina Albrecht at (708) 747-7171.

Aunt Martha’s Youth Service Center is seeking a qualified and experienced construction management firm to provide Construction Management services for two new construction health centers including the Joliet Community Health Center and Chicago Heights Pediatric Health and Wellness Center. Aunt Martha’s will be selecting one Construction Manager to complete construction on both centers, based on the qualifications of each individual firm.

Request for Qualifications for Construction Management Services

Click here to view our Request for Qualifications.

Pre-Submission Meeting – September 30, 2010

Click here to view the Agenda and Notes, which was held on September 30, 2010.

Click here to view the presentation that was made by Anderson Mikos Architects Ltd.

Click here to view the drawings of the Joliet Project Site.

Click here to view the drawings of the Chicago Heights Project Site.

Click here to find out who attended the Pre-Submission Meeting.

In observance of National HIV Testing Day, Aunt Martha’s will offer free, confidential testing on Thursday, June 24, 2010. The testing will take place at Aunt Martha’s Park Forest location at 440 Forest Boulevard. The National Association of People With Aids and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention along with other national and local entities encourage you to “Take the Test, Take Control.”

Click to Enlarge		Click to Enlarge		Click to Enlarge

Visit hivtest.org for more information.

Lottery Open Registration

For the first time in more than a decade, families in need of affordable housing will have the chance to add their names to the Chicago Housing Authority’s Family Housing Wait List – the list used to fill CHA public housing rental units as they become available. In total, CHA will randomly select the names of 40,000 families to add to the list this year, with all names chosen through a lottery process. Families interested in this opportunity can register for the Family Housing Wait List lottery ANYTIME, from any computer or internet-enabled cell phone between June 14 and July 9, 2010. All registrations are treated equally, no matter when you apply during the open registration period. Registration is free and easy.

If you do not have a home computer, you can register online at any one of more than 100 sites scattered throughout the city. Representatives will also be on hand to offer assistance where needed. Online registration is available in English, Chinese, Polish, Russian, Serbo-Croatian, Spanish, Tagalog, Urdu/Hindi and Vietnamese.

Everyone who submits a registration will receive a letter notifying whether or not they have been placed on the Wait List. As apartments become available, those selected for the Wait List will be contacted to determine if the available unit matches their needs and to verify eligibility. Housing types range from historical apartments in traditional CHA family housing sites, in recently rehabbed units scattered throughout virtually every community in Chicago or in newly built mixed-income developments in revitalized neighborhoods.

This is a historic opportunity for Chicagoans to take advantage of the housing CHA offers. With more than 17,000 of CHA’s 25,000 units already renovated or replaced, the Wait List Lottery gives families the ability to find quality, affordable housing in the city. For more information, visit CHAwaitlist.org, text “INFO” to 75309 on your mobile phone or call 1-866-7-thecha (866.784.3242) or 311.

Aunt Martha's Youth hosted a grand opening event that celebrate the completion of a renovation project that will expand the availability of dental and behavioral health services in Vermilion County. The project was funded in part by the Illinois Children’s Healthcare Foundation and the Capital Improvement Program of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. The expansion will more than double the health center’s capacity by adding nine (9) dental operatories, five (5) offices dedicated to the delivery of behavioral health services, a dental lab, waiting and reception area, a medical records room and conference space.

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

Aunt Martha’s hosted a grand opening event on Monday, April 19th to celebrate the completion of a renovation project that will double the dental services being provided in Chicago Heights with nine (9) dental operatories added to the agency’s existing Women’s Health Center location in Chicago Heights.

Pediatric Health and Community Wellness Center Will Expand Services to Underserved Children and Families

IL – U.S. Rep. Jesse Jackson Jr. (D-2nd)

Aunt Martha's was recognized by Congressman Jesse L. Jackson, Jr. (2nd District - Illinois) at a press conference on April 8th for receiving the country's third largest Facilities Investment Project grant.

State Sen. Toi Hutchinson (D-Olympia Fields)

The grant will fund a $6 million pediatric health and wellness center in Chicago Heights.

Aunt Martha’s thanks Congressman Jackson, Jr. for his vigorous efforts to bring federal investments to South Suburban Cook County.

Aunt Martha’s announced it has executed an agreement to deploy NextGen® EHR (Electronic Health Record), NextGen EPM (Enterprise Practice Management) and Quality Systems’ integrated EDR (Electronic Dental Record) to better serve all patients and clients within the Aunt Martha’s system of care.

An article published in the March 5, 2010 edition of the Southtown Star.

On Thursday, March 4, Aunt Martha’s was contacted by the offices of Congressman Jesse Jackson, Jr. and Congresswoman Debbie Halvorson with news that the agency’s request for nearly $12 million in federal funding had been approved.

Click here to read Congressman Jackson’s press release.
Click here to read Congresswoman Halvorson’s press release.

Destiny Through Character (DTC), a fundraising organization that helps foster children, welcomed 200 guests to its 3rd annual fundraiser last week. The fundraiser celebrated DTC’s new partnership with Aunt Martha’s Youth Service Center and its programs that assist foster children who age-out of the system, said Gloria Griseto, DTC founder. The program also helps those foster children who have lived without mentors and have little hope of attending trade, technical or four-year universities—often leaving the kids vulnerable to street-living, prostitution or drugs.

“This population touched my heart because this could have been my husband and I if we didn’t have strong family support,” Griseto said. “These kids have nobody to mentor them, so they have not gained life skills like looking for a job. If these kids don’t get the mentoring they need, they are going to go out on the streets and become part of the problem and not become solid citizens.”

The fundraiser was held at 7 p.m. on March 5 at the Drury Lane in Oakbrook Terrace, Ill., and included dinner, dancing and a live and silent auction. All proceeds were donated to Aunt Martha’s Youth Services, a nonprofit that assists Illinois’ foster children. Nina Albercht, Aunt Martha’s project manager, said the partnership between the two organizations made sense as their mission was the same. Each had the goal to champion those youths aging out of the foster care system and help them realize their full potential.

“It’s got to be overwhelming to think that at the age of 18 or 19 you can make it on your own, so Aunt Martha’s and Destiny Through Character want to do everything they can to provide help and support to these foster youths,” Albercht said. “It’s a wonderful partnership, and I feel like working together we can accomplish even more. There are a lot of young people counting on us.”

Attendees enjoyed a four-course meal, an open wine-and-beer bar and several opportunities to donate. During dinner, a live auction was held for 15 items, including a couple’s retreat donated by Doubletree, Downers Grove; golf for four at Marriott Oak Brook Hills; a finger-tip-length fox coat; a meal cooked by Chef Neal Charles; a private plane ride for four to Lake Lawn Lodge in Lake Delavan, Wis.; a 37” flat screen hi-def TV; an Easy Rider T-shirt signed by Peter Fonda (donated by Toys for Tots); a signed and framed poster of “The Rat Pack”; and more.

Also during the live auction, hundreds of dollars were raised to support Aunt Martha’s scholarship fund. In addition, raffle baskets valued at $100 to $400 were won by attendees (including four Chicago Cubs tickets and gear; a family Brookfield Zoo membership; and a pampered weekend at Sybaris), as well as prize winnings of $200, $400 and $600. Finally, a bidding frenzy offered attendees a chance to win gift certificates from Starbuck’s, Omaha Steaks, Buona Beef, Marconi’s Ristorante (LaGrange), Uncle Bubs (Westmont), Bob Chinn’s (Naperville), Panera, the Chicago Wolves; and Deborah Davis Spa (Elmhurst).

Celebrity Dance Studio, located in Downers Grove, Ill., also donated lessons and dancing gear for the live auction. In addition, the studio shut down for the night to support the cause, said Ann Garvey, the owner. In fact, studio instructors Mateo Catalan and Dana Zielinski showcased dance performances at the fundraiser, alongside Celebrity students Sarah Hamilton, Phillip Jass and Franca Laberdi. In addition, Catalan and Griseto performed a Bollero. The dancing was part of the evening’s entertainment and it’s also healthful, Garvey said.

“Gloria is one of our students and we are happy to support her cause,” Garvey said. “And everybody likes to dance—even though they don’t admit it—they’d rather be up their dancing then sitting. And dancing is great exercise. It’s good for your whole body.”

Griseto turned to the dance studio after the death of her husband. It was an opportunity to heal her wounds and make a fresh start.

“Being at the studio was the key factor to lifting my depression. It is more like a community than just going to a dance studio,” Griseto said. “It’s good emotionally for your spirit.”

About Destiny Through Character

Destiny Through Character was founded to honor Griseto’s late husband Frank, who died in a Toys for Tots motorcycle accident. Frank spent his life in service, first for 21 years as a chief warrant officer in the U.S. Army Reserves. Afterwards, he volunteered for fundraisers at a local Italian retirement home and at the YMCA. Next, he signed up with DuPage County as a deputy, serving only one year before his death. After his death, Gloria realized it was up to her to fulfill his dreams to help those kids discarded by the foster system. She met in April 2009 with Aunt Martha’s Youth Services, whose mission is to be a resource for children, youth and families. DTC now raises money through fundraisers, and then donates the funds to Aunt Martha’s. To learn more or donate, visit www.destiny-character.org.

As we continually explore alternatives for fundraising in support of our mission, we are delighted to announce that we’ve joined Tix4Cause.com. Tix4Cause is a ticket exchange website founded on an innovative yet simple concept—ticketholders sell their unwanted tickets, and can donate 100% of the proceeds to our cause.

• Ticketholders turn their unwanted seats over to Aunt Martha’s, and qualify for a tax deduction.
• Ticket purchasers choose from these great seats, and receive reasonable pricing (tickets are offered at fair market prices).
• 100% of ticket proceeds are given to Aunt Martha’s.

The success of our partnership with Tix4Cause depends on you. I know many of you have tickets that, for various reasons, cannot be used. To ensure we hit the ground running with this program, I’m requesting your unwanted sporting, theater, or music event tickets.

Don’t let a single ticket go to waste—instead, place them for sale on Tix4Cause. We are truly excited about this opportunity, and look forward to this great, new way to help support our mission.

Aunt Martha’s has provided its child welfare, juvenile justice and community capacity building services in Will County for more than 25 years... The organization’s effort to increase access to services in one of the County’s neediest communities is currently on hold, however, pending a decision on its request for $6 million in stimulus funding to provide health care services to the medically underserved population living on the East Side of Joliet.

If approved, the request will enable Aunt Martha’s to build a state-of-the-art community health and education facility on the campus of Silver Cross Hospital. The Hospital has agreed to donate the land on which the facility would be built, as well as provide funds to support the delivery of services in the first years of operation.

Aunt Martha’s Holiday Gift Express donor Chiro One Wellness Centers dropped off a truck full of toys and gift cards for many children in Aunt Martha’s programs on Friday, December 18, 2009 as featured in the Southtown Star.

As featured in the Homer Horizon: Thanks to the generosity of Chiro One Wellness Centers' patients and staff, hundreds of children in Aunt Martha’s programs enjoyed the spirit of the season by receiving their own holiday gift!

Aunt Martha’s Youth Service Center’s Children’s Reception Center received a visit from Santa, Mrs. Claus and the elves from Operation Shining Star on Wednesday, December 16, 2009.

This is the second year Operation Shining Star has paid the children a visit. Operation Shining Star is an effort by the United States Secret Service, Chicago Police, the FBI, the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services to brighten children’s holidays each year in the Chicago area.

Click here to read the article.

An article about the groundbreaking celebration for the expansion of Aunt Martha’s Vermilion Area Community Health Center, featured in the Urbana/Champaign News-Gazette on Tuesday, October 13, 2009.

Another article about the groundbreaking celebration for the expansion of Aunt Martha’s Vermilion Area Community Health Center, featured in The Commercial-News, Danville, IL, on Tuesday, October 13, 2009.

Click here to read article.

Danville, Illinois – October 9, 2009 - Aunt Martha's Youth Service Center, Inc. is breaking ground on a renovation project that will expand the availability of dental and behavioral health services at the Vermilion Area Community Health Center in Danville.

The project will triple the health center’s capacity to provide dental and behavioral health services by adding nine (9) dental operatories and five (5) offices dedicated to the delivery of behavioral health services.

State Representative William Black (104th District) and Danville Mayor Scott Eisenhauer will join Raul Garza, Aunt Martha's Chief Executive Officer, at a Groundbreaking Ceremony scheduled to begin at 10:00 am on Monday, October 12th. The ceremony will take place at Aunt Martha’s Vermilion Area Community Health Center, located at 614 N. Gilbert Street in Danville.

The project will add: a dental clinic with nine (9) dental operatories, each with exam chair and equipment; a dental lab; a waiting area; a reception area; a medical records room; a break room; five (5) new behavioral health offices and conference space. Renovations will cover 6,035 sq. ft. of what is currently vacant space directly adjacent to the existing health center.

Although patients will still be able to pass from the existing clinic into the new space, the project will essentially create a separate health center dedicated to the delivery of specialty services like dental and behavioral health, with separate entrances and waiting areas. This renovation will increase the health center’s effectiveness, efficiency, and quality of care by eliminating congestion in the reception area but still allowing for the full integration of all the services available within the health center. Offutt Development of Danville has been hired to serve as the general contractor for the project, which should be completed by early spring 2010.

The Vermilion Area Community Health Center is currently open Monday through Saturday. Those hours will not be effected by the renovation project. Appointments for services are preferred; but walk-ins are welcome. To schedule an appointment, or to request additional information about the Health Center, please call (217) 442-8790.

Aunt Martha's Youth Service Center, Inc. is a private, not-for-profit agency providing complete health care and social services for family members of all ages in underserved communities across Illinois. Established in 1972, Aunt Martha's offers services in ten counties throughout Illinois and reaches more than 80,000 Illinois residents annually. The agency is state licensed to provide child welfare, substance abuse treatment and child care services. All services, including mental health and primary health care, are accredited by the Joint Commission on the Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations.

An article about Aunt Martha’s new South Holland Health Center, featured in the Chicago Tribune on Wednesday, October 7, 2009.

Click here to read article.

Aunt Martha’s hosted a groundbreaking ceremony on Monday, October 5, 2009, to mark the start of a renovation project that will add a 9-operatory dental clinic to the agency’s Women’s Health Center in Chicago Heights.

Pictured from Left to Right: Anthony DeLuca, Representative of Illinois’ 80th District; Sonia Perez, Chicago Heights Alderman and Aunt Martha’s employee; Raul Garza, Aunt Martha’s CEO; and Mayor Alex Lopez of Chicago Heights.

On Tuesday, September 22, 2009, Aunt Martha’s hosted a grand opening celebration for its Southeast Side Health Center, located at 3528 E. 118th Street in Chicago.

Pictured from Left to Right: Marlow Colvin, Representative of Illinois’ 33rd District; Raul Garza, Aunt Martha’s CEO; Dr. Gregory Winstead of the Southeast Side Health Center; and Alderman John Pope of Chicago’s 10th Ward.

South Holland, Illinois - September, 14 2009 - Aunt Martha's Youth Service Center, Inc. is partnering with the Cook County Department of Public Health, an affiliate of the Cook County Health and Hospitals System, to find new ways to preserve its residents' access to primary care and dental clinics in South Holland.

Aunt Martha’s, whose network of 16 community health centers provides over 240,000 visits to more than 74,000 patients across six counties, will take over the two operations.

The County transitioned operations to Aunt Martha's on July 1, 2009 and donated a large portion of its office furniture, medical exam room and dental operatory equipment, valued at approximately $66,000.

Aunt Martha's Health Center will expand the area's access to primary medical, dental, behavioral and women's health services. Patients of all ages are welcome, and will be seen regardless of their ability to pay.

“I am pleased to see this collaborative effort between Cook County government and Aunt Martha’s Youth Service Center,” says Cook County Board President Todd Stroger. “This innovative arrangement will assure that health care services will continue to be offered to the indigent and medically underserved residents in the South Suburbs.”

Aunt Martha's will collaborate with CCDPH to provide its family case management services for pregnant women and infants at the South Holland Health Center, as well as several of the County's other south suburban clinic locations. Part of this collaboration will be the continuation of the County's Women, Infants and Children (WIC) program for indigent clients at the South Holland Health Center.

The South Holland Health Center will focus its efforts on serving more than 30,000 uninsured and Medicaid-eligible residents of South Holland and five other communities. The prevalence of chronic heart disease, breast and prostate cancer is significantly higher in the local population than throughout the rest of the State; and it is estimated that more than half of the target population has not visited a dentist for at least one year.

Cook County Board President Todd Stroger, Cook County Health and Hospitals System’s Chief Operating Officer, William Foley and Raul Garza, Aunt Martha's Chief Executive Officer will be on hand today at 4:30 pm to celebrate the grand opening of the South Holland Health Center and its adjacent Dental Suite, located at 52 and 64 W. 162nd Street. The event is scheduled from 4:30 - 7:30 pm. The ribbon cutting will take place at 5:00 pm.

The South Holland Health Center is currently open Monday through Friday. Appointments for services are preferred; but walk-ins are welcome. To schedule an appointment, or to request additional information about the South Holland Health Center, please call (708) 225-9700.

Aunt Martha's Youth Service Center is a private, not-for-profit agency providing complete health care and social services for family members of all ages in underserved communities across Illinois. Established in 1972, Aunt Martha's offers services in ten counties throughout Illinois and reaches more than 80,000 Illinois residents annually. The agency is state licensed to provide child welfare, substance abuse treatment and child care services. All services, including mental health and primary health care, are accredited by the Joint Commission on the Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations.

Aunt Martha’s Healthcare Network kicks off National Health Center Week with several events across many communities in the northern region of Illinois. National Health Center week encompasses health centers across the country to reach out to our communities for health-related needs.

On August 9, from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm and August 15 from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm, several booths will be open to the community at the Chicago Heights Community Health Center located at 1536 Vincennes Avenue and the Hazel Crest Community Health Center located at 17850 South Kedzie Avenue in Hazel Crest. The booths will include adult health screenings for glucose, blood pressure and body mass index; education on child obesity, oral hygiene, asthma and diabetes; healthy refreshments and school supplies; along with back to school physicals and dental exams.

The Aunt Martha’s Women’s Health Center and Harvey Community Health Center will conduct two additional community events from 10:00am to 2:00pm on Monday, August 10. The Women’s Health Center is located at 233 W. Joe Orr Road in Chicago Heights and the Harvey Community Health Center is located in Harvey at 191 W. 159th Place. The day will include breast and cervical cancer screens; enrollments for All Kids Program, IHC and Family Planning Appointments; Pregnancy Tests; Education on STD’s, Anxiety, Depression and Oral Health; and healthy refreshments will be served. \

On August 9, from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm and August 15 from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm, several booths will be open to the community at the Aurora Community Health Center located at 101 S. Broadway. The booths will include adult health screenings for glucose, blood pressure and body mass index; education on child obesity, oral hygiene, asthma and diabetes (only August 9); school supplies; along with back to school physicals and dental exams. Healthy refreshments will be served at each event.

Aunt Martha’s Aurora Satellite location will conduct an open community event from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm on Monday, August 10, located at 317 E. Indian Trail. The day will include breast and cervical cancer screens; enrollments for All Kids program, IHC and Family Planning appointments; pregnancy tests; education on STD’s, anxiety, depression and oral health.

The Aurora Health and Outreach Center located at 76 South LaSalle, will also be open on Friday, August 14 from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm during the day and 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm for Teen Clinic hours with blood pressure, glucose and body mass index screenings; pregnancy testing; education on STD’s, diabetes and oral hygiene.

Aunt Martha’s Great River Community Health Center will conduct an open community event from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm on Wednesday, August 12 located at 120 East Court Street in Toulon. The day will include pediatric behavioral health screenings; adult blood pressure, glucose and body mass index screenings; enrollments in All Kids program and IHC; education on ADHD, ADD, depression, child obesity and oral health. Healthy refreshments will be served.

The Women’s Health Center will also be open on Friday, August 14 from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm during the day and 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm for Teen Clinic hours with blood pressure, glucose and body mass index screenings; pregnancy testing; education on STD’s, diabetes and oral hygiene; and health refreshments will be served.

Aunt Martha’s Iroquois Community Health Center will conduct an open community event from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm on Tuesday, August 11, located at 200 East Walnut Street in Watseka, Illinois. The day will include behavioral health screens; adult health screenings including glucose, blood pressure and body mass index; education on anxiety, depression, hypertension, diabetes and oral health; and healthy refreshments will be served.

The Aunt Martha’s Kankakee Community Health Center will conduct an event from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm on Tuesday, August 11 located at 1777 East Court Street in Kankakee. The day will include breast and cervical cancer screens; enrollments for All Kids program, IHC and Family Planning appointments; pregnancy tests; education on STD’s, anxiety, depression and oral health.

On Thursday, August 13, an additional community event will take place from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm at the Health Center. The day will include adult health screenings including blood pressure, glucose and body mass index; enrollments for All Kids program, IHC and Prescription Assistance; education on diabetes, asthma and child obesity.

Aunt Martha’s Vermilion Area Community Health Center will conduct an open community event from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm on Tuesday, August 11, located at 614 Gilbert. The day will include behavioral health screens; adult health screenings including glucose, blood pressure and body mass index; education on anxiety, depression, hypertension, diabetes and oral health; and healthy refreshments will be served.

On Thursday, August 13, an additional community event will take place from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm at the Health Center. The day will include adult health screenings including blood pressure, glucose and body mass index; enrollments for All Kids Program, IHC and Prescription Assistance; Education on diabetes, asthma and child obesity; and healthy refreshments will be served.

If you would like more information about Aunt Martha’s Healthcare Network, please contact Ken Williams at 708-709-7631 or email at kwilliams@auntmarthas.org.

Aunt Martha’s Healthcare Network held a groundbreaking ceremony on June 29, 2009, to mark the start of construction on its new Southeast Side Community Health Center. The center will continue to provide quality health services at the new location address, 3528 E. 118th Street in Chicago, Illinois. Plans are to open the center for patient visits on September 1, 2009.

Attending the groundbreaking ceremony were Larry Perkovich, Staff Assistant to Alderman John Pope of the 10th Ward, Pastora Sanchez, President of the Southeast Chicago Chamber of Commerce, Hank Martinez, Founding Director of the Illinois Latino Resource Institute, Dinah Ramirez, Executive Director of Healthy Southeast Chicago, as well as local school district officials and community members. Several partners in the project including Catalyst Construction Group, Charles Poulakis and Vasilion Architects were in attendance at the event.

Since November of 2007, Aunt Martha’s and the Illiana Health Center aligned to provide a limited range of primary care services. The new healthcare facility will offer quality, primary care to the insured, uninsured and underinsured. The health center will provide a variety of medical services, including primary care, behavioral health and dental services. The center features include 8 medical exam rooms, a private waiting room, 6 dental exam operatories and behavioral health offices. Dr. Gregory Winstead will continue to serve patients at the new location while also adding 2 medical assistants, a dentist, dental assistant and medical records staff.

The Southeast Side Community Health Center expects to increase services and encounters by 300% with the added services. In fiscal year 2009, the health center served approximately 1,293 patients and in fiscal year 2010 the expected patients served will increase to more than 4,000 generating 9,343 encounters.

Clients with Medicaid and Medicare are accepted. Appointments for services are preferred but walk-ins are also welcome. The Health Center will be open Monday through Friday. To schedule an appointment or learn more about the Southeast Side Community Health Center, please call (773) 646-0480.

It takes volunteers from all walks of life and many different careers to make Aunt Martha’s Youth Service Center successful. At our Annual Volunteer Luncheon, we said thank you to those important people who play these vital roles.

Recently these volunteers were recognized for their dedication and service and seven were nominated for the prestigious “Volunteer of the Year” award. This year nominees were Timberland Company and Nancy Morrison, Gail Anton, Sylvester Baugh, Allen Jongsma of Living Springs Community Church, Edward Lawson, Claudette Lindsey and Derrick Martin.

Aunt Martha’s recognized the Timberland Company in New Hampshire and its Community Affairs Director, Nancy Morrison as the 2008 Volunteer of the Year! Aunt Martha’s Board of Directors selected the honoree. As this year’s honoree was not able to be in attendance, a video conference was arranged. Board members Andrew Jones and Bill Wesender made note of the global feeling that is created when we interact with people so far away.

According to Nancy Morrison, Community Affairs at Timberland, “We believe strongly that by partnering with effective non-profit organizations we can assist in strengthening communities around the world. This commitment is realized through support of organizations such as Aunt Martha’s whose innovative leadership results in lasting, positive change. It is Timberland’s hope that Aunt Martha’s will view its grants as a vote of confidence in what we are working to achieve.”

The Timberland Company, through its Community Reinvestment Program, has generously donated warm, winter boots to youth in Aunt Martha’s residential homes, shelters and transitional living programs for the past four holidays. Fifty five of our young men and women were recipients of Timberland boots last year! To date, a total of 193 pairs of boots valued at $30,000 have been donated by the Timberland Company.

The self-worth our youth experience in receiving a “Timberland “Boot” is, in itself, priceless. Notwithstanding the workmanship and durability of these boots, they are also a fashion statement to the kids. It is perhaps the most wanted holiday item year after year, always listed on our youths’ wish lists. It has been said that “wearing Timberlands is like wearing a hug!”

Timberland and Nancy Morrison were the volunteers of the year for 2008 but each and every volunteer played a critical role in the lives of our children and families. If you would like to join our volunteers please contact us.

Each year, the United Way and Comcast join together to plan a “Day of Caring” at local non-profit organizations. This year the Comcast office in Tinley Park chose to rejuvenate the playgrounds at Aunt Martha’s HeadStart locations in Park Forest and Riverdale.

Employees from Comcast, along with their children and other family members, put on their gardening gloves and went to work on Saturday, April 28, 2009. An early morning start gave the volunteers enough time to create a vegetable garden, plant flowers and clean and landscape the play areas. Their dedication and hard work added wonderful additions to both playgrounds. The children of HeadStart will now be able to watch the garden and flowers grow, while learning about the nature in their own backyard.

We all try to prevent cavities, but do we realize maintaining healthy gums is equally important. Studies show periodontal or gum disease is increasing in both adults and children.

On a recent visit, Johanna Manasse of the Alliance of the American Dental Association stressed the importance of cavity prevention and maintaining good oral health to the mothers in Parents Too Soon/Healthy Families Illinois.

Prairie State College dental hygienists, Sharde Woods and Kathryn Grace encouraged the mothers to instill proper oral care habits very early in their child’s life as it is the most effective way to promote oral health.

Afterwards they distributed oral health tools and demonstrated their proper use. They encouraged mothers to be especially vigilant to the oral health of their developing children as it so closely relates to overall wellness.

To support the oral health message, Ms. Manasse presented each participant with a cookbook filled with family friendly and healthy meal recipes that promote good nutrition associated with oral health. Manasse obtained the cook books through her grant application on behalf of the Parents Too Soon participants.

The joint presentation of Alliance of the American Dental Association and Prairie State College dental hygienists stressed a serious concern, good oral health with a touch of humor and an easy approach making it easy to understand and remember.

Parents Too Soon / Healthy Families Illinois provides education, support and encouragement to young parents with the goal to decrease the risk of abuse and to promote healthy parent/child interactions and activities. Currently there are 68 parents and 73 children in the program.

Aurora – Each year more than 40 million Americans will suffer with an anxiety disorder and over 20 million will suffer from some type of depressive illness. The cost to the economy of these terrible diseases is billions of dollars each year; the cost in human suffering is immeasurable. National Anxiety & Depression Awareness week is the opportunity to bring awareness and public education about anxiety and depressive illnesses.

Fear and anxiety are a normal part of life, even adaptive in many conditions. Who among us has not studied for a test without some anxiety -- and scored better for it? Who has not walked down a dark street in a high crime district without mounting fear? Normal anxiety keeps us alert: it makes us question whether we really have to walk down that street after all.

Mental health professionals are not concerned with normal anxiety. Rather, they attend to fear and anxiety that has somehow gone awry; that inexplicably reaches overwhelming levels; that dramatically reduces or eliminates productivity and significantly intrudes on an individual's quality of life; and for which friends, family and even the patient can find no obvious cause. There is help and hope.

Aunt Martha’s Healthcare Network will be having free anxiety and depression screenings in Aurora during National Anxiety & Depression Awareness week. The free screening is available for persons of any age and no appointment is necessary. Screenings will be held at the Aunt Martha’s Aurora Healthcare Center at 101 South Broadway on Wednesday, May 6, 2009 from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. Then on Thursday, May 7, 2009 the screenings will be at the Aunt Martha’s Aurora Satellite Healthcare Center located at 317 East Indian Trail from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Dear Patients,

We at Aunt Martha's would like to keep you updated on the current developments in health care. Recently, there has been an outbreak of Swine Flu in the United States. Aunt Martha's is readily equipped with an Emergency Response Program to care for you in the event that our region is impacted by this disease. Further, we would like to offer this Frequently Asked Question Handout to answer some of the questions you may have. Feel free to review this, and also to ask further questions of your provider. We exist to serve you.

Swine influenza frequently asked questions

What is swine influenza?
Swine influenza, or “swine flu”, is a highly contagious acute respiratory disease of pigs, caused by one of several swine influenza A viruses. Recovery tends to be high and severe disease, ending in death, low (1-4%). Although swine influenza viruses are normally species-specific and only infect pigs, they do sometimes cross the species barrier to cause disease in humans.

What are the implications for human health?
Outbreaks and sporadic human infection with swine influenza have been occasionally reported. Generally clinical symptoms are similar to seasonal influenza but primarily are fever and cough. Others could be muscle aches, throat pain, fatigue, nausea and vomiting.

How do people become infected?
People usually get swine influenza from infected pigs, however, some human cases lack contact history with pigs or environments where pigs have been located. Human-to-human transmission has occurred in some instances.

Is it safe to eat pork and pork products?
Yes. Swine influenza has not been shown to be transmissible to people through eating properly handled and prepared pork (pig meat) or other products derived from pigs. The swine influenza virus is killed by cooking temperatures of 160°F/70°C.

What about the pandemic risk?
It is likely that most people do not have immunity to swine influenza viruses. If a swine virus establishes efficient human-to human transmission, it can cause an influenza pandemic. The impact of a pandemic caused by such a virus is difficult to predict: it depends on virulence of the virus, existing immunity among people, cross protection by antibodies acquired from seasonal influenza infection and host factors.

Is there a human vaccine to protect from swine influenza?
There are no vaccines that contain the current swine influenza virus causing illness in humans. It is not known whether current human seasonal influenza vaccines can provide any protection.

• Avoid close contact with people who appear unwell and who have fever and cough.
• Wash your hands with soap and water frequently and thoroughly.
• Practice good health habits including adequate sleep, eating nutritious food, and keeping physically active.

• Stay at home and keep away from work, school or crowds as much as possible.
• Cover your mouth and nose with disposable tissues when coughing and sneezing and dispose of the used tissues properly.
• Wash your hands with soap and water frequently and thoroughly, especially after coughing or sneezing.
• Contact your doctor or healthcare provider before traveling to see them and report your symptoms. Explain why you think you have swine influenza (for example, if you have recently traveled to a country where there is a swine influenza outbreak in humans). Follow the advice given to you for care.

* Portions of the FAQ originated from the World Health Organization

Estimados Pacientes,

Nosotros en Aunt Martha's quisiéramos mantenerle al tanto de los desarrollos actuales en el mundo de la medicina. Recientemente, ha habido un brote de la Influenza Porcina en los Estados Unidos. Aunt Martha’s esta equipado con un Programa de Respuesta de Emergencia para cuidad de usted en caso que nuestra región sea impactada por esta enfermedad. Además, quisiéramos ofrecer este folleto con Preguntas Frecuentes para contestar algunas preguntas que usted pueda tener. Tome la libertad de repasar esta información y de hacerle otras preguntas a su proveedor de cuidado medico. Existimos para servirle.

Preguntas Frecuentes Sobre la Influenza Porcina

¿Qué es la influenza porcina?
La influenza porcina es una enfermedad respiratoria aguda altamente contagiosa que ocurre en los cerdos, y que es causada por uno de los varios virus de influenza tipo A que circulan en estos animales. La recuperación solerse hacer alta y enfermedad seria, causando la muerte, baja (1-4%). Aunque los virus de influenza porcina normalmente son específicos de ésa especie y solamente infectan cerdos, en algunas ocasiones logran pasar la barrera entre especies y causar enfermedad en humanos.

¿Cuáles son las implicaciones para la salud humana?
Brotes y casos esporádicos de infección en humanos con virus de influenza porcina se han reportado ocasionalmente. Los síntomas clínicos generalmente son similares a los de una influenza estacional pero principalmente son la fiebre y tos. Otros síntomas pueden ser dolores musculares, dolor de garganta, cansancio, nausea y vomito.

¿Cómo se infectan las personas?
Las personas usualmente adquieren la influenza porcina de cerdos que están infectados; sin embargo, algunos casos humanos no tienen antecedentes de contacto con cerdos o con espacios de medio ambiente donde haya habido cerdos. La transmisión de persona a persona ha ocurrido en algunos casos.

¿Se puede consumir carne de cerdo o productos derivados del cerdo?
Sí. La influenza de origen porcino no ha mostrado ser transmitida a personas a través del consumo de alimentos que hayan sido adecuadamente manipulados y preparados, como la carne de cerdo y otros derivados del mismo. El virus de la influenza de origen porcino muere fácilmente a temperaturas de cocción de 70°C/160°F.

¿Qué hay sobre el riesgo de pandemia?
Es posible que muchas personas, especialmente aquellas que no tienen contacto regular con cerdos, no tengan inmunidad que los proteja contra la infección por virus de influenza de origen porcino. Si un virus de origen porcino establece una transmisión eficiente de persona a persona, éste puede causar una pandemia de influenza. El impacto de una pandemia causada por tales virus es difícil de predecir, pues depende de la virulencia del virus, de la existencia o no de inmunidad en las personas, de la protección cruzada por anticuerpos adquiridos a través de la infección con virus de influenza estacional y de factores propios del portador.

¿Existe vacuna para protegerse de la influenza de origen porcino?
No. No hay vacunas para contener el virus de influenza porcina que actualmente está causando enfermedad en humanos. Se desconoce si las vacunas actuales contra la influenza humana estacional pueden brindar alguna protección.

• Evite contacto cercano con personas que parecen estar enfermos y que tienen fiebre o tos.
• Lávese las manos con jabón y agua con frecuencia y completamente.
• Practique los buenos hábitos de salud incluyendo durmiendo adecuadamente, comiendo comidas nutritivas, y manteniéndose activo físicamente.

• Permanezca en casa y manténgase fuera del trabajo, la escuela o los grupos tanto sea posible.
• Cubra su boca y nariz con pañuelos disponibles al toser o estornudar y disponga de los pañuelos usados apropiadamente.
• Lávese las manos con jabón y agua frecuentemente y completamente, especialmente después de toser o estornudar.
• Póngase en contacto con su doctor o proveedor de cuidado medico antes de viajar a verlos y reporte sus síntomas. Explique porque usted piensa que usted tiene la influenza de origen porcino (por ejemplo, si usted ha viajado recientemente a un país donde hay un brote de la influenza de origen porcino en seres humanos). Siga el consejo dado a usted para su cuidado medico.

* Portions of the FAQ originated from the World Health Organization

Aurora, Illinois – Elizabeth M. Duke, Ph.D, Administrator, Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA), U.S. Department of Health & Human Services visited Aunt Martha's Aurora Community Health Center on Thursday, September 25, 2008 to personally deliver a $150,000 mental health service expansion grant.

"Aunt Martha's Youth Service Center, Inc. was informed of the award last month, but having the Administrator present the award personally is a great honor for the Aunt Martha's organization," said Gary Leofanti, Aunt Martha's President & CEO.

Dr. Duke has led the implementation of President Bush's Health Center Initiative, which has created or expanded 1,200 health centers since 2001 and boosted the number of patients served annually at health centers from 10 million in 2001 to 17 million in 2007. Currently, federally qualified health centers deliver high quality primary and preventive care to patients, regardless of their ability to pay, at 7,000 sites across the United States.

The grant will enable Aunt Martha's to expand mental health and substance abuse services to an additional 1,200 adults and 600 children and youth at full operational capacity. The expansion will target the 31,000 uninsured and medically underserved individuals in Aurora and surrounding communities.

Recognizing that primary care is the main portal of entry into treatment for mental health and substance abuse disorders, Aunt Martha's requested funding from the Health Resources & Services Administration to better integrate mental health and substance abuse services into primary care, provide additional psychiatric appointments, and employ a bilingual therapist to serve the needs of Spanish speaking patients.

"The need for integrated behavioral health services at our Aurora sites is clearly evident," said Leofanti. "We receive about 3 referrals a week to provide psychiatric or therapy services to adults without insurance. Given conservative estimates of 20% incidence of depression and 5.4% incidence of serious mental illness in the Kane County population, roughly 760 of our adult primary care and homeless patients may suffer from depression alone and 150 may suffer from serious mental illness."

The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, is the primary Federal agency for improving access to health care services for people who are uninsured, isolated, or medically vulnerable. For more information about HRSA and its programs, visit www.hrsa.gov.

Aunt Martha's Youth Service Center has begun utilizing telepsychiatry to reach children and adolescents at six community mental health centers in rural areas of Illinois. Telepsychiatry is a form of telemedicine and is increasingly growing in popularity across the United States. Telehealth is the use of electronic information and telecommunications technologies to support long-distance clinical health care, patient and professional health-related education, public health and health administration.

Aunt Martha's Youth Service Center has begun utilizing telepsychiatry to reach children and adolescents at six community mental health centers in rural areas of Illinois. Telepsychiatry is a form of telemedicine and is increasingly growing in popularity across the United States. Telehealth is the use of electronic information and telecommunications technologies to support long-distance clinical health care, patient and professional health-related education, public health and health administration.

Six Community Mental Health Centers in downstate Illinois will refer children and adolescents, ages 0-17 with behavioral and emotional problems, who can access the video-conferencing for psychiatric evaluations and medication management through Aunt Martha's videoconferencing network. Telepsychiatry reduces costs for families by eliminating travel, child care expenses and saves time.

Aunt Martha's has years of experience providing services to children and families and has developed a collaborative model of service delivery that provides individualized, accessible and culturally sensitive services. Currently Aunt Martha's employs five child and adolescent psychiatrists serving children and adolescents over five counties in northeastern and east-central Illinois. A certified/board eligible child psychiatrist will be employed in this program.

Aunt Martha's is the first private secure network in Illinois to provide telepsychiatry services. The technology system that has been created is the first of its kind in the state. Illinois, like many states with rural areas, has a shortage of child psychiatrists. Aunt Martha's telepsychiatry program will bring much needed child psychiatrists to these rural Illinois communities and provide a model for expanding services to more communities in Illinois in the future.

Mrs. Palmalea Taylor, a retired nurse and Danville volunteer, was named Volunteer of the Year. Better known as Pam, she was instrumental in bringing Aunt Martha's to Danville to operate a community health center. A volunteer of the Vermilion County free clinic for years prior to Aunt Martha's Vermilion Area Community Health Center, Pam puts in full-time hours, including an occasional Saturday.

It takes volunteers from all walks of life and many different careers to make Aunt Martha's Youth Service Center successful. Recently, at our Annual Volunteer Luncheon, we said thank you!

More than 40 volunteers were recognized for dedication and service, among them: Valerie Birk, Dee Mart, Vicki Cepil, Valissa Cohen, Laura Cottrell, Amanda Kuna, Kelly Levinson, Ron Mosley, Reid Poll, Wanda Thomas, Renay Tucker, Morgan Smith and Stephanie Weber.

Mrs. Palmalea Taylor, a retired nurse and Danville volunteer, was named Volunteer of the Year. Better known as Pam, she was instrumental in bringing Aunt Martha's to Danville to operate a community health center. A volunteer of the Vermilion County free clinic for years prior to Aunt Martha's Vermilion Area Community Health Center, Pam puts in full-time hours, including an occasional Saturday.

She provides prescription assistance and nursing support, replicates all medical records prior to review and checks medication accuracy against patient charts. She recruits friends to help with fundraising and has conducted several events raising more than $6,000 per year for the Vermilion Area Community Health Center.

Active in the Illinois State Medical Society Alliance, Pam has served as Chair of their Legislative Committee. She sits on numerous local and state boards and committees and has served on the Illinois Health Facilities Committee under several governors.

Last year, 244 volunteers helped Aunt Martha's fulfill its mission. If you would like to join our list of volunteers please contact Charlotte Brislen at cbrislen@auntmarthas.org.

- The Kane County Chronicle (Geneva, Illinois): "Aunt Martha's offering free prostate exams."

Quoted by David Letterman on The Late Show during his Small Town News segment was a joke about Aunt Martha's and how she gives free prostate exams. Actually, Aunt Martha's Healthcare Network provides the service.

C. Gary Leofanti, Aunt Martha’s President/CEO comments, "We accept the good natured ribbing coming from Mr. Letterman, but all kidding aside, healthcare screening for cancer is no joking matter. Aunt Martha’s cancer screenings are looking for evidence of cancers before a person has any symptoms. This can help find cancer at an early stage and may allow for better treatment options." Aunt Martha’s Healthcare Network offers many preventative healthcare screening exams including those for breast, cervical and prostate cancer.

Looking for Aunt Martha’s to give you a free screening? Find one of our health centers in Illinois near you.

Staff members and youth volunteers from Aunt Martha's Youth Service Center participated in a nationwide symposium February 11-14, 2008 in Washington D.C.

"Sustaining Success in a Time of Change" was the theme of the 18th Annual Community Anti Drug Coalitions of America (CADCA) National Leadership Forum. This conference attracts youth advocates and social service leaders from across the nation.

Staff members and youth volunteers from Aunt Martha's Youth Service Center participated in a nationwide symposium February 11-14, 2008 in Washington D.C.

"Sustaining Success in a Time of Change" was the theme of the 18th Annual Community Anti Drug Coalitions of America (CADCA) National Leadership Forum. This conference attracts youth advocates and social service leaders from across the nation.

Representing Aunt Martha's Youth Service Center at the Youth Conference were Mary Jo Brill of Homewood, Youth Participation Program Coordinator, Anna Soloff of Homewood, Youth Participation Program Coordinator, along with the youth volunteers: Andre Hubbard of Park Forest, Ozzie Moore of Park Forest, Latoyia Kelly of Park Forest, Latia Alexander of Park Forest, and Laryah Alexander of Park Forest.

Highlighting the conference was Capitol Hill Day where conference attendees rallied together on Capitol Hill in order to generate support for appropriations for prevention programs geared toward keeping youth active and drug free. Following the rally, attendees met privately with their local legislators to discuss the importance of this type of funding. Aunt Martha's representatives met with U.S. Representative Jesse Jackson, Jr., D-Chicago.

"One of our program goals is to show youth that they can have a voice in matters that concern them. This visit gave them that opportunity", Mary Jo Brill said. "Talking with one of our nation's leaders was truly an empowering experience for them."

The mission of CADCA is "To Strengthen the Capacity of Community Coalitions to Create and Maintain Safe, Healthy and Drug-Free Communities." CADCA supports its members with training and technical assistance, public policy advocacy, media strategies and marketing programs, conferences and special events.

Aunt Martha's Youth Service Center and Aunt Martha's Healthcare Network is a private, not-for-profit, regionally-based agency providing complete health and social services for family members of all ages in underserved areas across Illinois. Established in 1972, Aunt Martha's now has services in nine counties throughout Illinois and cares for over 39,000 Illinois residents. The agency is state licensed to provide child welfare, substance abuse treatment and child care services. All services, including mental health and primary health care, are accredited by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO). Aunt Martha's is also a United Way partner agency.

CISCO Unified Communications is the phone and voice over IP provider for Aunt Martha's. CISCO works with the agency in responding to the technological needs in a cost effective and user friendly manner. This technology allows Aunt Martha's to use its own network of communication lines to make and receive phone calls. In May 2007, Aunt Martha's Youth Service Center's IT and Communications & Development Departments worked with CISCO Systems on a promotional video.

CISCO Unified Communications is the phone and voice over IP provider for Aunt Martha’s. CISCO works with the agency in responding to the technological needs in a cost effective and user friendly manner. This technology allows Aunt Martha’s to use its own network of communication lines to make and receive phone calls. In May 2007, Aunt Martha’s Youth Service Center’s IT and Communications & Development Departments worked with CISCO Systems on a promotional video.

CISCO sent camera and sound technicians as well as a producer from New York to capture Aunt Martha’s employees using technology in assisting clients. CISCO has used this video in their marketing campaign to other non-profits. In this three minute video, see how upgrading the telephone systems enables Aunt Martha’s to more effectively pair people with assistance programs, and see Aunt Martha’s innovative approaches in helping people!

Aunt Martha’s Youth Service Center would like to thank the following top sponsors of the 9th Annual Charity Golf Outing.

Ace Premier Event Sponsors:
Cleaning Authority of Chicagoland, Inc.	VistaNational Insurance Group, Inc.
Grand Dinner Sponsors:
The Plexus Groupe, LLC	Verizon Wireless
Eagle Sponsors:
Aramark	KEI – Kwasigroch Electric, Inc.
Martin Whalen Office Solutions, Inc.	NextGen Healthcare
Synergy Construction Group
Birdie Lunch Sponsors:
Call One	Cost Containment Solutions
Enterprise	Law Offices of Berry K. Tucker & Associates

Join us for the next Trivia Night at Flossmoor Station!

Mark your calendar for another Trivia Night to benefit Aunt Martha’s Youth Service Center. Trivia Night will be held on Thursday, June 24, 2010 at Flossmoor Station. Gather a team of 2 to five players, pick a winning name and join the fun at Flossmoor Station located in Flossmoor at 1035 Sterling Avenue. Your participation raises funds for Aunt Martha’s youth, only a $10 donation per person to play! Food and beverages are available for purchase. Pub Quiz started in England and has hit Chicago and the south suburbs as TRIVIA NIGHT. Trivia is great fun, challenging and very competitive. Contact Sarah Hamilton at shamilton@auntmarthas.org for information.

Aunt Martha’s Holiday Gift Express invites caring individuals, organizations, faith-based groups and businesses to brighten the holidays for Aunt Martha’s most needy children, youth and families.

For 22 years, Aunt Martha’s donors have been making sure that more than 3,000 children and youth living in Aunt Martha’s residential and foster homes, homeless youth and low income families receive holiday gifts. Many will not receive a gift without your help. It’s easy to help.

Be a Partner
The easiest way to help is to send a check or donate online with your credit card and we will purchase children’s gifts for you. Your donation helps us to purchase gift cards for teens and families. We have found that our teens appreciate gift cards which allow them the opportunity to shop for themselves! And our low income parents appreciate gift cards to purchase gifts for their children. With your help we are also able to provide them with gift cards for a holiday meal!

Sponsor a Program Drive
Coordinate with your friends, family or co-workers or host a party and ask guests to bring a gift card or new and unwrapped toy or gift. A list of recommended items will be provided. We suggest a gift value of $25. Please contact us by November 10th and we request delivery of gifts or gift cards by December 11th.

Sponsor a Residential Home
Companies, clubs, faith-based groups and families pool their resources to help youth living in a specific residential home. These youth have special needs, are at-risk or are young mothers with small children. Each home generally houses eight residents and each resident fills out wish list. Because this will be the only holiday experience for these young people and we want to do the best we can for them, we suggest a gift value of $100 to $150 per resident. You have a chance to make a lasting impact on a young person. And we invite you to share in the home’s holiday party where your gifts are distributed. Please contact us by November l to participate in celebrating with a residential home.

Volunteer
Work with our staff to organize and prepare gifts for delivery or pick-up.

For information on how you can get involved contact: Nina Albrecht at (708) 747-7171 or Sarah Hamilton at (708) 747-7179

Join us for another Trivia Night at Flossmoor Station on Thursday, October 29^th at 7pm! Teams of 2-5 Players compete for a cash prize! Seven rounds of trivia including General Knowledge, Photos, Name that Tune and a Match Game that will test you and your friend's skills and know-how! $20 per player! All proceeds benefit the youth in Aunt Martha's programs. Team with the best name wins a free round! Space is limited so sign up for fun today! Get there early to grab a seat inside or on the porch! Please contact Sarah Hamilton at (708) 747-7179 or shamilton@auntmarthas.org to sign your team up! Flossmoor Station is located in Downtown Flossmoor at 1035 Sterling Road, Flossmoor, IL 60422 (map). Check out www.flossmoorstation.com to learn more about Flossmoor Station.

Aunt Martha’s will host a Groundbreaking Ceremony to kick-off a renovation project that will expand the service capacity of its Vermilion Area Community Health Center. The event is scheduled to begin at 10 a.m. on Monday, October 12^th, and will take place outside the health center located at 614 N. Gilbert St. in Danville, Illinois.

Aunt Martha's held a Trivia Night at Flossmoor Station on August 27^th, 2009. This is the original announcement:

Join us for another Trivia Night at Flossmoor Station on Thursday, August 27^th at 7pm! Teams of 2-5 Players compete for a cash prize! Seven rounds of trivia including General Knowledge, Photos, Name that Tune and a Match Game that will test you and your friend's skills and know-how! $20 per player! All proceeds benefit the youth in Aunt Martha's programs. Team with the best name wins a free round! Space is limited so sign up for fun today! Get there early to grab a seat inside or on the porch! Please contact Sarah Hamilton at (708) 747-7179 or shamilton@auntmarthas.org to sign your team up! Flossmoor Station is located in Downtown Flossmoor at 1035 Sterling Road, Flossmoor, IL 60422 (map). Check out www.flossmoorstation.com to learn more about Flossmoor Station.

Aunt Martha's held a Charity Golf Outing on August 14^th, 2009. This is the original announcement:

Getting ready ‘fore’ a great time...

Residents and businesses across the suburban counties are signing up for Aunt Martha's Youth Service Center's 8th Annual Charity Golf Outing! The fundraiser is scheduled for August 14, 2009 at Hilton Chicago/Indian Lakes Resort in Bloomingdale.

"We're excited abut this year's event and raising awareness of Aunt Martha's services throughout Illinois", said Jerry Thompson of MVP Insurance chairperson of the 2009 golf committee. "The outing is always fun and provides an opportunity for professional networking while helping children and families in many communities access the services they need!"

Registration for the event begins at 11:30am followed by a box lunch at noon. Tee off is at 1pm and play is a scramble format. Entry fee for golf is still a great rate of $130 per person or $500 per foursome and includes lunch, cart with GPS, golfer BBQ buffet and awards. Golfers will have an opportunity to win $1 million in the hole-in-one contest as well as other exciting activities. The day's activities will also include a raffle and silent auction, both with fabulous items – you won't want to miss the fun!

Proceeds from the event will be used to benefit children, youth and families in all of Aunt Martha’s programs throughout 11 Illinois counties.

For information on getting involved, contact Nina Albrecht at 708-747-7171.

Aunt Martha's 8^th Annual Charity Golf Outing Major Event Sponsors

Aunt Martha's held a Trivia Night at Flossmoor Station on June 25^th, 2009. This is the original announcement:

Join us for Trivia Night at Flossmoor Station on Thursday, June 25^th at 7pm!events/articles/ Teams of 2-5 Players compete for a cash prize! Seven rounds of trivia including General Knowledge, Photos, Name that Tune and a Match Game that will test you and your friend's skills and know-how! $20 per player! All proceeds benefit the youth in Aunt Martha's programs. Team with the best name wins a free round! Space is limited so sign up for fun today! Please contact Sarah Hamilton at (708) 747-7179 or shamilton@auntmarthas.org to sign your team up! Flossmoor Station is located in Downtown Flossmoor at 1035 Sterling Road, Flossmoor, IL 60422 (map).
Check out www.flossmoorstation.com to learn more about Flossmoor Station.

Aunt Martha's held a Registered Nurses job fair on June 19^th. This is the original announcement:

Aunt Martha’s Healthcare Network is seeking qualified, enthusiastic Registered Nurses to staff our health clinics. If this sounds like you….please come join us at our Job Fair! Date: Friday, June 19, 2009 Time: 10:00am to 4:00pm Location: 20000 Governors Highway (Suite 104), Olympia Fields, IL 60461 Phone Number: (708) 747-7100 (for directions only please)

Open Positions:
Clinic Coordinator - Manages and maintains the day-to-day operations of the clinic and provides supervision and guidance to clinic staff.
Triage Nurse - Assess walk-ins, assist with coordination of care for patients, referrals, assist clinic coordinator, and actively participate in quality assurance.
Family Planning Coordinator - Oversee patient services and quality of the Family Planning Program, performs general nursing duties, and provides support to the Clinic Coordinator.
Registry - General nursing duties. Will be assigned to flow throughout a particular geographic area as needed. CRC registry will float throughout (3) shifts at the CRC.
RN (3-11pm) - Located at our Children’s Reception Center. This position consists of general nursing duties during clinic hours.

*Interviews will be conducted at the job fair. Please bring a resume and references*

Aunt Martha's held a Wellness Walk to support the children and youth in our programs. This is the original announcement:

Join Aunt Martha’s friends and families for a Wellness Walk on June 13, 2009 to support the children and youth in our programs. Our youth programs include a recreation and wellness component that encourages healthy activities, good nutrition and hope! The walk will raise much needed funds to continue these wellness programs for our children and community.

We want you to be a part of it! Register as a participant and bring your family to the walk. Or gather your family and friends and organize a team with a team captain. Registration begins April 9, 2009! Get your team together and call Sarah Hamilton at (708) 747-7179 for a team packet which will help you set goals, have fun and raise funds!!

The Wellness Walk takes place on June 13, 2009 at the Vollmer Road Grove on Vollmer Road between Cicero Avenue and Crawford Avenue.

Are you ready to register! Don’t miss this morning with Aunt Martha's Youth Service Center friends and families… we’ll see you there!

“2008 Operation Shining Star” Brings Holiday Cheer to Hundreds of Chicago-area Children

Santa teamed up with the U.S. Secret Service, the Chicago Police Department and other law enforcement agencies and corporate and private sector partners to deliver toys to underprivileged kids

On Wednesday, December 10th, 2008, the United States Secret Service Chicago Field Office and the Chicago Police Department kicked off Operation Shining Star. Now in its tenth year, Operation Shining Star is a joint effort by federal, state and city law enforcement agencies and this year joining with the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services to make the holidays brighter for children at area hospitals, schools and youth centers. Through the combined efforts of this partnership, and the donations of corporate and private sponsors, Operation Shining Star delivered presents and holiday cheer to hundreds of underprivileged and sick Chicago area children.

The event began by honoring Gold Star families who lost loved ones in the line of duty while serving as Chicago Police officers. Santa and Mrs. Claus then attended a tree-trimming celebration at the Chicago Gold Star Families Memorial and Park and then traveled by a presidential-style motorcade along with law enforcement dignitaries and volunteers to deliver gifts to more than 700 sick and underprivileged children at Altgeld School, Comer’s Children’s Hospital and the Children’s Reception Center.

The children at the Children’s Reception Center had the opportunity to have their picture taken with Santa and Mrs. Claus as well as enjoy an array of holiday goodies provided by Steve Michelis owner of 200 Cut Rate Grocery. The afternoon was shared with children from the Bright Minds Development Institute and their families.

Special Thanks to the Operation Shining Star 2008 Participating Law Enforcement Agencies U.S. Secret Service Chicago Police Department U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Federal Bureau of Investigation Des Plaines Police Department Corporate and Private Sector Sponsors Chicago Park District Western Union Hillard Heintze McDonald’s The Sidley Austin Foundation Arie and Ida Crown Memorial Gonnella Baking Co. Campagna-Turano Baking Inc Morgan Corporation

The riders and guests finished their journey at The Friendly Tavern for home cooked food, opportunities to win raffle prizes and keeping dry as the storm rolled back in.

Aunt Martha's Youth Service Center and the Danville Fire Department families and friends provided over 50 volunteers to assist with registration, raffles, food and to answer questions. Many individuals and families helped make this event successful. We thank them all!

This year the fundraiser raised over $8,000. Event proceeds will assist the Vermilion Area Community Health Center in serving patients in that area.

On Friday, December 3, 2010, Aunt Martha’s Youth Service Center will join organizations around the globe in recognition of World AIDS Day 2010. The agency's HIV Prevention Program will offer free, confidential HIV testing at its office in downtown Park Forest between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Testing is also offered on a regular basis.

There is no need to schedule an appointment; and test results will be available that same day.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates approximately 250,000 Americans are living with HIV, but unaware for their HIV status - this is an average of 5,000 people in each of the 50 states.

Visit http://www.worldaidsday.org to learn more about World AIDS Day and take a short quiz to find out if you’ve put yourself at risk of HIV infection.

Since 1978, Aunt Martha’s has provided employment training and education services to more than 3,000 youth and adults in Chicago’s south suburbs, and youth leadership development services to almost 5,000 young people. Now, thanks to a grant from Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, we are pleased to introduce the iLab – Community Technology Center. Aunt Martha’s invites the community to the Grand Opening of our Community Technology Center on Friday, November 19th from 3pm-6pm at Aunt Martha’s Park Forest Office - 440 Forest Boulevard, Park Forest, IL 60466.

What is iLab?
The iLab is like an internet café where anyone can walk in, sit down in front of a 19-inch LCD screen and use one of our 11 computers for almost anything they want. It’s free, and it’s open to everyone – students, senior citizens, stay at home moms and dads, and anyone trying to get an edge in the job market.

Not Tech Savvy? Not for Long.
Aunt Martha’s has partnered with Lumity to integrate a comprehensive Digital Literacy training program with our traditional Workforce Development services. Our trained staff will be on hand at the iLab to help you:

• Gain basic and advanced technology literacy skills
• Build your Resume
• Find jobs through online networks
• Setup job interviews
• And much, much more!

Click here to read the press release.

Click here to read the press release.

Click here to read the press release.

Our Community Newsletter is available in both English and Spanish.

Responsibility

This play is written and performed by youth and for youth.

They're not acting. They don't have to.

Learn more about Aunt Martha's Youth Participation Program.

Interviews will be conducted at the job fair.  Please bring a resume and three professional reference letters.  References from friends or relatives will not be accepted.

If you are unable to attend the Job Fair, please submit resumes via fax to (708) 283-6950 or via email to resumes@auntmarthas.org.  EOE/ADA

Interviews will be conducted at the job fair.  Please bring a resume and three professional reference letters.  References from friends or relatives will not be accepted.

If you are unable to attend the Job Fair, please submit resumes via fax to (708) 283-6950 or via email to resumes@auntmarthas.org.  EOE/ADA

we're offering Free, Confidential, Anonymous & Needle-less Testing!

Monday, February 28th

Aunt Martha's Park Forest Office

440 Forest Blvd., Park Forest

9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Join us Friday, August 5, 2011 at Ravisloe Country Club in Homewood!

Hazel Crest Community Television (HCTV 4)!

Register today for Aunt Martha’s 10th Annual Charity Golf Outing! We are back at Ravisloe Country Club in Homewood to play on their prestigious course! Join us Friday, August 5, 2011 at Ravisloe Country Club in Homewood.

Sign up to join us for lunch, dinner or our new Cocktail Hour & Dinner Package.

Registration begins (and the golf range opens) at 10:00 am. A shotgun start is scheduled for Noon. The entry fee for golf is the same exceptionally affordable rate of $130 per person or $500 per foursome. The fee includes lunch, golf cart, dinner buffet and awards. Raffles and Silent Auction will be open during dinner!

Proceeds from the event will benefit the 90,000+ children, youth and families served by Aunt Martha’s.

Become a sponsor today! There are many opportunities for your business to sponsor and advertise for the event. If you would like to sponsor or donate an item to our silent auction, please e-mail Shelley Milosevich at smilosevich@auntmarthas.org).

Aunt Martha’s Youth Service Center, Inc., is a private, not-for-profit, regionally-based agency providing complete health and social services for family members of all ages in underserved areas across Illinois.  All services, including mental health and primary healthcare, are accredited by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations, and all of our healthcare centers are Federally Qualified. 

Please come and attend our Health & Social Service Job Fair!

Date: Saturday, May 14, 2011

Time: 9:00am to 2:00pm

Location: 20000 Governors Highway (Suite 104), Olympia Fields, IL 60461

*Interviews will be conducted at the job fair.  Please bring a resume and three professional reference letters. References from friends or relatives will not be accepted.

We will be recruiting for the following positions in South Suburban Cook County and Hanover Park areas:

Case Manager-Targeted Intensive Pre-Natal Case Management Services:

Requirements-MSW Required. Licensed RN preferred (RN must have a BSN to be qualified for this position). Must have experience working with pregnant and parenting women, have an extensive Public Health background, strong interpersonal skills, and knowledgeable about community resources. MSW candidates must be Bi-lingual (Spanish/English) speaking.

Health Educator:

Requirements- BSW Degree required. Licensed RN preferred (RN must have a BSN to be qualified for this position). Must have experience working with pregnant and parenting women, have an extensive Public Health background, strong interpersonal skills, and knowledgeable about community resources. BSW candidates must be Bi-lingual (Spanish/English) speaking.

Nutritionist/Dietician (WIC Program):

Requirements-Licensed Dietician Nutritionist (License in State of Illinois), Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in nutrition science, dietetics, community nutrition, or public health nutrition required. Three (3) years experience in dietetic practice preferred. Bi-lingual (Spanish/English) speaking preferred.

RN (WIC Program):

Requirements-Licensed RN (License in State of Illinois), BSN required. Three (3) years experience in dietetic practice preferred. Bi-lingual (Spanish/English) speaking preferred.

Salary:  Competitive and commensurate with experience and educational background. 

We offer competitive benefits including group medical/dental/vision coverage, tuition reimbursement, life insurance, flexible spending accounts, and generous paid time off. 

*If you are unable to attend the Job Fair, please submit resumes with salary requirements via fax to (708) 747-0813 or via email to Jennifer Parli at jparli@auntmarthas.org or resumes@auntmarthas.org . Please indicate in the SUBJECT line which position you are interested in, or please include this information on your cover letter. For more information about our organization, please visit our website: www.auntmarthas.org.    EOE/ADA

Sunday, June 26th

10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

(Rain or Shine!)

Seven Beautiful Gardens in

Homewood, Flossmoor & Olympia Fields

Master Gardeners will be available to help guests enjoy the WOW factor of the diverse horticultural artistry showcased in 7 awe-inspiring gardens:

• An organic-low maintenance garden designed by a University of Illinois Master Gardner.
• A garden with a focus on native indigenous plants to attract birds and wildlife.
• An attention grabbing garden of texture, scent, and color created by a gifted artist.
• A garden highlighted by 135 varieties of hostas and skillfully arranged potted plants.
• A vintage Cottage Style flower and vegetable garden co-starring with a 100 year old house.
• A classic Japanese Strolling garden with a two tiered Koi pond and large waterfall.
• A gracefully, flowing, semi-shade garden with a country club backdrop.

Advanced Ticket Sales			Day-of-Walk Ticket Sales
Admission: $20.00			Admission: $25.00
Available at:			Available at:
Sunnycrest Nursery			Goldberg Park
19725 Governors Highway			3301 Flossmoor Road
Flossmoor, IL			Flossmoor, IL

Every Garden Walk ticket includes a day-of-walk 15% discount at four area restaurants.

For further information: southlandgardenwalk@gmail.com or call (708) 957-3781.

Presented by National Council of Jewish Women, South Cook Section

Proceeds benefit Aunt Martha’s Youth Service Center and Respond Now

Bidder's Conference

1:00p - 2:30p on Friday, May 20^th

Prairie State College

Heritage Community Bank Room (Room 1318/20)

202 South Halsted St.

Chicago Heights, IL 60411

Aunt Martha Youth Service Center has just been awarded Safety Net Works Funding for FY 2011-12, and we have two tasks to get started right away:

First, we are building a coalition of Parents, Youth, Education, Juvenile Justice, Law Enforcement, Diversion programs, Economic Development, Business, Substance Abuse & Mental Health providers, other relevant Coalitions & Community Groups, Faith-Based groups, and representation from the 3 Neighborhood Recovery Initiative (NRI)  Lead Agencies (Grand Prairie Services, Southland Health Care Forum and Healthcare Consortium of Illinois) at least two NRI Advisory group members, etc. and while we have until end of July to have all the sectors represented, in June this group will be making some decisions about awarding funds to local service providers. 

Second, we have funds to sub-contract out to local non-profit agencies and/or local governments & schools, to provide Case Management services for at-risk youth, ages 10-24 with two or three service providers splitting 5 Case Managers for $286,000 7/1/11-6/30/12. We will award up to 15 providers $100,000 to provide Youth Development Services for youth, ages 10-24, 7/1/11-6/30/12. That is $386,000 for the 4 Township region.

Unfortunately, we are on a very short timeline for the Requests for Proposals.
All applications must be received by Aunt Martha Youth Service Center
on or before 4:00pm on Tuesday, May 31.

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE AND TO GET A COPY OF THE REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL!

Call One

www.CallOne.com

VistaNational Insurance Group, Inc.

www.VistaNational.com

The Plexus Groupe

www.PlexusGroupe.com

Verizon Wireless

www.Verizon.com

KEI Kwasigroch Electric, Inc.

www.kei-inc.com

Martin Whalen Office Solutions

www.mwos.com

Golfer Gift Sponsor:

Aramark

www.aramark.com

Berry Tucker and Associates

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois

Cost Containment Solutions

Enterprise

Harris Bank

NextGen Healthcare

Mark your calendar for another Trivia Night to benefit Aunt Martha’s Youth Service Center. Trivia Night will be held on Thursday, June 30, 2011 at 7pm at Flossmoor Station , located in Flossmoor at 1035 Sterling Avenue.

Gather a team of 2 to five players, pick a winning name and join the fun!

Your participation raises funds for Aunt Martha’s youth, only a $10 donation per person to play! Food and beverages are available for purchase. Pub Quiz started in England and has hit Chicago and the south suburbs as TRIVIA NIGHT. Trivia is great fun, challenging and very competitive.

Contact Sarah Hamilton at shamilton@auntmarthas.org for information or to reserve a table!

Early Childhood Education Job Fair!

Date: Thursday, June 30th

Time: 2:00 pm until 7:00 pm

Location: 440 Forest Boulevard, Park Forest, IL 60466

Director of Head Start

Site Manager

Teacher and Substitute Teacher

Visit Facebook to learn more.

Aetna Better Health in Illinois

and

Congressman Randy Hultgren

Invite YOU to celebrate National Health Center Week 2011 and

Take part in Oral Health Education Day!

Wednesday, August 10th

8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

at the

Aurora Community Health Center

101 S. Broadway, Aurora, IL

Visit Congressman Hultgren's website!

Or

Learn more about Aetna Better Health in Illinois!

Get more information about the dental services available at Aunt Martha's Health Center.

Aunt Martha’s Celebrates National Health Center Week 2011

Event Part of National Campaign Focusing on

Health Centers as Local Solutions for Communities

Aurora, IL – Aunt Martha’s Health Center is collaborating with Aetna Better Health in Illinois (NYSE: AET) to mark National Health Center Week 2011 (NHCW) with by hosting Oral Health Education Day from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Wednesday, August 10, at the Aurora Community Health Center, 101 S. Broadway, in Aurora. U.S. Rep. Randy Hultgren (IL-14) is scheduled to attend the event, which is part of a weeklong campaign (August 7-13) to raise awareness about the mission and accomplishments of America’s Health Centers as local solutions.

The theme of this year’s NHCW is “Celebrating America’s Health Centers: Serving Locally, Leading Nationally,” to underscore how health centers deliver a unique approach that targets health needs and saves taxpayer dollars. They are strong partnerships of people, governments and communities who work together to meet the unique and diverse health conditions of the community. Although health centers rely on a portion of federal funding, they are not a bureaucracy. In fact, they are run from the bottom up, by a patient-majority governing board who guides how limited resources can be effectively directed to meet the health care needs of the community.

One of the bright spots in America’s health care system, health centers provide a health care home to over 23 million people at 8,000 sites nationwide. Their model of care was rated as one of the most effective programs by then-President George W. Bush’s Office of Management and Budget. Indeed, presidents from both parties and Members of Congress on both sides of the aisle have long-recognized the value of health centers and supported their expansion. Health centers are on track to expand their care to 40 million people over the next five years. With more health care homes in communities, we can reduce health care costs and unnecessary hospitalizations and visits to the hospital emergency rooms. According to the National Association of Community Health Centers (NACHC), there are 60 million people in the country with limited or no access to primary care providers – a trend that shows no sign of improving with the economic recession.

“Every day in our waiting rooms I witness the value of having a health care home,” said Jennifer Byrd, M.D., Aunt Martha’s Medical Director. “When people have a place to go for regular care, they use it and stay healthier. We provide a range of services onsite – primary care services, pediatrics, women’s health, dentistry and behavioral health services. Our patients not only get the care they need under one roof, but they are treated as individuals, with dignity and respect. This is what health care should be, and what we celebrate during National Health Center Week.”

Now more than ever public support is needed for health centers as Congress attempts to reduce the budget deficit with spending cuts to the program and changes to Medicaid that could further reduce access to preventive care for millions of people. To find out more, please visit www.nachc.org.

To find out more about National Health Center Week, visit www.healthcenterweek.org.

About Aunt Martha’s Youth Service Center
Aunt Martha’s Youth Service Center is one of Illinois’ largest FQHCs. In 2010, Aunt Martha’s health centers served nearly 85,000 patients, including 32,000 with no health insurance. This single organization cares for 16 percent of all the patients receiving dental and behavioral health services at Illinois’ FQHCs. Aunt Martha’s Ambulatory and Behavioral Health Care services are accredited by The Joint Commission. For more information, visit www.auntmarthas.org.

About Aetna
Aetna is one of the nation’s leading diversified health care benefits companies, serving approximately 36.5 million people with information and resources to help them make better informed decisions about their health care. Aetna offers a broad range of traditional, voluntary and consumer-directed health insurance products and related services, including medical, pharmacy, dental, behavioral health, group life and disability plans, and medical management capabilities and health care management services for Medicaid plans. Our customers include employer groups, individuals, college students, part-time and hourly workers, health plans, governmental units, government-sponsored plans, labor groups and expatriates. For more information, see www.aetna.com.

If you'd like to see the entire collection,

you know you can find it on our Facebook page.

And if you're not into the whole social networking scene,

all the same pictures are available in our Picasa Album too. Enjoy! 

WORKSHOP DESCRIPTIONS

Session 1A: The Challenges and Triumphs of Embracing Family Driven Care
Lesley Hawley, ATR, LCPC, Clinic Supervisor; Keith Polan, LCSW, Director of Residential Services; Rich Bobby, LCSW, Placement & Transition Supervisor
Children’s Home + Aid / Rice Child + Family Center

Incorporating family driven care and youth guided services into every aspect of programming is essential if residential providers wish to make a true difference in the lives of the children and families they serve. Partnering with families and children on every aspect of treatment promotes partnerships built on trust, honesty, and compassion. At Rice Child + Family Center we believe that incorporating family driven care is the right thing to do. This workshop will be an honest panel discussion about the triumphs and challenges of embracing family driven care within our agency. The panel members will discuss the philosophy and the challenges and triumphs they found implementing and encouraging this paradigm shift.

Session 1B: Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children
Frank Massolini, Director, Volunteer; Jennifer Mitchell, Assistant Director
The Salvation Army PROMISE Program

This training will provide information on commercial sexual exploitation of children (CSEC), a form of human trafficking. Participants will be able to recognize the commercial sexual exploitation of children, detect risk factors, and identify victims of CSEC.

Session 1C: Juvenile Justice: A Diversion Model
Cynthia Williams, MS, Director, JISC Case Management
Sinai Community Institute

This workshop will describe various juvenile justice diversion programs and their importance when working within the child welfare system. Diversion programs engage youth either prior to arrest or in place of sending an arrested youth to court. They are designed to be an alternative to court and therefore replace sentencing, incarceration and/or probation.  Through this workshop participants will gain a general understanding of how they can integrate division programs into their plans for youths.

Session 1D: Professional Boundaries and Self-Care for Social Service Employees
Jennifer White Goehrig, MHS, CADC, Administrator
Aunt Martha's Youth Service Center

Social service staff has a high rate of burnout and an increasing number of stress related illnesses. This workshop will assist participants in defining professional and personal boundaries within their own lives and career setting. Once professional and personal boundaries are established, it becomes easier to develop self-care strategies and routines. Participants will learn the four key points to remember for self-care and will be able to identify four types of self that must be maintained and nurtured.

Session 2A: Older Youth in Substitute Care: PROMOTING Successful Transition
Lauren Williams, Associate Deputy & Nicole A. Neely, Public Service Administrator
Illinois Department of Children & Family Services

This workshop will describe a continuum of care and how to promote successful transitions as youth transfer to other levels of care and eventually age out of care.  Focusing on forming collaborations, developing a treatment team approach, and establishing partnerships and kinship connections will assist in problem solving and identifying practices when planning and implementing transition. All of these strategies will help to meet the goal of improved outcomes for youth.

Session 2B: Let’s Talk: Runaway Prevention
Katrina Wyss, Prevention Specialist
National Runaway Switchboard

Every year in the U.S., between 1.3 and 2.8 million youth run away or are expelled from their homes. In an effort to address this social epidemic, the National Runaway Switchboard (NRS) offers Let’s Talk: Runaway Prevention Curriculum, a free 14-module social, emotional and life skill tool.  Participants will learn about 1-800-RUNAWAY services and discuss how the prevention curriculum can help homeless students transition into their futures better prepared to deal with ongoing life challenges.

Session 2C: Juvenile Probation’s Role to Protect and Serve Our Community
Carmen Casa, Deputy Chief Probation Office
Cook County Juvenile Center

This learning opportunity will provide insight into the role and responsibility of a Juvenile Probation Officer and the collaborative efforts in partnering with community outreach organizations.

Session 2D: Sustaining Creativity: Invigorating Your Work by Maintaining Personal Connection
Lesley Hawley, ATR, LCPD, Clinical Supervisor; Seeley Cardone ATR, LPC, Therapist
Children’s Home + Aid / Rice Child + Family Center

This workshop will focus on enlivening our creative energy. We will consider pieces of our identity that we can bring to the forefront of our work to enhance our experience as well as our clients. The two presenters will illustrate that by consciously relying on their inner artists for problem solving, self-care, and connecting they bring creative attunement and vibrancy to their work at a residential facility. Participants will partake in an experiential where they will contemplate aspects of themselves that might be brought to the forefront of their work to enhance their job and enliven their spirits.

Session 3A: Differential Response in Illinois: An Update
Womazetta Jones, Project Director, Differential Response
Illinois Department of Children and Family Services

Differential response is an innovative approach whereby the Department can  provide help and support to parents who are struggling to meet the needs of their children - rather than a Department that “takes away your kids” when you mess up or fall short.  By incorporating strengths-based, family-centered approaches, and integrating an understanding of the protective factors within families the Department can help strengthen and support families.  This workshop will provide a historical and implementation overview of Illinois DCFS’ Differential Response initiative; it will include an update via ‘lessons learned’ to date and an overview of future plans.

Session 3B: Successes and Challenges of Partnership: Getting Started, Learning as We Go, and the Ups and Downs Along the Way.
Heather Bradley, Youth Outreach Manager; Nate Metrick, Crib Coordinator
The Night Ministry

What we’ve learned.  What we’re learning.  What we wish we knew.  We’ll share our highs and lows (and hopefully some insights) as we’ve collaborated with partner organizations to open an innovative, LGBTQ-friendly, low-threshold, overnight shelter for youth.  We’ll outline strategies for communication, accountability, managing the cultures of different organizations, visioning, delineating responsibilities, building ownership, community relations, dealing with conflict, and celebrating successes. 

Session 3C: CeaseFire 101
James Highsmith, Program Manager
CeaseFire Englewood

This workshop will describe the CeaseFire concept regarding violence being considered a contagious disease.  Participants will begin to understand the human and financial toll that violence has on cities and our country, as well as reflect on violence from a moral perspective. We will also consider the public health approach to behavior change of affected individuals.

Session 3D: Motivation, Engagement, and Drive – Keeping Your Mojo Alive
Dave Betz, Assistant Director of Staff Development & Workforce Engagement Team Leader
Aunt Martha’s Youth Service Center

What motivates us? Are we getting what we need at work? How can we feel happier, better and more fulfilled in our jobs? In this highly interactive workshop, we will review what drives human behavior and then engage in honest dialogue about the challenges we are facing regarding engagement and feeling good at work. Finally, we will problem-solve to determine practical take-aways to help you keep our mojo alive.

Aunt Martha's Youth Service Center

Children's Home and Aid

National Runaway Switchboard

and the

Illinois Department of Children and Family Services

Friday, October 21!

Interested in attending?

Click here to register.

WORKSHOP DESCRIPTIONS

Session 1A: The Challenges and Triumphs of Embracing Family Driven Care
Lesley Hawley, ATR, LCPC, Clinic Supervisor; Keith Polan, LCSW, Director of Residential Services; Rich Bobby, LCSW, Placement & Transition Supervisor
Children’s Home + Aid / Rice Child + Family Center

Incorporating family driven care and youth guided services into every aspect of programming is essential if residential providers wish to make a true difference in the lives of the children and families they serve. Partnering with families and children on every aspect of treatment promotes partnerships built on trust, honesty, and compassion. At Rice Child + Family Center we believe that incorporating family driven care is the right thing to do. This workshop will be an honest panel discussion about the triumphs and challenges of embracing family driven care within our agency. The panel members will discuss the philosophy and the challenges and triumphs they found implementing and encouraging this paradigm shift.

Session 1B: Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children
Frank Massolini, Director, Volunteer; Jennifer Mitchell, Assistant Director
The Salvation Army PROMISE Program

This training will provide information on commercial sexual exploitation of children (CSEC), a form of human trafficking. Participants will be able to recognize the commercial sexual exploitation of children, detect risk factors, and identify victims of CSEC.

Session 1C: Juvenile Justice: A Diversion Model
Cynthia Williams, MS, Director, JISC Case Management
Sinai Community Institute

This workshop will describe various juvenile justice diversion programs and their importance when working within the child welfare system. Diversion programs engage youth either prior to arrest or in place of sending an arrested youth to court. They are designed to be an alternative to court and therefore replace sentencing, incarceration and/or probation.  Through this workshop participants will gain a general understanding of how they can integrate division programs into their plans for youths.

Session 1D: Professional Boundaries and Self-Care for Social Service Employees
Jennifer White Goehrig, MHS, CADC, Administrator
Aunt Martha's Youth Service Center

Social service staff has a high rate of burnout and an increasing number of stress related illnesses. This workshop will assist participants in defining professional and personal boundaries within their own lives and career setting. Once professional and personal boundaries are established, it becomes easier to develop self-care strategies and routines. Participants will learn the four key points to remember for self-care and will be able to identify four types of self that must be maintained and nurtured.

Session 2A: Older Youth in Substitute Care: PROMOTING Successful Transition
Lauren Williams, Associate Deputy & Nicole A. Neely, Public Service Administrator
Illinois Department of Children & Family Services

This workshop will describe a continuum of care and how to promote successful transitions as youth transfer to other levels of care and eventually age out of care.  Focusing on forming collaborations, developing a treatment team approach, and establishing partnerships and kinship connections will assist in problem solving and identifying practices when planning and implementing transition. All of these strategies will help to meet the goal of improved outcomes for youth.

Session 2B: Let’s Talk: Runaway Prevention
Katrina Wyss, Prevention Specialist
National Runaway Switchboard

Every year in the U.S., between 1.3 and 2.8 million youth run away or are expelled from their homes. In an effort to address this social epidemic, the National Runaway Switchboard (NRS) offers Let’s Talk: Runaway Prevention Curriculum, a free 14-module social, emotional and life skill tool.  Participants will learn about 1-800-RUNAWAY services and discuss how the prevention curriculum can help homeless students transition into their futures better prepared to deal with ongoing life challenges.

Session 2C: Juvenile Probation’s Role to Protect and Serve Our Community
Carmen Casa, Deputy Chief Probation Office
Cook County Juvenile Center

This learning opportunity will provide insight into the role and responsibility of a Juvenile Probation Officer and the collaborative efforts in partnering with community outreach organizations.

Session 2D: Sustaining Creativity: Invigorating Your Work by Maintaining Personal Connection
Lesley Hawley, ATR, LCPD, Clinical Supervisor; Seeley Cardone ATR, LPC, Therapist
Children’s Home + Aid / Rice Child + Family Center

This workshop will focus on enlivening our creative energy. We will consider pieces of our identity that we can bring to the forefront of our work to enhance our experience as well as our clients. The two presenters will illustrate that by consciously relying on their inner artists for problem solving, self-care, and connecting they bring creative attunement and vibrancy to their work at a residential facility. Participants will partake in an experiential where they will contemplate aspects of themselves that might be brought to the forefront of their work to enhance their job and enliven their spirits.

Session 3A: Differential Response in Illinois: An Update
Womazetta Jones, Project Director, Differential Response
Illinois Department of Children and Family Services

Differential response is an innovative approach whereby the Department can  provide help and support to parents who are struggling to meet the needs of their children - rather than a Department that “takes away your kids” when you mess up or fall short.  By incorporating strengths-based, family-centered approaches, and integrating an understanding of the protective factors within families the Department can help strengthen and support families.  This workshop will provide a historical and implementation overview of Illinois DCFS’ Differential Response initiative; it will include an update via ‘lessons learned’ to date and an overview of future plans.

Session 3B: Successes and Challenges of Partnership: Getting Started, Learning as We Go, and the Ups and Downs Along the Way.
Heather Bradley, Youth Outreach Manager; Nate Metrick, Crib Coordinator
The Night Ministry

What we’ve learned.  What we’re learning.  What we wish we knew.  We’ll share our highs and lows (and hopefully some insights) as we’ve collaborated with partner organizations to open an innovative, LGBTQ-friendly, low-threshold, overnight shelter for youth.  We’ll outline strategies for communication, accountability, managing the cultures of different organizations, visioning, delineating responsibilities, building ownership, community relations, dealing with conflict, and celebrating successes. 

Session 3C: CeaseFire 101
James Highsmith, Program Manager
CeaseFire Englewood

This workshop will describe the CeaseFire concept regarding violence being considered a contagious disease.  Participants will begin to understand the human and financial toll that violence has on cities and our country, as well as reflect on violence from a moral perspective. We will also consider the public health approach to behavior change of affected individuals.

Session 3D: Motivation, Engagement, and Drive – Keeping Your Mojo Alive
Dave Betz, Assistant Director of Staff Development & Workforce Engagement Team Leader
Aunt Martha’s Youth Service Center

What motivates us? Are we getting what we need at work? How can we feel happier, better and more fulfilled in our jobs? In this highly interactive workshop, we will review what drives human behavior and then engage in honest dialogue about the challenges we are facing regarding engagement and feeling good at work. Finally, we will problem-solve to determine practical take-aways to help you keep our mojo alive.

In the U.S., International Walk to School Day is expected to include over 3,500 events across all 50 states. Walkers from the U.S. will join children and adults in 40 countries around the world.

Walk to School events work to create safer routes for walking and bicycling and emphasize the importance of issues such as increasing physical activity among children, pedestrian safety, traffic congestion, concern for the environment and building connections between families, schools and the broader community.

6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Excalibur Nightclub

632 N. Dearborn

Chicago, IL 60654

A $30 cover charge will get you 3 hours of appetizers and drinks!

Cash, check or credit will be accepted at the door.

Please join us! And bring a friend.

RSVP to Franca by October 7th at

fliburdi@auntmarthas.org or (708) 653-2497.

If you want help spread the word, visit our

event page on Facebook and share it with your friends!

5 p.m. - 7 p.m.

440 Forest Boulevard

Park Forest, IL

Call (708) 679-8128 for more information.

5 p.m. - 7 p.m.

440 Forest Boulevard

Park Forest, IL

Call (708) 679-8128 for more information.

5 p.m. - 7 p.m.

440 Forest Boulevard

Park Forest, IL

Call (708) 679-8128 for more information.

5 p.m. - 7 p.m.

440 Forest Boulevard

Park Forest, IL

Call (708) 679-8128 for more information.

5 p.m. - 7 p.m.

440 Forest Boulevard

Park Forest, IL

Call (708) 679-8128 for more information.

5 p.m. - 7 p.m.

440 Forest Boulevard

Park Forest, IL

Call (708) 679-8128 for more information.

5 p.m. - 7 p.m.

440 Forest Boulevard

Park Forest, IL

Call (708) 679-8128 for more information.

5 p.m. - 7 p.m.

440 Forest Boulevard

Park Forest, IL

Call (708) 679-8128 for more information.

5 p.m. - 7 p.m.

440 Forest Boulevard

Park Forest, IL

Call (708) 679-8128 for more information.

5 p.m. - 7 p.m.

440 Forest Boulevard

Park Forest, IL

Call (708) 679-8128 for more information.

5 p.m. - 7 p.m.

440 Forest Boulevard

Park Forest, IL

Call (708) 679-8128 for more information.

5 p.m. - 7 p.m.

440 Forest Boulevard

Park Forest, IL

Call (708) 679-8128 for more information.

5 p.m. - 7 p.m.

440 Forest Boulevard

Park Forest, IL

Call (708) 679-8128 for more information.

Make Your Calls NOW

This year, an estimated 56,300 people will be infected with HIV in the United States. One in 5 of the more than one million people living with HIV is unaware of his or her infection. This year, in recognition of World AIDS Day on December 1, Aunt Martha's is encouraging all citizens of Illinois to get tested for HIV.

"The only way to know for sure if you have HIV is to get tested," says Nikki Moody, HIV Prevention Coordinator at Aunt Martha's. "You could have HIV and still feel healthy."

In recognition of World AIDS Day 2011, our HIV Prevention Program will host a day-long event at the agency's office in downtown Park Forest (440 Forest Blvd., Park Forest, IL) on Friday, December 2nd.

We'll be providing free, confidential, needle-less HIV tests at no charge between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. There is no need to schedule an appointment.

"A lot of people are more afraid of needles than they are of the actual test results," Moody says. "But with the tests we use in our HIV Prevention Program, all we have to do is put a cotton swab in the client's mouth."

Another advantage of the tests we use is that the results are available almost immediately.

"We typically have the results in 15 or 20 minutes," says Moody. "There's none of the waiting and wondering that you have to go through when a doctor draws your blood and sends it to the lab while you sit at home waiting for the phone to ring."

It's especially important to get tested regularly if you are at high risk of infection. Get tested for HIV at least once a year if you:
·  Have unprotected sex (sex without a condom) with someone who might have HIV.
·  Have sex with men who have sex with men.
·  Use drugs with needles.
·  Have a sex partner who is HIV-positive.
·  Have had a sexually transmitted disease (STD).

Of course, if knowing your test results isn't enough to keep you around, Aunt Martha's will also conduct a raffle on the day of the event. What's the catch? If you don't get tested, you can't win!

For more information, contact our HIV Prevention Program at (708) 679-8192.

• Helping to feed more than 160 Chicago Heights families in partnership with the Greater Faith Baptist Church and the Greater Chicago Food Depository.
• Volunteering to work and lead activities at the Senior Victory Centre.
• Hosting Aunt Martha’s Annual FREE TO BE Event, which invites local youth to showcase talents and skills by dancing, singing, reciting poetry and performing short plays.
• Providing outreach and peer-education related to HIV/AIDS and STI prevention at Aunt Martha's Teen Clinic.
• Hosting a series of clothing/food drive throughout the winter holidays to help the south suburban homeless shelters.

In 2012, Aunt Martha's will celebrate its 40th birthday, but the agency is by no means over the hill. In fact, Tucker believes the Gold Star Award is evidence that the spirit of the agency's founders is alive and well.

"The program has its roots in the very earliest days of Aunt Martha's history. It's a group of young people who have a desire to expand their leadership qualities, give back to the community and change the way people view today’s youth," said Tucker. "YP was part of the basic foundation of the agency in 1972, and it is still going strong."

To learn more about Aunt Martha's Youth Participation Program call (708) 679.8128.

Aunt Martha’s to Observe World AIDS Day

Agency will offer free, confidential, needle-less HIV tests at day-long event

# # #

Next Meeting:

Wednesday, December 14th

5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Hosted By:

Victory Christian Assembly Church

2901 W. 159th St.

Markham, IL 60428

For More Information:

Contact Natasha Vinson, Youth Organizer

(708) 679-8145 or nvinson@auntmarthas.org

Download a Flier!

Flier - South Suburban Youth Leadership Council v1 20111214w.pdf

The South Suburban Youth Leadership Council is part of The Safety Net Works Program.

Olympia Fields, IL 60461

Phone (708) 747-7031

Fax (708) 747-8031

PRESS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

September 1, 2010 12:00 p.m.                  Contact:   Tom Owens

                                                       (708) 747-7031

towens@auntmarthas.org

THE JUNGLE IS COMING TO HOG DAYS

Aunt Martha’s Mobile Health Center to Take Part in Parade, Offer Tours

Next Meeting:

Thursday, January 26th

5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Hosted By:

Chicago Heights Park District

1400 Chicago Rd.

Chicago Heights, IL 60411

For More Information:

Contact Natasha Vinson, Youth Organizer

(708) 679-8145 or nvinson@auntmarthas.org

The South Suburban Youth Leadership Council is part of The Safety Net Works Program.

FREE. CONFIDENTIAL. ANONYMOUS.

NO NEEDLES. QUICK RESULTS.

Aunt Martha's HIV Prevention program - located at 440 Forest Blvd. in Park Forest -

will be offering testing services between 10a and 6p. No appointment necessary!

Invaluable Skills.

For more information, contact Lequicsa Harris

by email (LSHarris@auntmarthas.org) or by calling (708) 679-8136.

Next Meeting:

Thursday, March 8th

5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Hosted By:

Aunt Martha's Park Forest Office

440 Forest Blvd.

Park Forest, IL 60466

For More Information:

Contact Natasha Vinson, Youth Organizer

(708) 679-8145 or nvinson@auntmarthas.org

The South Suburban Youth Leadership Council is part of The Safety Net Works Program.

Personal & Family Nutrition Workshop

Tuesday, March 6, 2012 at 10 a.m.

Carpentersville Community Health Center
3003 Wakefield Dr.
Carpentersville, IL

Presented in English & Spanish by:
Naomi Tuggle, RN and Lena Wheat, RN

If you plan on attending, or would like more information,
please give us a call at (847) 551-8034.
Or send an email to
ntuggle@auntmarthas.org or lwheat@auntmarthas.org.

We hope to see you there!

Personal & Family Nutrition Workshop

Saturday, March 24, 2012 at 10 a.m.

Carpentersville Community Health Center
3003 Wakefield Dr.
Carpentersville, IL

Presented in English & Spanish by:
Naomi Tuggle, RN and Lena Wheat, RN

If you plan on attending, or would like more information,
please give us a call at (847) 551-8034.
Or send an email to
ntuggle@auntmarthas.org or lwheat@auntmarthas.org.

We hope to see you there!

[Park Forest, IL] — Aunt Martha’s Youth Service Center is joining the Office on Women’s Health (OWH), within the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Health at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, in taking action against HIV/AIDS. On Friday, March 9, Aunt Martha’s HIV Prevention Program will offer free, confidential testing in honor of National Women and Girls HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, where women and girls in the community will be able to take advantage of the free, confidential tests.
 
National Women and Girls HIV/AIDS Awareness Day is a nationwide observance held on March 10 to raise awareness of the increasing impact of HIV/AIDS on women and girls and empower people and communities to take action. This National Women and Girls HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, OWH is partnering with the Greater Than AIDS campaign and asking, “What’s your deciding moment?” According to Greater Than AIDS, deciding moments are everyday opportunities to take action against HIV, whether it is getting tested, talking with friends and family, using condoms, practicing abstinence, or taking medications as directed.

WHAT:        Free, confidential HIV testing. No needles! Know your results in minutes.

WHEN:        Friday, March 9, 2012 - 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

WHERE:      440 Forest Blvd., Park Forest, IL

WHO:         Aunt Martha’s HIV Prevention Program

For more information about National Women and Girls HIV/AIDS Awareness Day,visit http://www.womenshealth.gov/nwghaad.

Thursday, April 12, 2012 at 10 a.m.

Carpentersville Community Health Center

3003 Wakefield Dr.

Carpentersville, IL

Presented in English & Spanish by:

Naomi Tuggle, RN and Lena Wheat, RN

If you plan on attending, or would like more information,

please give us a call at (847) 551-8034.

Or send an email to

ntuggle@auntmarthas.org or lwheat@auntmarthas.org.

We hope to see you there!

Diabetes Prevention & Management Workshop

Tuesday, April 24, 2012 at 5:30 p.m.

Carpentersville Community Health Center
3003 Wakefield Dr.
Carpentersville, IL

Presented in English & Spanish by:
Naomi Tuggle, RN and Lena Wheat, RN

If you plan on attending, or would like more information,
please give us a call at (847) 551-8034.
Or send an email to
ntuggle@auntmarthas.org or lwheat@auntmarthas.org.

We hope to see you there!

An artist's rendering of the Joliet Community Health Center.

Aunt Martha’s to Host Ceremonial Groundbreaking at
Future Site of Joliet Community Health Center

Olympia Fields, Illinois – March 8, 2012 – Aunt Martha's Youth Service Center will hold a ceremonial groundbreaking its new Joliet Community Health Center on Friday, March 16 at 9:30 a.m. at 1200 Eagle Street on the former Joliet campus of Silver Cross Hospital. 

Aunt Martha’s CEO Raul Garza will be joined by Senator Pat McGuire (43^rd District – Illinois); Will County Executive Larry Walsh; Joliet Mayor Tom Giarrante and other local community and project officials.

“This project is about more than Aunt Martha’s. It’s about a community coming together to capitalize on an unprecedented opportunity,” says Garza. “This is our chance, the community’s chance to take an important step toward doing what Mayor Giarrante spoke about recently – reinventing itself.”

The new health center, the construction of which is funded by a grant Aunt Martha’s received under Facility Investment Program (FIP) of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, will house 21 medical exam rooms, 9 dental operatories and 5 behavioral health offices. The facility will have space for administrative offices for Aunt Martha’s staff, as well as meeting space that will be available for use by other community organizations. In its first year of operation, Aunt Martha’s expects to provide more than 24,000 patient visits at the new clinic.

The Joliet Community Health Center is one of two projects included in Aunt Martha’s FIP award. The agency is also preparing to begin work on a Pediatric Health & Community Wellness Center in Chicago Heights. Aunt Martha’s $11.8 million FIP grant represents the largest such award received by any community health center in Illinois, and the third largest amount in the country.

Aunt Martha's Youth Service Center is a private, not-for-profit agency providing complete health care and social services for family members of all ages in underserved communities across Illinois. The agency is state licensed to provide child welfare, substance abuse treatment and child care services. All services, including mental health and primary health care, are Joint Commission accredited. In 2011, Aunt Martha’s served nearly 90,000 patients and clients.

###

FRIDAY, MARCH 16
9:30 A.M.
1200 Eagle Street, Joliet, IL

Aunt Martha's Youth Service Center will hold a ceremonial groundbreaking its new Joliet Community Health Center on Friday, March 16 at 9:30 a.m. at 1200 Eagle Street on the former Joliet campus of Silver Cross Hospital.

Aunt Martha’s CEO Raul Garza will be joined by Senator Pat McGuire (43^rd District – Illinois); Will County Executive Larry Walsh; Joliet Mayor Tom Giarrante and other local community and project officials.

Rendering of the new health center, as seen from the East.

April 12th

10:00 a.m.

Missed the Rally? You won't want to miss the Antiviolence Summit scheduled for Saturday, May 12th. Click here to learn more.

SOUTH SUBURBAN YOUTH RALLY TO END TEEN VIOLENCE

Safety Net Works/Youth Leadership Council Join Forces with Community Leaders

Anyone interested in attending, or who has questions about the event is welcome to contact Honorary Board Member Peggy Eisenstein at peggyauntmarthas@gmail.com.

You can also visit our Board Alumni Club on Facebook.  Once you're confirmed as a member, you can join the conversation, share a photo, RSVP to the Reunion and more!

The state has run out of money to pay for the Medicaid program in its current form.

Most people who are eligible now will still be covered. Some adults will lose benefits. Anyone in a program that is ending will get a notice addressed to them individually. These include:
·  Adults enrolled in Illinois Cares Rx
·  Adults enrolled in FamilyCare Share, one of the FamilyCare Premium levels or
·  FamilyCare Rebate – for income levels visit http://www.familycareillinois.com/income.html
·  Adults living in Chicago enrolled in General Assistance Medical

No children will lose eligibility.

Dental care for adults will be limited to only care needed to treat an emergency condition.

Adults will have slightly higher co-payments for prescription drugs, office visits, using a hospital emergency room when they don’t have an emergency and some other services.

Some services will require prior approval. For example, prior approval will be required for a person to get more than four prescriptions in a month.

Some information about the cuts is available now on the Department’s website at:
http://www2.illinois.gov/hfs/agency/Pages/Budget.aspx. More details are expected to be added soon.

At Aunt Martha’s, we will do our best to communicate new information to our patients as quickly as it becomes available.

Workshop Dates & Times

Thursday, June 14th

10 a.m.

Tuesday, June 26th

5:30 p.m.

Workshop Dates & Times

Thursday, June 14th

10 a.m.

Tuesday, June 26th

5:30 p.m.

Workshop Dates & Times

Thursday, July 12th

10 a.m.

Saturday, July 28th

5:30 p.m.

Workshop Dates & Times

Thursday, July 12th

10 a.m.

Saturday, July 28th

5:30 p.m.

If you would like to learn more about this silent killer, and understand the risks you and your family may face, Aunt Martha's invites you to the Carpentersville Community Health Center, where two members of our nursing staff will conduct a series of workshops. Sessions will be offered in both English and Spanish.

Workshop Dates & Times

Thursday, August 9th

10 a.m.

Tuesday, August 21st

5:30 p.m.

If you would like to learn more about this silent killer, and understand the risks you and your family may face, Aunt Martha's invites you to the Carpentersville Community Health Center, where two members of our nursing staff will conduct a series of workshops. Sessions will be offered in both English and Spanish.

Workshop Dates & Times

Thursday, August 9th

10 a.m.

Tuesday, August 21st

5:30 p.m.

Workshop Dates & Times

Thursday, September 13th

10 a.m.

Saturday, September 29th

10 a.m.

Workshop Dates & Times

Thursday, September 13th

10 a.m.

Saturday, September 29th

10 a.m.

Local Health Fair. National Campaign.

Carpentersville Community Health Center

3003 Wakefield Dr.

Carpentersville, IL 60110

Tuesday, September 18th

10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The national campaign urges individuals to take charge of their health by visiting a health professional (a doctor, a nurse, a dentist, a nurse practitioner, a physician assistant or another health provider). The day also encourages individuals to make an appointment for a visit, attend a health event in the community, or help a friend, neighbor, or family member do the same.

The event will feature free blood pressure, diabetes, and cholesterol screenings.

Along with other public health organizations throughout Illinois, Aunt Martha's is helping to raise public awareness of Keep Cool Illinois, a collaborative effort to share information about how to beat the heat of summer, how to stay safe during the season for outdoor recreation, and how to tap into resources that help you keep yourself and your homes cool.

As part of this collaborative effort, the state has established more than 120 facilities to serve as cooling centers. Cooling centers are open during normal business hours from 8:30a.m. - 5:00p.m. Monday through Friday.

For more information about cooling centers call the Illinois Department of Human Services hotline at (800) 843-6154.

You can also find a list of cooling centers near you at the Keep Cool Illinois website.

All tests are FREE and CONFIDENTIAL.

We don't even use needles!

No appointment needed.

Raul Garza, Aunt Martha’s Chief Executive Officer, sees the merger as a strategic move that goes beyond the balance sheet. He points to the formation of an entity positioned to succeed as part of Illinois’ emerging coordinated care system as one of the key benefits of the merger.

“There isn’t another organization in the region with the capability to seamlessly integrate health care and social services in the way we will at Aunt Martha’s as a result of this merger,” explains Garza.

Download a copy of the press release here.

Thank you to Warren Skalski and WS Project Photography for

capturing so many great "shots" from Aunt Martha's 2012 Charity Golf Outing!

Click the link below to see more photos or to order copies of your own.

This year, an estimated 56,300 people will be infected with HIV in the United States. One in 5 of the more than one million people living with HIV is unaware of his or her infection. This year, in recognition of World AIDS Day on December 1, Aunt Martha’s Health Center is encouraging patients to get tested for HIV.

The only way to know for sure if you have HIV is to get tested. You could have HIV and still feel healthy. Many doctors recommend HIV testing for all teens and adults between the ages of 13 and 64.

On Friday, November 30, Aunt Martha’s, along with the Chicago Department of Public Health and the Latino Resource Institute of Illinois will offer free HIV testing and education workshops at the Roseland Community Health Center (200 E. 115th Street, Chicago) from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Join this event on Facebook!

This year, an estimated 56,300 people will be infected with HIV in the United States. One in 5 of the more than one million people living with HIV is unaware of his or her infection. This year in recognition of World AIDS Day on December 1, Aunt Martha’s Health Center is encouraging patients to get tested for HIV.

The only way to know for sure if you have HIV is to get tested. You could have HIV and still feel healthy. Many doctors recommend HIV testing for all teens and adults between the ages of 13 and 64.

On Saturday, December 1, Aunt Martha’s, along with the Chicago Department of Public Health and the Latino Resource Institute of Illinois will offer free HIV testing and education workshops at the Southeast Side Community Health Center (3528 E. 118th St., Chicago) from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Join this event on Facebook!

Saturday, February 9th

9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Hosted by

The Spanish Community Center

309 N. Eastern Ave., Joliet

Medical Office Assistants

Medical Assistants

Patient Care Managers

Clinic Managers

We will be accepting applications throughout the day. Those interested should bring a copy of their resume and be prepared to complete a basic competency test!

To learn more, call Jodi at (708) 747-7201, or visit www.auntmarthas.org/careerlisting.aspx.

###

With the opening of a new Community Health Center, Presence Saint Joseph Medical Center and Aunt Martha’s Youth Center, Inc. have partnered to improve access to care for the medically underserved on the west side of the Greater Joliet community.

Today, Presence Saint Joseph and Aunt Martha’s celebrated the grand opening of Aunt Martha’s Health Center West Joliet, a new 4,500 square foot Community Health Center operated by Aunt Martha’s within the Medical Center in space adjacent to its Emergency Department.

The new Health Center provides a full spectrum of preventive and primary health care services, including essential ancillary services such as lab testing. A significant focus of the Health Center is obstetrical care for a substantially underserved and high risk population.

“This partnership speaks to the very heart of our mission as Presence Health to provide compassionate, holistic care with a spirit of healing and hope to so many in need in our Joliet community,” said Beth Hughes, President and CEO of Presence Saint Joseph Medical Center.

The collaboration is designed to ease the use of Saint Joseph’s Emergency Department (ED) for basic health needs. Patients arriving at the ED who do not have a primary care provider and lack the financial means to pay for their care can be treated, discharged and referred down the hall to Aunt Martha’s Health Center, where they will be connected to a true medical home.

Raul Garza, CEO of Aunt Martha’s said, “We are delighted to be working with the great team at Presence Saint Joseph Medical Center. Together we will ensure the delivery of the high quality care in the most appropriate setting, supporting good stewardship of our community’s precious health care resources.”

Pictured (left to right): Lyndean Brick, Chair, Presence Saint Joseph Medical Center Board of Directors; Beth Hughes, President and CEO, Presence Saint Joseph Medical Center; Raul Garza, CEO, Aunt Martha’s Youth Center, Inc.; and Deborah Watson, Chair, Aunt Martha’s Youth Center, Inc. Board of Directors.

Aunt Martha’s is proud to join the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics during March in celebrating National Nutrition Month^®. This year’s National Nutrition Month theme is “Eat Right, Your Way, Every Day” and encourages consumers to develop a healthful eating plan that incorporates individual food choices and preferences.

Here are a few ways to “Eat Right, Your Way, Every Day” from the food and nutrition experts at the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics:

Personalize your eating style: The easiest way to get the nutrients your body needs is to eat healthy foods you enjoy. Finding good-for-you foods that please your palette makes eating healthfully special and exciting.

Eat for your lifestyle: Athletic, vegetarian/vegan, corporate and family lifestyles all have special nutritional needs, but eating right can be easy and tasty with attention to those foods that best help get you through the day.

Incorporate cultural and ethnic traditions: Foods from around the globe often incorporate an abundance of unique, flavorful and nourishing ingredients. Keep traditions alive and bring the world to your family’s table.

Keep health concerns in mind: A healthful eating plan can help prevent and treat a variety of health concerns. With modification and moderation, you can still enjoy many of your favorite foods while meeting your nutritional needs and health goals.

Make MyPlate your plate: Fill half of your plate with your favorite fruits and vegetables; keep protein portions lean and about three ounces; make at least half of your grain choices whole grains; and be sure to include low-fat or fat-free dairy.

Initiated in 1973 as a week-long event, “National Nutrition Week” became a month-long observance in 1980 in response to growing public interest in nutrition.

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (formerly the American Dietetic Association) is the world’s largest organization of food and nutrition professionals. The Academy is committed to improving the nation’s health and advancing the profession of dietetics through research, education and advocacy. Visit the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics at www.eatright.org.

Patient Safety Awareness Week, March 3-9, 2013

In an effort to raise awareness and encourage the engagement of patients, families, health care providers, and the public, Aunt Martha’s Health Center is participating in the 2013 Patient Safety Awareness Week campaign, Patient Safety 7/365.

Patient Safety Awareness Week is an annual education and awareness campaign for health care safety led by the National Patient Safety Foundation (NPSF). This year’s theme, Patient Safety 7/365, highlights the need for everyone to understand the importance of focusing on patient safety all year round. The 7 days of the campaign also serve as time to recognize the range of work being done to improve health care safety worldwide.

Aunt Martha’s will engage staff, patients, and the community through educational and awareness-building activities specific to patient safety.

“Patient Safety 7/365 reminds us that providing safe patient care requires a constant and valiant effort, 365 days a year. This week encourages a sustainable and conscientious collaboration between health care organizations, providers, and consumers, regardless of their current state of health. The week is intended to imprint an indelible statement that efforts toward patient safety must be collaborative and that we must never be satisfied with the status quo,” said Patricia A. McGaffigan, RN, MS, interim president, National patient Safety Foundation.

For additional information on Patient Safety Awareness Week, please visit www.npsf.org.

to Urge Individuals with Gambling Problems to Reach Out for Help

National Problem Gambling Awareness Week: March 3-9, 2013

Take It. Share It.

THE FOLLOWING LOCATIONS ARE CLOSED AS OF 2:30 PM ON TUESDAY, MARCH 5, 2013.

Cook County:

• Chicago Heights Community Health Center (1756 Vincennes Ave., Chicago Heights)

• Governors Highway Office Campus (Olympia Fields)

• Harvey Community Health Center (159 E. 154th St., Harvey)

• Harvey Office (191 W. 155th Pl., Harvey)

• Hazel Crest Community Health Center (17850 S. Kedzie Ave., Hazel Crest)

• Park Forest Head Start (23483 Western Ave., Park Forest)

• Park Forest Office and Residential Office (Park Forest)

• Riverdale Head Start (14424 Wentworth Ave., Riverdale)

• Roseland Community Health Center (200 E. 115th St., Chicago)

• Southeast Alcohol and Drug Abuse Center (8640 S. Chicago Ave., Chicago)

• South Holland Community Health Center (64 West 162nd St., South Holland)

• Southeast Side Community Health Center (3528 East 118th St., Chicago)

• Women's Health Center (233 W. Joe Orr Rd., Chicago Heights)

Iroquois County:

• Iroquois County Community Health Center (200 E. Walnut St., Watseka)

Kane County:

• Aurora Office (900 N. Lake St., Aurora)

• Aurora Community Health Center (101 S. Broadway Ave., Aurora)

• Aurora Health and Outreach Center (76 S. LaSalle St., Aurora)

• Carpentersville Community Health Center (3003 Wakefield Dr., Carpentersville)

• Elgin Office (620 Wing St., Elgin)

• HealthWorks KeyStone Office (30 S. Stolp Ave., Suite 414, Aurora)

Kankakee County:

• Kankakee Community Health Center & Offices (1777 E. Court St., Kankakee)

Stark County:

• Great River Community Health Center (120 E. Court St., Toulon)

Will County:

• East Joliet Community Health Center (1301 Copperfield Ave., Joliet)

• Joliet Office (409 W. Jefferson Ave., Joliet)

• St. Francis Health Center (311 N. Ottawa St., Joliet)

• West Joliet Community Health Center (333 N. Madison St., Suite 150, Joliet)
  

Family Fun Fair!

Friday, March 22

10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Aunt Martha's Early Learning Center

14424 Wentworth Ave., Riverdale, IL 60827

Click here to see everything we've got planned!

Aunt Martha's is observing National Women and Girls HIV/AIDS Awareness Day

with Free, Confidential Testing at South Holland Clinic

THE FOLLOWING LOCATIONS ARE CLOSED AS OF 8:30 AM ON MONDAY, MARCH 25, 2013.

Iroquois County:

• Iroquois County Community Health Center (200 E. Walnut St., Watseka)

Stark County:

• Great River Community Health Center (120 E. Court St., Toulon)

Vermilion County:

• The Center for Children's Services (702 N. Logan Ave., Danville)

• Vermilion Area Community Health Center (614 N. Gilbert St., Danville)

CountyCare is a New Medicaid Benefits Program for Adults

###