Join us at Cantigy in Wheaton for our annual back-to-school event! An evening full of family events, entertainment, and school supply giveaways! Back To School Event Join us August 10th at Cantigny Park for a special event for West Chicago students and families. The event will feature a backpack giveaway, 70+ community resource partners, health fair, safety zone, and raffles. LOCATION : Cantigny Park Date : August 10th, 2026 Time : 5:30-7:30 pm Volunteers handing out backpacks at the Back to School Event Sign Up for Volunteering! We’re looking for volunteers for our Back-to-School Event! Volunteers will be assigned to different areas to help make the day a success. Join us and help make this event even more meaningful for the students and families we serve. Click Here! ¡Haz clic aquí! Resource Partner Sign Up! Be part of this year’s Back to School Event and help create a fun, engaging day for West Chicago families! We invite partners to host an activity for school-aged children that ties into a back-to-school theme or your organization’s mission. Giveaways for kids and resources for parents are welcome. Click below to register and get more details about what to bring and how to prepare. Registration coming soon! One of our partners, The Kitchen Table , at the Back-to-School event. Support Us! WeGo Together for Kids is proud to support West Chicago families through our annual Back to School Event on August 10th. Each K–12 student receives a backpack filled with supplies, and this year, we anticipate serving over 1,600 students. You can help by donating items directly through our Amazon Wishlist, every contribution makes a difference. Support! Backpacks for preschoolers, educare, D33 and D94 students. Backpacks for preschoolers, Educare, D33 and D94 students. Back to School Event Guidelines! We're happy to welcome families! Please review these guidelines to ensure a smooth event. Everyone is welcome to attend. Preschoolers from Educare West DuPage, D33 students (preschool through 8th grade), and D94 students will receive backpacks with essential school supplies. Backpacks are limited. Entry to Cantigny is free on the day of the event. Please mention WeGo Together for Kids at the gate. Families may begin lining up as early as 4:30 PM. Event entry starts at 5:30 PM. No ID is necessary to attend. Have fun! Business Sponsor List 2025

Explore a complete library of early childhood resources, including parenting tips, education tools, and child development support to help families in West Chicago thrive. Early Childhood Resources Explore a wealth of resources designed to support children and families during early childhood, birth to age 8. Our comprehensive library empowers caregivers with the tools and knowledge they need to nurture growth and success. Behavior & Parenting View Resource Food & Nutrition View Resources Health View Resources Potty Training View Resource Routines View Resources School Readiness View Resource Safety View Resource Play View Resource

Learn about the Dolly Parton Imagination Library program in West Chicago. Families can enroll children ages birth to 5 to receive free books every month at no cost. Start receiving FREE books monthly, straight to your door. Register here!! What is the Program? A young reader picking out his very first free book Through Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library , children from birth to age five can receive a free, high-quality book mailed directly to their home each month. Each book is selected to support early learning and help children build a love of reading from a young age. There is no cost to families, and every book is theirs to keep. Who can Sign up? This program is available to all West Chicago residents. Eligible children must: Be under the age of 5 Live in West Chicago If your child meets these requirements, they are eligible to enroll and begin receiving books. Why it matters “Books open the door to imagination, learning, and opportunity .” Dolly Parton Early literacy plays a critical role in a child’s development. This program helps: Build early reading and language skills Encourage family reading time at home Support school readiness Foster a lifelong love of books How to Get Started I live in West Chicago Fill out the online enrollment form with your child’s information, including name, date of birth, and a valid mailing address where books will be delivered. Form Check if my area is eligible (other than West Chicago) Your child must be under 5 years old and live in West Chicago. Families must reside within the program service area, including ZIP code 60185. Dolly Parton Imagination Library is also available in other locations, so if you live somewhere else, you can still check whether your suburb or town participates in the program and is part of the service area. Website Enrollment Processing After submission, your information will be reviewed and processed. Once approved, your child will be officially enrolled in the program. Your child will begin receiving a new book in the mail each month within approximately 6–8 weeks of enrollment. Books will continue to arrive until the child turns five. Thank you to our Supporters WeGo Together for Kids is grateful to our community partners and supporters who make this program possible. Your support helps bring free books and early learning opportunities to children in West Chicago. The success of Dolly parton imagination libary relies on the support, something give the gift of reading text here and then button below centered. Donate to Help Give More Books How it works Once a child is enrolled, books are selected each month based on age and prepared for mailing through the program’s national distribution system. They are then delivered directly to the child’s home. This monthly process continues until the child turns five years old. Local implementation of the program is supported through community partners and sponsors who help ensure the program can be offered to families at no cost. Visit the DPIL Website for More Information Questions? We’re Here to Help Reach out to our Program Manager for more information, we’re happy to connect and help you get started. Jennifer Rodriguez Early Childhood Manager rodriguez.wgtk@gmail.com

Learn about WeGo Together for Kids and our mission to support children and families in West Chicago. Discover how we collaborate with partners to create lasting impact. Early Childhood Programs Discover the Right Fit for Your Family! From pregnancy to preschool, West Chicago offers wonderful early childhood programs and prenatal supports to help your family grow strong. Explore your options and find the perfect programs to help your little one — and your whole family — thrive! Behavioral Perspective Inc 245 W Roosevelt Rd, West Chicago, IL 60185 Behavioral Perspective, Inc. provides in-home, in-clinic, and after-school ABA therapy for children with Autism. They also offer Apple Academy (a preschool alternative for ages 2–7), school consultations, and diagnostic testing. Learn More D33 Birth to Three 108 Sherman St, West Chicago, IL 60185 District 33’s FREE Birth to Three offers programming for Expectant Parents and children up to three years old. Families can enjoy a Toy and Book Lending Library, Home Visiting, Parent Groups for both Mom and Dad, Field Trips, and Connections to Resources and Referrals. Learn More D33 Pioneer Pre-K 615 Kenwood Ave, West Chicago, IL 60185 D33 Pioneer Preschool serves children aged 3-5, and offers special education services to children who qualify such as Speech, Occupational, Physical Therapies and Social Work. Children enjoy weekly music and library lessons. All students receive Free meals and Transportation. Sign up Learn More D94 Wildcat Pre-K 326 Joliet St, West Chicago, IL 60185 West Chicago Community High School offers a Wildcat Preschool for kids ages 2.5–5. Held Tuesday–Thursday during fall and spring, the program is led by Child Development students and includes learning activities, a Brookfield Zoo trip, and a preschool graduation. Learn More Child and Family Connections 550 Warrenville Rd, Suite 100B Lisle, IL 60532 Child & Family Connections supports families with children under 3 who have developmental concerns. Specialists provide guidance and strategies to help children grow, learn, and communicate through everyday routines. Learn More Educare West DuPage 851 Pearl Road West Chicago, IL 60185 Educare West DuPage is an early childhood school that offers an Expecting Families and Teen Mom’s Program, Birth to 3 and Preschool Programming, Full Day and Full Year Options Hours 7am-5:30pm, Free meals, and More… Learn More EasterSeals DuPage & Fox Valley 1555 Bond St. Suite 115 Naperville, IL 60563 EasterSeals provides therapy and support services for children with developmental delays or disabilities. They offer evaluations, screenings, and work with Early Intervention to identify and address delays early. Learn More Family Focus 2174 Gladstone Ct #G Glendale Heights, IL60139 Family Focus supports West Chicago families through Doula Services and Home Visiting using the Parents as Teachers model. Their programs focus on child development, early detection of delays, and school readiness. Learn More Teen Parent Connection 475 Taft Ave, Glen Ellyn, IL 60137 Teen Parent Connection offers FREE programming for young moms (22 and younger) and dads (25 years and younger). TPC offers Childbirth Classes, Doula services, Parent Support Groups, Home Visiting, Prevention Programs, Therapy Services and a Parent’s Pantry. Learn More West Chicago Park District 201 W. National St, West Chicago, IL 60185 Off 2 School helps children build preschool readiness and social skills—no potty training required. Keppler Learning Center offers 2- or 3-day preschool programs for ages 3–5 to support a smooth transition to kindergarten. Learn More YWCA Metropolitan Chicago 2055 West Army Trail Road, Suite 140, Addison, IL 60101 YWCA Metropolitan Chicago offers the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) to help income-eligible families pay for child care while working or in school. They also offer referrals and support in finding care. Open Mon–Thu 8AM–4PM, Fri 8AM–1:30PM. To speak to a staff member call 630-790-6600. Learn More World Relief 191 S. Gary Ave. Suite 130, Carol Stream, IL 60188 World Relief offers early childhood programming, summer camps, multilingual academic support, mentorship, mental health resources, and other community-based integration opportunities for immigrant and refugee children as they try to adapt to American culture. Interested families should complete an intake (10 different languages) and request Early Childhood Services/Case Management. Intake form

Explore a complete library of early childhood resources, including parenting tips, education tools, and child development support to help families in West Chicago thrive. Early Childhood At WeGo Together for Kids, we believe every child’s journey should be filled with support, wonder, learning, and love, and it all starts from the moment your child is born! Whether you're a brand-new parent or growing your family, we’re here to connect you with the tools, programs, and support that help your little one dream big and shine even brighter. Let’s build a strong, joyful foundation together! EC Resources View Resource EC Providers View Resource The Basics View Resource Frequently asked questions General Why is Early Childhood so important? Did you know that 80% of brain growth occurs within your child’s first 3 years of life? In fact, 90% of your child’s brain is developed by age 5! The early years are a big deal! This is when little brains grow fast, building the skills they’ll use for life — learning, exploring, playing, and making friends along the way. This means we all have a BIG opportunity to make a huge difference in our child’s life from the very start. What Programs Are Available to West Chicago Families? West Chicago families with children aged 0-5 have amazing options like Early Intervention, Home Visiting programs, free and affordable Preschool, child development screenings, various child care options and family resources — all here to support your family’s journey! What is Early Intervention? Early intervention is a statewide program that gives children under the age of 3 a boost when they need a little extra help growing, learning, or communicating — because every child deserves to shine bright from the start! Specialists work closely with parents and caregivers, offering guidance and strategies that fit right into everyday routines at home and in familiar places — empowering families to help their children grow and thrive. What is Home Visiting? Home visiting brings caring experts right to your door with tips, fun activities, and support to help you and your child thrive together, from pregnancy through early childhood. What is the Difference Between Day Care and Preschool? Daycare offers a safe, loving place for children to play and grow throughout the day. Daycares offer longer hours to accommodate parent work schedules. Preschool gets kids ready for kindergarten by teaching children valuable skills that they need in order to be successful in school What is the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP)? The Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) makes it possible for families who qualify to receive financial help to pay for child care costs so that parents can work, attend training, or school. To learn more click here.(https://www.illinoiscaresforkids.org/infant-en/early-care-and-education/child-care-assistance-program) Can I become a Home Child Care Provider? Yes you can! To learn more about how you can become a quality child care provider click here.(https://drive.google.com/file/d/1mBuoF6ao8wJ1KXhX67ztn3Wy6ZmMhMG_/view?usp=sharing)

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Learn about WeGo Together for Kids and our mission to support children and families in West Chicago. Discover how we collaborate with partners to create lasting impact. Collaboration: We actively prioritize and nurture strong relationships built upon trust and open communication among partner organizations and the community. Focus on Every Child’s Growth: Our holistic approach prioritizes each child’s emotional, social, and educational development, creating a foundation for lifelong success. Building strong partnerships with families: We genuinely listen and use an equity lens to ensure those most impacted have a voice and perspective in decisions. Our Mission To support and enhance the health, safety, learning, and well-being of children and families through a collaborative, coordinated, and comprehensive approach for the West Chicago community. Our collaborative and comprehensive approach ensures every child in the West Chicago community has the resources and support they need to flourish. Meet Our Team! Resources Our resources empower families with tools and information to navigate early childhood development, health, and education. From guides and tip sheets to developmental insights, each resource is tailored to meet the unique needs of children and their caregivers. Explore our extensive library to find support every step of the way. Resources Collective Impact Collaboration WeGo Together for Kids brings together over 70 community partners to enhance the well-being of children and families in West Chicago. Through collaborative leadership and strategic partnerships, we address critical issues such as mental health, early childhood education, academic success, and family stability, ensuring long-term, sustainable impact. View 2025 Impact Report Events Our events bring families and the community together to learn, grow, and connect. From workshops and school readiness programs to seasonal celebrations, every event is designed to educate, engage, and inspire. Join us in creating memorable experiences that nurture both children and families. View Events Our Initiatives At WeGo Together for Kids, our initiatives are designed to inspire and support families in West Chicago. From providing comprehensive resources to hosting impactful events, we are committed to enhancing the health, safety, education, and well-being of our community. Together, we build stronger futures through collaboration and care. Get Involved! At WeGo Together for Kids, our initiatives are designed to inspire and support families in West Chicago. From providing comprehensive resources to hosting impactful events, we are committed to enhancing the health, safety, education, and well-being of our community. Together, we build stronger futures through collaboration and care. Become a Partner Donate Our Funders Our Partners Make a Difference, Become a Volunteer! Your time and skills can have a lasting impact on the children and families we serve. Whether it’s helping at events, supporting community programs, or sharing your expertise, there’s a place for you in our mission. Join us in creating a stronger, more connected community! Get Involved Today! About Us

WeGo Together for Kids empowers families in West Chicago with essential early childhood resources, education, and support. Explore our initiatives and join us in building a stronger community. Connecting Our Community, Strengthening Our Families WeGo Together for Kids is a collective impact initiative that brings together 70 community partners from across the Chicagoland region to support West Chicago families with children birth – 12th grade. View Resources Contact Us WeGo staff handing out information at the WeGo Birthday Party. Welcome to WeGo Together for Kids A Passion for Serving Families and Children Learn More About Us At WeGo Together for Kids, we believe that every child deserves a thriving future. Our community partners provide essential resources, guidance, and support to families. Rooted in compassion, collaboration, and a commitment to equity, our vision is a vibrant and engaged West Chicago community where children and families reach their full potential. Explore Some of Our Resources Behavior & Parenting View List Health & Safety View List Rental Assistance View List Legal Information View List Homeless Shelters View List Routines View List Why Choose Us Nurturing Every Child with Love & Care Our vision is a vibrant and engaged West Chicago community where children and families reach their full potential. Learn More Comprehensive Support: We offer a wide range of resources, programs, and events to meet the unique needs of children and families at every stage of development. Trusted Community Partners: With a network of dedicated educators, healthcare professionals, and community leaders, we ensure families receive the guidance and tools they need to succeed. Focus on Every Child’s Growth: Our holistic approach prioritizes each child’s emotional, social, and educational development, creating a foundation for lifelong success. Resources Explore our wide array of resources aimed at empowering and supporting families View Resources Community Join our Community E-News to foster a brighter future and stay connected with the latest news! Sign Up Impact Read about the postive impacts that we've had across our families & communities! Read Stories Upcoming Events Multiple Dates Fri, Apr 17 Casa Michoacan DuPage Zumba / Casa Michoacan DuPage Details Apr 17, 2026, 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM Casa Michoacan DuPage, 900 E Roosevelt Rd, West Chicago, IL 60185, USA Share Sat, Apr 18 The Dolly Parton Imagination Library Launch Event / Lanzamiento de la Biblioteca de Dolly Parton / West Chicago Public Library Details Apr 18, 2026, 9:30 AM – 11:00 AM West Chicago Public Library, 118 W Washington St, West Chicago, IL 60185, USA Share Wed, Apr 22 Capacitación Gratuita de RCP de 2 Horas en Leman Middle School / Leman Middle School (Cuarto Comunitario) Details Apr 22, 2026, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM Leman Middle School (Cuarto Comunitario), 238 E Hazel St, West Chicago, IL 60185, USA Share Wed, Apr 22 Free 2-Hour CPR Training in Leman Middle School / Leman Middle School (Community room) Details Apr 22, 2026, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM Leman Middle School (Community room), 238 E Hazel St, West Chicago, IL 60185, USA Share Multiple Dates Thu, Apr 23 Distribución Móvil de Alimentos / Apartamentos Timber Lake Details Apr 23, 2026, 4:00 PM – 5:30 PM Apartamentos Timber Lake, 1200 Kings Cir, West Chicago, IL 60185, USA Share Load More See All Events Creating art with nature brushes at Blooming Fest Fun on the slide at Morton Arboretum Kids exploring tadpoles at Morton Arboretum Riding through the obstacle course at Bike Rodeo Kids playing together at Day in the Arboretum See What We Do From fun family events to training events for parents to food distributions, we take pride in everything we do when it comes to helping families and children. Explore our gallery showcasing what we've accomplished throughout the years! View Gallery Testimonials What The Community Is Saying DuPage County Prevention Leadership Team Great job WeGo Together for Kids on planning a day at the farm for West Chicago families! PLT was proud to support this event where families spent time together outdoors! Community Parent These family activities make a big difference. Thank you. WGTK Steering Committee I commit my time and energy to WGTK Steering Committee because I love the families who make West Chicago their home and because I respect my partners and find inspiration in their efforts. Molly Beck Dean – Director, WGTK We maximize resources to maximize impact — duplicating efforts doesn’t help anyone if we’re not communicating schedules and services. Subscribe to Our Community Newsletter! First name* Last name Email* Yes, subscribe me to your newsletter. Submit

Reach out to WeGo Together For Kids today for access to resources, programs, and community services. Get In Touch We’re here to answer your questions and provide the information you need We're Here to Answer Your Questions! If you have questions or comments, please reach out using the contact form. You can also contact our director, Molly Beck Dean, via email at beckdeanm@metrofamily.org beckdeanm@metrofamily.org Contact us First name Last name Email(Required) Phone Message(Required) Submit

ACF: Resources for Parents & Caregivers Start Now Maternal & New Parent Mental Health Start Now Mental Health Resources for Parents Start Now Prioritizing Your Own Mental Health Start Now Self-Care for Family Caregivers Start Now Surgeon General: Parents’ Mental Health Start Now UNICEF: Parenting & Well-Being Start Now Filter New Parents Parents Filter by Language English English & Spanish Emotional Regulation ACF: Resources for Parents & Caregivers View More! Maternal & New Parent Mental Health View More! Mental Health Resources for Parents View More! Prioritizing Your Own Mental Health View More! Self-Care for Family Caregivers View More! Surgeon General: Parents’ Mental Health View More! UNICEF: Parenting & Well-Being View More! Filter by Tags New Parents Parents Filter by Language English English & Spanish Can't Find What Your Looking For? Reach out and provide details about what resource we can help you with! Contact Us