CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- For this week's Difference Maker segment, WBBM takes a look at a social service agency that’s been helping children in Chicago for more than a century.
The Juvenile Protective Association was founded by Jane Addams in 1901.
President and CEO Karen G. Foley said in the 50's they switched their focus to social work and now consult with teachers and administrators as well as offering therapy to students in 25 CPS schools - in group and individual sessions.
It’s work that began well before the pandemic, but is even more crucial since.
"We're seeing uptick of social distress (in children)," Foley said. She also said that the agency is seeing suicidal ideation in young kids, more peer-to-peer conflicts and even parents acting out on school campuses.
Foley said in school therapy is easier to fit into schedules without stigma or a need for transportation.
"My therapists are telling me all the time that kids are coming up to them saying 'Can I come see you," Foley said.
JPA launched a grandmothers’ program last year in two North Lawndale schools where older women from the community serve as role models for middle school girls.
"We were hearing form teachers that the girls' behavior was improving- that they were able to feel more confident in the classroom," Foley said.
The privately -funded organization also invites corporate volunteers to join them in classrooms.
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