Above photo: Kayla McNamara of Hope & Help Together spoke about the power of partnership within the Family Resource Center.
Every great community story begins with a few people who believe something better is possible. But the best stories are never finished by just a few—they become the story of an entire community. Today, that story belongs to all of us.
With more than 90% of the Family Resource Center campaign complete, the finish line is finally in sight. What began as a bold vision to reimagine how families access support is becoming one of the Fox Valley’s most transformational community investments. Thanks to the generosity of early donors, foundations, businesses, and public partners, the Family Resource Center is entering its final chapter before opening its doors this fall.
On July 14, First 5 Fox Valley welcomed early donors, community leaders, parents, and partner organizations to the future Family Resource Center to celebrate how far we’ve come and to officially launch the public phase of our campaign. Together, these early champions have helped turn an idea into a place where children, families, and communities will thrive for generations to come. More than $7.3 million has already been invested toward our $8 million goal, demonstrating what is possible when a community rallies around its youngest children and their families.
Throughout the event, guests heard stories from parents whose voices have helped shape the Family Resource Center, community organizations that will soon call the building home, and supporters who recognized the lasting impact this project will have on children and families across the Fox Valley. Together, they shared a common belief: when families have access to trusted relationships, welcoming spaces, and connected resources, children have the opportunity to thrive.
The Family Resource Center represents more than a beautifully restored historic building. It will be a place where families can connect with multiple organizations under one roof, where parents build relationships with one another, where children learn through play, and where collaboration replaces barriers with opportunity. It’s a community coming together around one shared purpose: ensuring every child has the strongest possible start in life.
While we celebrated the generosity of those who helped bring us to this point, the event also marked the beginning of something new. The public phase of our campaign is an invitation for our entire community to become part of this story. Whether you choose to give, attend an event, schedule a tour, or simply learn more about the vision, there is a place for you in building a stronger future for children and families.
We invite you to experience the Family Resource Center for yourself. Join us for one of our weekly building tours or information sessions to see the progress, hear the vision, and discover how you can be part of this transformational project.
Visit our Campaign Calendar to learn about upcoming tours, information sessions, and opportunities to become part of the story: https://firstfivefoxvalley.org/calendar/.