Get Involved

Join us in supporting teen girls on their healing journey

Whether you give, serve, or partner, your support helps provide a safe home, therapeutic care, and brighter futures for adolescent girls in Freeport and across Illinois.

Donate

Invest in safety, stability, and hope for youth

Your financial gift directly supports therapeutic services, everyday living needs, education support, and aftercare for the girls in our residential treatment program. Every donation—large or small—helps ensure that no young person has to walk their healing journey alone.


Partner With Us

Engage your business, church, or community group

Local organizations can make a powerful impact by sponsoring events, organizing drives, or providing in-kind and professional services. Together, we can create a stronger network of support around youth and families in Freeport and the broader Northwest Illinois region.

Volunteer

Share your time, skills, and encouragement

Volunteers play a vital role by helping with activities, events, tutoring, and special projects that enrich daily life for our residents. When you show up consistently and with compassion, you help teen girls feel seen, valued, and supported by their community.

Volunteer Interest Form

FAQS

Meet Michael

Frequently Asked Questions

Ways to give, serve, and stand with our youth

  • How will my donation be used?

    Donations help fund core program needs such as therapeutic services, educational support, daily living essentials, and aftercare for youth and families. Contributions may also support enrichment activities, special projects, and improvements to our residential environment. We work to steward every gift responsibly and transparently so it has the greatest possible impact on the teen girls we serve.

  • Can I donate items instead of money?

    In-kind donations such as new clothing, personal care items, school supplies, and activity materials can be very helpful, depending on current needs. Because we must maintain safety and consistency in our home, we follow specific guidelines on what we can accept. The best first step is to contact our team so we can share a current needs list and coordinate drop-off details.

  • What are the requirements to volunteer?

    Volunteers typically complete an application, background check, and any required orientation or training to ensure the safety and well-being of our residents. Some roles may have age requirements or ask for a regular time commitment so that youth can build stable, trusting relationships with familiar adults. We’ll work with you to find a volunteer opportunity that fits your interests, skills, and schedule.

  • Can groups or organizations volunteer together?

    Yes, we welcome service groups, faith communities, businesses, and school clubs that want to volunteer or host a project together. Group opportunities might include facility improvement projects, holiday or seasonal events, or organizing donation drives. Our staff will help plan a meaningful, appropriate activity that aligns with our residents’ needs and respects the structure of the home.

  • Are there other ways to support your work if I can’t donate or volunteer right now?

    Absolutely—spreading the word about Norman C. Sleezer Youth Home is a powerful way to help. You can follow and share our updates, invite us to speak with your organization, or connect us with potential partners or sponsors. Staying informed, attending events, and advocating for trauma-informed services for youth all contribute to a community where teen girls have more opportunities to heal and thrive.