WHO WE ARE
A nonprofit residential youth treatment center in Freeport, Illinois
Since 1973, Norman C. Sleezer Youth Home has provided a stable, therapeutic home for youth in need, growing into a specialized residential treatment program for teen girls. Named in honor of Norman C. Sleezer, the organization continues his vision by partnering with families, referral agencies, and the community to help youth become caring and productive individuals.
Honoring Norman “Chief” Sleezer
The youth advocate whose vision inspired our home
Norman “Chief” Sleezer was a lifelong youth advocate in Freeport, known for going above and beyond to support, enrich, and protect young people in his community. He served as general secretary of the local YMCA and became Stephenson County’s first adult probation officer, a role he held for many years while helping young people in trouble find a better path forward. Colleagues and families alike knew him as someone who combined firm expectations with genuine care, always believing that with the right guidance, youth could grow into responsible, compassionate adults.
His dream was to create a boys’ home with a true “home-type atmosphere,” where young men could feel safe, learn responsibility, and grow into productive citizens. Years later, his grandson Mike Sleezer carried that dream forward while in graduate school, rallying community members, forming a board, and securing support—including a family gift given on the condition that the facility bear Norman’s name—which led to the opening of Norman C. Sleezer Home in the mid-1970s. Over time, the program has evolved into a specialized residential treatment home for teen girls, but the heart of Norman’s vision remains the same: a caring, structured environment where young people are given the chance to heal, learn, and build a better future.
Our Mission
Guided by Purpose, Grounded in Care
To provide residential and community-based therapeutic services that empower youth to become caring and productive individuals.
Every aspect of daily life at Norman C. Sleezer Youth Home is shaped by this mission—from the way staff build relationships with residents to how treatment plans are created and reviewed. Through consistent structure, trauma-informed support, and meaningful connections with families and community partners, we help youth grow into responsible, compassionate members of their communities.
Supporting adolescent girls
Who We Serve
Adolescent girls needing trauma-informed residential treatment
We serve girls ages 12–18 who have experienced trauma, behavioral or mental health challenges, and involvement in the child welfare or juvenile justice systems. Residents are referred from across Illinois, including Freeport and the broader Northwest Illinois region, when they need more support than can be provided in a traditional home or community setting. At Norman C. Sleezer Youth Home, they find a safe, structured environment focused on healing, accountability, and hope. Working closely with DCFS, probation, schools, and families, we help each youth build the skills and support network needed for a successful transition to the next chapter of their lives.
Our Mission
To provide residential and community-based therapeutic services that empowers youth to become caring and productive individuals.
Meet Our Team
Experienced, trauma-informed professionals guiding youth and families
Casey Anthony, Chief Executive Officer: canthony@sleezeryouthhome.org
Amber Roberts, Business Manager: aroberts@sleezeryouthhome.org
Nirandone Kingpavong, Chief Clinical Officer: nkingpavong@sleezeryouthhome.org
Kami Coe, Clinical Therapist: kcoe@sleezeryouthhome.org
Kevin Ware, Intake and Care Coordinator: kware@sleezeryouthhome.org
Chad Kuhlow, Training and Quality Assurance Coordinator: ckuhlow@sleezeryouthhome.org
Veronica Truckenmiller, Unit Coordinator: vtruck@slezeryouthhome.org
Donna Ridge, Youth Services Manager: dridge@sleezeryouthhome.org
Desiree Holz, Registered Nurse: dholz@sleezeryouthhome.org
