The best charity in Chicago that you might never have heard of

Underrated, unsung, undervalued, below the radar, overlooked, hidden gem, unnoticed, underappreciated—those are just a few of the adjectives that could be attached to the Juvenile Protective Association (JPA), which may be Chicago’s longest-standing and one of its most effective charitable organizations.

On Friday, May 8, the group celebrated its 125th year of serving Chicagoland with a big Spring Benefit held at The Four Seasons Hotel. 

Over 250 guests were in attendance with a silent auction and live auction that garnered much-needed funds for the organization. Anthony Ponce from Fox News Chicago served as program emcee.

JPA works directly with Chicago Public Schools, providing additional social, emotional, and mental health assistance to kids who may be in need.

They do so in schools, in homes, and within communities.

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Much of the work is done through individual and small group-therapy sessions, helping kids who may have experienced trauma to create positive, caring relationships with their teachers and their peers.

JPA not only helps the kids in school but also provides resources and opportunities for adults who work with these kids, including principals, teachers, and administrative staff.

The organization was founded in 1901 by Jane Addams and her fellow Hull-House workers. Jane Addams is often referred to as “the mother of social work.”

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The organization has made many changes and advancements over the years, but its core mission remains the same: helping children and the adults who work with them, both at home and in school.

As stated at the top, JPA may not have the name recognition of some of the more visible Chicago charities. But rest assured, nobody has done it longer, and nobody has done it better than the fine, dedicated folks at JPA.

125 years… and still going strong!

The Juvenile Protective Association—a true “hidden gem” in our city.

For more information on the Juvenile Protective Association, refer to its website.