Helplines & Hotlines
NATIONAL & LOCAL CRISIS ORGANIZATIONS
Youth can feel overwhelmed, misunderstood, and alone. Help is available and trained individuals are ready to talk. The organizations below provide someone to speak with in times of need.
*If you are in need of immediate intervention, talk to your parent, guardian, or a trusted adult right away. Law Enforcement/Fire & Rescue/EMS (Emergency Medical Services) are always available - just call 911.*
National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (988)
Suicide prevention and mental health crisis lifeline - confidential, free, and available 24/7/365. Specialized intervention by certified crisis workers with advanced training in de-escalation and clinical suicide prevention. Also an access point to statewide community-based crisis resources such as mobile crisis outreach teams.
https://988lifeline.org/talk-to-someone-now/
National Crisis Text Line (741741)
Offers free support and information from a trained counselor 24/7 through text messaging. Text the word REACH to 741741 to begin the conversation. Crises may include depression, anxiety, eating disorders, bullying, suicidal thoughts, or other examples of emotional stressors. Coordinated in DuPage County by KidsMatter.
https://www.crisistextline.org
Illinois Warm Line (866-359-7953, select option #2 then #5) (TTY: 866-880-4459)
Hours of Operation Monday - Saturday 8am-8pm
Free phone support for anyone living in Illinois to include emotional support, recovery education, self-advocacy support, and referrals. This is NOT a crisis line. Rather, it is a line staffed by Certified Recovery Support Specialist (CRSS) who work with callers to address aspects of their wellness by identifying triggers, developing action plans, and learning what is necessary to maintain wellness. Available Monday - Friday 8am-5pm. Interpreter available for hundreds of languages. Illinois Mental Health Collaborative for Access and Choice
Boys Town National Hotline (800-448-3000)
Offers free support 24/7 from a trained counselor by phone, text, online chat, and email.
http://www.yourlifeyourvoice.org/Pages/home.aspx
National Runaway Safeline (800-RUNAWAY)
Offers anonymous, free support 24/7 to youth who have run away from home or are thinking about running away. https://www.1800runaway.org/
The Trevor Project (866-488-7386)
Offers crisis and suicide prevention 24/7 for LGBTQ youth, including safe, non-judgmental listening for youth needing to talk. Text and chat features are available.
http://www.thetrevorproject.org/
National Domestic Violence Hotline (800-799-7233)
Offers confidential advocacy, support, and service coordination 24/7. Bilingual advocates available.
National Teen Dating Abuse Helpline(866-331-8453) (text loveis to 22522)
Offers answers to questions about dating in general or a specific relationship. Or, if you are in an unhealthy or abusive relationship, support and resources are available. You are not alone. Peer advocates can be reached 24/7/365. An online chat function is also available.
http://www.loveisrespect.org/for-yourself/
RAINN (800-656-HOPE)
Offers confidential, free, crisis support 24/7 to victims of sexual violence/abuse as well as their friends and family members.
https://hotline.rainn.org/online/terms-of-service.jsp
National Human Trafficking Hotline (888-373-7888)
Offers support to assist in identifying warning signs, reporting concerns, locating treatment and other interventions, and engaging in safety planning to support individuals being forced or coerced.
https://humantraffickinghotline.org/en
National Bullying Helpline
Offers free and confidential help for kids and teens over the age of 13. It is intended to assist those who are victims of all forms of bullying and those who may be at-risk for suicide as a result of being bullied. Counselors have been specially trained to assist kids and teens who are feeling distressed as a result of being bullied. Click the link below, scroll to the bottom of the page, and press Click to Enter Here to begin chatting online with a counselor.
http://www.stompoutbullying.org/livechat_portal.php
Say Something (1-844-5-SAYNOW)
Offers a secure, anonymous way to report safety concerns BEFORE someone hurts themselves or others. You can submit an anonymous tip 24/7 via phone call, app, or on the website. Tips are screened and information is given to local police and/or school personnel when appropriate.
Stop Sextortion (Text THORN to 741741) (Call The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children 1-800-THELOST)
Sextortion is blackmail or threats to expose sexual images to get you to do something you don't want to do, like send money or photos. Offers steps for getting help for yourself or a friend and ways to stay safe.
LGBTQ+
Youth Outlook
Youth Outlook is solely dedicated to supporting LGBTQ+ youth and serves seven counties in northern Illinois, offering drop-in centers for youth, caregiver, and parent support, plus community education and professional development. Youth Outlook Drop-In Centers meet weekly and are a social setting for youth to meet other LGBTQ+ young people and talk about various topics that really matter to them, providing a place for LGBTQ+ youth to feel safe, supported, and celebrated. Trained staff and volunteers lead all programming, which includes identity and self-esteem, physical and mental health, political awareness, healthy relationships, and other topics requested by attendees. *Most groups welcome youth ages 12-20, exceptions are noted by each location.
Q Chat Space
Q Chat Space is an online community for LGBTQ+ teens. Q Chat Space allows teens to find and give support, have fun, connect around shared interests, and get good information. Chat with like-minded peers in live chats designed for you and by you, facilitated by folks who care. Facilitators are affiliated with LGBTQ+ centers across the county, including Youth Outlook in Naperville.
PFLAG - Northern Illinois Council
Parents, Families, Friends of Lesbian and Gays (PFLAG) is a national organization that supports LGBTQ people, their families and friends through local PFLAG chapter help lines, support group meetings, and locally and nationally produced resources. PFLAG also offers education and advocacy.
The PFLAG Council of Northern Illinois is a loose coalition of PFLAG chapters within the greater Chicagoland area. Visit their website for local chapters serving DuPage County and specific communities within our county. Explore the resources page for books, movies, resources, articles, guides, and other organizations. Resource are useful for LGBTQ people and their straight allies.
Find Resources: https://pflagillinois.org/find-resources-2/
LGBT National Help Center
FREE, confidential support provided by trained volunteers.
National Youth Talkline (ages 25 and younger)
Hotline is available:
Monday-Friday 3PM-11PM; Saturdays 11AM-4PM
800-246-7743
Peer-Support Online Chat (see site for time restrictions)
Online Peer Support Chat | Lgbthelpcenter (lgbthotline.org)
Weekly Youth Chatrooms (see site for meeting times)
DESI LQBTQ+ Helpline for South Asians
FREE peer support from trained South Asian LGBQ/TGNB+ volunteers. Topics may include questions about coming out, family/culture/religion, locating community support in your area, finding a doctor/lawyer/therapist, LGBTQ parenting, advice for a friend/family member, etc.
Online Support - someone will respond within a week
Contact us! - DEQH · DESI LGBTQ+ HELPLINE FOR SOUTH ASIANS
and/or
Talk - volunteers are available Thursdays 7-9PM CST and Sundays 7-9PM CST
908-367-3374
Trans Lifeline
Offers trans peer support - run by and for trans people. Services available in English and Spanish. Services likely available 24/7 but operators are guaranteed to answer 9AM-4AM CST.
- For Spanish, select Option 2
- Support for friends, partners, family members and professionals supporting trans loved ones and community members, call the main line then ask for the Family & Friends Line
877-565-8860
The Trevor Project
Offers crisis and suicide prevention 24/7 for LGBTQ youth, including safe, non-judgmental listening for youth needing to talk. Text and chat features are available.
866-488-7386
Education
Regional Office of Education - Truancy
Regional Office of Education - HSE/GED Program
The Regional Office of Education works with youth referred by their school because of chronic absenteeism and truancy.
Truancy Behavior Interventionists work directly with youth and families to address factors contributing to truancy with a goal of improved school attendance and success.
Visit the ROE's website below to access contact information if you would like to learn more about truancy support and intervention.
Regional Office of Education - HSE/GED Program
Regional Office of Education - HSE/GED Program
Individuals qualify for the HSE program if:
- 18 years or older*
- do not have a high school diploma or GED
- is a State of Illinois resident
GED/HSE – DuPage Regional Office of Education (dupageroe.org)
College of DuPage - HSE/GED & ELA
COD's High School Equivalency (HSE) program is for those without a GED or high school diploma. HSE classes, textbooks, and tutoring are FREE and offered at several locations across DuPage County. Online classes also available. Classes and testing offered in English and Spanish. Candidates may earn an Illinois High School Equivalency Certificate, which can be used for admission to other educational institutions, employment, armed services admission, etc.
Placement tests are required before starting HSE classes
High School Equivalency | College of DuPage (cod.edu)
GED Test Preparation
https://www.cod.edu/academics/continuing-education/adult-education/high-school-equivalency.aspx
GED Test Registration
https://www.cod.edu/academics/testing/ged-registration.aspx
FREE English Language Acquisition (ELA) classes develop your conversation, listening and speaking, reading and writing skills.
English Language Acquisition (ELA) | Basic Education | College of DuPage (cod.edu)
Job Corps
Job Corps is the nation’s largest FREE, residential career training and education program for low-income young adults ages 16 through 24.
800-733-JOBS
Career Areas
Advanced Manufacturing, Automotive & Machine Repair, Civilian, Conservation Centers. Construction, Finance & Business, Health Care, Homeland Security, Hospitality, Information Technology, Renewable Resources & Energy, Transportation.
https://www.jobcorps.gov/explore
120 Campuses Nationwide
Illinois Campuses: Chicago, Joliet
Benefits Include
Free housing, nutritious meals, basic medical care, and a living allowance.
https://www.jobcorps.gov/benefits
FREE English Language Acquisition (ELA) classes develop your conversation, listening and speaking, reading and writing skills.
Connect with an Admissions Specialist
https://enroll.jobcorps.gov/interest-form/01-who-is-interested
Financial Aid - Higher Education
Financial Aid - Higher Education
Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) form to apply for financial aid for college or graduate school
Scholarships & Supports
Financial Aid - Higher Education
Talk to your school counselor and search online for scholarships to support you in achieving educational goals. There are lots of sties offering support and guidance. See below for an example.
Scholarship -DuPage County
Scholarship -DuPage County
Scholarship -DuPage County
DuPage County is offering scholarships to low-income and disadvantaged persons of high academic attainment or potential. Scholarships will support formal education or occupational training in an accredited Illinois educational institution. This is a competitive process - not all applicants will receive funding.
Click below for an application:
https://www.dupagecounty.gov/government/departments/community_services/programs.php#collapse2297b423
Employment
workNet DuPage
Programming supported through federal funding to educate, connect, and develop the workforce in DuPage County. Services include:
FREE education/job training, resume & interview assistance, explore career pathways, and connections to local employers.
630-955-2030
Home - workNet DuPage Career Center
workNet DuPage provides eligible young adults ages 17 to 24 with free career and employment services to help them start a career with a future.
Text MYWAY to 630-5857-0842 or visit Youth Services - workNet DuPage Career Center
DuPage Building & Construction Trades Council
High school graduates and GED recipients interested in pursuing a career in the building trades can explore apprenticeship opportunities. Trades include Boilermakers, Bricklayers, Carpenters, Cement Masons & Plasterers, Electricians, Heat & Frost, Ironworkers, Laborers, Finishing Trades, Operating Engineers, Pipefitters, Plumbers, Technical Engineers, Roofers, Sheet Metal Workers, Sprinkler Fitters, and Teamsters.
https://dupagebuildingtrades.org/apprenticeship/
COD - ICAPS
The Integrated Career and Academic Preparation System (ICAPS) program is available to high school graduates and those seeking to attain the HSE. Earn in-demand certification in Office Technology, Manufacturing, or Entrepreneurship. Also available to advanced adult ESL students.
The Youth Learning Academy teaches youth how to maximize their potential by taking advantage of the many youth offerings at College of DuPage. It's never too early to develop an appreciation of lifelong learning. Programs are available for youth in Kindergarten through High School to explore areas of interest and future careers.
https://www.cod.edu/academics/continuing-education/youth-academy/index.html
Outreach Employment Training
Outreach Employment Training
Outreach invests in comprehensive employment training and wrap-around services that support young adults ages 18-29 as they gain the necessary skills for healthy independence. Through Outreach Employment Training, young adults can participate in tutoring, paid work experience, job skills training, paid internships, mental health counseling, and practical support.
Outreach also offers summer youth employment services for up to 35 high school students ages 15-18 at Outreach Carol Stream. Youth employment training components:
- Classroom training in employment soft skills
- Year round after-school academic support to retain high school enrollment
- Summer internships within the organization in year one and in a private sector business, civic, or non-profit organization in year two
630-682-3094
Work-Based Learning
Outreach Employment Training
Work-Based Learning
The DuPage County Regional Office of Education (ROE), in partnership with College of DuPage (Project Hire-Ed), and GPS Education Partners (GPSEd), is proud to support hands-on work-based learning opportunities and career exploration for students in a variety of industries throughout DuPage County.
This program is designed to help high school students access training and education to develop their career readiness so that they can succeed in the labor market. Students enrolled in the program can experience paid internships or apprenticeships with local business partners. Students will also have opportunities to tour workplaces, job shadow, and participate in other work-based learning activities to help them align their personal interests with a possible career.
For more information about this program, visit: https://wbl.dupageroe.org/
Contact your high school to determine if they are a participating partner in this program.
Pregnant & Parenting Young Adults
TEEN PARENT CONNECTION
Community-based organization serving pregnant and parenting youth ages 12-22. They offer a spectrum of services aimed at educating and supporting young parents.
Services Include:
Pre-Natal/Child Birthing Classes (8-week program; evening classes)
Doula Program (pregnancy support + 6-8 weeks of support post-delivery; weekly in-home visits)
Post-Partum Groups (4-week group; evening classes for those in their first year of parenting; peer led education)
Healthy Families Program (in-home support; frequency and timing of visits is individualized)
Young Parent Support Groups (evenings from 6-8pm; meal provided)
Counseling Services (offered during the school year; outside referral made as needed)
Parents Pantry (Thursdays 2-6pm)
http://teenparentconnection.org/
HOPEFUL BEGINNINGS
Maternity counseling and casework for pregnant women, prenatal and post delivery depression, anxiety, grief and loss of a pregnancy, and adjustment to motherhood counseling. Hopeful Beginnings offers Teen Parenting Support, which includes topics such as healthy relationships, mental health, prevention, child development, goal setting, and child birth. Pregnancy testing and unbiased options counseling is also available. All counseling services are free and available either in person or via telehealth with options in English or Spanish.
847-870-8181
Text HOPE to 67076
Expungement
Expungement can be a challenging process to understand. There may be costs associated with expungement. The links below can help you understand what types of juvenile cases can be expunged and how to request the process in eligible cases. These resources offer answers to frequently asked questions, definitions associated with the process, and links to important documents.
The Illinois legislature made important changes to expungement laws, effective January 1, 2018. Public Act 100-0285 http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/publicacts/fulltext.asp?Name=100-0285
If you still have questions, contact the attorney involved in your case for guidance.
Illinois Legal Aid Online
https://www.illinoislegalaid.org/legal-information/expunging-juvenile-record
The Office of the State Appellate Defender
https://www2.illinois.gov/osad/Expungement/Pages/JuvenileExpungement.aspx
Illinois Supreme Court- Approved Statewide Documents
http://www.illinoiscourts.gov/Forms/approved/expungement/expungement.asp
Youth Connections Magazine
Spring 2022
Spring 2022
Issue Highlights:
- Helping Children Learn from their Mistakes
- How to Manage Behaviors
- Nurture with Nature
- Why Teens Try to Cope Alone
Fall 2021
Spring 2022
- How to be Happy
- Marijuana and ADHD
- Benefits of Getting Youth Involved
- Hidden Hardships of Back to School
- Xanax and Youth
Winter 2020
- What to Do to Help Child Being Bullied
- Understanding and Addressing Anxiety
- Sleep Hygiene Quiz
- Listen to Hear and Not to Respond
- Why the Surge in Vaping Marijuana
Spring 2020
Spring 2020
Issue Highlights:
- Cultivating Self-Awareness
- 5 Truths About Middle Schoolers
- How to Develop Positive Self-Esteem in Youth
- Ways to Reduce Stress
Fall 2019
Spring 2020
Spring 2019
Issue Highlights:
- Stress? Insights from Your Child's Behavior
- Calming the Perfect Storm
- Navigating Self Time and Family Time
Spring 2019
Spring 2020
Spring 2019
Issue Highlights:
- Cultivating Trusting Relationships
- Vaping: What Parents Need to Know
Fall 2018
Spring 2018
Spring 2018
Issue Highlights:
No Means No (and I Love You)
Looking Behind the Screen
Time to Talk: Dangers Behind Electronic Cigarettes
Spring 2018
Spring 2018
Spring 2018
Issue Highlights:
- Facts About e-Cigarettes
- How to Avoid Raising Co-Dependent Kids
- Teen Texting vs. Talking
Fall 2017
Spring 2018
Fall 2017
Issue Highlights:
- 40 Developmental Assets: Setting Boundaries & Expectations
- Restorative Justice at Home
- How to Talk to Your Teen About Consent