Learning Annex & Computer Lab
SOS Illinois is proud to share an important resource with our children and families, as well as our surrounding communities. In the Knight Engineers & Architects Learning Annex, the Specialist Staffing Group Computer Lab, as well as a training center, will provide space for ongoing workshops and seminars to promote lifelong learning.
Programming in the Learning Annex
Programming Supported through the Jill L. Meinzer Scholarship Fund
With over 20 years of leadership roles in the cable and communications industry, Jill L. Meinzer was known as a hands-on team-builder, collaborator and problem solver. Jill recognized that others, due to circumstances beyond their control, faced challenges that could keep them from reaching their full potential. Through her work and through her mentoring, Jill became particularly aware of the challenges faced by youth in foster care, including those served by SOS Illinois.
Jill passed away at the age of 53 after a year-long battle with cancer. However, Jill was able to share her wishes with her family. This resulted in establishing an endowed fund that will support education and job skills training programs associated with the Roosevelt Square Community Center through a gift of $1 million. The Jill L. Meinzer Scholarship Fund will help youth and young adults reach their potential, become self-sufficient, and have the foundation in place for a life of achievement and professional satisfaction.
Additional job skills training and education programming at the Center will include:
- Tutoring (grammar school)
- Tutoring (middle school)
- Tutoring (high school)
- College Preparedness/Search/Applications
- Career days
- Career counseling
- Mentorships
- Job shadowing
- Internships
- Resume Writing/Interview preparations
Bank of America Financial Programming
The Your Financial Strength, presented by Bank of America program will present the existing Bank of America Better Money Habits financial literacy program designed to prepare those in the community to become self-sufficient and better prepare them for life’s financial opportunities and challenges.
“Better Money Habits” Curriculum
Topics include:
Personal Banking, Taxes & Income, Saving & Budgeting, Understanding Credit, Paying Down Debt, Home Ownership, Buying a Car, College and Educational Expense, and Saving for Retirement.
To learn more about the Roosevelt Square Community Center, visit our virtual tour to see footage of the building, as well as hear from those involved in the projet.
Did you Know?
SOS Children’s Villages Illinois children achieve a 100% graduation rate. Nationally, only 50% of children in foster care graduate high school.
SOS Illinois children receive comprehensive wrap-around services that address their whole self—physical, mental, and emotional.
SOS Illinois children benefit from permanency and stability. They can always “come home,” even when they are in college or have graduated.
SOS Illinois Foster Parents receive professional training and support to be effective parental figures, receive a salary and full benefits, and have access to a supportive network of other SOS Illinois Foster Parents.