KidsMatter

Our Mission: Building Resilient Kids who say “no” to destructive choices and “yes” to endless possibilities!

Founded by Edward Hospital, KidsMatter is now marking its 15^th year of providing Asset education and Asset-building events, as well as a variety of interactive growth opportunities, including programs and workshops, to youth and families throughout much of DuPage & Will Counties – directly and indirectly touching thousands of lives.

KidsMatter tackles at-risk issues proactively.  KidsMatter conducted research for the United Way on the stressors of everyday life impacting youth.  Three key stressors surfaced after 2 years of focus groups with students & parents:  1. Competition in academics, sports, materialistic endeavors, 2. Over-involvement in activities, and 3. Perfectionism, as opposed to Personal Best.

Research reveals:  Youth battle the stress of academic, social and economic competition daily.  Left unmanaged, these stressors undermine healthy personal development and lead to chronic anxiety, depression, drug & alcohol use and thoughts of suicide.  Since 2011, fifteen youth died from drug overdoses in Naperville alone.

KidsMatter’s mission is to prevent problems in the lives of youth before they start by equipping youth and families with tools to manage the stress of everyday life through dynamic school and community programs, practical education, resources and youth recognition.  We harness the power of partnership with parents, educators and an extensive network of community resources to help kids and families thrive. Our goal – to stop problems in kids’ lives before they start! KidsMatter’s programs and events build resilient youth who can manage negative stressors by saying “no” to destructive choices.