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EverThrive IL hosted its 2nd Annual Community Baby Shower on Saturday, April 27th, at the Homan Square Community Center in the North Lawndale neighborhood. The event was held during National Infant Immunization Week to educate parents and families on the importance of taking action regarding their child’s health and share valuable information and resources with parents and parents-to-be who need them.
Talibah Johnson, our Community Engagement Manager, presented on National Infant Immunization Week and the immunization resources that EverThrive IL provides. Chicago U-Medics led the second presentation.
In addition to our resources, a variety of vendors, such as the Chicago South Side Birth Center and County Care, were also present. “We had community organizations attend to get families connected with services like maternal mental health care, insurance benefits, doula care, literacy programs, and more,” said Hailey Steele, EverThrive IL’s Birth Equity Manager, who attended the event.
The baby shower was also an opportunity for the community to come together. There was food, a game, and a raffle for WNBA Chicago Sky tickets, and at the end of the event, guests received gift packages that were donated to our organization. These gift packages included clothes, diapers, breastfeeding supplies, and pack and plays for their babies. “Many families don’t get the opportunity to have their own baby shower due to socioeconomic barriers or other circumstances, so it was amazing to host one for the entire community to celebrate parents and their little ones,” said Hailey. “It is important to be in community with each other to ensure that all parents feel supported and cared for.”
These events play a significant role in assisting those facing injustices within the health care system. Talibah, who coordinated the event, gives insight into this perspective:
“Community engagement opportunities like the baby shower allow us to cultivate a positive reputation with community members, stakeholders, and funders. We also inspire others to join us and create a ripple effect of change. Community outreach work can also help you contribute to the common good and make your community a better place to live, work, and play. The overall importance of community outreach is reflected in the improved health and economic outcomes of those who benefit from outreach programs. We plan to continue having the Community Baby Shower annually for years to come so we can help and provide support to those who need it.”