Announcement, In the News, Press Release |
CHICAGO – The Circuit Court of Cook County's Child Protection Courts held its first annual Family Reunification Ceremony & Celebration on Saturday. The free, community-wide event brought together reunified families, legal advocates, community organizations, and court partners to honor the resilience of families who have successfully navigated the child welfare system and returned home together.
Presented by Presiding Judge Andrea M. Buford of the Cook County Child Protection Courts, the ceremony celebrated the hard work and determination of families while recognizing the network of professionals and community partners who support them throughout the reunification process. Attendees enjoyed a complimentary lunch, family activities including games and music, and connections to community resources and support services.
“This ceremony is about recognizing that behind every successful reunification is a family that worked tirelessly to overcome challenges, and a community that believed in their ability to grow and move forward,” Judge Buford stated. “When these reunifications happen, it is not a victory only for the courts and the families, but rather for the entire community. We are proud to celebrate these accomplishments and the people who make them possible.”
The event was held in partnership with CASA of Cook County, the Office of the Cook County Public Guardian, the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS), and the Illinois Court Improvement Program.
The ceremony was attended by Illinois Supreme Court Chief Justice P. Scott Neville, Jr., DCFS Director Heidi Mueller, Administrative Office of the Illinois Courts (AOIC) Director Marcia Meis, and State Senator Mattie Hunter, underscoring the statewide significance of the day and the broad coalition of leaders committed to supporting Cook County families.
“CASA of Cook County proudly celebrates families who have successfully reunified with their children. We recognize the extraordinary resilience, commitment, and perseverance they demonstrated throughout their journey,” Bonita Carr, Ed.D. CEO of CASA of Cook County, proudly states. “This celebration honors the power of hope, second chances while recognizing that unwavering love is the catalyst that helps families heal, reunite and restore their futures together.”
The Cook County Child Protection Courts oversee cases involving the safety and well-being of children across Cook County, working alongside partners to ensure that every child has a safe and stable home. When reunification is possible and safe, the court works to support families in meeting the requirements necessary to bring children home.
The inaugural ceremony reflects the court's commitment not only to adjudicating cases, but to recognizing the human journey behind each one, and celebrating the milestones that matter most to families.
Chief Judge Charles S. Beach II of the Circuit Court of Cook County expressed support for the event as part of the court's broader commitment to community engagement and family-centered justice.
For more information about the Cook County Child Protection Courts, visit www.cookcountycourtil.gov.
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Media Contact: ocj.press@cookcountyil.gov
(312) 603-5414