Illinois Churches and Schools Team Up to Support Children

(Undated) -- They say it takes a village to raise a child, and in Illinois, dozens of faith communities are stepping up to help nurture the educational, social, and personal development of students. Through the 'One Church One School' program, churches pair up with schools to provide academic, social, and personal support for kids. Executive director Dr. Phedonia Johnson says their goal is to help build meaningful and lasting partnerships. Johnson says churches use a variety of initiatives to help kids, including mentoring, attendance, and tutoring programs. There are over 80 partnerships in the Chicago area and programs all over the country, and one in West Africa. Today, faith leaders and students will gather for the program’s 18th annual One Church One School Conference at Chicago State University for training about building partnerships.