Spero Family Services Achieves Prestigious CARE Certification from Cornell University
Spero Family Services is proud to announce that it has officially earned CARE Certification from the Residential Child Care Project at Cornell University. After beginning this transformative journey in 2019, Spero is now one of only 24 agencies worldwide to hold this prestigious designation, marking a significant milestone in its commitment to embedding evidence-based care practices into its organizational culture.
The CARE (Children and Residential Care Experience) Certification program, administered by Cornell’s Residential Child Care Project, recognizes organizations that demonstrate excellence in trauma-informed care methodology and systems. Achieving this certification signifies that Spero has adopted a research-driven model emphasizing safety, therapeutic environments, and continuous professional development within its team.
“The CARE Certification demonstrates our long-standing dedication to integrating evidence-based care into every facet of our work,” said Joe Bernard, CEO of Spero Family Services. “It’s a testament to the hard work of our staff, the trust of the families we serve, and our focus on delivering high-quality services.”
To celebrate this momentous achievement, Spero will host a CARE celebration event on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, at 11:00 AM. The partners, families, and supporters are invited to join the ceremony at 2023 Richview Road, Mt. Vernon, IL 62864, where agency leaders and Cornell representatives will speak about the impact of CARE implementation, share success stories, and outline next steps in Spero’s ongoing journey toward excellence.
This certification adds to Spero’s legacy as a forward-thinking provider of family services in southern Illinois, reinforcing its position as a leader in trauma-informed, client-centered care.
About Spero Family Services
Spero Family Services is a non-profit organization based in Mt. Vernon, IL. Since 1913, Spero has been dedicated to supporting families and children through a range of programs focused on behavioral health, residential care, and community services
About the CARE Certification
The Cornell Residential Child Care Project’s CARE Certification recognizes agencies that effectively implement evidence-based, trauma-informed systems and practices. With only 24 certified agencies worldwide, CARE is a leading framework guiding organizations toward the highest standards of therapeutic care and staff development.
Spero Youth Serve Up Hope and Help for Animals
On June 26, the incredible young people in Spero Family Services’ Residential Treatment program took a bold step in turning their compassion in
to action. With a mix of excitement and purpose, they hosted a cheerful community lemonade stand, but this wasn’t just about cold drinks on a hot day. These youth were on a mission: to raise money for the Jefferson County Animal Shelter and give back to their local community in a meaningful way.
From the very beginning, this project was youth-led. With support from staff, the group brainstormed ideas, created a plan, and took on the challenge with enthusiasm. They designed signs, set up their stand, and even made handmade bracelets and keychains to sell alongside their refreshing lemonade. Each item was crafted with creativity and care, making the stand a colorful display of both talent and generosity. The experience offered more than just a fundraising opportunity, it provided a chance for these young people to build confidence, practice teamwork, and experience the joy of helping others. Many of the youth involved have experienced their own challenges, and this project allowed them to feel the empowerment that comes from giving back. They interacted with community members, practiced communication and money-handling skills, and saw firsthand how their efforts could make a positive impact. The proceeds from the stand are going directly to the Jefferson County Animal Shelter to support the care of animals in need. For many of the youth, helping animals struck a personal chord, providing a sense of connection and compassion that mirrors their own journeys of healing and hope.
Events like this are a shining example of the work we do every day at Spero: helping young people discover their strengths, build resilience, and find purpose through service and support. These moments of success—no matter how small—build toward a brighter, more hopeful future for the youth in our care. We are so proud of their initiative, their generous hearts, and their willingness to make a difference. It’s clear: when given the opportunity, Spero youth don’t just grow—they thrive.
30 Years on the Fairway: Spero’s Milestone Golf Tournament Tees Up Hope
On July 11th, Spero Family Services held its 30th Annual Golf Tournament at Green Hills Golf Club, presented by longtime partner People’s National Bank. What began three decades ago as a modest charity outing has blossomed into a cornerstone community event, one that has now generated more than $870,000 for children and families across Southern Illinois. This year’s milestone fielded 25 teams. From the first swing on the opening tee box to the final putt, the day was a showcase of camaraderie. Familiar faces reunited on the fairways, while first‑time participants quickly discovered that Spero’s tournament is as much about fellowship as it is about birdies and pars. Behind the scenes, Spero’s dedicated staff stepped in to volunteer their Friday to marshal holes, host games, and keep water coolers full. Their enthusiasm was matched by the organization’s Board of Directors, who transformed the clubhouse into the “19th Hole” reception. “Our golf community has carried Spero’s mission on its shoulders for 30 years,” remarked Joe Bernard, Spero CEO. “Every swing today helps us provide hope, help, and healing to the children who need it most. We couldn’t do it without People’s National Bank and each of you.”
As the event wrapped up and prizes were handed out, everyone left with a sense of shared accomplishment. Whether they played every hole or just enjoyed the day, their participation helped support vital programs like residential treatment, YouthBuild, and Wraparound. Thank you to every golfer, sponsor, and volunteer who made the 30th year our best yet. Here’s to another three decades of driving change, one round at a time.
Spero Youth Homes Spring Celebration Returns
After several years on hold due to the pandemic, the beloved Spero Youth Homes Spring Celebration is making a joyful and long-awaited return on Friday, June 13th, at Wesley United Methodist Churc
h. This annual tradition, started over two decades ago, has always served as a powerful moment of reflection and celebration for the youth who call Spero home. It’s a time to pause and honor the resilience, hard work, and growth of each individual — from academic accomplishments such as graduations, school promotions, and improved attendance to personal milestones that may go unnoticed but mean everything to the youth and their support teams. Families, staff, and supporters will gather for an evening of encouragement, connection, and community. Each youth will be recognized and celebrated for their unique journey and achievements, no matter how big or small. It’s a powerful reminder that every step forward is worth celebrating. Adding a warm and personal touch to the evening, guests will enjoy a homemade meal prepared by Gina Ellis, Spero’s Spiritual Life Coordinator, who brings not only culinary talent but deep compassion and dedication to every gathering she supports.
“This celebration is about more than just accomplishments,” said members of Spero’s Activities Team, who have worked diligently to revive the event. “It’s about giving our youth the recognition, encouragement, and love they so deeply deserve. We want them to know how proud we are — and that their efforts are seen and valued.” This celebration has always been a highlight of the year for Spero Youth Homes, providing a sense of closure for the school year and a joyful launch into the summer months. This year’s event represents more than just a return to tradition — it’s a celebration of resilience, hope, and the renewed spirit of coming together after years apart. We’re beyond thrilled to bring this cherished tradition back to life — and even more excited to celebrate the incredible youth who live with us, grow with us, and inspire us every single day.
April is Prevent Child Abuse Awareness Month
As we move into April we are reminded that every child deserves a safe, nurturing environment to grow, learn, and thrive. Yet, thousands of children across Illinois and the United States face the harsh reality of abuse and neglect. To bring attention to this critical issue, April is nationally recognized as Prevent Child Abuse Awareness Month, a time to educate the public, support families, and reaffirm our collective commitment to protecting children Spero Family Services is proud to partner with Child Abuse Prevention efforts to raise awareness and provide resources to families and communities throughout Illinois.
Child abuse and neglect leave long-lasting scars, both physically and emotionally, on children and their families. Abuse affects every aspect of a child’s life, from their mental health to their education and future relationships. When we work together to prevent abuse, we ensure children have the opportunity to grow up in a supportive environment, breaking cycles of trauma and building stronger communities.
In 2023, the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) reported over 40,000 cases of child abuse and neglect statewide. Children under the age of 5 are the most vulnerable, making up a significant percentage of cases. Experts estimate that for every reported case, many others go unreported, leaving countless children without the help they need. These numbers are a sobering reminder of the work that remains. But with community efforts and increased awareness, we can make a difference.
This April, Spero Family Services is actively raising awareness and providing valuable resources for families in our community. We have two significant events that everyone is encouraged to attend. The first event marks the Child Abuse Prevention Month Kickoff on April 1st at 1:00 PM at John A. Logan College in Carterville. During this event, Spero Family Services, alongside other advocates, will come together to officially kick off the month dedicated to preventing child abuse.
The second event is the 10th Annual Spero Family Fun Fest, scheduled for April 24th from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM at the Wesley United Methodist Church. This family-friendly gathering promises an afternoon filled with free food, exciting games, and fantastic prizes. It’s not just about fun; this event will also serve as a platform to share information about community programs and resources available to families. It’s an excellent opportunity for attendees to connect and learn more about how they can support children and families in need. These events are open to everyone, and we encourage you to participate, learn, and help spread the message of hope and prevention.
If you or someone you know is struggling, know that there is help available. Spero Family Services, along with other organizations across Illinois, offers resources, counseling, and support to families in need. No one has to face challenges alone—there is a network of care ready to lend a hand. This April, let’s unite as a community to prevent child abuse and build a brighter future for the children of Illinois. Join Spero Family Services in our mission to raise awareness and extend love and support to every child and family. Together, we can make a difference.
Celebrating Success at the ICEARY Conference in Bloomington, IL!
The recent Illinois Coalition for Educating At-Risk Youth (ICEARY) conference held in Bloomington, Illinois, was a resounding success, bringing together over 700 attendees for an enriching experience. As we reflect on this incredible event, we want to extend a heartfelt thank you to Kari Docherty, Spero Professional Development Coordinator, who has served as the conference director for the ninth consecutive year. Her dedication and leadership continue to make ICEARY a remarkable gathering for professionals.
One of the highlights of the conference was a thought-provoking session led by Spero’s Steven Winchell on Understanding Challenging Behavior. Attendees gained valuable insights and strategies to better navigate complex interactions, leaving everyone inspired to apply their new knowledge in practical settings. Additionally, the keynote speeches delivered by Liz Murray and CJ Reynolds captivated the audience. Their powerful messages resonated deeply, motivating attendees to pursue their passions and overcome obstacles in both personal and professional realms.
Spero is proud to attend this conference annually. It’s inspiring to witness the numerous teachers eager to make a positive impact on the lives of children.
Savoring Culture and Skills
Spero Introduces Key Leadership Changes for Growth
In December, Spero Family Services made significant changes to its organizational leadership chart. These strategic adjustments aim to foster growth and sustainability in the coming years. By enhancing efficiency in service delivery, Spero seeks to improve overall organizational effectiveness.
Mandy Bernard has been promoted to Chief Program Officer as part of this restructuring. With 16 years of dedication to Spero, Mandy brings a wealth of experience from various roles across multiple programs. In her new position, she will oversee community programs while supporting the Foster Care program. Mandy is excited to collaborate with fellow leaders to build strong, sustainable programs for the community. She emphasizes the importance of laying the groundwork for long-term success, stating, “The best part of this job will be helping the people that help the people, watching people grow into amazing leaders, and supporting others in having crazy ideas.”
Tammy Sweet has also been promoted to Chief Clinical Officer. With 8 years at Spero, Tammy has held many roles, including Residential Treatment Therapist, Clinical Director of Residential Treatment, and Executive Director of Clinical Services. In her new role, she will provide oversight and support for all mental health and behavioral health initiatives within Spero. Tammy is committed to ensuring all programs feel comfortable addressing mental health issues while keeping the organization’s CARE philosophy at the forefront of interactions with youth, families, stakeholders, and community partners. She highlights that the best aspect of her role is the people and her incredible team.
These leadership changes at Spero Family Services reflect a commitment to innovation and collaboration. With Mandy and Tammy at the helm, Spero is well-positioned to thrive now and in the future. This new leadership will ensure that Spero’s programs not only endure but flourish for decades to come.
A Joyful Christmas at Spero
The holiday season is a time of joy, love, and giving. However, for many children in residential and group homes, it can also bring feelings of loneliness and despair. For instance, some have never experienced a Christmas, while others have known only chaos. Recognizing this need, our community stepped up to sponsor these children, ensuring they have a joyful Christmas.
On December 16th, Spero Family Services organized a heartwarming gift-opening event. The children came together to celebrate with games, hot cocoa, cookies, and the excitement of unwrapping gifts from our generous donors. Moreover, this cherished tradition brings hope and cheer to those who struggle during the holidays.
Consequently, the event’s success hinges on the incredible generosity of our donors. They sponsor each child and provide personalized gifts that bring smiles and warmth to their hearts. As a result, on the evening of December 16th, the atmosphere buzzed with excitement and togetherness. Laughter filled the room as they engaged in various activities, creating lasting memories.Furthermore, the highlight was the gift opening. Each child eagerly unwrapped carefully chosen presents—ranging from electronics and books to clothing—bringing a sense of belonging and love.Ultimately, the impact of this event goes beyond immediate happiness. It reminds children that they are not forgotten and that people genuinely care about their well-being. This support, therefore, brings light to their lives and helps them embrace the joy of the season.
YouthBuild Takes Home Best Float in the Mt. Vernon Christmas Parade
In a remarkable display of creativity and community spirit, YouthBuild proudly emerged as the winner of the Best Float award at the Great Mt. Vernon Christmas Light Fight Parade on December 6th. This success story began with a simple conversation among the members of the YouthBuild Council. The group was eager to engage in a community project, but with the busy holiday season upon them, time was of the essence.
Initially, the group considered replicating last year’s effort of collecting donations for a local nursing home. However, realizing the limited time available, YouthBuild staff suggested entering the Christmas parade instead. This idea sparked excitement among the participants, setting the stage for their upcoming project.Once a trailer was secured, the next challenge was to choose a theme for the float. The options included The Grinch (live-action), National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, and an Enchanted Forest. Ultimately, the Grinch was selected as the winning theme. The team then decided to recreate two memorable scenes from the film: the Cheermister scene and the mailroom scene. Lynn, the YouthBuild Class President, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “Playing the Grinch was silly but a lot of fun. I was very proud of it, and I loved it!”
The hard work and dedication of the YouthBuild members paid off when they were announced as the winners of the float competition. Beccah McConnaughay, a YouthBuild staff member, described the moment, saying, “When they told us we won, I couldn’t believe it. We all started jumping up and down and high-fiving each other. I was so proud of the work each and every one of them put into the float, and it really showed.
“This achievement wouldn’t have been possible without the generous support of the community. Our YouthBuild Construction Trainers, Rick Daniels and Russel Hayes, made building the throne a reality. YouthBuild also received several donations to help create the float, including two Christmas trees, cardboard from SCI Box, LLC to build Max’s dog house, and white tablecloths from Rebecca Payne to simulate snow. Lights borrowed from the Spero main campus added the perfect finishing touch to the float.
The YouthBuild float not only won an award but also fostered a sense of pride and teamwork among its members. Their dedication to creativity, community involvement, and holiday spirit truly made this year’s parade a memorable event. As they look forward to next year, the YouthBuild team is already dreaming up new projects to continue making a positive impact in their community.