Alive & Free

01/08/2026

We’re officially almost through our first full week of the New Year—and this is your reminder to keep going.

New beginnings don’t require perfection. They require intention, consistency, and grace. Whether your year started strong or feels a bit overwhelming, know this: progress is still progress, even when it’s quiet.

As we move forward, let’s commit to caring for our mental health in healthy, sustainable ways—not just when things get hard, but as a daily practice.

Here are a few simple ways to protect your mental well-being this week and beyond:

Check in with yourself daily. Ask, “How am I really feeling today?” and honor the answer.

Set realistic expectations. You don’t have to do everything at once. One step at a time is enough.

Rest without guilt. Rest is productive when it helps you reset and refocus.

Stay connected. Talk to someone you trust. You were never meant to carry everything alone.

Limit what drains you. This includes negative self-talk, unhealthy boundaries, and overstimulation.

Celebrate small wins. Showing up is a win. Trying again is a win.

This year is not about rushing—it’s about healing, growing, and becoming. Give yourself permission to move forward at your own pace.

Alive & Free believes in you. Keep going. You’re doing better than you think.

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12/19/2025

💙 Holiday Check-In for Our Youth 💙

As we head into the holidays and winter break, this is a reminder to take care of you — not just physically, but socially, emotionally, and mentally too.

This time of year can bring joy, but it can also bring stress, pressure, or mixed emotions. All of it is valid. Make space to rest, unplug when needed, talk to someone you trust, and do the things that help you feel grounded and safe.

Winter break is a time to reset, reflect, and recharge as we move into a new year. Be kind to yourself. Give yourself grace. You don’t have to have everything figured out — just keep showing up for yourself one day at a time.

From all of us at Alive & Free, we hope you enjoy your break, protect your peace, and step into the New Year feeling supported, valued, and hopeful. ✨

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12/19/2025

YOU ARE WORTH IT....KEEP GOING

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10/23/2025

“It’s more than just a job. I want to empower people, and that’s what we’re trying to do,” said Jessica Wilson, a community engagement liaison. “We’re trying to provide them with the knowledge to empower them to be able to rise in an effective way in their community.”

https://www.mystateline.com/news/rockford-community-takes-stand-against-violence-with-training-sessions/?fbclid=IwY2xjawNnTrhleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHpww7WiOOKEuwtlLJMLNs9s0nT1BATkYYaEU4cNbOwF6NndbaAHS24BufK_9_aem_hjGjZaUJlrBCOS6t5mNr9Q

The City of Rockford is collaborating with local organizations to help prevent violence in the community by hosting training sessions.

10/21/2025

We are super excited to be a part of spook the blocks 2025 in Downtown Rockford. Come stop by and see us for candy bars and gift cards at 328 E. State Street. Must be wearing a costume to redeem.

This event will take place Saturday October 25th from 12-4 pm. We hope to see everybody come out and have some fun during this trick-or-treating event.

10/14/2025

🚨✨ BIG ANNOUNCEMENT! ✨🚨

We’re keeping the momentum going! 💪 Join us for our next Youth CREW Meeting — a space for young voices to connect, share ideas, and help build a safer, stronger community together. 🙌🔥

📅 When: Wednesday, October 22nd, 2025
⏰ Time: 4:30 PM
📍 Where: CCS – 917 S. Main St., Rockford, IL 61101
(Enter through the back parking lot – look for “Graduates” on the door)

💥 FOOD WILL BE PROVIDED! 💥

Come ready to make an impact and be part of something BIG. This is just the beginning! 💙

10/10/2025

🧠💚 World Mental Health Day – October 10th 💚🧠

Today we pause to recognize World Mental Health Day, a time to raise awareness and remind ourselves that taking care of our minds is just as important as taking care of our bodies.

Since 1992, this day has been dedicated to breaking the stigma and encouraging open conversations about mental health. Remember:

✨ You are not alone in your feelings.
🌊 Feelings ebb and flow.
🌱 Things can get better.
🤝 Ask for help when you need it.
💼 Your work is not your worth.
☀️ Take a day away from the busy world.
🚧 Set boundaries.
💖 Be kind to yourself.

Let’s continue to create a world where it’s okay to talk about mental health, seek help, and practice self-care. 💬💚

Send a message to learn more

09/23/2025

THE VIOLENCE PREVENTION COORDINATION COUNCIL PRESENTS:

✨💪 Empowerment Through Advocacy! 💪✨
Join us for a powerful Community Training Series designed to help YOU know your rights and access free legal support. 🗣️

📅 Thursday, September 25, 2025
🕛 12:00 PM – 1:45 PM
📍 Collier Gardens, 2901 Searles Ave. (2nd Floor Community Room), Rockford, IL 61101
💻 Or join us online!

🌟 Topics include:
✔️ Support for survivors of domestic violence
✔️ Legal assistance for older adults
✔️ Renters’ rights
✔️ Sealing & expungement

09/08/2025

Today’s YouthBuild presentations were a great success! We’re excited to share a few highlights and moments we captured throughout the day!

09/08/2025

08/25/2025

✨ Calling all youth ages 9–20! ✨
We want YOU to be part of the Youth CREW — a group that uplifts, empowers, and gives young people a voice. 💬🙌

✅ Build leadership skills
✅ Gain mentorship & peer support
✅ Boost your resume & college applications
✅ Be recognized and celebrated
✅ Find purpose and belonging

💡 This is YOUR platform to be heard, grow, and make a difference in the community!

📲 Scan the QR code on the flyer to sign up today — let’s rise together! 🚀💛

08/22/2025