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POC is a vibrant community organization dedicated to empowering families and individuals through comprehensive support services. Our programs include:

Youth Development & Family Engagement - Recently boosted by our Young Professionals Board's successful "Sippin' on Sunshine" fundraiser, which raised over $13,000

Mental Health Support - Our Skyward Bound program for young adults, supported by generous grants from Megan Butz Legacy of Hope ($25,000) and local township partnerships

Learning Lab - Serving guests from over 14 countries (ages 18-87) with English practice, job placement, healthcare connections, and community integration support

ICompete Summer Camps - Annual programs running June through August, offering diverse activities and family engagement opportunities

Roots Community Garden - Now relocated to Falcon Park Recreation Center with raised garden beds for community growing

Advocacy & Legislative Relations - Actively advocating at local, county, and state levels for immigrant rights, healthcare access, and educational funding

From our clothing closet and crisis center to helping residents earn driver's licenses and connect with educational opportunities, POC creates pathways to success for under-resourced families in the Palatine area.

POC is a dynamic community organization creating lasting impact through diverse programs and community partnerships in Palatine and surrounding areas. Our key initiatives include:

ICompete Summer Camp - Our flagship summer program serves 60 campers with 15+ exciting trips and experiences, including visits to Brookfield Zoo, Enchanted Castle, Harper College, Rainbow Falls, and local aquatic centers. Complete with daily breakfast and family engagement nights featuring activities like Brownies & Bingo and petting zoo presentations.

Young Professionals Board - A dedicated group of service-oriented professionals raising funds and awareness for our mission. Their "Summer Nights and Beer Flights" fundraiser raised over $8,000 to support Youth Development & Family Engagement programs.

Community Events - Annual Candy Crawl at Falcon Park Recreation Center brings together 40+ volunteer groups to create safe, fun Halloween experiences for 500-600 local children.

Roots Community Garden - An active growing space where volunteers and families harvest fresh produce including tomatoes, zucchini, cucumbers, eggplant, and leafy greens. Features educational family events, science nights, and healthy eating workshops led by medical professionals.

Special Fundraising Events

• Farm to Table Dinner at Soulful Prairies (consistently sells out!)
• J & D Golf Outing at Palatine Hills Golf Course

From youth programming to community gardening, POC connects families with resources, opportunities, and each other. Our extensive network of local sponsors and volunteers makes transformative programs possible throughout the year.