Naperville, Illinois
Founded in 1995, KidsMatter began as an initiative by Edward Hospital to combat destructive behavior in teenagers. Recognizing that a problem-centered approach that relies heavily on professionals and public sector resources rarely works by itself, the hospital sought a complementary approach that focuses on healthy development and requires action by all residents of the community. Search Institute’s research-proven 40 Developmental Assets framework was selected as the infrastructure to help Naperville ensure that the building blocks of healthy development were in place for Naperville’s youth. In 2001, KidsMatter became a nonprofit organization. KidsMatter is involved in practical efforts to build young people’s Developmental Assets through education, programming, and coalition building. It is our goal to deliver the essential message to all our young people in both words and actions: KidsMatter to Naperville!
< Back to Initiative SearchAssets in Action
KidsMatter Enlivens its Community and Builds Assets
KidsMatter was awarded $5,000 to create a “Way Finding System” and murals to enliven the Van Buren parking garage elevator waiting areas, highlighting five developmental asset categories.MORE
KidsMatter Announces New Kid-Friendly Business Initiative
Together with the Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce, KidsMatter recognizes “kid friendly” businesses who are making positive differences in the lives of young people in their community. Businesses that are recognized through this initiative must embrace certain principles. They must perceive that young people are resources to the community; greet every young person with a smile; provide safe and healthy working environments for young employees; encourage and adult involvement in youth-serving organizations; and encourage and support family time and family needs as a priority for employees.MORE
KidsMatter Leads Research Project on Stressors of Everyday Life
Kidsmatter led a research project for United Way which revealed three stressors of everyday life that have an impact on youth in their local school districts.MORE
