Healthy Bodies, Strong Minds, Bright Futures
Beacon Place is a neighborhood community center in Waukegan, IL with programs for children and families that focus on academic growth, improved health, and building the skills that allow individuals and families to see their own path to a brighter tomorrow.
160,000+ hours
of programs for children & adults by 4,000 volunteers
250+ neighbors
children & adults from the area enrolled in programs
4,000+ meals
on site & 800+ bags of food for 2,200+ meals at home
20+ sessions
Parent University & family enrichment
Welcome to Beacon Place!
In 2008, a group of friends who volunteered at Holy Family Food Pantry in Waukegan saw that the families' and children's needs were beyond a bag of food, inspiring the creation of the Beacon Place community center.
In 2013, Beacon Place obtained its official 501c3 status, acquired the abandoned property known as the “Big Blue House,” and established foundational pillars of support, which included food and nutrition, education, and family support. The initial programs included Summer Lunch Bunch, Moms Group, and the Children’s Garden.
In 2014, Beacon Place community partnerships grew, renovation of the “Big Blue House” was underway, and programming was expanded to include after-school homework help and enrichment activities. Over the years, the after-school programs became curriculum-based, with programming added for tweens and teens. As the number of students increased, so did the need for more space. In 2017, a new state-of-the-art facility, the 'Annex' was built.
As the needs of the community changed, Beacon Place has been resilient, adapting quickly to continue to provide essential services and support. We continue to celebrate many successes that we have witnessed over the past 11 years; highschoolers graduating and moving onto college, the military, and successful job paths; families growing stronger; and a community that is flourishing.
Beacon Place is on the corner of McAlister & South Ave in Waukegan, IL
Inspiring bright minds and creating plans for their future through tech-focused education and access
Academic Enrichment
Supporting families and lifting the community through programs for parents and families
Connected Partnership
Building strong bodies by encouraging healthy lifestyles
Healthy Lifestyles
Impactful programs focused on a healthier and brighter future
We are grateful to our supportive and generous partners
What's Happening @ Beacon Place
"Beacon Place provides a great support system. Over the past 10 years, they have been a rock for me, my husband, and our 5 children.
All of my children have spent years at the Blue House, and it's made a big, positive impact on all of us. Beacon Place isn't just a place, it's like family - always there to support and build us up!" - Beacon Place Parent
