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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 in Waukegan, Illinois

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

Beacon Place's Mission, Vision & Values

We are grateful to our supportive and generous partners