Nearly 50 years ago, community members on the West Side of Chicago came together to address a need. As families faced the loss of a beloved after-school program, they were committed to filling the gap. From their vision, the Carole Robertson Center for Learning was formed.
Today we celebrate our longevity through both joyful and difficult times. From our modest beginnings, the Center has expanded to operating three flagship sites and providing services across 27 neighborhoods in Chicago.
Supporting our communities has never been more essential.
The Center has weathered many challenges over the decades, yet we remain a steady, grounding presence. Through intentional and data-informed work in service to children and families, we help drive generational change.
This past year brought profound challenges—from Head Start funding uncertainty to federal law enforcement activity that sparked fear. And too many of our youth continue to confront trauma and violence. As we know all too well, these experiences leave lasting wounds that stand in stark contrast to the generational progress and stability the Center works every day to build.
In this uncertain yet rapidly evolving environment, the Center serves as a place of safety, belonging, learning, and hope. Children find classrooms where they can explore and thrive. Youth find mentors, stability, and acceptance. Families find trusted partners who walk alongside them, connecting them with needed supports to foster long-term stability, such as housing, job, and food assistance, health care, and more.
“I’m a single mom. If I didn't have a Head Start program for my youngest, I wouldn't be able to work, and I wouldn't be able to provide for my household.”
- Contessa Houston, Center Parent
Your support makes this work possible.
The Center will mark its 50th anniversary of service in 2026—a significant milestone made possible by changemakers like you. As we celebrate, we do so with deep gratitude for your continued support. No matter how you contribute—through charitable gifts, volunteering, or championing our work—you are helping advance the Carole Robertson Center for Learning’s mission and legacy.
Your gift today will:
Strengthen our presence as a community pillar in under-resourced neighborhoods
Increase our ability to provide wraparound supports that help families thrive.
Enable program innovation that promotes best practices in child and youth development.
About the Carole Robertson Center for Learning
The Carole Robertson Center for Learning is a leader in building brains and championing families. With an approach that combines direct service, robust data and evaluation practices, and community-based advocacy, the Center serves as a living incubator for fresh innovations in early childhood education and youth development. We are rooted in our mission to educate, enrich, and empower children and families—all while catalyzing systems change to benefit young learners everywhere.