Current Initiative: Safety & Well-Being Collaborative
Building a Racine where every family can thrive.
For three years, we've listened to Racine families, studied what works, and built practical solutions alongside the people most affected. Now we're ready to act — and we need you.
The Work
Grounded in community. Built for families.
The Safety and Well-Being Collaborative includes a Steering Committee and action teams of more than 35 individuals representing nearly 30 local organizations—parents, neighbors, educators, lifelong residents, and business owners who live and work in greater Racine. More than 200 Racine residents and community experts have informed these solutions, through past Collaborative cohorts, family engagement sessions, and subject matter expertise.
Rooted in insights from Racine Speaks and three years of community engagement, the Collaborative is focused on four areas where families told us they need the most support.
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Access to Groceries & Food
Connecting families to healthy, affordable food where they are.
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Job & Workplace Supports
Supporting families pursuing good jobs that pay enough to build a stable life.
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Parenting Programs & Supports
Making parenting programs easier to find, access, and use.
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Support for Individuals Transitioning into Community from Incarceration
Supporting returning community members and the families waiting for them.
Education
In conversations with Racine Unified School District high school students, parents of K-12 students, non-graduates, teachers, principals, and counselors, we heard that people see pronounced racial disparities; participants said there is unequal access to essential resources and want successful programs expanded to all schools.
They seek better anti-racism training for teachers and administrative staff, and greater diversity in staff and curriculum; clear, consistent leadership and communication; and efforts to build community beyond the school, supporting all children.
Economy
In conversations with people who were unemployed, low-wage/underemployed, and working women and mothers, we heard that the minimum wage is too low, especially with rising rents. Participants said opportunity is limited by race, gender and background. They seek more affordable talent development opportunities and childcare, and workplace flexibility that supports employees. In conversation with business owners, we heard that our community lacks a shared vision and shared responsibility. Participants want to see more cross-collaboration across borders and sectors, entrepreneurship support, and qualified job candidates.
Health
In conversations with parents of young children, adults with limited access to healthcare, healthcare providers, and environmental leaders, we heard that quality healthcare is not seen as a given for people of all races. There is a fear of receiving diagnoses and treatment, exacerbated by barriers such as language, lack of healthcare literacy, and the spread of misinformation. Community safety is also a concern as gun violence affects daily life and stress levels. Additionally, participants want more focus on addressing causes of health issues and prevention, making healthy food available in all neighborhoods, and increasing environmental literacy.
Justice
In conversations with adults involved in the justice system, their parents and family members, law enforcement officers, public defenders and attorneys, we heard that there are racial disparities in arrests and sentencing, heightened by a lack of affordable legal representation. Both law enforcement officers and community members said stereotypes and lack of trust pose challenges. Participants want more resources for rehabilitation, system-wide mental health support, decriminalization and better communication between system leaders.
On the Table: Racine
On the Table: Racine was a follow-up to Racine Speaks to encourage healthy dialogue, foster a connected community, and spark collaborative action.
Created by The Chicago Community Trust, On the Table brought people together around a meal and a common purpose.
Small, independently organized gatherings offered people the opportunity to discuss experiences and solutions to topics that matter in their lives and communities.
