When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Metropolitan Family Services - North
Why Metropolitan Family Services - North is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Metropolitan Family Services - North Center, located at 3249 North Central Avenue in Chicago, has been a vital community resource since 1982. It offers a welcoming and supportive environment where families, children, and individuals can access comprehensive services designed to help them overcome challenges and grow stronger together. The center provides a variety of programs focusing on education, emotional wellness, and empowerment tailored to the needs of the Northwest Side communities including Belmont Cragin, Hermosa, Irving Park, Skokie, and Portage Park. Highlights include before- and after-school programs for children and teens, early learning centers, parenting programs, and drug prevention initiatives for youth. In addition, the center offers essential emotional support through counseling for individuals, families, seniors, and domestic violence survivors, as well as post-adoption support services. Metropolitan Family Services - North also supports senior homeowners, enhancing their quality of life. Its extensive operating hours accommodate community members, providing access Monday through Thursday with evening hours to fit various schedules. As part of the larger Metropolitan Family Services network, which has served Chicago since 1857, the North Center embodies a longstanding commitment to empowering families to learn, earn, heal, and thrive.
Here's what people think of Metropolitan Family Services - North
As of recent, Metropolitan Family Services - North holds a 4.3-star rating based on 53 reviews.
Reviews of Metropolitan Family Services reveal a blend of positive community impact and internal challenges. Many users appreciate the meaningful services offered, highlighting the center's dedication to counseling, educational programs, and support for vulnerable populations such as domestic violence survivors and post-adoption families. Positive reviews often emphasize the compassionate staff and the center's role in providing a sense of hope and stability for clients navigating difficult situations. On the other hand, employee reviews occasionally mention management issues, including concerns about workplace culture, favoritism, and stress, which have affected staff morale and turnover. Some employees expressed frustration with supervisory practices and job security. Despite these internal challenges reflected in staff narratives, the overall community perception remains favorable, recognizing Metropolitan Family Services - North’s important contribution to helping families and individuals realize their potential. Balancing feedback from both service recipients and employees, the center continues to be seen as a valuable and trusted resource within its service areas.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Palak D
I called this one domestic violence shelter I don't think it was this one, but that lady asked me about my situation and I told it to her. Then she said it didn't happen immediately though and it's supposed to have happened only from your home, otherwise we can't help you. Then she said we are all full right now. What, Excuse me? I was on the phone in the heat thinking my battery will have to be charged soon, with this woman asking me personal questions for 20 minutes only to deny me services based on such criteria. I feel like she wasted my time and deceived me in getting personal information from me when she didn't want to help me anyway. She also sounded very judgemental. I just needed housing right away. I had called over 15 places for housing with no clear help and being told we only this county, the number might not be updated, we only take these people in need of this help. Every one of these organizations should keep a lost of updated hosuing numbers to email with what types of people they accept so its easier for people to call that just need help. What if this had happened late night and I didnt know I could call police for help on this? What if I was old, or had dementia, or I was young and didn't know where to turn for help? What kind of restrictions are these that prevent people from getting help they need? I will change this to a 5 star review and stop complaining only when these things change and these people get help. The other thing I do not like is I feel like I can't even suggest something otherwise I'll be told that's just how it works and I am looked at as someone with issues instead of a citizen of the community in need of help. Why do CEO's of a company get respect but people in situations that need help get looked at as "I don't know you might be doing drugs." Some of these CEO's celebrate with lots of alcohol and champagne, LOL what is the difference? That person could one day be the CEO of a company too...
Dorothy Rosenthal
I was fortunate to be recommended here for post adoption counseling for my daughter who was having adjustment issues. The therapist was amazing, the center was warm, inviting and knowledgeable and helpful. Its rare that people are good at their jobs and good with people, delivering the hard to hear “news” and/or the good “news” with equals compassion. I will be forever grateful for all her therapist Sevil did for her and the help I received from the Center. I would definitely recommend it for your post adoption needs.
JM Romero
I love Metropolitan Family since they have helped me and supported me 100% in everything I have needed for my daughter and me Thank you very much, keep going God bless you for the support, continue growing with people and as professionals who I am very proud to know you, to all the staff, thank you.
BabyBoomerofThe50s
"You Know" I Had A Great Time At Metropolitan Family Services! 🙂 I Was Invited By My Health Care Community Liaison To Come There For The Afternoon To Get Me Out of The House And Have Some Fun And Maybe Learn Something, And I Did! The People There Were Just Outa Site Great! They All Made Me Feel Soo... Welcomed Any Time And They Cared So Much About Me And If I Needed or Wanted Anything! And They Make Really Good Coffee ☕️ Which I Love! I Hope To Be Going Back Again Very Soon!!!....🥳🙂😃
pokey swag
I was in one of your programs. I was told that this was program for people who had a background and a hard life... that being said I was also told we would land a job after the completion of the program. I was told many things.. 3 months into the program I was told that I wouldn’t be able to be certified due to my background.. I lost my job due to the scheduling with class and work , verge of losing my home, I’m not receiving the help I was told I’d get. Wonderful people I’m not going to lie. But I put my effort time and money and I’d atleast want that back from them..
How to reach Metropolitan Family Services - North
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Why Metropolitan Family Services - North may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Metropolitan Family Services - North with your friends?
Gathering at Metropolitan Family Services - North is an exceptional choice for a meetup with friends or family because it offers much more than just a venue; it provides a warm, community-focused environment that fosters connection, support, and growth. With a solid rating of 4.3 based on 53 reviews, this center has a reputation for being welcoming and positively impactful to all who visit. The location is not just a meeting spot—it is a hub for empowerment and wellness deeply embedded in Chicago’s Northwest Side, serving communities like Belmont Cragin, Hermosa, Irving Park, Skokie, and Portage Park. Whether your group is looking to engage in meaningful programs, support each other through counseling, or simply spend quality time in an enriching atmosphere, Metropolitan Family Services - North has something for everyone. The center’s extensive offerings across education, emotional wellness, and empowerment create a supportive backdrop that encourages interaction and bonding. The availability of a variety of programs tailored to different age groups and needs means your friends can explore their interests or seek assistance while you enjoy the community vibes, making it an ideal venue for any group that values connection and growth.
What activities can you engage in at Metropolitan Family Services - North?
Metropolitan Family Services - North provides a wide range of activities designed to meet the diverse needs of families and individuals, making it a dynamic place for group visits. Educational programs include before and afterschool options for children and teens, early learning through Head Start/Early Head Start, preschool, and home visiting services. These activities promote active learning for kids while adults can access parenting programs tailored for families and expecting moms and dads. For youth and adults interested in prevention and personal development, the center offers drug prevention programs as well as counseling services that cover emotional wellness topics such as post-adoption support, counseling for domestic violence survivors, and family counseling. The variety ensures that groups with mixed interests and ages can spend time productively and meaningfully. Moreover, the center provides empowerment services like support for senior homeowners, adding a valuable resource for older adults in your group or community. This range of activities not only serves individual well-being but encourages interaction among participants, creating shared experiences that deepen your group’s connection.
Why is Metropolitan Family Services - North perfect for group meetups?
Metropolitan Family Services - North excels as a meetup spot because it combines the safety and structure of a professional community center with the warmth and approachability of a neighborhood hub. Its long history since 1982 and connection to the esteemed Metropolitan Family Services, which has served Chicago since 1857, reflect its deep commitment to community welfare and family support. The center’s location is accessible on Chicago’s Northwest Side and is surrounded by diverse communities, making it easy for your friends or family members from nearby neighborhoods to join. The carefully planned hours, including late evenings on Tuesdays and Thursdays, accommodate groups with varying schedules. Importantly, the center’s focus on counseling and emotional support means that your gathering can be more than social—it can be restorative and empowering, enhancing group dynamics through access to professional help or programs if desired. Staff who are committed to helping families navigate life’s challenges create a nurturing atmosphere where everyone feels valued. The physical space also promotes activities that engage both adults and children, making it an inclusive environment for all ages to come together.
How does Metropolitan Family Services - North support emotional wellness for groups?
One of the standout features of Metropolitan Family Services - North is its strong emphasis on emotional wellness, which is vital when meeting with friends or family members who may benefit from supportive resources. The center offers counseling services tailored to children, adults, seniors, and families, including specialized programs for domestic violence survivors and post-adoption support. This comprehensive emotional support framework provides a safe space where individuals can find help while within a community setting that values healing and growth. For groups, this means your meetup can incorporate meaningful conversations and potentially even group counseling or workshops, which can deepen trust and understanding among participants. The welcoming environment encourages openness and empathy, which are crucial elements in strengthening relationships. The center’s dedication to emotional wellness helps transform ordinary meetups into opportunities for personal and collective growth, making it a unique and valuable destination.
What practical benefits does the location and schedule of Metropolitan Family Services - North offer for hosting meetups?
Practicality is a key reason why Metropolitan Family Services - North is ideal for group meetups. Its central address at 3249 North Central Avenue is situated conveniently in an accessible Chicago neighborhood, making it reachable by car or public transportation for most attendees. The center’s schedule is designed with flexibility in mind, open from 8:30 am to 7:00 pm on Mondays and Wednesdays, and extending to 8:30 pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays, accommodating various time preferences for meetups. This late closing time allows for after-work or school gatherings, which is valuable when trying to coordinate schedules among friends or family. The center is also staffed to provide professional support and assistance during these hours, enhancing the safety and structure of group events. Additionally, the availability of multiple program areas such as classrooms and counseling rooms means groups can host both informal hangouts and more structured activities or workshops. The center’s accessibility, extended hours, and supportive services make it not just a meeting point, but a well-equipped venue that aligns with the logistical needs of diverse groups.
How does Metropolitan Family Services - North contribute to building stronger communities through group engagements?
Metropolitan Family Services - North isn’t just a service provider; it’s a community builder. Since 1982, it has actively contributed to strengthening families and neighborhoods by offering programs that empower individuals to thrive and foster positive social change. Group meetups at the center can become more than casual get-togethers—they can evolve into forums for sharing resources, learning from one another, and collectively addressing challenges. Its programs promote education, emotional wellness, and empowerment, equipping attendees with tools to improve their lives and the lives of those around them. For example, parents can participate in parenting classes while teens engage in afterschool programs, creating a shared experience that can be discussed and expanded upon during group meetings. This kind of interaction helps foster mutual support and understanding, essential elements for any strong community. By rallying at Metropolitan Family Services - North, groups become part of this ongoing mission, contributing to a network of resilience and hope in Chicago’s Northwest neighborhoods, and reinforcing the idea that positive change is a collaborative effort.