Welcome to Brainerd Family Network
Welcome to Brainerd Family Network
About Us
Brainerd Family Network
Over the past two years, Brainerd Family Network NFP has undergone a transformation in response to the changing needs of our community and a deep commitment to achieving long-term impact. This transformation involved a careful evaluation of our services, community engagement, and strategic planning. Which has ultimately led to a refined mission centered around education, economics, and entrepreneurship with a specific focus on adolescent (ages 12-24) and working families in the Washington Heights (Community 71) Brainerd, Washington Heights and Fernwood.
AREAS OF FOCUS
Our current programmatic work is designed to equip Black adolescents with the skills and knowledge needed for a successful future, particularly in education, employment, and entrepreneurship. We also focus on providing Black families with resources and support that promote economic self-sufficiency and financial stability.
Our commitment is unwavering and we are continually seeking ways to expand our impact and partnerships within the community. We firmly believe that by concentrating our efforts on these areas, we can foster positive change, empower the next generation, and contribute to the economic and social vitality of Black families in the Washington Heights community and ultimately, the Greater Chicago region.
Our History
Brainerd Family Network (BFN) was founded by Dr. Chanel Phillips in 2022. A "Fort Dearborn Kid," Dr. Phillips was born and raised in Brainerd. As a community psychologist and culturally responsive evaluator, Dr. Phillips is greatly aware of the importance of community building, empowerment and transformation. Dr. Phillips and the BFN family are committed to working with residents and other stakeholders to transform Brainerd into a neighborhood where all residents flourish.
Our Mission. Our Vision.
BFN MISSION. Our mission is to provide opportunities and resources for Black families that lead to economic independence, personal growth, and social equity.
BFN VISION. Our new vision statement, "Empowering Black Families for a Thriving Future," encapsulates our commitment to evolving and expanding our efforts to better serve the needs of our community. This new vision represents our unwavering commitment to the Black families we serve. It serves as a roadmap for our organization, guiding our actions and efforts as we work together with the community to create a future filled with possibilities, growth, and equality. Together, we are "Empowering Black Families for a Thriving Future."
BFN's 2025 Winter Coat Drive Was a Success!
Community Care in Action
Neighbors helping Neighbors: Brainerd at its best.
Community Care in Action
Brainerd Family Network's (BFN) 2025 Winter Coat Drive was a powerful reminder of what happens when a community comes together. We met the need quickly, warmly and with love.
Working Together
Neighbors helping Neighbors: Brainerd at its best.
Community Care in Action
Parents shared their gratitude and young people left with coats, hats, and gloves that will carry them through the season. Our goal was warmth and dignity, and together, we achieved it.
Neighbors helping Neighbors: Brainerd at its best.
Neighbors helping Neighbors: Brainerd at its best.
From donation to celebration, every jacket, hat and pair of gloves mattered.
From the first coat to the very last hat, this event showed the heart of Brainerd. Your donations made a difference, and your continued support will help us serve even more families next year.
From donation to celebration, every jacket, hat and pair of gloves mattered.
From donation to celebration, every jacket, hat and pair of gloves mattered.
From donation to celebration, every jacket, hat and pair of gloves mattered.
In less than two hours, 150 coats were placed in the hands of youth who needed them most. We are already preparing for the 2026 Youth Winter Jacket Drive and invite supporters to help us make it even bigger!
Hands full of coats! Hearts full of gratitude!
From donation to celebration, every jacket, hat and pair of gloves mattered.
Winter protection, Powered by community support.
Families lined up, smiles filled the room, and our youth received jackets for the winter because of your generosity.
Winter protection, Powered by community support.
From donation to celebration, every jacket, hat and pair of gloves mattered.
Winter protection, Powered by community support.
Thanks to our volunteers, community partners and neighbors for making this year's coat drive a success!
Support Brainerd Family Network 's Winter Coat Drive
Brainerd Family Network - Empowering Communities
As winter sets in, Brainerd Family Network invites you to help keep local children and families safe, warm and supported during the coldest months of the year in Chicago. Your generosity directly provides essential winter gear for youth in our community, items that make a real difference in daily comfort, health and school attendance. A gift of:
-$25 helps cover gloves, hats, and scarves
-$50 provides a basic winter jacket for one child
-$75 supplies a high-quality winter coat
-$100 covers two basic winter jackets plus winter accessories (e.g. hat, gloves)
-$150 provides high-quality coats for two children in a small family
-$200 ensures two children receive high-quality coats with full winter accessories
Donations can be made via PayPal (@BD60620)or by contacting Dr. Phillips at info@brainerdfamilynetwork.org
Together, we can make this winter warmer for the families who need it most.
Support Brainerd Family Network 's Winter Coat Drive
Help keep children in our community warm this winter by supporting Brainerd Family Network’s Winter Coat Drive. Your donation provides essential coats and cold-weather gear for youth who need them most. Every gift makes a meaningful difference, particularly during the coldest months of the year.
