Julia Lathrop

Julia Lathrop, born in Rockford in 1858, was one of the founders of the Chicago Bureau of Charities and an advocate for mental health, immigrants, equal rights for women, social reform and child welfare.  In 1890, she joined Jane Addams and Ellen Gates Starr at the Hull House and spent the next 22 years there.  Lathrop also helped to found the Chicago School of Civics and Philanthropy, which eventually became the University of Chicago School of Social Service Administration.  She was also pivotal in reforming the juvenile judicial system.  With the help of the Chicago Woman’s Club and the Chicago Bar Association, she secured legislation to create the first juvenile court.

Jane Addams

For Women’s History Month, we’re showcasing notable women throughout the history of Metropolitan Family Services who have dedicated their lives to strengthening families in the Chicago area.  Jane Addams, born in Cedarville, IL, first witnessed true poverty on a visit to London. Upon returning to Chicago, she opened the doors to the Hull House (the first social settlement in Chicago) in 1889 with Ellen Gates Starr.  In 1894, she helped create the Chicago Bureau of Charities, which later merged with the Chicago Relief & Aid Society to form The United Charities (now known as Metropolitan Family Services).

Louise deKoven Bowen

In recognition of Women’s History Month we will be highlighting notable women of Metropolitan’s history all month long. Take a look at our feature on Louise deKoven Bowen.

 

Louise deKoven Bowen 
Often referred to as the “First Lady of Chicago,” Louise deKoven Bowen, served on the board of United Charities (now Metropolitan Family Services) from 1909-1950 and served as Vice President from 1912-1950. Bowen also served as the Honorary President of the Juvenile Protective Association for 29 years and served 35 years as Treasurer and Trustee of the Hull House Association.  Her book, Growing Up With a City (1926, reprinted 2002), charmingly chronicles the growth of Chicago from its pioneer days to the 1920s.