For Immediate Release – August 12, 2026
Illinois DCFS welcomes families to the 2026 Illinois State Fair
Learn about foster parenting, adoption, guardianship and career opportunities that support children, youth and families across Illinois
SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) will welcome fairgoers to its tent at the 2026 Illinois State Fair, where visitors can learn about the department’s programs and services, explore career opportunities and discover ways to support children, youth and families across Illinois.
Located on Central Ave., the DCFS tent will offer something for everyone. Families can enjoy games and activities in the children’s area; job seekers can connect with recruiters about rewarding employment opportunities with the department; and those who are ready to transform a child’s life through foster care, adoption or guardianship can learn how to take the first step.
“DCFS is thrilled to unveil ‘We the PEOPLE’ as part of Governor Pritzker’s challenge to state agencies to create a theme that celebrates America’s 250th anniversary,” said Illinois DCFS Director Heidi E. Mueller. “This theme recognizes DCFS’s commitment to supporting the children, youth, and families of Illinois as well as the fact that DCFS and our community partners are part of every community across this state. From launching our Relative Caregiver Certification program (KIND Act), to awarding more than 300 scholarships to youth attending trade schools and colleges, to the statewide implementation of Forward Together – an initiative that is transforming the way we support children and families from Day One; we are pleased to contribute to making Illinois the best place to raise a family. We welcome families and anyone looking for a truly meaningful career to stop by and visit with us.”
DCFS will also participate in the Twilight Parade to kick off the fair on Thursday, August 13 and will welcome hundreds of foster, adoptive and guardianship families to the fair again this year with discounted parking, admission, concession and carnival ride coupons so they can enjoy the day together.
The Illinois State Fair runs August 13-23 in Springfield. To learn more about career opportunities with DCFS, becoming a foster parent, or accessing services and supports for children and families, visit dcfs.illinois.gov.
About the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS): Our vision is for every child and youth in Illinois to grow and thrive in a loving family. To achieve this goal, DCFS promotes the safety and well-being of children, youth, and families by responding to reports of suspected child abuse and neglect and providing family-centered care and connection to resources to strengthen families and keep children safely at home. Our values – family focused, integrity, respect, empathy and equity – are at the forefront of every decision we make to ensure children are safe and families have the resources they need to succeed. To make an anonymous report of suspected child abuse or neglect, visit childabuse.illinois.gov.
