It's Our Little Secret (IOLS) is a non-profit organization comprising exclusively of volunteers dedicated to providing a voice to sexually, physically, and emotionally abused children and teens through advocacy, mentoring, and creative expression.  It is our goal to make a difference in the lives of the children through through various IOLS specific programs so they will learn to live and not just survive. 

Blue Ribbons Campaign

April is recognized nationwide as Child Abuse Prevention Month. The Blue Ribbon Campaign is a comprehensive community wide effort in McHenry County led by IOLS, a registered 501(c) 3 and supported by a range of individuals and community partners.  More>

2011 Toy Drive

We have partnered with DCFS, PADS and other agencies to help bestow gifts to foster children and underprivileged children, youth and adults. This year, IOLS will seek to provide Christmas gifts to more than 400 children!  More>

Journey Pack Program

Mingo the Lion is an IOLS character that was created and will be showcased throughout various IOLS Programs. The “You Can Be a Hero” Program will provide IOLS Journey Packs to children entering foster care. More>

Program Highlights & News


Child abuse casts a shadow the length of a lifetime.–Herbert Ward

Abuse changes your life, fight back and change the life of your abusers by breaking your silence on abuse.–Patty Rase Hopson

(Child abuse) is something that's not talked about. It's the dirty little secret. There is the immediate damage, but there is also the damage that it does down the road. It's the baggage that you carry. It's not here and today, it's tomorrow.–Melody Strong