Eve Samson’s first contribution to the Response for Teens’ annual fundraising event, Tuned In, was a $25 check written back in 2010. She has been giving in more and more ways ever since.

Eve first learned of Response in 2001 while working at Jewish United Fund (JUF.) She loved hearing stories about how JCFS Chicago programs impacted people’s lives. Around 15 years later, she wanted to join a board, and the Response Advisory Council (RAC) was a perfect fit.

“Often as parents, we get involved with organizations that our kids are the direct beneficiaries of. But in seeking a board to join, I wanted something that was meaningful to me - something I was passionate about," Eve said.

The seed of her passion for teens was planted when she was one herself growing up in New York. Her parents were divorcing, and she, along with her two sisters sought support and diversion – some positive and some negative. For her, having a clinician in her school was a lifesaver.

“I know that not every school has those support services, and I know that not every teen feels comfortable getting that kind of support in their school system. To me, Response was a way to give back and connect with an organization that represented an important resource in my teen years,” she added.

As the current RAC chairperson, she has enjoyed many aspects of the board: working with lay leaders from a wide variety of professional expertise and ages, financially supporting Response and contributing ideas of how to grow services all while learning about issues teens currently face.

As for Tuned In, she’s proud that it showcases inspiring teens, their needs, and the ways that Response helps along with being an amazing fundraising opportunity and a way to spread the word about its impact on lives.

Eve explained, “Now that I have a 13-year-old daughter and a 9-year-old son, I am experiencing these teen challenges every day as a parent."