
City of Chicago, in partnership with the Chicago Department of Family and Support Services (DFSS), Marillac House, Loyola University Department of Ophthalmology, and industry partners, announced Forward Focus!, a free interactive STEM and vision health experience designed to inspire Chicago youth and introduce them to careers in medicine, ophthalmology, and healthcare. The event will take place on June 27, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Marillac House, 212 S. Francisco Ave. Participants from several DFSS-funded youth employment providers will come together for a unique opportunity to engage directly with healthcare professionals, explore STEM careers, and gain exposure to educational and career pathways in medicine and ophthalmology. During the event, participants will rotate through several interactive learning stations designed to make science, medicine, and vision health engaging and accessible.

