Services are provided by a network of agencies throughout Illinois. These include several State agencies; many private agencies, including both secular and church-affiliated agencies; and local governments such as municipalities, townships, and counties. They are funded in various ways but are generally dependent on State and Federal funding for much of their budgets. A young person is often served by more than one agency. The availability of services varies from community to community, reflecting such factors as the number of youtths to be served, the financial and human resources of the community, and the community's local efforts or assessments of need. The current network of agencies evolved from limited efforts which began in the 19th century. Four major State agencies serving children came into being during the 1960's. They include the Department of Corrections (Juvenile Division), the Department of Children and Family Services, the Illinois Commission on Delinquency Prevention, and the Department of Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities. Descriptions of the structure and functions of the four major State agencies are included. Some of the current major issues facing those who provide services for children and adolescents in Illinois relate to foster care, adoption services, child abuse, emotionally disturbed children, substance abuse, funding, and administration and planning. Current children's advocacy programs are located within State government, within departments and agencies, and outside government. Programs and services will probably continue to change as needs and conditions change. A chronological list of Illinois legislation for children is included as is a suggested reading list.