Ten years ago, Erin Stevenson had a vision.
A mother, educator, and woman living with multiple sclerosis since the age of 22, she understood the power of resilience, self-awareness, and mindfulness—not just in her own life, but in the lives of children, families, and entire communities. In 2015, that vision became the Do Good Movement.
This summer, Stevenson, of Palos Park, and her supporters are celebrating a decade of impact.
The Do Good Movement is a wellness organization built around the idea that teaching mindfulness, movement, and social-emotional learning can empower everyone it touches. What began as a local effort has grown into a mission-driven force, reaching thousands across the Midwest and beyond.
Stevenson started the organization with a simple but profound desire: to give children and those who care for them the tools to navigate life’s challenges.
“As a mom, educator, and someone living with MS, I saw firsthand how powerful tools like self-awareness, regulation, and resilience can be,” she said. “I wanted to share those tools with others, especially our youngest learners.”
Over the last 10 years, the movement has blossomed into a multifaceted operation. The team offers in-school programs, professional development for educators, one-on-one coaching, children’s books, wellness retreats, and virtual training. Their message is always the same: care for yourself and care for your community.
Some of the Do Good Movement’s proudest milestones include launching a 95-hour Children’s Yoga Teacher Certification program, publishing multiple children’s yoga and mindfulness books, and forming long-standing partnerships with schools, park districts, and corporate wellness teams.
The pandemic, Stevenson said, was a turning point.
“Surviving and evolving through the pandemic was another major milestone. It forced us to innovate and expand our virtual offerings in ways that continue to grow our impact.”
Now, 10 years in, Stevenson has taken a moment to reflect—and celebrate.
“Less than 10% of small businesses make it to 10 years,” she said. “Doing so while balancing motherhood, personal health challenges, and the ups and downs of entrepreneurship is something I’m incredibly proud of. This milestone represents perseverance, faith in the mission, and the support of an amazing community who believes in doing good.”
The 10-year anniversary celebration was unfortunately cancelled due to forcasted rain on Saturday, July 26, at Lake Katherine’s Children’s Forest, 7402 W. Lake Katherine Dr. in Palos Heights; however, that did not stop the celebration of the momentous occasion.
There will be events taking place throughout the remainder of the calendar year for the big 10, including the launch of Do Good Movement’s newest children’s book this fall. The book is illustrated by Stevenson’s 9-year-old daughter.
“Bringing her into this project added a whole new layer of love and meaning,” Stevenson said.
Stevenson’s books are available on Amazon. Recent proceeds from book sales at previous events supported local environmental efforts, showcasing just another way the movement extends its mission of doing good.
Looking back, Stevenson is filled with gratitude.
“Whether you’ve attended a class, shared a post, bought a book, or simply cheered us on, your support has mattered,” she said. “The Do Good Movement has always been about collective impact, and the past 10 years have proven just how powerful that can be.”
As for the future, Stevenson is excited.
“Here’s to the next chapter of growth, joy, and continued good,” she said with a smile.
