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Gladys O. Akiwowo is the Co-Founder of Ibukun Comprehensive Community Services, a licensed Illinois not-for-profit child welfare agency dedicated to providing care, support, and opportunity to young people in need. Alongside her late husband, Dr. Christian Adeyemi Akiwowo, Founder and Executive Director, Gladys played an instrumental role in building the organization and establishing the foundation upon which its work continues today.
Ibukun Comprehensive Community Services operates a residential treatment facility serving male youth under the guardianship of the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS), providing a safe and structured environment designed to support their growth, development, and overall well-being. From the agency’s earliest days, Gladys worked alongside her husband with a shared commitment to strengthening young lives, families, and communities through compassionate service.
More than a Co-Founder, Gladys has been a steady presence throughout Ibukun’s journey - helping to nurture its vision, sustain its mission, and ensure that the organization remains rooted in the values upon which it was founded. Her dedication has been essential to shaping Ibukun into the organization it is today.
Following the passing of her husband, Gladys has remained committed to preserving both his legacy and their shared vision. She continues to champion the mission and movement they built together, ensuring that their work extends beyond one generation and continues to create meaningful opportunities for young people and families.
Today, Gladys O. Akiwowo stands as a co-builder, community advocate, and keeper of the Ibukun legacy, carrying forward a vision born from service, compassion, and an unwavering belief in the potential of every young person. Through her continued involvement, she honors the foundation she and Dr. Akiwowo established while helping position Ibukun for an even greater impact in the years ahead.
