Posts by Sam B
Center Receives Highest Accreditation from CQL
The Center is delighted to have recently been awarded its highest level of recognition: accreditation from the Council on Quality and Leadership (CQL). This endorsement is a true testament to the hard work, dedication, and commitment of the staff and board in providing quality programming and leadership that empowers individuals with disabilities to lead independent and meaningful lives. It is an affirmation of our commitment to help these individuals reach their full potential. We are thrilled to receive this accreditation and remain determined to continue providing the highest level of service to those we serve.
Dr. Ann Jackson, DPT – 2021 IPTA Societal Impact Award!
We are proud to announce that Center staff, Dr. Ann Jackson, DPT, received the 2021 Illinois Physical Therapy Association (IPTA) Societal Impact Award! The award is given to those who “demonstrate commitment and dedication to addressing issues related to societal welfare…and exemplify the compassionate nature of the physical therapy profession”.
All of us at the Center for Independence have experienced Ann’s dedicated and compassionate nature firsthand! Ann was at the heart of the Center’s expansion to under-served people with disabilities living in the Southland community and founded the Center’s Label Us Able group.
Ann is also working closely with Dr. Roberta O’Shea and Governors State University in starting up a new Post High School Advancement Program for Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities. The objective of the program is to introduce college readiness or future employment concepts to individuals with intellectual disabilities who are striving for gainful engagement with the community and society. Candidates must have completed high school attendance required hours.
Congratulations Dr. Ann Jackson – You are an inspiration to us all!
For more information on GSU’s Post High School Advancement Program – please contact Continuinged@govst.edu
Working Together Chicago featured on IAMCP’s blog
Aileen Provan, from the International Association of Microsoft Channel Partners posted an article on the IAMCP blog, May 5. The post features Working Together Chicago, a CFI program, which is a great opportunity for employees looking to be come involved in the IAMCP Diversity and Inclusion program.
Read her article titled: “The Hidden Talent Pool; A D&I story that will give you fresh ideas on how to attract new talent”
What’s CFI Been Up To?
When the COVID-19 coronavirus health crisis closed the doors of Center for Independence our dedicated physical and occupational therapists, conductive education teachers and social worker opened their laptops, charged their smartphones and sprang into action! Our professional staff were ready to provide innovative, telehealth therapy services using social media outlets and video chat platforms!
Our hardworking staff immediately began (and continues!) to provide telehealth therapy services to more than 100 children and young adults with physical disabilities while our building is closed. To support the families during this pandemic, our therapy staff also developed home exercise programs and organized equipment lending for all families. We will continue providing telehealth therapy and social work services until Governor Pritzker declares it is safe for our doors to reopen.
Check out a short 90-second video of the talented Center staff delivering virtual PT, OT and CET services to children with physical disabilities:
During this time of crisis, people with cerebral palsy need access to vital healthcare services to breathe every breath, and step every step. The Center is using remote communication technologies to provide skilled healthcare intervention for those most at risk, so children and young adults with cerebral palsy stay active, remain healthy, and feel safe!
The Center fully understands the emotional and financial burden this crisis is having on our families. Our top priority is making sure that children and young adults with disabilities remain healthy and active. To help make that possible, the Center will not be charging families for telehealth therapy throughout the COVID-19 crisis.
The Center estimates that we will provide over $350,000 in charitable care teletherapy services to children and young adults with disabilities throughout the duration of our closure due to the pandemic.
How Can You Help?
You can change the lives of so many hardworking children and young adults with physical disabilities by making a donation. In this time of the unknown, you can make a difference in a way that works for you. If you donate now through June 1, 2020, your gift will be MATCHED by The Coleman Foundation up to $25,000!
Thank you for supporting the Center for Independence and the dedicated children and young adults we serve.
Announcing a New CFI Location
GRAND OPENING, JULY 17!
With the generous support of The Coleman Foundation and the community, the Center is thrilled to announce the opening of our new site located at 2701 W. 36th Pl., Chicago.
The space will include a large classroom and conference room for therapy programs, job training, parent education and community gatherings. Stay tuned for our grand opening in June!
Our heartfelt thanks to the talented staff of Studio 222 Architects, RTM Engineering, Bristol Design Group and John Lyle & Associates for donating so much of their time and expertise in making our new space a reality.