The Center News
CBS News Feature: Push for Accessibility
The Center for Independence’s Brighton Park location and our neighbors, Devices 4 the Disabled, were featured on CBS News this week!
We have been advocating for the city of Chicago to fix the sidewalks for years and add handicap-accessible ramps and parking at the space on 36th Place.
Read or Watch full story on CBS2.
*UPDATE 1/22/24: Designated parking signs have been installed thanks to Alderwoman Julia Ramirez. Stay tuned for further updates!
Award-Winning Program Empowers Mothers of Children with Disabilities
Friend of the Center and Pediatric Occupational Therapist, Helen Bourke-Taylor, was recently interviewed on a podcast called “Too Peas in a Podcast” hosted by Mandy Hose and Kate Jones. In it, Helen mentions the Center for Independence and our Executive Director, Patti Herbst! Helen, with the help of Patti and the Center, developed a program called Healthy Mothers Healthy Families, which is the longest-running, most effective program for mothers of children with disabilities in the world.
The award-winning program offers free workshops, a free self-paced website and training for pediatric OTs to better support moms of children with disabilities. Listen to the interview.
“Too Peas in a Podcast” is designed for peas (mothers of children with additional needs) and peafessionals (anyone else who plays a key role in the support systems for children with disabilities, parents and families), the podcast snaps the isolation barriers experienced by peas. The podcast addresses mothers being seen, looking after themselves and a change in practice. Learn more about Healthy Mothers Healthy Families.
Dr. O’Shea Honored with Honorary Conductor Award
April 28, 2023, APF Welcomes a New Honorary Conductor!
We are delighted to congratulate Dr. Roberta Kuchler O’Shea on being awarded the prestigious Honorary Conductor Award by Semmelweis University and the András Peto Institute in Hungary, as acknowledged on their website.
We are deeply appreciative of Dr. O’Shea’s unwavering support of Conductive Education through research, advocacy, and education, and we thank her for the countless volunteer hours she has contributed to the Center, staff, board, and families.
Congratulations, Robbie!
Diversity Scholarship Award Ceremony
Meet Kiya Raines!
Please join us in celebrating Kiya Raines, Doctorate of Physical Therapy Student, the first recipient of the Center’s Diversity Scholarship! Kiya is completing her student clinical rotation at the Center. Our thanks to the Board of Directors, Diversity Committee and therapy students that applied for the award.
Pictured from left to right: Board Members, John Thomas and Tracy Lewis, Kiya Raines, DPTS, Josephine Boggs, Clinical Supervisor, and Board Members, Erick Valdez and Clay Kalweit.
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.