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Center for Independence News
Welcome to our news page, featuring articles and informative blog posts by our staff.
The American Rental Association Foundation, the Toro Community Foundation, and the United Way of Metro Chicago have generously completed a major revitalization project at the Center for Independence.
Volunteers for these fantastic organizations painted and repaired the Center’s awnings, overhauled the butterfly garden, and removed a guardrail to improve accessibility. Additionally, they installed sound garden instruments and a rain barrel, painted a safety stripe on a curb, and mulched extensively.
These enhancements have rejuvenated CFI’s outdoor spaces, providing a safer and more engaging environment for Center’s kids and families.
For a generation, The Center has supported children and families by developing programs to help them navigate the challenges of childhood, adolescence, and young adulthood. With the introduction of “Working Together Chicago,” we now offer employment opportunities to individuals with developmental disabilities, providing them with pride and purpose.
As we celebrate 25 years of growth and evolution, we are rebranding to better reflect our expanded mission to serve people of all ages.
Read more in our July newsletter.
Jared and Kathleen, along with their daughters Margot and Grace are featured in this July’s Greet Western Springs magazine.
Kathleen recently published a children’s book, “Stinky Mama,” promoting disability awareness and inclusion. Their favorite part of living in Western Springs is the friendly, supportive community, especially for Margot, who has cerebral palsy.
Read all about the Marcell Family’s journey in the July issue of Greet Western Springs Magazine!
We are thankful to Representative Nicole LaHa for joining Center families last night to discuss the significant challenges they face in raising a child with a disability. Parents are coping with loss, trauma, anxiety, and the immense stress of advocating for their children’s rights. Parents are also fighting for access to quality education, fair insurance coverage, and accessibility, all crucial for their children’s well-being and development. The daily struggle is exhausting and can take an emotional toll on families.
Representative LaHa’s willingness to listen and understand the struggle is invaluable. By coming together and sharing experiences, we can work towards building a more inclusive and supportive community for children and adults with disabilities and their families.
Springfield, IL…State Representative Nicole La Ha proudly welcomed two guests to the third annual Emerging Women Leaders (EWL) conference: Patti Herbst and Kim Zoeller. The event took place today in Springfield.
“I am honored to have had Patti Herbst and Kim Zoeller join us at the Emerging Women Leaders Event,” Rep. La Ha said. “Supporting strong professional women like Patti and Kim has been a personal goal of mine, which I am excited to expand as State Representative.”
Patti Herbst is the Executive Director of the Center for Independence Through Conductive Education, Inc. With a commitment to maximizing independence for individuals with physical disabilities, the center has provided invaluable services to countless families, regardless of their financial circumstances. Herbst is dedicated to empowering others through her work.
Our Mission
The mission of the Center for Independence is to help children and young adults with disabilities achieve their highest level of independence in the home, school, community and workforce. Our therapy programs help children with Cerebral Palsy (CP) develop life skills, motor-function and an "I Can!" attitude.
Committed to breaking down barriers to employment, the Center also provides job training and placement for young adults with developmental disabilities through our innovative program Working Together Chicago.
The Center is an IL 501(c)3 non-profit organization.
EIN: 36-4259162
Our Vision: That children and young adults with disabilities have the opportunity to be fully participating members of the community.
Expect more, learn more...DO more!
Center Hours
Monday - Friday: 8:30 AM - 6:30 PM
Program times vary — check calendar.
Quick Contact
Center Locations
CFI Main Center
100 W. Plainfield Rd.,
Countryside, IL 60525
Brighton Park
2701 W. 36th Pl.
Chicago, IL 60632
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