A strong community is one where everyone has the opportunity to participate, contribute, and build a meaningful life. This season of gratitude, the Community Services Foundation offers a reminder of how much stronger our communities become when everyone has a place in them.
Founded in 1989 with a staff of one, the Foundation has grown to a team of 15, supporting Communities Transform Futures Illinois’ (CTF Illinois) mission to empower adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities to live with dignity, independence, and opportunity.
A meaningful life means having choices: where to live, how to spend your time and what goals to pursue.
For CTF Illinois participant, Daryl, those choices have helped shape a life filled with friendships, family, work, and independence. Since joining CTF Illinois in 2008, he has built a life in Frankfort, where he lives with two housemates and enjoys making his own plans and spending time independently at home and throughout the community.
Employment has been another meaningful part of Daryl’s journey, giving him opportunities to learn and build relationships with several wonderful employers, including Girl at the Park. After many years there, Daryl decided he was ready to explore something new. Today, he attends RISE Packaging & Assembly Company while considering what he would like his next employment opportunity to be. That ability to make choices about his own path reflects the autonomy and self-advocacy CTF Illinois works to cultivate.
That independence is made possible through a network of support. Families advocate for their loved ones, volunteers contribute their time and talents, and community partners create opportunities beyond the organization’s walls.
Residents can show their gratitude by volunteering or participating in its Make a Match campaign, running through January 31.
Because one of the most meaningful things we can be thankful for is a community where everyone has the opportunity to learn, grow, connect, and thrive.