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. We do this by offering therapy programs that develop life skills and motor function in a manner that promotes positive self-direction, self-esteem and an “I Can!” attitude. Committed to breaking down barriers to the workforce, the Center also provides job training and placement for young adults with disabilities through our innovative program, Teaching Together Chicago.

The Center's programs are committed to helping people achieve their highest potential. What typically developing children learn naturally, children with Cerebral Palsy learn through hard work and effort. Children with CP train harder than athletes to learn skills that others take for granted such as sitting, eating, dressing, or toileting independently. The Center's transdisciplinary team of Physical Therapists, Occupational Therapists and Conductive Education Teachers work together to provide intensive motor training programs that maximize self-care and mobility skills, while promoting confidence and motivation along the way.

The Center began in 1998 by serving 6 children at a summer camp based on CE principles and has now grown to serve over 250 children a year at 3 different locations throughout the Chicagoland area. The Center meets all 20 Better Business Bureau of Chicago Standards for Charitable Accountability, is rated Platinum by Guidestar Charity Navigator, and was awarded a 2018 Top Non-Profit Award by Philanthropedia.

Teaching Together Chicago is a program of CFI that facilitates on-the-job experience and training for adults with disabilities so they can work as paid interns in faith-based schools where their gifts and contributions are greatly needed! For more information, please visit www.teachingtogetherchicago.org

Center for Independence

Patricia Herbst

This department oversees the strategic direction and governance of the organization.

Center for Independence

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Leadership Council

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Center for Independence

Org chart

Teams

Leadership Council

Offices

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