Our "I Can!" Story

About Us

"When you do not teach the child to be independent, you teach the child to be dependent." — Dr. Maria Hari, Peto Institute

Our Mission

To help children and adults with physical disabilities maximize their independence. We accomplish our mission by offering affordable Conductive Education programs that develops motor functions in a manner that promotes positive self-determination, self–esteem, and an “I Can!” attitude.

OUR COMMITMENT

The Center's intensive motor therapy program helps people with Cerebral Palsy (CP) and other motor disorders achieve their highest potential. The CDC estimates that about 1 in every 323 children in the US has Cerebral Palsy (CP). Sadly, many children are not receiving therapy because of insurance or income limitations.The Center is committed to providing services to children and young adults regardless of insurance or income level. The Center has never turned a child or family away due to inability to pay. The Center has provided over 15 million dollars in charitable services to ensure full participation.

The Center offers intensive motor therapy programs utilizing the principles of Conductive Education. Our team of highly trained professionals of Physical Therapists, Occupational Therapists and Conductive Education Teachers work together to provide individualized treatment plans within a peer driven setting, to help achieve developmental milestones. Our goal is to ensure all children achieve their highest level of independence in the home, school and community through developing a strong "I Can!"Attitude; where they believe in their own ability and recognize there is no limit to learning on their journey towards independence!

History & Overview

Patricia Herbst, Executive Director/Founder, talks about the Center's mission and how Individuals develop self-determination and an “I Can!” attitude.

COMMITED TO SHARING CE WITH OTHER FAMILIES
In 1998, parents of a child with a disability founded the Center for Independence to provide intensive motor therapy to other children with disabilities and their families. To this day, the Center continues to remain family focused serving over 300 children and adults annually at 3 locations. Our highly sought after intensive motor therapy programs are accredited and highly rated.

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.

2023-2024 Program Calendar

Quick Contact

Center Locations

CFI Main Center
100 W. Plainfield Rd.,
Countryside, IL 60525

The Hope Collective
23153 W Miller Rd.,
Lake Zurich, IL 60047

Brighton Park
2701 W. 36th Pl.
Chicago, IL 60632

See location maps