Posts by Sam B
Construction of Countryside Location Completed!
Therapy Resumes in Improved Rooms
The Center is happy to report that the construction on the Countryside location was officially completed in February and therapy has resumed in our new and improved therapy rooms!
We would like to give heartfelt thanks to the following companies and folks who made our renovation possible:
- Studio 222 Architects for creating an improved and functional design of our space
- Designs for Dignity for donating carpeting and furniture for our new parent waiting room, phone booth, and staff offices
- Ben Campbell and AMS for donating all of the HVAC work
- St. Cletus School and Parish for welcoming Center children and staff into their building to ensure critical programs continued throughout construction!
- The Mayor and Building Department Staff at the City of Countryside for ensuring our renovation was timely and safe
- Klein Construction for managing the project timely and on a budget
- Our neighbors Sharma & Associates for being patient with the noise and inconvenience as our space was remodeled
- MP Flooring Solutions for donating brand new flooring and carpeting to our offices
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.
Dr. Ann Jackson, DPT – 2021 IPTA Societal Impact Award!
We are proud to announce that Center staff, Dr. Ann Jackson, DPT, received the 2021 Illinois Physical Therapy Association (IPTA) Societal Impact Award! The award is given to those who “demonstrate commitment and dedication to addressing issues related to societal welfare…and exemplify the compassionate nature of the physical therapy profession”.
All of us at the Center for Independence have experienced Ann’s dedicated and compassionate nature firsthand! Ann was at the heart of the Center’s expansion to under-served people with disabilities living in the Southland community and founded the Center’s Label Us Able group.
Ann is also working closely with Dr. Roberta O’Shea and Governors State University in starting up a new Post High School Advancement Program for Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities. The objective of the program is to introduce college readiness or future employment concepts to individuals with intellectual disabilities who are striving for gainful engagement with the community and society. Candidates must have completed high school attendance required hours.
Congratulations Dr. Ann Jackson – You are an inspiration to us all!
For more information on GSU’s Post High School Advancement Program – please contact Continuinged@govst.edu
Working Together Chicago featured on IAMCP’s blog
Aileen Provan, from the International Association of Microsoft Channel Partners posted an article on the IAMCP blog, May 5. The post features Working Together Chicago, a CFI program, which is a great opportunity for employees looking to be come involved in the IAMCP Diversity and Inclusion program.
Read her article titled: “The Hidden Talent Pool; A D&I story that will give you fresh ideas on how to attract new talent”