 Reflection on Two Years
We are pleased to be part of carrying on the dream of our founders – a group of parents who were seeking an alternative to traditional institutional care for children with developmental disabilities. The achievements highlighted in this two-year Report seem even greater in light of recent economic challenges. Click here to read more.
Meet Greg Mino, CSS Board Chair
 For the past two years, as CSS has weathered the storm of a shrinking economy and State budget challenges, Greg Mino along with rest of the CSS Board has been skillfully guiding our ship. Greg, who enjoys sailing and coaching youth soccer, is a LaGrange resident, husband of a local business owner, father of two young children, and executive in a Chicago investment firm. He joined the board of CSS in 2008 because he wanted to give back to the community in a meaningful way that has direct positive impact on families in our local neighborhoods. Click here to read more.
Blending Home, Community, Family and Food
 You can see from Sharon Flaim’s home that she enjoys gardening. If you know of her volunteerism, it’s no surprise that she accepted an invitation to help CSS from her friend, Liz, whose daughter receives services. Click here to read more.
Respite: Activity for Healthy Lives
 Individual and group Respite care for many families throughout the western suburbs remain among our most popular offerings. Thanks to funding from local governing bodies relating to mental health (Mental Health or “708” Boards), individuals, United Way, and the Westlake Health Foundation, we have added exercise, art, and cooking classes for our older participants, new transition programs and employment services for 14-22 year olds, and a support group for parents with developmental disabilities. Click here to read more.
 Spotlight: Meet Lisa
When 26 year-old Lisa walks into a room, there is a new bounce in her step. In the last year, with the help of her CSS Direct Support Professional (DSP), Lisa has discovered the benefits of exercise. She now goes to the local YMCA two times a week with her DSP, and she has lost nearly 40 pounds. She walks, does sit-ups, and lifts weights. Click here to read more.
Beth Lacey Center:
Building a Dream for Families in Cicero
 With the opening of the Beth Lacey Center for Family Support in Cicero in Fall 2010, the CSS network of family and friends has much to be proud of. Our creative person and family-centered support services for children and adults with developmental disabilities and their families will be clearly evident in our newest site. Click here to read more.
Chicago Canine Club: Opening Doors to Employment Through Experience
 CSS established The Chicago Canine Club (the Club) in 2008 as a social entrepreneurship project; a way to provide a revenue stream for CSS through a business that can offer opportunities for people with developmental disabilities, in support of our mission. Today the Club is a place that provides high quality “home away from home” dog playtime and overnight boarding services, as well as the site of our Canine Care Assistant Training Program for individuals with developmental disabilities who are interested in finding paid or unpaid employment in the animal-care field. Click here to read more.
Support for a Lifetime
 Adults with developmental disabilities have a broad spectrum of needs from 24-hour care to intermittent support, to assistance during life’s transitions. Some adults have children of their own and need parenting support, some need to enhance basic self-care and/or household management skills, others need help with socialization or vocational skills. Click here to read more.
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