The Center for Enriched Living exists so that people with developmental disabilities can be fully included in the community, achieve personal success, and enjoy a good quality of life.
We see a future where every person with a developmental disability is an equal, valued and contributing member of the community.
We believe the excellence of our staff is reflected in the impact we make with our members. The common bond for all staff is holding our mission, vision and core values to the highest standards. Besides the staff listed here, we have 25 additional staff who work in daytime, evening and weekend programs.
LEADERSHIP: We work hard, forge new paths, and are leaders (not followers) in the field.
INTEGRITY: We are transparent and accountable for our actions; we have integrity and deliver on our promises.
FUN: We promote positive energy and mutual respect in a warm and welcoming community; we like to have fun and enjoy a
balanced life.
EMPOWERMENT: We are member-centered and seek every opportunity to empower our members to make their own choices and direct their own lives.
CELEBRATING DIFFERENCES: CEL celebrates the unique contributions of everyone – where all voices are heard and personal choices are respected.
STRONG COMMUNITY: We believe in a strong connection to friends and community – where everyone belongs and is treated with dignity.
UNLIMITED OPPORTUNITIES: We believe in providing unlimited opportunities for learning, enrichment, and growth.
COLLABORATION & INNOVATION: We promote a culture of collaboration and innovation to help us do, and be, our best.
REMOVING BARRIERS: CEL is committed to removing barriers – both physical and attitudinal – so that our members can achieve greater independence and lead more fulfilling and meaningful lives.
The Center for Enriched Living began in 1968, when two mothers approached a social worker at a local community center, asking for help in finding after-school programs for their children with developmental disabilities.
With the social worker’s assistance, the two children were then integrated into programs at the community center. As these programs evolved, they began to include social and independent living activities for people of all ages with developmental disabilities. In 1984, The Center became an independent agency with 60 members which has now grown to serving 500 people. After moving to numerous facilities to accommodate its exponential growth, The Center embarked on a capital campaign in 1996 to raise funds for the construction of a new home. The result of that effort came to fruition in 2000, when The Center moved into its own facility in north suburban Riverwoods. This complex includes a gymnasium, arts-and-crafts room, teaching kitchen, computer lab and accessible garden. This building allows The Center to serve more people with developmental disabilities in a greater variety of programs.
At The Center, we provide opportunities so that our members can acquire new skills for social inclusion and independent living. Due to the fact that the majority of our members are at/below the federal poverty level, The Center keeps fees low for program participants and also offers scholarships.
