Welcome to Envision Unlimited E-News!
 

Choice. Independence. Inclusion. These words are at the core of everything we do at Envision Unlimited. That's why this year's National Disability Employment Awareness Month's theme of #InclusionWorks resonates more than ever.   NDEAM dates back to 1945 and is observed each October in  celebration  of the skills and talents that employees with disabilities bring to our workforce.
 
Why is this important?   Persons with disabilities experience nearly double the rate of unemployment of those without a disability.

While we celebrated the achievements of our clients on Labor Day this September, we know we have a long way to go.  That's why our Employment Services Programs provide the support to help Envision  clients choose, obtain and retain employment.
 
We extend a special thanks to the companies who employ our clients, and we hope that everyone will join us in honoring our workers with disabilities this October!
 
All the best,




Mark McHugh
President & CEO
 
 
Illinois Council on Developmental Disabilities Retreat
Jerome Gill, Ana Zalka, and Division Director Donna Ennis at ICDD 2016

In mid-September, Envision Unlimited clients and staff traveled to Bloomington, IL for the Illinois Council on Developmental Disabilities retreat. Envision received a grant from ICDD and shared their experiences with the presentation "Life Like Any Other: Enhancing Community Collaboration."

CILA residents Ana and Jerome did an outstanding job speaking about their positive experiences doing volunteer work in the community as a result of this grant. We were honored to be a part of the retreat and to share our stories!
Envision Unlimited Clients Out and About in September
Paddling a canoe in the Chicago River.

Touring U.S. Cellular Field. Clients experienced the view from the press box, a tour of suites, the player's dugout, and a walk on the field.
Looking good for a night of live music at House of Blues Chicago!
Sponsor a Holiday Party at an Envision CILA!
One of the true joys of the holiday season is being with family and friends.  Our residential clients at Envision are no different, as they too long for this type of camaraderie and friendship, creating warm moments and cherished memories.
 
Make that scenario a reality this year by sponsoring a CILA Holiday Party.  For the past two years, with your help, we have been able to provide a holiday celebration at all of our community living homes, spreading goodwill among our nearly 200 residents.
 
Hosting a holiday gathering requires only a little planning, as you bring the party to the clients' homes.  Staff provide the clients' Holiday Wish Lists to help guide your shopping list, and, of course, no party would be complete without a meal and holiday merriment in the form of singing or bingo, etc.

This year we're looking to host CILA parties at the following dates and times:  
  • Sunday, December 4: 12 - 3pm or 4 - 7pm
  • Saturday, December 10: 12 - 3pm or 4 - 7pm
  • Sunday, December 11: 12 - 3pm or 4 - 7pm
Groups or individual sponsors are welcome.  Email Mary Kay Krupka to learn more and discuss your preferences.Spread holiday cheer and make new friends with Envision!
Holiday Shopping Season is Right Around the Corner

Don't panic, but there are just 86 days left before Christmas!  Get the gifts you want and give back
when you order through the Amazon Smile program.

When you sign in at   smile.amazon.com  and select "Envision Unlimited" as your charitable organization of choice, you get the same products, prices and service, but .5% of your purchase price is donated to us! It's just that easy.
Envision Unlimited  serves people with intellectual and developmental disabilities with the goal of enhancing their lives and expanding their futures. Our clients are diverse, spanning across all ages, abilities and backgrounds, but one thing they all share is a drive to excel in their work. We believe all individuals, given the right opportunities, are capable of achieving great breakthroughs and leading lives with more meaningful possibilities.
Envision Unlimited | EnvisionChicago.org