SHARE:  
Letter From Development Director
As we approach the end of the year, our thoughts often turn to reflecting. We are so fortunate in our community to have many compassionate and giving people that support efforts to help people in need in all walks of life. At Pioneer Center, we see it every day and we couldn’t be more grateful.
 
So much has happened in these last 3 years, and we want to specifically thank those that helped us and other vital services in this county surviving through these difficult times.

This fall season is important to non-profits like Pioneer Center because so many people give funding to support these agencies at this particular time of year.

As we prepare for Giving Tuesday and our end of year giving season, we hope you will thoughtfully donate to our diverse and vital programs. We continue to provide essential programs and services for people with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, Behavioral Health needs for adults, children and families, and Homeless Services at our McHenry County PADS Homeless Shelter.

These are tough times for non-profits as people and businesses are struggling through a very difficult financial time, in many cases, much worse than during the height of Covid-19.

Bless you and your families during this wonderful time of year.

Sincerely,
Director of Development
Two Ribbon Cuttings to Introduce New Programs in our Community
Bright Program in Huntley

We recently hosted two very successful Ribbon Cuttings and Multi-Chamber Mixers for our Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) Programs.

The first ribbon cutting was for our new Bright Program, a unique recreation day program offered in partnership with the Northern Illinois Special Recreation Association (NISRA). 

Our Bright Program is focused on increasing community independence and providing recreational opportunities. The Bright Program is located at the Deicke Park facility on11419 S. IL Route 47 in Huntley, IL.
Me and Rise Program in Woodstock
Our second ribbon cutting and chamber mixer was for our Me & Rise Programs in Woodstock located at 110 South Johnson Street. The Me Program encourages and empowers people to work on goals chosen by themselves and helps them become more active in the community. The Rise Program focuses on enhancing independence, encountering new experiences and increasing self confidence while in the community.

For more information on our IDD programs, please call admissions at (815) 759- 7160 or email ddadmissions@pioneercenter.org

To donate towards Pioneer Center and help these vital programs flourish, visit our donation page or email the Development Team at rleggee@pioneercenter.org.
Upcoming Events
Save the Date!
Announcing... Our Guest Speaker for
Our Holiday Inspiration Luncheon is planned for Friday, December 2, 2022 at the beautiful Holiday Inn located in Crystal Lake, IL.

Join us in welcoming this year’s inspirational speaker, WGN’s news reporter, anchor and Emmy Award nominee, Dana Rebik.
Rebik, currently residing in Algonquin, IL, will share her personal experiences on disability awareness and a behavioral health issue that hits close to home. 

All guests in attendance can look forward to starting their holiday shopping on our collection of Grand Raffle, stunning Gift Basket Raffles and Silent Auction prizes. Tickets on sale soon!

Would you like to highlight your business or donate a gift basket at this successful charity event by providing a grand raffle prize, silent auction item or general raffle basket donation? Please email Sue George at sgeorge@pioneercenter.org.
Empty Bowls Art Auction
Buy your tickets TODAY for Empty Bowls Art Auction on Sunday, October 16, 2022 at 2 pm at the Raue Center For The Arts in Crystal Lake, IL. Enjoy live jazz music, silent art auction by regional artists, artisan designed bowls, delicious hors d'oeuvres by 31 North Banquets & Catering and tempting desserts by Lovin Oven Cakery. Proceeds benefit Pioneer Center's McHenry County PADS Homeless Shelter.
Giving Tuesday is November 29th!
Giving Tuesday, the Tuesday after Thanksgiving, is a global generosity movement unleashing the power of people and organizations to transform their communities through donations and volunteering.

Join us on Tuesday, November 29th and see what the strength of people and the power of our community can do for men, women and children in need of food, shelter and essential services at the McHenry County PADS Homeless Shelter.
Organizational Announcement in Behavioral Health
Meghan Luse, MS, LCPC, joined the Behavioral Health Division at Pioneer Center in August as the new Clinical Services Manager. Meghan received her undergraduate degree from Augustana with a major in Psychology and graduated from Rosalind Franklin University with a master’s degree in Clinical Counseling.

Meghan’s experience previous to Pioneer Center was focused on child and adolescent mental wellness. She worked in crisis stabilization and as a Clinical Supervisor guiding therapists in trauma informed therapeutic interventions. We are excited to have her experience and expertise on our team.
Pioneer Center is Hiring -
Are you a compassionate and caring person looking for an opportunity that will make a difference?

If yes, join our team and Apply Now!
We are hiring both full and
part-time Direct Support Professionals (DSP)
What you need to begin your career as a DSP:
  • A desire to learn – all trainings are paid
  • 18 years of age or older, a high school diploma/GED
  • Valid driver's license and a good driving record
Please contact Human Resources if you have any questions about Pioneer Center job opportunities.
Other Ways to Donate
Did you know there are many generous ways
to give back to Pioneer Center?
Shopping Season is Here!
By shopping with AmazonSmile, whether you are a Prime member or not, you can have a portion of your purchase donated back to Pioneer Center.

Once you choose Pioneer Center through AmazonSmile, 0.5% of your purchases will be donated to us. It is an easy way to give back while you are shopping and you won't have buyers remorse. Happy Shopping!
Start a Facebook Fundraiser


To create a Facebook Fundraiser for Pioneer Center, go to this link and follow these simple steps:

1. Select Nonprofit
2. Type Pioneer Center for Human Services
3. Fill in the fundraiser details and choose a cover photo
4. Click Create

Please contact the Development Team, rleggee@pioneercenter.org, if you have questions about other ways to donate to Pioneer Center.


Follow, Like and Engage
with Pioneer Center on

Questions or Concerns about the Pioneer Center Mission Update newsletter can be directed to the editor, Debra Kulinski at dkulinsk@pioneercenter.org.