October 2025

A Night to Remember:

Pictured above: Current Board President Mark Ehlert expresses gratitude to outgoing Board President Sue Mack (pictured right) for her steadfast leadership and commitment to TotalLink’s mission.

TotalLink’s 2025 Revelry Casino Night was a spectacular celebration of inclusion and community, raising vital funds to support our employment, social, and lifelong learning programs. Mark Ehlert recognized Sue Mack for her years of dedication, honoring the lasting impact she and TotalLink’s founding families have made since our inception. Their vision continues to shape a future where adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities are valued, included, and empowered to thrive.

Guests enjoyed an unforgettable evening of fun and philanthropy at The Revelry Casino Night, held at Sunset Ridge Country Club, featuring high-energy casino games, an exciting live auction, and great music from Blenderful Music. Executive Director Emily Raming and TotalLink participant, Kelly Kogen, shared about the impact of our work - reminding everyone that together, we’re creating opportunities for people of all abilities to thrive.


A huge thank you to our wonderful event co-chairs, Christie Cáceres and Macy Clemons, and to everyone who supported this fun event.

A Recipe for Inclusion: John's Story at Max and Benny's

A highlight of the evening came through the video featuring John, a long-time TotalLink program member and valued employee at Max and Benny’s. John has worked at the restaurant for over three years, and his success reflects what’s possible when community and opportunity come together. His story - filled with dedication, friendship, and pride - reminds us that meaningful employment opens the door to confidence, belonging, and purpose. You can watch John’s story here.

Business Breakfast, Guided to Greatness: How Inclusive Hiring Strengthens Business


Intrigued by John’s story? You’re invited to continue the conversation at our complimentary TotalLink Business Breakfast on Friday, November 14, from

8 -10 a.m., hosted at Max and Benny’s in Northbrook.


Join us for a networking breakfast focused on disability inclusion in the workplace. Connect with fellow employers and learn how job coaches support both businesses and employees through onboarding, training, and practical workplace accommodations.

Thank You to Our Revelry Casino Night Sponsors:

New Approaches to Living & Housing Management: Resources in our community! 


In September, TotalLink partnered with Engage IL and A Happy Life to present “My Place, My Life: A Housing Model That Fits Me,” a workshop for adults with disabilities and their families. The goal was to explore housing options that support independence and community living.


At TotalLink, we believe everyone has the right to choose where and how they live. But understanding the options and where to start can be challenging. This workshop provided families with practical tools and valuable information to navigate that journey.

Topics included Supported Living, a flexible model that helps individuals live independently with varying levels of support. Engage IL shared updates on their advocacy for expanded services and funding through Illinois’ waiver programs, helping families think creatively about housing solutions. 


A Happy Life introduced its services that support self-directed, person-centered living. A Happy Life provides case management services in order to help individuals and families create a life plan focused on each person's skills, preferences, goals, and support needs. They also offer guidance and resources for future planning, wraparound communication with your circle of support, and help you to hire and train a personal support worker.


TotalLink also shared how our employment and community programs help individuals lead full, meaningful lives. The workshop left families better equipped to make informed decisions and advocate for housing that aligns with their loved ones’ goals and needs. Explore the resources below to begin your journey toward finding the housing model that’s right for your loved one.

Meet Melanie: TotalLink's Artist of the Month

We're a Target Circle™ Participant!


TotalLink is so excited to announce that we’re featured in Target Circle™!“


Your votes help us earn funds that support inclusion—
vote today in the Target app!



Here’s how:

Step 1

Choose ‘My Target’ in the Target app or ‘Account’ on Target.com


Step 2

Tap Explore Benefits

Tap Vote for non-profits

Step 3

Find us & vote


Join Us For These Fun Events!

Madame ZuZu's

1876 1st St.

Highland Park, IL


4:00 - 6:00 PM


November 20, 2025

December 18, 2025


Everyone is welcome to join us for this fun community event.

New to TotalLink Programs or Employment?

Check out our Getting Started with Services page.

Keep the spirit of The Revelry alive!

Your support advances inclusion and opportunity all year long.

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