July 2026

July Impact in Action:

Creating Opportunities, Building Connections

Employment Spotlight:


Christine Makes the TotalLink Workspace Better, Simply by Being Herself

Everyone on the TotalLink team knows they can count on Christine! One day each week, she brings her positive energy, dependable spirit, and can-do attitude to our office.


Christine plays an important role in the behind-the-scenes work that keeps TotalLink moving. Whether she is writing personal notes to donors, assisting with our weekly newsletter, entering data, filing, or organizing materials, she is always ready to jump in and make a difference.


One of the highlights of having Christine on our team is hearing about her adventures. She travels around the world and shares photos and stories that give us a glimpse of places we may never see ourselves. Her excitement is contagious, whether she is talking about her latest trip, her favorite video games, or a Comic Con adventure. She brings fun, energy, and joy to every day she is in the office.


“Christine is hardworking, dependable, and always willing to lend a hand. But above all, she’s incredibly thoughtful, honest, and genuinely fun to be around. She makes our workplace better simply by being herself.”



-- Emily Raming, Executive Director

A Recipe for Connection at

Lazy Dog Restaurant in Northbrook

Lazy Dog restaurant has long been a favorite gathering spot for TotalLink programs. That connection recently grew into a fun new partnership through a special Lunch and Learn with TotalLink's Community Life program.


Participants explored the stories behind favorite dishes and learned how cultures influence one another through food. They also put their creativity to work by building their own delicious salad bowls.


The afternoon was filled with learning, creativity, and connection. It was a wonderful reminder that great food has a special way of bringing people together.


Lazy Dog loves creating moments where people connect, learn, and feel welcome. We were thrilled to share this experience with Community Life.

-- Dana Plotkin, Lazy Dog Restaurant


Visit Lazy Dog during our Dining Days August 2 - 9. TotalLink artists' work will be on display!

Congratulations, Jacob!


We're excited to share that Jacob has stepped into an expanded role as TotalLink's Employment Partnerships Coordinator!


Jacob will continue supporting the individuals on his employment caseload, helping them discover, secure, and maintain meaningful employment. In addition to his work as an Employment Specialist, he will now dedicate part of his time to building and strengthening relationships with local businesses, schools, and community organizations.

As Employment Partnerships Coordinator, Jacob will focus on creating new employment opportunities, deepening employer partnerships, and expanding our network of inclusive workplaces. This additional responsibility helps us create even more opportunities for current and future job seekers while continuing to provide the personalized support that has always been at the heart of TotalLink's employment services.


Ready to connect? Reach out to Jacob at jcohen@totallink.org to learn how you can help create meaningful employment opportunities.

Volunteer for Bingo at Northbrook Days


We are sponsoring Bingo at Northbrook Days this year, and we need your help to make it a success! It’s a fun, fast-paced way to support the community.


Wednesday, August 5th | 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.


Saturday, August 8th | 2:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.


We need volunteers to help with player check-in, recording numbers called, and checking winning cards.

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