Grant History

2022
Center for Independent Futures $10,000	Provide developmentally-appropriate education for transition students on healthy sexuality, sexual assault risk reduction and reporting and self-defense.
Children's Research Triangle $15,000	Fund activities at Camp SOAR
Easter Seals - Metro Chicago $5,699	Fund technology for the HarrysButtons program serving vocational training needs of students with disabilities
Esperanza Community Services $20,000	Support the integration of interactive whiteboard technology (IWBs) into Esperanza's classrooms
Have Dreams $17,500	Support salaries and program preparation for The Social, Communication and Independent Living Skills (SCILS) Program
Helping Hand Center $13,801	Purchase therapy equipment for new sensory gym.
Oak-Leyden Developmental Services $38,000	Support the implementation of the Behavioral Health Services for Children Program into their current Children's Services
The Kids Equipment Network $30,000	Support the Community Wheelers Program with the purchase of 50 adaptive strollers

2021
Center For Enriched Living $20,000	Support salaries of counselors at agency's summer camp
Center For Independence Through Conductive Education $20,000	Fund salary of full-time Conductive Education Teacher
Easter Seals - Metro Chicago $4,280	Support HarrysButtons to support individuals with developmental disorders learn job skills
Easterseals DuPage and the Fox Valley Region $25,000	Support the Make the First Five Count program to serve low-income families who need comprehensive approach to early intervention
Esperanza Community Services $10,000	Fund equipment/supplies for sensory integration therapy room
Helping Hand Center $16,120	Fund enhanced hearing services for children with disabilities with launch of new hearing screening service
Imagination Theater $8,600	Support implementation of new theatrical residency program at one school
LaRabida Children's Hospital $21,000	Support salary of Developmental Specialist in Premier Kids program for children birth to 6 years old
Our Place of New Trier Township $10,000	Funding for After School Program which provides social, enrichment and recreation activities for high school and transition students
Parents Alliance Employment Project $30,000	Support Project Search program providing employment skill building at Woodstock Hospital
The Chicago Lighthouse $35,000	Support salary of a Birth-To-Three Program teacher

2020
Center For Enriched Living $20,000	Support salaries of camp counselors for agency's summer camp
Center For Independence Through Conductive Education $20,000	Support the salary of a full time occupational therapist in Center's Intensive Motor Training Program
Children's Research Triangle $5,000	Support Camp SOAR (Special Outdoor Adaptive Recreation) overnight camping experience
Easterseals DuPage and the Fox Valley Region $23,000	Support pediatric therapy and services in the Make The First Five program for youth 0-5
LaRabida Children's Hospital $21,000	Support salary of Developmental Specialist in Premier Kids Program
Search Inc. $20,000	Support PAC Jobs Transition Program that provides real-life work experience to help young people make successful transitions to productive adult life.
The Chicago Lighthouse $35,000	Fund one teacher in the Birth-to-Three Early Intervention Program
The Nora Project $26,000	Support Nora Project classrooms in five south suburban schools in District 102 (LaGrange)

2019
Children's Research Triangle $9,500	Provide Camp SOAR (Special Outdoor Adaptive Recreation) overnight camping experiences for children with special needs
Have Dreams $26,250	Support The Social, Communication, and Living Skills (SCILS) Program for Children with Autism
Oak-Leyden Developmental Services $31,000	Support new therapy groups: Growing Strong - Mini Oaks, Tall Oaks and Mighty Oaks
Search Inc. $20,000	Support PAC Jobs Transition Program providing real-life work experience to help young people successfully transition to productive adult life
South Suburban Special Recreation Association $25,000	Support Inclusion Services program with 1:1 aides
The Kids Equipment Network $30,000	Support Community Wheelers Program by providing adaptive strollers
The Nora Project $18,150	Support Nora Project classrooms at three LaGrange schools

2018
Center For Independence Through Conductive Education $20,000	Support salary of one full-time Conductive Education Teacher
LaRabida Children's Hospital $20,540	Support salary of Developmental Therapist in Premier Kids Program
Parents Alliance Employment Project $18,751	Replicate Project Search in a new location
South Suburban Special Recreation Association $25,000	Fund salaries for inclusion aides to enable successful inclusion in programs
The Chicago Lighthouse $35,000	Support salary of DT-V Teacher in early intervention program
The Kids Equipment Network $30,000	Support the Community Wheelers Program to provide adaptive strollers to the community

2017
Aspire $12,200	Support therapy hours for low income children with developmental disabilities in Chicago
Blue Cap $6,607	Purchase Tumble Form Equipment for use in the agency's school program
Center For Independence Through Conductive Education $20,000	Support the salary of one full-time physical therapist for agency's Intensive Motor Training Program
Easterseals DuPage and the Fox Valley Region $27,500	Support the agency's Nutrition Services Program
Jewish Council for Youth Services $15,000	Support the salaries of Camp Red Leaf Youth Counselors
PACTT Learning Center $11,400	Support PACTT Video Modeling Project: Enhancing Treatment for Children with Autism in School
Special Gifts Theatre $22,260	Support salaries of special education teachers and therapists in agency's Musical Theatre Program and Creativity in Motion Program
The Chicago Lighthouse $35,000	Support agency's BirthTo Three Early Intervention Program

2016
Aspire $26,850	Support therapy hours for additional low income children with developmental disabilities in Chicago
Blue Cap $4,000	Purchase Rifton adaptive tricycles to be used in agency's School Program
Easterseals DuPage and the Fox Valley Region $20,000	Support agency's Nutrition Program to expand in-home therapy evaluations and nutrition therapy support.
Jewish Council for Youth Services $15,000	Fund five camp counselors at summer camp programming at Camp Red Leaf
LaRabida Children's Hospital $14,373	Support Developmental Specialist position in agency's Premier Kids program
Parents Alliance Employment Project $20,000	Support Project SEARCH employment program
Special Gifts Theatre $18,730	Support agency's interdisciplinary team who design and direct training, modeling and monitoring the musical theater program and Creativity in Motion
The Kids Equipment Network $24,000	Support the Community Wheeler's Program with purchase of strollers

2015
Best Buddies Illinois $14,575	Support programming at four metro Chicago high schools
Center For Independence Through Conductive Education $20,000	Support the salary of a full-time occupational therapist who will work with the children with physical disabilities
Have Dreams $9,500	Support new Saturday morning programs at the agency's Evanston facility
LaRabida Children's Hospital $13,954	Support the salary of the Developmental Specialist in the agency's Premier Kids Progrm
Legal Council for Health Justice $21,500	Support the agency's medical-legal partnership for children - free, expert legal services to ensure a family with a child with a developmental disability has access to early intervention, special education, transition planning, etc.
Parents Alliance Employment Project $15,000	Support the salary of a part-time job coach position for their Project SEARCH Program
The Chicago Lighthouse $31,380	Support salary for a teacher in the agency's Birth-to-Three Family Intervention Program
The Kids Equipment Network $24,000	Support the purchase of strollers for their Community Wheelers Program

2014
Center For Independence Through Conductive Education $20,000	Support salaries of physical and occupational therapists in Intensive Motor Training Program for Children with Physical Disabilities
Center of Disability Services $41,805	Purchase equipment (Tap-It system) for technology center to eliminate barriers for full participation by the children
Orchard Village $10,000	Support Orchard Academy where participants develop life skills leading to productive and fulfilling employment, college-level educational opportunities and independent living
Our Place of New Trier Township $20,000	Support the agency's Vocational Discovery and Skills Development Program
PACTT Learning Center $10,000	Support renovation and equipment for the PACTT Sensory Room Project
The Chicago Lighthouse $34,518	Support a teacher's salary in agency's 0-3 Early Intervention Program
University of Illinois at Chicago $13,445	Support Parent Behavior Management Training and Support Program

2013
Blue Cap $7,500	Special Kids funding will purchase adaptive Rifton chairs to be used in their school program and students’ homes. These chairs will help children sit, stand and walk independently.
Elim Christian Services $25,000	Special Kids funding will support the agency’s Autism Comprehensive Education Program. This is a highly structured educational program that serves children on the autism spectrum with increased sensory, motor and communication needs who cannot be served in the regular education program.
Envision Unlimited $17,500	Special Kids funding will support extended respite care in the agency’s foster care program. This respite will provide the families with a break from routine caregiving while providing the child with experiences outside the home that promote community integration.
Equestrian Connection $10,500	Special Kids will fund the Nurse position at the agency’s therapeutic camps. With the addition of a nurse to the camp staff the agency will be able to include children with medical needs and allow them to participate in all camp activities safely.
LaRabida Children's Hospital $13,076	Special Kids will fund the Infant Development Specialist position in the agency’s Premier Kids Program. This program uses an interdisciplinary team that provides children with developmental disabilities and their families with comprehensive healthcare, resources and education.
Our Place of New Trier Township $24,790	Special Kids funding will support the delivery of a skills development program for more challenged teens who need individualized support. This project will increase their opportunities for inclusion and success in social situations.
Parents Alliance Employment Project $8,000	Special Kids funding will support the salary of the Employment Specialist/job coach at the agency’s “Perks and Possibilities” café. This project prepares youth with developmental disabilities with real life work skills for when they graduate from high school.
The Kids Equipment Network $25,000	Special Kids will fund the purchase of adaptive strollers for the agency’s Community Wheelers. These strollers will be distributed to children with developmental disabilities.

2012
Advocate - Adult Down Syndrome Center $25,000	Special Kids funding will support the Adult Down Syndrome Center’s Life Situation Role Play Program. This program helps children with Down syndrome to develop the skills needed to safely navigate the challenges of school, work and community participation.
Center For Independence Through Conductive Education $20,000	Special Kids funding will support the salary of an occupational therapist as part of their CE motor training program. The goal for each child is increased lifetime self-sufficiency and independent living.
Envision Unlimited $8,500	Special Kids funding will support extended respite care in the agency’s foster care program. This respite will provide the families with a break from routine caregiving while providing the child with experiences outside the home that promote community integration.
LaRabida Children's Hospital $10,076	Special Kids will fund the Infant Development Specialist position in the agency’s Premier Kids Program. This program uses an interdisciplinary team that provides children with developmental disabilities and their families with comprehensive healthcare, resources and education.
Shore Community Services $25,000	Special Kids funding will support the salary of an occupational therapist in the agency’s Early Intervention Program. This person will conduct individual therapy sessions and co-facilitate a Sensory Integration Playgroup.
The Chicago Lighthouse $22,595	Special Kids funding will support the position of Teacher/Therapist in the agency’s Birth-To-Three Family Intervention Program. This program provides in home early intervention services, case management, family skills training and support.
The Kids Equipment Network $12,500	Special Kids will fund the purchase of adaptive strollers for the agency’s Community Wheelers. These strollers will be distributed to children with developmental disabilities.
The Lexi Kazian Foundation-Helping from Heaven $10,000	Special Kids will fund the purchase of needed equipment for Lexi’s Equipment Closet. This equipment will be provided to families with children with developmental disabilities.

2011
Belle Center of Chicago $15,000	Special Kids funding will support the position of Program Director of the agency’s Inclusion Project. This project is a unique combination of educational, therapeutic and family support services to help children with developmental disabilities to succeed in school and participate in the community.
Best Buddies Illinois $14,920	Special Kids funding will fund the staff required for four Best Buddies chapters in Chicago and Lake County. This program creates enriching mentor opportunities for children with and without developmental disabilities through peer based one-to-one friendships.
Center For Independence Through Conductive Education $20,000	Special Kids funding will support the salary of a full time physical therapist as part of their CE motor training program. The goal for each child is increased functional independence and improved inclusion in the child’s regular home school.
Have Dreams $35,759	Special Kids funding will support the salaries of staff who will implement five new classes in their Social, Communication and Independent Living Skills Program in Evanston. These classes will strengthen skill areas typically impacted by autism, including socialization, independence and communication.
Our Place of New Trier Township $22,907	Special Kids will support the hiring of part-time program coordinators. Our Place provides a community based center where teens and young adults with special needs can participate in structured and casual programs with their peers. These programs alleviate social isolation, improve social skills and reduce inappropriate social behaviors.
Parents Alliance Employment Project $10,000	Special Kids funding will support the salary of the Employment Specialist/job coach at the agency’s “Perks and Possibilities” café. This project prepares youth with developmental disabilities with real life work skills for when they graduate from high school.
The Chicago Lighthouse $25,460	Special Kids funding will support the position of Teacher/therapist in the agency’s Birth-To-Three Family Intervention Program. This program provides in home early intervention services, case management, family skills training and support.

2010
Ada S. McKinley Community Services $17,494	Special Kids funding will enable the agency to purchase hardware and software that will increase basic life skills for severely disabled children. These skills are needed for them to live a semi-independent life, including basic processing and communication, critical thinking and problem solving skills.
Advocate - Illinois Masonic Medical Center $25,000	Special Kids will support the PUENTES autism treatment program at Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center. The PUENTES program provides intensive home-based therapy to children at a young age when intervention produces the best outcomes at Illinois Masonic Medical Center
Great Potentials $15,000	Special Kids will fund the salaries of two part-time managers at the agency’s Perk Center Café. This community based program provides job training and employment for young adults with developmental disabilities in a food service setting.
Our Place of New Trier Township $32,819	Special Kids will support the hiring of two program specialists. Our Place provides a community based center where teens and young adults with special needs can participate in structured and casual programs with their peers. These programs alleviate social isolation, improve social skills and reduce inappropriate social behaviors.
PACTT Learning Center $15,000	Special Kids will support the expansion of PACTT Learning Center’s innovative Vocational Services Program which connects teens with autism to jobs and a future.
Parents Alliance Employment Project $15,000	Special Kids funding will support the salary of the Employment Specialist in the agency’s job readiness workshop program. This program connects with youth with developmental disabilities in local high schools and prepares them for the world of work.
Special Gifts Theatre $18,100	Special Kids will support the teachers’ salaries for one classroom in the agency’s 2010-11 Musical Theatre program. The program provides children and teens with special needs a customized creative drama experience. Each child is paired with a typically developing peer of a similar age.

2009
Ada S. McKinley Community Services $9,132	Special Kids funding will enable the agency to purchase software that will increase basic life skills for severely disabled children. These skills are needed for them to live a semi-independent life, including basic processing and communication, critical thinking and problem solving skills.
Best Buddies Illinois $14,920	Special Kids funding will fund the staff required for the agency’s High School program. This program creates enriching mentor opportunities for children with and without developmental disabilities through peer based one-to-one friendships.
Center For Independence Through Conductive Education $17,650	Special Kids funding will support scholarships that enable children to participate in the agency’s conductive education program. This program strives to increase motor function and independence. The goal is to promote inclusion at the children’s neighborhood schools.
Esperanza Community Services $37,530	Special Kids will support the salary of the Vocational Training Counselor. Esperanza School’s vision is for all students to reach their fullest potential with minimal barriers to learning, growth and community integration. Vocational training enhances integration and fosters inclusion in the child’s daily life.
Jewish Council for Youth Services $15,000	Special Kids funding will support scholarships to enable special needs children to attend Camp Red Leaf’s year-round camping and respite programs. Children will be able to enjoy enriching experiences in a safe, nurturing environment.
Keshet $15,000	Special Kids funds will support the salary of the Inclusion Coordinator in the agency’s Peer Buddy Mentor Program. This program fosters educational/social inclusion for children with developmental disabilities and integration with their typically developing peers.
LaRabida Children's Hospital $28,140	Special Kids will fund the Infant Development Specialist and Dietician positions in the agency’s Premier Kids Program. This program uses an interdisciplinary team that provides children with developmental disabilities and their families with comprehensive healthcare, resources and education.
Miracle League of Joliet $5,000	Special Kids funding will support the agency’s mission to help children with developmental disabilities have the opportunity to participate in baseball and to benefit from participation in sports.

2008
Center For Independence Through Conductive Education $10,000	Special Kids funding will enable the agency to purchase conductive education furniture for its three year round programs and summer camp. This program strives to increase motor function and independence in children in order to develop self esteem and self-direction. The goal is to promote inclusion at the children’s neighborhood schools. Special Kids funding will enable the agency to purchase conductive education furniture for its three year round programs and summer camp. This program strives to increase motor function and independence in children in order to develop self esteem and self-direction. The goal is to promote inclusion at the children’s neighborhood schools. Special Kids funding will enable the agency to purchase conductive education furniture for its three year round programs and summer camp. This program strives to increase motor function and independence in children in order to develop self esteem and self-direction. The goal is to promote inclusion at the children’s neighborhood schools.
Community Support Services $25,000	Special Kids will support salaries at the agency’s Latino Family Support program. This program offers respite for the families while providing opportunities for the child to participate in activities that enhance self esteem and well being.
Esperanza Community Services $25,000	Special Kids will support the salary of the Training Counselor. Vocational training is an integral part of the curriculum at Esperanza School.
Have Dreams $15,000	Special Kids funding will support the agency’s staff and classroom activities. The classes are designed to provide individualized skill-building opportunities for children with autism so they may learn critical life and educational skills.
LaRabida Children's Hospital $27,849	Special Kids will fund the Infant Development Specialist and Dietician positions in the agency’s Premier Kids Program. This program uses an interdisciplinary team that provides children with developmental disabilities and their families with comprehensive healthcare, resources and education.
PACTT Learning Center $15,000	Special Kids will support the expansion of PACTT Learning Center’s innovative Vocational Services Program which connects teens with autism to jobs and a future.
Parents Alliance Employment Project $15,000	Special Kids funding will support the salary of the Employment Specialist in the agency’s job readiness workshop program. This program connects with youth with developmental disabilities in local high schools and prepares them for the world of work.

2007
Ada S. McKinley Community Services $20,000	Special Kids funding will purchase assistive technology hardware and software to help individual learning that provides immediate feedback and reinforcement for children with special needs.
Belle Center of Chicago $15,000	Special Kids funding will support the agency’s Community Outreach Program. This program provides a bridge between the children with developmental disabilities, their families, school and community programs.
Best Buddies Illinois $25,892	Special Kids funding will support the agency’s High School program. This program creates enriching mentoring opportunities for children with and without developmental disabilities through peer based one-to-one friendships.
Have Dreams $25,000	Special Kids funding will support the agency’s staff and classroom activities. The classes are designed to provide individualized skill-building opportunities for children with autism so they may learn critical life and educational skills.
Keshet $6,950	Special Kids funding will support the agency’s Speech and Language Pathologists’ Augmentative and Alternative Communication project with the purchase of communication technology.
National Association for Down Syndrome $17,400	Special Kids will support the agency’s annual retreat for parents and children. The retreat allows children to participate in activities they enjoy in a setting where they can be safe and accepted. Parents are provided resources and support.
PACTT Learning Center $15,000	Special Kids will support the expansion of PACTT Learning Center’s innovative Vocational Services Program which connects teens with autism to jobs and a future.
Parents Alliance Employment Project $15,000	Special Kids funding will support the agency’s job readiness workshop program that connects with youth with developmental disabilities in local high schools and prepares them for the world of work.
Shore Community Services $4,000	Special Kids will fund the creation of distinct playgroups for birth to three-year-old children with developmental delays who are of Spanish and Polish descent. These playgroups provide families an opportunity to meet other families with similar needs as theirs.

2006
Best Buddies Illinois $20,724	Special Kids funding will support the agency’s High School program. This program creates enriching mentoring opportunities for children with and without developmental disabilities through peer based one-to-one friendships.
Center For Independence Through Conductive Education $20,000	Special Kids funding will support the agency's Conductive Education Program. This program increases motor function and independence in order to develop self esteem and self-direction.
Chicago Association of Retarded Citizens $17,000	Special Kids funding will support the agency’s Respite Relief Program. This program affords short-term assistance to families with special needs children through in-home intervention, offering a break in routine care giving tasks for the family.
Esperanza Community Services $20,000	Special Kids funding will support the position of Director of Speech Therapy in the agency’s Early Intervention Program. Early diagnosis and speech therapy can enable infants and toddlers to reach their highest potential in preparation for entering school.
Music Institute of Chicago $20,000	Special Kids funding will support a comprehensive arts therapy program for children with special needs at the Norwood Park School. Trained therapists will provide innovative music, drama and art and dance/movement therapies.
New Horizon Center $20,000	Special Kids will purchase the equipment for a new Multi Sensory Room. This room will provide children with developmental disabilities with an environment that links sensory processing abilities with functional skills.
Shore Community Services $4,000	Special Kids will purchase equipment and materials for the agency’s Sensory Integration Developmental Playgroup. The playgroup provides children and their parents the opportunity to meet and make new friends.

2005
Aspire $20,000	FDDC monies will support the position of Community Outreach Coordinator. The Coordinator will provide opportunities for parents to learn more about child development and disabilities, and to interact with other parents of special needs children. In addition, families will have developmental screenings made available to their children.
Association for Individual Development $21,576	FDDC funding will purchase the equipment needed to start an Audiology program within the agency’s Pediatric Therapy Program. The Audiology program is an essential resource for parents of children 0-3. This program will accurately identify and treat children with hearing deficits to improve future functioning.
Belle Center of Chicago $10,000	FDDC funding will support the agency’s Community Outreach Program. This program provides a bridge between the children with developmental disabilities, their families, school and community programs.
Cowboy Dreams of Illinois $8,000	FDDC funding will provide scholarships to children with special needs so that they may participate in the Hippotherapy Program. Hippotherapy complements physical, occupational and speech-language therapies and promotes satisfaction, confidence and self-esteem.
Esperanza Community Services $20,000	FDDC funding will support the position of Director of Speech Therapy in the agency’s Early Intervention Program. Early diagnosis and speech therapy can enable infants and toddlers to reach their highest potential in preparation for entering school.
Jewish Council for Youth Services $15,000	FDDC will fund the agency’s Residential Respite Program. This program provides parents of children with special needs crucial time for rest and renewal while providing recreational activities and skill building for the children.
New Horizon Center $9,750	FDDC funding will purchase computers, printers and software for the agency’s Technology Project. This equipment will provide every student access to computer training and adaptive technology.
Parents Alliance Employment Project $13,150	FDDC monies will underwrite the part-time position of Employment Specialist. This specialist provides job readiness and skills training workshops to students with developmental disabilities. The service promotes social skills and economic self-sufficiency for young adults.

2004
Aspire $20,000	FDDC monies will support the position of Community Outreach Coordinator. The Coordinator will provide opportunities for parents to learn more about child development and disabilities, and to interact with other parents of special needs children. In addition families will have developmental screenings made available to their children.
Center For Independence Through Conductive Education $20,000	FDDC funding will support the agency's Conductive Education Program. This program strives to increase motor function and independence in children in order to develop self esteem and self-direction. The goal is to promote inclusion at the children’s neighborhood schools.
Community Support Services $20,000	FDDC funding will support the agency’s Respite Array Program for Hispanic children. This program offers parents respite choices to fit their individual needs while giving each child opportunities for skill building, socialization, recreation, and stimulation.
Jewish Council for Youth Services $15,000	FDDC will fund the agency’s Residential Respite Program. This program provides parents of children with special needs crucial time for rest and renewal while providing recreational activities and skill building for the children.
Oak-Leyden Developmental Services $20,000	FDDC funding will support the agency’s Early Intervention Program. The program’s mission is to offer family-based services including evaluation, consultation and direct developmental, occupational, physical and speech therapies.
PACTT Learning Center $13,400	FDDC monies will purchase Dynavox communication devices for PACCT School. This technology will help autistic children to learn and function in the everyday world.
Parents Alliance Employment Project $7,030	FDDC monies will underwrite the part-time position of Employment Specialist. This specialist promotes job readiness for older children with developmental disabilities by conducting workshops to develop skills required for successful employment in the community.

2003
Center For Independence Through Conductive Education $20,000	FDDC funding will support the agency's Conductive Education Program. This program increases motor function and independence in order to develop self esteem and self-direction in children. The goal is to promote inclusion at the children’s regular home schools.
Easterseals DuPage and the Fox Valley Region $13,000	FDDC funding will support SuitABILITY therapy. This therapy assists children with cerebral palsy to work specific muscle groups and to learn to make purposeful, deliberate movements and appropriate body alignments.
Esperanza Community Services $24,300	FDDC funds will support the Interpreter staff position in the agency’s Early Intervention Program. This professional will function as an interpreter between the parent and other Early Intervention staff to explain, in the parent’s native language, the necessary information regarding the child’s therapy and at home needs.
Giant Steps $20,000	FDDC will provide funding for the agency's Stepping Stones program. Stepping Stones is a family-based therapeutic and educational program for children with autism spectrum disorders. This grant will enable Giant Steps to maintain and expand this program.
Little Friends, Inc. $14,250	FDDC monies will help renovate existing space into classrooms. In the new classrooms, high school students who fall in the lower functioning autism category will be taught a life skills curriculum.
PACTT Learning Center $23,450	FDDC funding will enhance the agency’s technology with the purchase of educational equipment and materials. These will be used to improve the receptive and expressive language skills of autistic children.

2002
Community Support Services $20,000	FDDC funding will support the agency's Respite Array Program. This program offers parents respite choices that fit their individual needs while giving the child opportunities for skill building, socialization, recreation, and stimulation.
Giant Steps $25,000	FDDC will provide funding for the agency's Stepping Stones program. Stepping Stones is a family-based therapeutic and educational program for children with autism spectrum disorders. This grant will enable Giant Steps to maintain and expand this program.
Jewish Council for Youth Services $25,000	FDDC will fund the agency's Residential Respite Program. This program provides parents of children with special needs crucial time for rest and renewal while providing recreational activities and skill building for the children.
Keshet $23,000	FDDC will provide funding for the agency's Teen Camp. Teen Camp combines educational and recreational programming in a true camp experience for special needs children.
LaRabida Children's Hospital $20,000	FDDC funding will support the agency’s Zero-to-Three Diagnostic Clinic. The Clinic evaluates children who have or are suspected of having developmental delays. This early intervention provides the plan for effective treatment options starting at a very young age.
Special Gifts Theatre $12,000	FDDC funding will support the agency's Mentoring Project. This project is an opportunity for children with special needs to work alongside "able-peer" mentors and develop self-confidence and social skills while experiencing the joy and enrichment of theater arts.

2001
Clearbrook Center $20,000	FDDC funding will underwrite the position of part-time Assistant Program Coordinator for the Take A Break respite program. This program matches families with trained volunteers who provide a break for the caregiver from the daily care of their special needs child.
Esperanza Community Services $13,400	FDDC will provide partial funding for the agency’s Early Intervention Program. This program provides families with a support system which enables them to recognize their infants’ developmental stages and reinforces learning at home.
Illinois Spina Bifida Association $20,000	FDDC will provide partial funding for one session of Camp Ability, a one-to-one counselor/camper program which provides a safe, fun learning environment for children. Along with normal camp activities the children learn self care, communication skills, continence management, health and hygiene.
Lester and Rosalie Anixter Center $16,000	FDDC will fund the purchase of eight hospital beds for the agency’s new Pediatric Residential Home. This new home will provide the highest quality of life for medically fragile children.
National Lekotek Center $5,000	FDDC funding will support the agency’s Compuplay Program, providing technology tools for play and learning. This program helps children with developmental disabilities to create, enjoy, and explore their environments.
Oak-Leyden Developmental Services $18,612	FDDC will partially fund the salary for an on-site Family Support Coordinator to work with both children and families to meet children’s health and educational needs. The Coordinator will ensure that families have access to resources and services necessary to carry out the child’s therapy plans.
Pioneer Center $27,000	FDDC will fund the purchase of a mini van to enable the Hispanic Outreach Coordinator and other therapists to provide in-home support and services. The van will also be used to bring families without access to transportation to the agency for needed therapy.

2000
Community Support Services $15,000	FDDC funding will support the agency’s Respite Array Program. This program gives families an array of respite services in a unique way. As parents take a needed break, the children engage in a combination of in home, group and community based activities that enhance their self-esteem, independence and cognitive abilities.
Esperanza Community Services $38,000	FDDC funds will support the installation of a new playground and playground equipment at Esperanza School. This new playground will have equipment appropriate for multiple age groups and be accessible to all students regardless of their disability.
Giant Steps $13,558	Giant Steps is a therapeutic day school that provides crucial education and therapy services specifically designed for children with autism and related neurological developmental disabilities. FDDC funds will purchase specialized equipment for these children’s use.
Helping Hand Center $20,620	FDDC funding will support the development of a Preschool Preparatory Program to teach children with developmental disabilities under age 3 the prerequisite skills necessary to function in an early education school program.
Music Institute of Chicago $11,000	FDDC funds will support the agency’s Institute for Therapy Through the Arts (ITA) providing financial aid and subsidized fees for art and music therapy for children with developmental disabilities. This program uses cutting edge protocols pioneered by ITA to treat children using creative arts therapies.
Orchard Village $20,000	FDDC will provide continued staff funding for the agency’s vocational training program. This program provides community-based employment for older teens, helping them to transition into the working world.

1999
Advocate - Illinois Masonic Medical Center $18,560	FDDC funding will support the salaries of the Case Management Specialist and a Consultant who will conduct bi-monthly evaluations of treatment and progress in the agency’s Applied Behavior Analysis Program for autistic children at Illinois Masonic Medical Center
Clearbrook Center $20,000	FDDC funding will support the staff position of Program Manager for the agency’s TAKE A BREAK Respite Program for families of young children with developmental disabilities. Families will be given needed personal time, while the child benefits from working closely with a trained volunteer in developing new skills.
Helping Hand Center $29,850	FDDC funding will provide training and in home services to teach the application of therapeutic techniques. This work will enable the child’s caregiver to be actively involved in the child’s treatment.
National Lekotek Center $5,000	FDDC will fund the agency’s "Learning Through Play" program in the West Humboldt Park neighborhood, where children with developmental disabilities learn fundamental skills through play.
Orchard Village $15,000	FDDC will provide partial funding for the staff position of Vocational Training Specialist in the Vocational Program. This program provides community based employment for older teens.
PARC $18,400	FDDC will provide partial funding for the staff position of Child Development Therapist in the Early Intervention Program. This program promotes cognitive development, overall speech and motor development, play development and social development.
Shore Community Services $18,250	FDDC funding will enable the agency to purchase new and updated playground equipment at the SHORE School. Funding will also purchase a mobile device so students can be lifted for purposes of moving, changing and toileting.

1998
Clearbrook Center $15,000	FDDC funding will help the agency to continue its Respite Program for families of young children with developmental disabilities. Families will be given needed personal time, while the child benefits from working closely with a trained volunteer to develop new skills.
Esperanza Community Services $22,000	FDDC will support the hiring of a Speech Language Pathologist. This staff position will expand services for children in the Early Intervention Program.
Jewish Council for Youth Services $25,000	FDDC’s grant will support the expansion of the Red Leaf Family Camps. This program is designed to provide recreational services for families with children with developmental disabilities. The program brings families together and provides individual care for each family.
LaRabida Children's Hospital $22,500	FDDC funding will support the work performed at LaRabida’s 0-3 Diagnostic Clinic for children with developmental delays. The Clinic provides comprehensive diagnostic evaluations to children with very complex medical problems, offers specific courses of treatment and helps families locate medical, psychiatric and educational resources for their special-needs child.
Little Friends, Inc. $19,910	FDDC funding will support both equipment and renovation needs of the agency. Equipment purchases will include assistive speech devises, sensory equipment and recreational equipment. In addition, classrooms will be renovated to provide additional space for students with autism at the Krejci Academy.
The Chicago Lighthouse $10,000	FDDC will provide funds to purchase specialized equipment and materials for the implementation of a Recreation and Therapeutic Leisure Program in their Development Center for Blind, Multi-Disabled Children. This program will be specifically tailored to the needs of high-school aged students to insure that the students have age-appropriate activities that meet their developmental needs.

1997
Arrise, Inc. $23,937	Provide start-up funding for a one-year pilot project that combines respite for the caregiver with community based training for the child. (Grant project not completed; money returned)
Esperanza Community Services $10,000	Fund the costs of the new playground equipment at renovated Early Childhood Center.
Helping Hand Center $11,100	To support its 0-3 Infant Development Program.
North Suburban Special Recreation Association $23,832	Support training for seasonal and part-time staff to facilitate inclusion in member park district camp programs. In addition, this funding will support the Inclusion Team, enabling quick response to inclusion problems.
Oak-Leyden Developmental Services $14,500	Provide partial support of the hiring Infant Specialist to help the agency decrease it’s waiting list.
Orchard Village $16,902	To support the expansion of Orchard Village’s respite program.
Shore Community Services $14,545	Support Shore’s Early Intervention Program by enabling them to purchase communication and positioning equipment at the Shore School.

1996
Children's Place Association $16,640	Provide services of an occupational therapist for children from families affected with HIV/AIDS in the residential and respite programs.
Easterseals DuPage and the Fox Valley Region $10,000	Fund a portion of their "Sponsor A Child Fund" to enable families obtain reduced-fee therapy for their children.
Keshet $10,000	Fund staff positions at different camp sites to enable them to accept children on the waiting list.
Lake County Council Against Sexual Abuse $10,000	Funds will support a specialized Child Assault Prevention Program to children with disabilities. Funds will support a specialized Child Assault Prevention Program to children with disabilities.
LaRabida Children's Hospital $20,000	To allow their 0-3 Clinic to provide initial developmental evaluations to children by a core group of health professionals.
Northwest Suburban Special Education Organization $8,400	Funding will provide equipment for their Communication Technology Center.
Orchard Village $15,843	To support the expansion of their respite program which provides in-home care to children with developmental disabilities and their families.
Ray Graham for People with Disabilities $6,224	To purchase needed preschool equipment and supplies, retain an art instructor for preschool, and sensitivity training for children without special needs.
Western DuPage Special Recreation Association $15,000	To partially fund their Integration Program to mainstream youth with developmental disabilities into local park district programs.

1995
Center of Disability Services $7,600	FDDC will fund United Cerebral Palsy's music therapy services for children enrolled in their School Program. Monies will be used to hire a Registered Music Therapist and musical instruments needed for the program.
Chicago Association of Retarded Citizens $15,250	Continued support of their Early Intervention Parent Liaison Program.
Esperanza Community Services $16,603	To begin a new program to provide physical therapy services to developmentally-delayed infants and toddlers.
Imagination Theater $12,508	Continued funding of their Residency Program at the Byron School. This program includes classes for two 12-week sessions for students at that school.
LaRabida Children's Hospital $25,000	Fund 0-3 Clinic providing initial developmental evaluation to children by a core team of health professionals.
Oak-Leyden Developmental Services $10,000	Partial funding of their Early Intervention Program which is designed to provide individualized, intensive therapy services, group learning activities and family counseling and support to children birth to three years of age with disabilities and their families.
Shore Community Services $27,385	Continued funding of part-time activities therapist. In addition they will purchase equipment for the MOVE Program (Mobility Opportunities Via Education).
Western DuPage Special Recreation Association $15,000	Partial funding of Integration program to mainstream youth with developmental disabilities into local park district programs, general education classes and the work force.

1994
Center For Enriched Living $20,000	Independent Living and Community Support Program for Teens with developmental disabilities. This program enables students to establish vital support systems through a variety of activities.
Center of Disability Services $15,000
Chicago Association of Retarded Citizens $15,250	Early Intervention Parent Liaison Program which integrates families into the Early Intervention Program and with many types of service providers available for children with special needs.
Imagination Theater $13,550	A theater-based 12-week Residency Program at the Byron School to enhance self-esteem.
Michael Reese Research & Education Foundation $35,000	Third year funding of a clinical research project designed to develop a non-invasive screening method which will predict early developmental delays in premature infants.
National Lekotek Center $5,000	To purchase new traditional and adapted toys for their library. The funds will also help purchase software programs and peripheral equipment for their computer lab.
Ray Graham for People with Disabilities $37,800	A new Cultural Arts Program which will create opportunities for children with disabilities to explore and enjoy classes in arts and crafts, music, cooking, dance, horticulture and theater.
Shore Community Services $26,000	To hire an activities therapist, purchase adaptive equipment and make necessary building enhancements to school's educational program to integrate students into the community.
The Chicago Lighthouse $10,000	Seed money to create and equip a developmental toy and book lending library.

1993
Easter Seals - Metro Chicago $25,000	Project SMART (Sensory Modulation Assessment Research Treatment) which develops measures that appropriately define the multiple needs of children with autism.
Esperanza Community Services $16,100	Provide a pediatric nurse, medical care and support services not otherwise available to the Early Intervention Program.
Glenkirk $14,500	Renovate its bathroom facilities and add adaptive equipment.
Hope D. Wall School PTA $50,000	Partial funding of the construction of an accessible playscape enabling students and other members of the community with physical and/or mental disabilities to participate in ordinary playground activities with special equipment adapted to their needs.
Keshet $24,000	Continued expanded operations at Rosenwald Day School to permit a larger student population and classroom facilities.
Lester and Rosalie Anixter Center $25,000	Purchase equipment and software for the Center's Facilitated Communication Institute, enabling children who are nonverbal or not functionally verbal to communicate.
Michael Reese Research & Education Foundation $25,000	Continued funding for a clinical research project designed to develop a non-invasive screening method which will predict early developmental delays in premature infants.
Ray Graham for People with Disabilities $8,600	To purchase computer hardware, software and adaptive devices to be used to enhance learning opportunities.

1992
Glenkirk $11,360	Expand the job training activities offered to the students at Glenkirk School. The vocational programs are designed to teach skills leading to meaningful and rewarding jobs within the community as adults.
Keshet $50,000	To open a classroom at the Rosenwald Day School, allowing expansion of its day school program to accommodate more children.
Little Friends, Inc. $34,622	Renovate quiet rooms and large room at the Krejci Academy Therapeutic Center for use with play therapy and intrusion therapy.
Michael Reese Research & Education Foundation $50,000	A clinical research project to develop a non-invasive screening method for use in the nursery, before discharge.
Misericordia $50,000	Oral Motor Therapy Feeding Program, a new feeding and therapy technique that will make eating an easier and more pleasurable task.

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