Author: Illinois Legal Aid Online
Last updated: August 2007

Assistive Services and Technology
Children and Families
Consumer Resources
Disability
Domestic Violence
Education
Financial and General Lifestyle Assistance
Health Management
HIV/AIDS
Housing
Immigration
Recreation
Rehabilitation
Services for the Formerly Incarcerated
Substance Abuse
Supervised Visitation
Vocational Resources

St. Clair County 2007 Community Services Directory - lists additional resources for central and southern Illinois.

Access S.I.- lists additional resources for southern Illinois.

Assistive Services and Technology

Academic Software, Inc.
3504 Tates Creek Road
Lexington, KY 40517-2601
Voice: business (859) 552-1020 or sales (253) 799-4012
Fax: (253) 799-4012
E-mail: asistaff@acsw.com
Specializes in assistive technology and computer access for children and adults with disabilities and for health professionals who work with people with disabilities. Designs and distributes custom software and hardware products for educational research and assistive technology communities, including Adaptive Device Locator System, and a national database listing products from over 1000 vendors. Fees for purchase of products.

Center for Speech and Language Disorders
195 Spangler Avenue, Suite B
Elmhurst, IL 60126
Voice: (630) 530-8551
Fax: (630) 530-5909
TTY: (630) 530-8551
E-Mail: info@csld.org
Serves Illinois children with communication disorders. Some of the services offered are speech and language screenings; communication skills evaluation; treatment for children diagnosed with hyperlexia, autism, Aspbergers, nonverbal learning disorder and other speech and language disorders; social language groups; parent support groups; and other communication and professional programs. Fees for services.

Chicago Area Interpreter Referral
36 S. Wabash Avenue, Suite 714
Chicago, IL 60603
Voice: (312) 895-4300
Fax: (312) 895-4313
TTY: (312) 895-4320
E-Mail: Info@CAIRS.net
Receives and fulfills requests for sign language interpreters for all kinds of occasions and for various sign language needs in Illinois. Also provides referrals for alternative auxiliary aids and communication assistance. Fees for services.

Chicago Disability Transit
230 East Ohio Street
Chicago, IL 60611
Voice: (630) 653-9815
Fax: (630) 653-5591
Pager: (708) 710-2770
Provides paratransit services in the greater Chicago area for people with disabilities and operates on a 24 hour per day, 7 day per week basis. Charges for this service will be based on a fee for- service rate structure. Both accessible vans and service cars are available for transportation.

Computer Banc
1023 E. Washington
Springfield, IL 62702
Voice: (217) 528-9506
E-mail: compbanc@hansoninfosys.com
Gives away refurbished computers for children with learning challenges who come from homes with limited income. Two trips to Springfield may be required to complete the orientation.

Design for Independent Living, Inc.
7549 N. Oakley Avenue
Chicago, IL
Voice: (773) 973-4776
Fax: (773) 973-0661
The Home Modifications Program assists persons in adapting their current dwelling for special needs, whether temporary or permanent. Design, consulting and remodeling for people with disabilities.

Educational Tape Recording for the Blind
10641 S. Pulaski Road,
Chicago, IL 60655
Voice: (773) 445-3533
Fax: (773) 445-3534
Provides educational tape recordings for Illinois students who are blind or who have a visual impairment. Fee for services may apply.

Illinois Assistive Technology Project
1 W. Old State Capital Plaza, Suite 100
Springfield, IL 62701
Voice: (217) 522-7985 or (800) 852-5110
Fax: (217) 522-8067
TTY: (217) 522-9966 or (800) 852-5110
E-Mail: iatp@fgi.net
Breaks down barriers that prevent people with disabilities from accessing the assistive technology that lets them learn, work, play and live in the community. Major programs include, information and assistance, an assistive technology demonstration center, an assistive technology device loan program, a low interest cash loan program, a quarterly newsletter; assistive technology trainings, and a policy/systems change program which involves annually monitoring hundreds of bills which affect people with disabilities and keeping consumers informed about these and other state and federal initiatives. Fee for some programs.

Illinois Centers for Independent Living
Work to increase involvement of persons with disabilities in every aspect of life by providing information and referrals, peer counseling, advocacy, independent living skills training, and other services. The Illinois Network of Centers for Independent Living (INCIL) is the state organization that coordinates activities and efforts of all CILs. To find a CIL in your area, search the list below or contact the INCIL by voice/tty at (217) 525-1308 or (800) 587-1227.

Access Living of Metropolitan Chicago
614 West Roosevelt Road, Chicago, IL
Voice: (312) 253-7000
Fax: (312) 253-7001
TTY: (312) 253-7002
* Serving residents of Chicago, IL.

Central Illinois Center for Independent Living
614 West Glen, Peoria, IL 61614
Voice: (309) 682-3500 or (877) 501-9808
Fax: (309) 682-3989
TTY: (309) 682-3567
* Serving residents of Peoria, Fulton, Woodford and Tazewell counties.

DuPage Center for Independent Living
739 Roosevelt Road, Bldg. 8, Suite 109, Glen Ellyn, IL 60137
Voice: (630) 469-2300
Fax: (630) 469-2606
TTY: (630) 469-2300
E-Mail: dcil@mcs.com
* Serving residents of DuPage county.

Fox Valley Center for Independent Living
730 West Chicago Street, Elgin, IL 60123
Voice: (847) 695-5818
Fax: (847) 695-5892
TTY: (847) 695-5868
E-Mail: FRVCIL@mail.com
* Serving residents of Kane, Kendall and McHenry counties.

Gaining Access to Independent Living (GAIL) CIL
205 N. Fourth Street, P.O. Box 486, Effingham, IL 62401
Voice: (217) 342-7110
Fax: (217) 347-2562
TTY: (217) 347-2563
E-Mail: gailcil@consolidated.net
* Serving residents of Effingham, Clay, Fayette, and Jasper counties.

Illinois Valley Center for Independent Living
18 Gunia Drive, LaSalle, IL 61301
Voice: (815) 224-3126 or (866) 822-3246
FAX: (815) 224-3576
TTY: (815) 224-8271 or (866) 822-3246
E-mail: ivcil@ivcil.com
* Serving residents of Bureau, LaSalle, Marshall, Putnam and Stark counties in Illinois and some Iowa counties.

Illinois-Iowa Independent Living Center
3708 11th Street, P.O. Box 6156, Rock Island, IL 61201
Voice: (309) 793-0090 or (877) 541-2505
Fax: (309) 283-0097
TTY: (309) 793-0090 or (877) 541-2505
E-Mail: iicil@iicil.com
* Serving residents of Henry, Mercer and Rock Island counties in Illinois.

IMPACT-Center for Independent Living
2735 East Broadway, Alton, IL 62002
Voice: (618) 462-1411
Fax: (618) 474-5309
TTY: (618) 474-5333
E-Mail: contarino@impactcil.org
* Serving residents of Madison, Greene, Bond, Jersey, Calhoun and Macoupin counties.

Jacksonville Area Center for Independent Living
60 East Central Park Plaza, Jacksonville, IL 62650-2090
Voice: (217) 245-8371 or (888) 317-3287
Fax: (217) 245-1872
TTY: (217) 245-8371 or (888) 317-3287
E-Mail: info@jacil.org
* Serving residents of Mason, Scott, Cass and Morgan counties.

Lake County Center for Independent Living
377 N. Seymour, Mundelein, IL 60060
Voice: (847) 949-4440
Fax: (847) 949-4445
TTY: (847) 949-0641
E-Mail: info@lccil.org
* Serving residents of Lake County.

Living Independence for Everyone (LIFE) Center for Independent Living
2201 Eastland Drive, Suite 1, Bloomington, IL 61704
Voice: (309) 663-5433 or (888) 543-3245
Fax: (309) 663-7024
TTY: (309) 663-0054 or (888) 543-3245
E-Mail: lifcil@lifecil.org
* Serving residents of DeWitt, Ford, Livingston and McLean counties.

Living Independently Now Center for Independent Living (LINC, Inc.)
120 East A. Street, Belleville, IL 62220-1401
Voice: (618) 235-9988
Fax: (618) 233-3729
TTY: (618) 235-0451
E-Mail: info@lincinc.org
* Serving residents of St. Clair, Monroe and Randolph counties.

Northwestern Illinois Center for Independent Living (NICIL)
229 1st Avenue, Suite 2, Rock Falls, IL 61071
Voice: (815) 625-7860 or (888) 886-4245
Fax: (815) 625-7876
TTY: (815) 625-7863
* Serving residents in Carroll, Lee, Ogle, JoDaviess and Whiteside counties.

Opportunities for Access
4206 Williamson Place – Suite 3, Mount Vernon, IL 62864
Voice: (618) 244-9212
Fax: (618) 244-9310
TTY: (618) 244-9575
E-Mail: info@ofacil.org
* Serving residents in Clinton, Edwards, Hamilton, Jefferson, Marion, Wabash, Washington, Wayne, and White counties.

Options Center for Independent Living
22 Heritage Drive – Suite 107, Bourbonnais, IL 60914
Voice: (815) 936-0100
Fax: (815) 936-0117
TTY: (815) 936-0132
* Serving residents in Kankakee and Iroquois counties.

Persons Assuming Control of Their Environment (PACE, Inc.)
1317 East Florida Avenue, Urbana, IL 61801
Voice: (217) 344-5433
Fax: (217) 344-2414
TTY: (217) 344-5024
E-Mail: paceurbana@aol.com
* Serving residents in Champaign, Douglas, Edgar, Piatt and Vermilion counties.

Progress Center for Independent Living
7521 Madison Street, Forest Park, IL 60130
Voice: (708) 209-1500
Fax: (708) 209-1735
TTY: (708) 209-1826
E-Mail: info@progresscil.org
* Serving residents in suburban Cook County.

Regional Access and Mobilization Project (RAMP)
202 Market Street, Rockford, IL 61107
Voice: (815) 968-7467
Fax: (815) 968-7612
TTY: (815) 968-7467 or (815) 968-2401
E-Mail: rampcil@rampcil.org
* Serving Boone, DeKalb, Stephenson and Winnebago counties.

Southern Illinois Center for Independent Living
2135 Ramada Ln., Carbondale, IL 62901
Voice: (618) 457-3318
Fax: (618) 549-0132
TTY: (618) 457-3318
* Serving residents in Franklin, Jackson, Perry and Williamson counties.

Soyland Access to Independent Living (SAIL)
2449 Federal Drive, Decatur, IL 62526
Voice: (217) 876-8888 or (800) 358-8080
Fax: (217) 876-7245
TTY: (217) 876-9850 or (800) 358-8080
E-Mail: sail@decatursail.com
* Serving residents in Macon, Moultrie, Shelby, Coles, Clark, and Cumberland Counties.

Springfield Center for Independent Living
330 S. Grand Avenue West, Springfield, IL 62704
Voice: (217) 523-2587
Fax: (217) 523-0427
TTY: (217) 523-6304
E-mail: scil@scil.org
* Serving residents in Menard, Logan, Sangamon, Christian and Montgomery counties.

Stone-Hayes Center for Independent Living
39 N. Prairie, Galesburg, IL 61401
Voice: (309) 344-1306 or (888) 347-4245
Fax: (309) 344-1305
TTY: (309) 344-1306 or (888) 347-4245
E-Mail: info@stones-hayes.org
* Serving residents in Knox, Henderson and Warren counties.

West Central Illinois Center for Independent Living (WCICIL)
P.O. Box 1065, 131 N. 4th Street, Quincy, IL 62306-1065
Voice: (217) 223-0400
Fax: (217) 223-0479
TTY: (217) 223-0475
E-Mail: wcicil@adams.net
* Serving residents of Adams, Pike, Brown, Schuyler, Hancock and McDonough counties.

Will/Grundy Center for Independent Living
2415 A West Jefferson Street, Joliet, IL 60435
Voice: (815) 729-0162
Fax: (815) 729-3697
TTY: (815) 729-2085
E-Mail: wgcil@sbcglobal.net
* Serving residents in Will and Grundy counties.

Illinois Relay Center
To use the Illinois Relay Center Dial 711
Voice: (800) 526-0857
TTY: (800) 526-0844
Voice: (800) 501-0865 (Spanish to Spanish)
TTY: (800) 501-0864 
Provides a communications link between those who use a  teletypewriter (TTY) and those who use a standard voice telephone. TTYs are typewriter-style devices used by individuals who are deaf, hard-of-hearing, or have a speech disability to communicate over the telephone.

Illinois Telecommunications Access Corporation
3001 Montvale Drive, Suite D
Springfield, IL 62704
Voice: (800) 526-0857
Fax: (217) 698-0942
TTY: (800) 841-6167
Spanish TTY: (800) 501-0864
Provides the Illinois Relay Service and free TTY Loan Program to citizens of Illinois who are deaf, hard-of-hearing, deaf-blind or speech-impaired, on behalf of the 100+ telephone carriers in Illinois. Also provides Captioned Telephone loan program, Braille Phone loan program, TTY with Large Visual Display–LCD loan program, and Amplified Telephone voucher program. No fee for service.

Independent Mobility Systems, Inc.
The Braun Corporation
4100 W. Piedras Street
Farmington, NM 87401
Voice: (505) 326-4538 or (800) 467-8267
Fax: (505) 326-4846
E-Mail: info@imsvans.com
Manufactures minivans for wheelchair accessibility. Network of 150 dealers nationwide.

Over the Rainbow Association
2040 Brown Avenue
Evanston, IL 60201
Voice: (847) 328-6633
Fax: (847) 328-1404
E-Mail: overtherainb@earthlink.com
Offers accessible housing and job opportunities for persons with disabilities. Operates and maintains two award-winning apartment buildings (one on Chicago’s north side, the other in Evanston) designed for independent living for persons with disabilities.

 

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Children and Families

Big Brothers - Big Sisters of Metropolitan Chicago
28 East Jackson Boulevard, Suite 1800
Chicago, IL 60604
Voice: (312) 427-0637
Fax: (312) 427-0760
E-Mail: bbbschicag@aol.com
Provides on-on-one and group mentoring program for children in Cook County age 7 to 13 years old. Accepts all children, including those with physical and mental disabilities.

Breakthrough Urban Ministries
3330 W. Carroll Ave.
Chicago, IL 60624
Voice: (773) 722-1144
Fax: (773) 722-1434
Operates programs on the city's north and west sides, including homeless centers and services for men and women, a street outreach to women in prostitution, and a youth and family outreach program.

Men's Services
5237 N. Ashland Ave.
Chicago, IL 60640-2001
Voice: (773) 989-8353
Fax: (773) 728-3476

Women's Services
3330 W. Carroll Ave
Chicago, IL 60624
Voice: (773) 722-0179
Fax: (773) 722-0280
Provides basic need services with a focus on food and emergency shelter delivered through homeless centers and food pantry programs. Healthcare, counseling, supportive housing, employment training and referrals are services provided at both centers for men and women. 

Youth & Family Services
3330 W. Carroll Ave.
Chicago, IL 60624
Voice: (773) 722-0179
Fax: (773) 722-0280
Fights pressure on children from gangs and the constant temptations toward violence, drug use and sexual experimentation. Provides a program of recreation, academic and spiritual enrichment.
 

Children’s Memorial Hospital
2300 Children’s Plaza
Chicago, IL 60614
Voice: (773) 880-4000 or (800) 526-0857
TTY: (800) 526-0844
E-Mail: webfeedback@childrensmemorial.org
Offers counseling, emergency services, information, referrals and medical and nursing services for children up to the age of 16. Fee applies; insurance accepted.

Division of Specialized Care for Children
1919 W. Taylor
Chicago, IL 60612
Voice: (312) 996-6380 or (800) 322-3722
Fax: (312) 413-0367
TTY: (312) 413-3894
Provides case management and financial assistance to eligible children with physical disabilities to facilitate necessary specialized care and other services they may require.

Family Matters Parent Training & Information Center
2502 South Veterans Drive
Effingham, Illinois 62401
Voice: (217) 347-5428 or (866) 4FMPTIC (436-7842)
TTY: (217) 347-5428
Fax: (217) 347-5119
E-mail: info@fmptic.org
Serves families in 94 counties in Illinois who have children with disabilities. Provides information, resources, referrals and advocacy information to parents and professionals who call the toll-free help line available from 8 am to 6 pm Monday through Friday. Includes a free lending library full of books on a large variety of topics that are sent out with a postage paid envelope so there is no cost to anyone who utilizes it. Has a parent-to-parent connection database that parents can use to connect with other parents across the state for support.

Good Shepherd Center for Exceptional Children
2220 Carroll Parkway
Flossmoor, IL 60622
Voice/TTY: (708) 957-5700
Fax: (708) 957-5739
E-Mail: gscbrendan@aol.com
Offers parent-infant early intervention programs serving ages birth to three years. Includes a group based setting offering developmental and therapeutic services. Some services include a pre-school, in-home respite care, lending library and autism resource library. Serves residents of Cook and Will Counties.

Grandfamilies Program of Chicago
400 W. 76th Street Suite 120
Chicago, IL 60620
Voice: (773) 651-8800, Toll Free: 1-800-651-3752
Fax: (773) 651-8807
Provides a network of support services to meet the unique needs of grandparents raising grandchildren. Includes assistance and counseling regarding financial burdens, medical issues, utility costs, housing, childcare and employment.

March of Dimes - Greater Illinois Chapter
111 W. Jackson, 22nd Floor
Chicago, IL 60604
Voice: (312) 435-4007
Fax: (312) 435-0988
E-Mail: IL623@marchofdimes.com
Works to improves infant and maternal health by preventing birth defects and infant mortality. This mission is carried out through research, community services, education and advocacy.

Metropolitan Family Services
Various locations throughout the City of Chicago.
Voice: (312) 986-4000
Invests in a comprehensive range of programs and services that help families through difficult times to become strong, stable and self-sufficient. Each year, more than 55,000 families and individuals receive counseling and other supportive services and hundreds of thousands more benefit from Metropolitan's community development and social policy efforts.

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Consumer Resources

Better Business Bureau of Chicago & Northern Illinois
330 N. Wabash, Ste. 2006
Chicago, IL 60611
Voice: (312) 832-0500
Allows consumers to find information about businesses, local companies and charity organizations before deciding to do business with them. The BBB also allows consumers to file complaints against companies with unfair business practices and provides resources to resolve any resulting problems.

Consumer Reports
Works for a fair, just, and safe marketplace for all consumers and to empower consumers to protect themselves.  Tests in seven major technical departments--appliances, auto test, baby & child, electronics, foods, health & family, and recreation & home improvement.

Kelly Blue Book
Gathers and analyzes transactions from thousands of dealers across the United States to find the true value of new and used cars - what other consumers are really paying for them. KBB provides new/used vehicle data, expert executives, shopping advice and auto industry information. 

 

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Disability

For a more extensive list please see the Resource Guide for People with Disabilities published by Equip for Equality and the Chicago Bar Association.

Alexander Graham Bell Association for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (National Office)
3417 Volta Place, NW
Washington, DC 20007
Voice: (202) 337-5220
Fax: (202) 337-8314
TTY: (202) 337-5221
E-Mail: info@agbell.org
Offers support groups and information for parents of children who are deaf or hard of hearing. 

American Council of the Blind
1155 15th Street, N.W., Suite 1004
Washington, DC 20005
Voice: (800) 424-8666 or (202) 467-5081
Fax: (202) 467-5085
E-Mail: info@acb.org
Provides such services as: toll free information and referral on all aspects of blindness; scholarship assistance to blind/visually impaired postsecondary students; public education and awareness training; support to consumer advocates and legal assistance on matters relating to blindness; leadership and legislative training; and, governmental monitoring, consultation and advocacy. Website lists consumer products and jobs bank for those who are blind and visually impaired, and provides publications, information and referral services. No fee for service.

American Speech-Language-Hearing Association
10801 Rockville Pike
Rockville, MD 20852-3279
Public Voice: (800) 638-8255
For Students/Professionals: (301) 897-5700 or (800) 498-2071
TTY: (301) 897-5700
Fax: (301) 571-0457
E-Mail: actioncenter@asha.org
Promotes the interests of and provides the highest quality services for professionals in audiology, speech-language pathology, and speech and hearing science, and to advocate for people with communication disabilities. Ensures access to quality care through information and referral about child and adult communication disorders, continuing education and professional development, and legislation and advocacy. No fee for service.

Center for Enriched Living
280 Saunders
Riverwoods, IL 60015
Voice: (847) 948-7001
Fax: (847) 948-7621
E-Mail: info@centerforenrichedliving.org
Provides educational, recreational and social skill development for Illinois youth, teens, adults and senior citizens with developmental disabilities. Fees may apply.

Chicago Association for Retarded Citizens (CARC)
8 S. Michigan Avenue, Suite 1700
Chicago, IL 60603
Voice: (312) 346-6230
Fax: (312) 346-2218
TTY: (312) 346-6489
E-Mail: relations@chgarc.org
Provides residential, vocational, job placement, early intervention, ancillary, and special education services to Chicago residents who are developmentally disabled.

Chicago Hearing Society
2001 N. Clybourn
Chicago, IL 60614
Voice: (773) 248 9121
Fax: (773) 248-9176
TTY: (773) 248-9174
E-Mail: AskCHS@anixter.org
Offers advocacy and case management for people who are deaf and hard of hearing. Have a victim assistance counselor for people who are deaf and hard of hearing and victims of crimes; sign language interpreter referral services, sign language classes, audiology clinic, preschool hearing and vision testing, youth program for youngsters and teens who are deaf and hard hearing. Fees vary by program; sliding fees scale for most services.

Council for Disability Rights
30 E. Adams, Suite 1130
Chicago, IL 60603
Voice: (312) 444-9484
Fax: (312) 444-1977
TTY: (312) 444-1967
E-Mail: cdr@disabilityrights.org
Advances the rights of people with disabilities nationwide. Promotes public policy and legislation, public awareness through education, and provides information and referral services. Provides disability awareness training, education advocacy (information technology education outreach, financial education classes), employment services, information and referrals, home modification and videos on various topics. Fees apply for some services on a sliding scale.

Easter Seals of Metropolitan Chicago
14 E. Jackson Boulevard, Suite 900
Chicago, IL 60604-2212
Voice: (312) 939-5115 or (866) 448-2372
Fax: (312) 939-0283
TTY: (312) 408-0268
Offers programs for children and adults with disabilities, including early intervention, Head Start, inclusive childcare, respite services, job training and placement, after school programs; adaptive positioning, and sheltered workshop.

El Valor
1850 West 21st Street
Chicago, IL 60608
Voice: (312) 666-4511
Fax: (312) 666-6677
TTY: (312) 666-3361
Focuses on serving the Hispanic community in Chicago, with two Children & Family Centers, a Technology Center, a Vocational Rehabilitation Center, and six Community Residence Homes for adults with disabilities. Provides services to children, families, and adults with disabilities through programs that support adults with disabilities, promote early child development, enrich youth, strengthen families and encourage leadership.

Extended Home Living Services, Inc.
555 Wolf Road
Wheeling, IL 60090-3027
Voice: (847) 215-9490
Fax: (847) 215-9632
E-Mail: info@ehls.com
Enhances the home living environment of people living with disabilities with customized, creative solutions for a better life. From simple ramps, to accessible bathrooms, to multi-floor elevators, EHLS provides complete construction packages from planning through installation. Serves Chicagoland area; fee for services.

Family Resource Center on Disabilities
20 E. Jackson, Suite 300
Chicago, IL 60604
Voice: (312) 939-3513 or (800) 952-4199
Fax: (312) 939-7297
TTY: (312) 939-3519 or (800) 952-4199
E-Mail: info@frcd.org
Provides free information and assistance to families of disabled individuals, including individualized support services, transition planning, advocacy, seminars on special education rights, and the Parent-to-Parent training project.

The Hadley School for the Blind
700 Elm Street
Winnetka, IL 60093-2554
Voice/TTY: (800) 323-4238 or (847) 446-8111
Fax: (847) 446-9916
E-Mail: Info@Hadley-School.org
Offers courses to blind individuals, family members of blind individuals and professionals in the blind field. Also offers free distance education courses to eligible students from "Braille Reading for Family Members" to "Birdsong Tutor." The programs include an adult continuing education program, a professional education program, a high school program and a family education program. Materials come in Braille, cassette, large print, regular print and online.

Helen Keller National Center for Deaf-Blind Youths and Adults (North Central Region)
485 Avenue of the Cities, Suite 5
East Moline, IL 61244-4040
Voice/TTY: (309) 755-0018
Fax: (309) 755-0025
TTY: (309) 755-0021
E-Mail: hknc5ljt@aol.com
Enables each person who is deaf-blind to live and work in his or her community of choice. The Center is a national rehabilitation program serving youth and adults who are deaf-blind according to the definition of deaf-blindness in the Helen Keller Act. This regional office is for Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota and Wisconsin. Services include consultation and information and referral.

Illinois Association of the Deaf
4906 51st Avenue
Moline, IL 61265-7556
Strives to promote the social, educational, and economic welfare of the deaf and hard of hearing and to safeguard the civil rights of deaf and hard of hearing Illinois citizens. Supports special services such as sign language interpreters, to break down the barriers of activities in society, so that Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals are welcome to participate.

Learning Disability Association of Illinois, Inc.
10101 South Roberts Road, Suited 205
Palos Hills, IL 60465
Voice: (708) 430-7532
Fax: (708) 430-4592
Provides support and information to Illinois parents, professionals and adults with learning disabilities through groups, workshops and local conferences; printed information; public education; telephone support; advocacy; newsletter; referrals to other local organizations in Illinois; some referrals to relevant professionals; and scholarships for post-secondary education to students with learning disabilities.

Oak/Leyden Developmental Services, Inc.
411 Chicago Avenue
Oak Park, IL 60302
Voice: (708) 524-1050
Fax: (708) 524-2469
E-Mail: dervin@oakleyden.org
Provides an array of residential, vocational, and employment programs, as well as center-based and natural environment early intervention services, Oak/Leyden Developmental Services' mission is to help people with developmental disabilities meet life's challenges and reach their highest potential. Services are tailored to the unique needs and desires of each individual, and are provided throughout the near Chicago’s West suburbs. No fees for services.

 

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Domestic Violence

To find more domestic violence programs in Illinois, see the Illinois Coalition Against Domestic Violence's website.

Apna Ghar
4753 North Broadway, Suite 518
Chicago, IL  60640
Voice: (773) 334-0173
Operates a domestic violence shelter serving primarily Asian women and children. Apna Ghar takes its name from a Hindi-Urdu phrase meaning "Our Home," and since January 1990 has served over 5400 domestic violence clients. Apna Ghar assists participants with the tools for economic empowerment. Apna Ghar also provides supervised visitation, a visitation exchange site, and a 24 hour hotline for counseling.

Chicago Metropolitan Battered Women’s Network
203 N. Wabash Ave Suite
2323 Chicago, IL, 60601
Voice: (312) 750-0730
Domestic Violence Helpline: (877) 863-6338
Works to improve the lives of battered women, their children, and others impacted by domestic violence by leading public policy and advocacy efforts; providing education and raising public awareness; and connecting members of the community to direct service providers.

Clara's House Shelter
Voice: (773) 778-8854
Located in Englewood, a temporary shelter for homeless and battered women and their children in which clients may live for a term of 120 days.

Family Rescue
South Chicago
Voice: (773) 375-8400
Provides comprehensive services including 24-hour crisis intervention, counseling services, information and referrals and children's services.

Greenhouse Shelter
North Chicago
Voice: (773) 278-4110
E-Mail: cawcadmin@mindspring.com
Greenhouse provides a supportive, non-violent environment, and around-the-clock services which include: food, laundry facilities, individual, group and Illinois Domestic Violence Act counseling, individual and group substance abuse counseling, advocacy and referrals to housing and job training.

House Of The Good Shepherd
PO Box 13453
Chicago, Illinois 60613
Voice: (773) 935-3434
House of the Good Shepherd is a safe place which seeks to empower women, affirming them in their family role. A woman and her children are offered opportunities for emotional, social, educational and spiritual growth. Intensive programming at the shelter offers counseling, advocacy and intervention services, medical assistance, and educational, spiritual and recreational activities.

National Domestic Violence Hotline
Voice: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
TTY: 1-800-787-3224 (TTY)
The hotline provides 24-hour crisis intervention, safety planning, information and referrals to agencies in all 50 states, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Assistance is available in English and Spanish with access to more than 140 languages through interpreter services.

Neopolitan Lighthouse
Voice: (773) 638-0228
Fax: (773) 638-0323
E-Mail: Neopolitan@ameritech.net
Neopolitan Lighthouse offers shelter to women and children for up to three months. While in shelter, women are offered group and individual counseling, case management, legal advocacy and linkage to other community services. Children also participate in individual and group counseling, a preschool program and after school tutoring. Provides counseling, legal advocacy and case management for walk-in clients as well, and operates a 24 hour crisis line.

Southwest Women Working Together
6845 S. Western
Chicago, IL 60636
Voice: (773) 737-2500
Provides counseling, employment assistance and housing referrals. 

 

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Education

Alternative School Network
1807 West Sunnyside, 1D
Chicago, IL  60640
Voice: 773-728-4030
Works to provide quality education with a specific emphasis on inner-city children, youth and adults. Supports community based and community-run programs to develop and expand training and other educational services in Chicago’s inner-city neighborhoods.

Center for Learning/National Louis University
2840 Sheridan Road
Evanston, IL 60201-1796
Voice: (847) 475-1100 Ext. 2724
Fax: (847) 256-1057
E-Mail: kadamle@nl.edu
Provides psychological educational evaluations and individual counseling for children, adolescents, and adults. Fee for services applies.

Center for Special Education Technology/Council for Exceptional Children
1110 N. Glebe Road, Suite 300
Arlington, VA 22201-5704
Voice: (703) 620-3660 or (888) CEC-SPED
Fax: (703) 264-9494
TTY: (866) 915-5000
E-Mail: service@cec.sped.org
International professional organization that improves education outcomes for individuals with exceptionalities, students with disabilities and/or the gifted. Fees for some services.

Designs for Change
29 E. Madison, Suite 950
Chicago, IL 60602
Voice: (312) 236-7252
Fax: (312) 236-7927
TTY: (312) 236-7944
E-Mail: info@designsforchange.org
An educational research and reform organization which serves as a catalyst for major improvements in the public schools serving the 50 largest cities in the country with a particular emphasis on Chicago. Services include policy reform, literacy and school improvement and the Learning Path Institute. Staff provides technical assistance and support to ABLE (Advocates Behind Legal Education) Coalition, which is a volunteer, self-help organization for parents, professionals and others interested in the education of children with disabilities.

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Financial and General Lifestyle Assistance

Abraham Lincoln Centre
3858 South Cottage Grove Ave.
Chicago, IL. 60653
Voice: (773) 285-1390
Fax: (773) 373-6602
E-Mail: info@abrahamlincolncentre.org
Assists residents of Chicago's Southside communities to become self-sufficient, healthy and productive. Offers programs in child and youth development, adult and senior education and vocational training and special needs programs for people living with disabilities.

Ada S. McKinley Community Services, Inc.
725 South Wells Street, Suite 1-A
Chicago, IL 60607
Voice: (312) 554-0600
Fax: (312) 554-0292
Provides assistance to people who are financially disadvantaged and disabled in finding and pursuing paths for a healthy and productive life at 37 sites in the Chicagoland area. Offers vocational services, foster care and adoption services, alternative schools, educational assistance and placement, counseling and residential homes.

The Ark
6450 North California Avenue
Chicago, IL 60645
Voice: (773) 973-1000
Fax: (773) 973-4362
E-Mail: ark@arkchicago.org
Provides social services (e.g., job placement, referrals, Kosher food pantry, home meal delivery); crisis intervention; counseling; accessible transitional housing; drop in center for the chronically mentally ill; and medical, dental, eye clinics and pharmacy services. Offers comprehensive mental health services including group and individual therapy. Primarily serves Jewish clients, with the exception of certain programs such as the FEMA program that provides emergency funding assistance for rent and utilities.

Breakthrough Urban Ministries
3330 W. Carroll Ave.
Chicago, IL 60624
Voice: (773) 722-1144
Fax: (773) 722-1434
Operates programs on the city's north and west sides, including homeless centers and services for men and women, a street outreach to women in prostitution, and a youth and family outreach program.

Men's Services
5237 N. Ashland Ave.
Chicago, IL 60640-2001
Voice: (773) 989-8353
Fax: (773) 728-3476

Women's Services
3330 W. Carroll Ave
Chicago, IL 60624
Voice: (773) 722-0179
Fax: (773) 722-0280
Provides basic need services with a focus on food and emergency shelter delivered through homeless centers and food pantry programs. Healthcare, counseling, supportive housing, employment training and referrals are services provided at both centers for men and women. 

Youth & Family Services
3330 W. Carroll Ave.
Chicago, IL 60624
Voice: (773) 722-0179
Fax: (773) 722-0280
Fights pressure on children from gangs and the constant temptations toward violence, drug use and sexual experimentation. Provides a program of recreation, academic and spiritual enrichment.
 

The Caring Closet
1745 E. 71st Street
Chicago, IL 60649
Voice: (773) 947-9043
The Caring Closet provides clothing, household items and furniture to families in south Chicago through the distribution of donations. The Emergency Services Program includes fire victims who have lost virtually everything, pregnant women without adequate sleeping facilities, in need of cribs for their newborn infants, Section 8 voucher recipients who must fulfill requirements prior to an impending inspection and families attempting to meet Department of Children and Family Service (DCFS) requirements. The Work force Integration Program provides professional clothing.

Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago
126 N. Des Plaines Street
Chicago, IL 60661-2357
Voice: (312) 655-7000
Fax: (312) 236-4290
TTY: (312) 655-7899
Provides counseling, case management, information and referral, basic human needs such as shelter, clothing, and housing subsidies for Chicago residents. Fees for some services.

Emergency Fund
208 S. LaSalle, Suite 776
Chicago, IL 60604
Voice: (312) 379-0302 or (866) 286-1367
Fax: (312) 379-0304
E-Mail: info@emergencyfund.org
Provides immediate financial assistance to remove barriers faced by individuals who are struggling to achieve economic self sufficiency and provides information and referral services to outside programs addressing chronic or long-term issues. Financial assistance primarily covers rent, utility and moving costs. Agency also provides financial assistance for food, clothing, transportation, and other needs. No funds are distributed from the administrative office. Individuals must call ahead for assistance.

Franciscan Outreach Association - The Marquard Center
1645 W. LeMoyne Street
Chicago, IL 60622
Voice: (773) 278-6724
Provides a dining room for the homeless, as well as showers and laundry facilities. Center also includes administrative and case management offices.

Greater Chicago Food Depository
4100 West Ann Lurie Place
Chicago, IL 60632
Voice: (773) 247-FOOD (3663)
Fax: (773) 247-4232
E-mail: fooddepository@gcfd.org
A not-for-profit food distribution and training center that provides food for hungry people to end hunger in the Chicago community. Distributes donated and purchased food through a network of 600 food pantries, soup kitchens and shelters to almost a half-million adults and children every year. 

Habilitation Systems
415 S. Kilpatrick
Chicago, IL 60644
Voice: (773) 261-2252
Fax: (773) 854-8300
E-Mail: hsi@habilitative.org
Plays a substantial role in the articulation, development and delivery of programs and services to improve the quality of life in the city of Chicago. Develops and provides resources to promote dignity, self-sufficiency, and empowerment for humanity. Services include behavioral health services, children and family services, residential services and disability management.

La Casa Norte
3533 W. North Ave.
Chicago, IL 60647
Voice: (773) 276-4900
Provides a safe and nurturing environment for homeless and abandoned people, where they benefit from a comprehensive program of education, guidance and counseling in a community setting.

PLOWS Council on Aging
4700 West 95th Street, Suite 106
Oak Lawn, IL 60453
Voice: (708) 422-6722
Fax: (708) 422-8475
E-mail: xplowsx@ameritech.net
Assists persons over the age of 60 with various practical services, including housekeeping, personal care and transportation. Serves the four townships of Palos, Lemont, Orland and Worth.

 

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Health Management

Bobby E. Wright Comprehensive Behavioral Health Center
9 South Kedzie Avenue
Chicago, IL 60612
Voice: (773) 722-7900
Fax: (773) 722-0644
TTY: (773) 722-0633
Provides comprehensive mental health treatment for children, adolescents, adults and seniors; outpatient programs; community day treatment; arrangement for long and short term hospitalization; developmental disabilities programs; case coordination; day training; residential placements; respite services; and a comprehensive alcoholism and substance abuse program.

Community Mental Health Council, Inc.
8704 South Constance Avenue
Chicago , IL 60617
Voice: (773) 734-4033
Fax: (773) 734-6447
E-mail: information@thecouncil-online.org
Provides behavioral health services to consumers and their families. Conducts research examining the effects of race, culture and ethnicity on behavioral healthcare issues. Provides mental health education and consulting services to the community, professionals, public entities and other not-for-profit organizations.

Cornerstone Counseling Center of Chicago
1111 North Wells Street, Suite 400
Chicago, Illinois 60610
Voice: 312-573-8860
Fax: 312-255-0362
E-Mail: cccoc@cornerstonecenter.net
Operates a full service psychological and counseling agency with a Christian focus, located on the North side of down-town Chicago. Serves all those in need of services, including the underinsured, uninsured, and individuals unable to pay full fee for service using a sliding scale fee program.

Evanston Northwestern Healthcare (ENH) Homeservices
1603 Orrington Ave., Third floor
Evanston, IL 60201
Voice: (847) 475-2001
Fax: (847) 328-0867
Provides full-range home hospice care for the terminally ill. Also provides skilled nursing care, home health aides, and social work counseling. Sells home infusion materials for intravenous care and durable medical equipment (DME). Serving individuals in Cook, DuPage, Lake, and Kane Counties. Fee for service; public aid accepted.

Human Resources Development Institute, Inc.
222 S. Jefferson Street
Chicago, IL 60661
Voice: (312) 441-9009 or (800) 590-0880-Assessment Center, 24 hours
Fax: (312) 441-9019
Offers more than 40 programs at over 20 sites throughout the Chicagoland area and Mississippi. Services include mental health, alcohol and substance abuse, community health, comprehensive case management, prevention and education, criminal justice, educational, and children and family services.

Illinois Citizens for Better Care
220 S. State Street, Suite 1928
Chicago, IL 60604
Voice: (312) 663-5120
Fax: (312) 427-0181
E-Mail: wmicbc@core.com
Assists consumers by providing information on nursing homes and assistance in handling complaints regarding quality of nursing home care. Education seminars are also provided.

Illinois Comprehensive Health Insurance Program (ICHIP)
400 West Monroe Street, Suite 202
Springfield, IL 62704-1823
Voice: (217) 782-6333 or (866) 851-2751 (Illinois only)
Fax: (217) 782-0217
TTY: (217) 782-6410 or (800) 545-2455 (Illinois only)
E-Mail: chipmail@chip.state.il.us
Provides a state-administered health insurance program for the otherwise un-insurable. CHIP is not an insurance company or an entitlement program. Individuals must qualify for coverage.

Mental Health Association of Illinois (MHAI)
188 W. Randolph – Suite 2225
Chicago, IL 60601
Voice: (312) 368-9070
Promotes mental health, prevents mental illness, and improves the care and treatment of persons with mental and emotional illness. Maintains a variety of activities including public education campaigns, health fairs at which mental illness screenings are conducted, an information library, publication of a statewide directory of self-help groups for all medical conditions, and developing and implementing initiatives that promote good mental health in schools and communities.

United Way of Metropolitan Chicago
560 West Lake
Chicago, IL 60661
Voice: (312) 906-2350
For a referral, call (800) 725-5314.
Mobilizes caring people to invest in the community where their resources are needed most. Provides leadership and resources to help people overcome life’s challenges and achieve self-sufficiency. Works to understand the needs in each community and then funds a network of programs to address those needs.
 

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HIV/AIDS

AIDS Care, Inc.
315 West Barry
Chicago, IL 60657-5638
Voice: (773) 935-4663
Fax: (773) 935-4662
E-Mail: info@aidscarechicago.org
Operates a not-for-profit residence and service organization for individuals in the Chicago-area living with HIV/AIDS. Provides multilevel support and services for individuals living with HIV/AIDS.

AIDS Foundation of Chicago
411 S. Wells, Suite 300
Chicago, IL 60607
Voice: (312) 922-2322
Fax: (312) 922-2916
The mission of the AIDS Foundation of Chicago is to lead the fight against HIV/AIDS and improve the lives of people affected by the epidemic. They operate an HIV case management system which links individuals and families with a wide range of necessary services and available resources. The case management network also provides emergency financial assistance for utilities, emergency financial assistance for housing, food vouchers, and transportation services such as transit vouchers and taxi service for people living with HIV disease. 

Chicago House and Social Service Agency
1925 N. Clybourn, Suite 401
Chicago, IL 60614
Voice: (773) 248-5200
Fax: (773) 248-5019
E-Mail: mtowey@chicagohouse.org
Offers community-based housing, supportive services and basic life skills to Chicago individuals, families and children dealing with HIV/AIDS. Sliding scale fee applies for services.

Howard Brown Health Center
4025 North Sheridan Road
Chicago, IL 60613
Voice: (773) 388-1600
Fax: (773) 388-8689
TTY: (773) 871-5783
Specializes in the unique medical and psychosocial needs for the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender community. Offers a comprehensive range of services for men and women including, comprehensive medical services for both men and women, laboratory and diagnostic services, reproductive health/family planning, nutritional counseling, in-house Walgreen’s Pharmacy, individual and group counseling, education and outreach, youth services, counseling, research, HIV/AIDS services including anonymous HIV and STD testing. Insurance accepted for services including Medicaid and Medicare.

Minority Outreach Intervention
1130 S Wabash Avenue
Chicago, IL 60605
Voice: (312) 986-0661
Fax: (312) 986-0928
Operates a street-based outreach program that provides HIV/AIDS prevention to African American and Latino gay and bisexual men. Also provides psychological support services via peer led support groups and educational workshops.

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Housing

Bethel New Life
4006 W. Lake Street - 2nd Floor
Chicago, IL  60624
Voice: (773) 826-8430
Builds or re-habilitates units of housing to sell to low income residents in the Garfield Park area of Chicago. Also provides jobs and vocational training, manages economic redevelopment programs, provides low-cost health assistance programs and lifestyle assistance for seniors and runs social action campaigns.

Deborah's Place
2822 West Jackson Blvd.
Chicago, IL 60612
Voice: (773) 722-5080
Fax: (773) 722-5081
E-mail: info@deborahsplace.org
Offers a complete continuum of shelter and housing options, all linked with vital supportive services, to women who are homeless.

Inner Voice
1621 W. Walnut Street
Chicago, IL 60612
Voice: (312) 666-8110
Fax: (312) 666-8449
E-mail: info@innervoicechicago.org
Serves homeless adults and families through a network of services throughout Chicago. Provides an access point for emergency and transitional shelter for any and all Chicagoans who find themselves homeless and needing help.

The Institute of Women Today
7315 South Yale Avenue
Chicago, Illinois 60621
Voice: (773) 651-8372
Fax: (773) 783-2673
E-mail: IWT7315@aol.com
Operates Maria Shelter, a 50-bed transitional shelter for homeless women and their children, and the Vincennes Senior Center, where senior citizens can have a place to socialize, enjoy a meal, and learn new skills.

Mercy Housing Lakefront
247 South State St, Suite 810
Chicago, IL 60604-2053
Voice: (312) 447-4500
Fax: (312) 447-4750
E-mail: lakefront@mercyhousing.org
Combines onsite social services with decent, permanent housing where tenants can reclaim a stake in community life. Advocates for increasing the supply of affordable housing and for policies that benefit the homeless.

Neighborhood Housing Services
1279 N. Milwaukee Ave, 5th Floor
Chicago, Illinois 60622
Voice: (773) 329-4010
For information on an NHS home improvement loans: (773) 329-4010
For information on purchasing a home through NHS: (773) 329-4102
For debt or foreclosure intervention counseling: (773) 329-4113
To enroll in an NHS seminar: (773) 329-4113
To make an appointment with a homeownership counselor: (773) 329-4113
For a list of NHS homes for sale or apartments for rent: (773) 568-1020 x 27
Works to rebuild low- and moderate-income neighborhoods in the city of Chicago that are experiencing deterioration and disinvestment. Stimulates community investment through a partnership of residents, business, and government.

Partners In Community Building (PICB)
3424 S. State St
Suite 1F6-1
Chicago, IL 60616
Voice: (312) 328-0873
Fax: (312) 328-0879
E-mail: info@picbchicago.org
Works to improve the life styles of seniors, families, individuals of low to moderate income with housing, financing and community education.

Salvation Army Evangeline Booth Lodge
800 W. Lawrence Avenue
Chicago, IL 60640
Voice: (773) 275-9383
Fax: (773) 275-3062
Provides a haven for families and individuals suddenly homeless because of eviction, disasters such as a fire or flood, loss of utilities, domestic violence, being stranded while traveling, or other crises.

 

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Immigration

Centro Romero
6216 N. Clark St.
Chicago, IL 60660
Voice: (773) 508-5300
Provides programs for Chicago's refugee immigrant population, including adult education, women's empowerment projects, legal assistance, and youth learning and leadership development as well as special projects such as Community organizing and HIV/AIDS Outreach and Education. Works to bridge a disenfranchised community of Latino immigrants and refugees into mainstream American society by improving their opportunity for upward social mobility.
 

 

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Recreation

Hyde Park Neighborhood Club
5480 S. Kenwood Avenue
Chicago, IL 60615
(773) 643-4062
(773) 643-4262 (Fax)
email @ hpnclub.org
Provides recreational, extra-curricular and special needs programming and access to versatile spaces for neighborhood residents from toddlers to seniors within a community center. Promotes life-long learning, fitness of mind and body, and family support across our richly diverse neighborhood.

Northwest Special Recreation Association
3000 W. Central Road, Suite 205
Rolling Meadows, IL 60008
Voice: (847) 392-2848
TTY: (847) 392-2855
Fax: (847) 392-2855
E-Mail: Can send an email directly from website
Provides community recreation programs for children and adults with disabilities. Also facilitates those with disabilities joining regular park-district programs. Registration fee for park programs.

West Suburban Special Recreation Association (WSSRA)
2915 Maple Street
Franklin Park, IL 60131
Voice: (847) 455-2100
TTY: (847) 455-2100
Fax: (847) 455-2157
E-Mail: wssra@wssra.net
Provides community-based therapeutic recreation for individuals of all ages with any kind of disability. Athletic, fitness, art, social, camping and travel programs are offered. Serves Western suburbs in Cook County. Fee for program applies.

 

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Rehabilitation

National Rehabilitation Information Center (NARIC)
4200 Forbes Boulevard, Suite 202
Lanham, MD 20706-4829
Voice: (301) 459-5900 or (800) 346-2742
TTY: (301) 459-5984
Fax: (301) 459-4263
E-Mail: naricinfo@heitechservices.com
Provides a library service and information center focusing on disability and rehabilitation research. Information Specialists provide quick information on a referral, customized database searches and document delivery. There is no fee for information retrieval services, but there is a charge to have articles printed.

Recovery Inc.
International Headquarters
802 N. Dearborn Street
Chicago, IL 60610
Voice: (312) 337-5661
Fax: (312) 337-5756
E-Mail: spot@recovery-inc.com
Provides a self-help mental health program for adults with nervous symptoms and fears. Offers systematic techniques to manage temperamental behavior and cope with emotional disorder. There is no required fee to participate. 

Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago
Voice: (800) 354-7342 or (312) 238-1055
Provides rehabilitative therapy, prosthetics, and other services (both inpatient and outpatient) to persons with amputation, arthritis, brain trauma, burns, cerebral palsy, chronic pain, congenital disabilities, geriatric rehabilitation, multiple sclerosis, neuromuscular disorders, post-polio syndrome, spinal cord injury, sport rehabilitation, stroke, and other disabling conditions. Fee for services.

Thresholds
4101 North Ravenswood Avenue
Chicago, IL 60613
Voice: (888) 997-3422
TTY: (773) 880-6263
Fax: (773) 880-6279
E-Mail: Thresholds@thresholds.org
A psychosocial rehabilitation agency that provides an array of vocational, residential, education, social, and health services with a primary focus on prevention of unnecessary hospitalization for people with mental illness. Serves Cook and nearby counties.

Trilogy, Inc.
1400 W. Greenleaf
Chicago, IL 60626
Voice: (773) 508-6100
Crisis Intervention: (800) 322-8400
24 Hour Mental Health Line: (773) 274-3015
TTY: (773) 508-4276
Fax: (773) 262-4841
E-Mail: intake@trilogybehc.org
Provides rehabilitation services for individuals in Cook County with severe and/or persistent mental illnesses. Offers a variety of services to assist these individuals in their efforts to be as self-sufficient as possible, including intake/assessment; case management; residential, psychosocial, and vocational rehabilitation; respite; and counseling. Fees for services may apply on sliding scale.   

 

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Services for the Formerly Incarcerated

Illinois Manufacturing Institute
2101 S. Kedzie
Chicago, IL 60623
Voice: (773) 277-2343
Assists the recently released/ formerly incarcerated with skills and employment that leads to financial self-sufficiency, as well as provides information on agencies that assist with housing, education, medical and social services agencies.

Leslie’s Place
1014 N. Hamlin
Chicago, IL 60651
Voice: (773) 342-8384
Provides a home and conducts a range of support services for women in prison and just out of prison, including prison ministry and workshops on domestic violence, self-esteem, parenting, and motivation.

Safer Foundation
571 West Jackson Boulevard
Chicago, IL  60661
Voice: (312) 922-2200
Helps formerly incarcerated individuals re-enter their communities by obtaining employment and social services.

St. Leonard’s Ministries
2100 W. Warren
Chicago, IL 60612
Voice: (312) 738-1414
Provides comprehensive residential and case management services to men and women who have been released from prison without the skills, housing and other resources necessary to rebuild their lives.

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Substance Abuse

Bobby E. Wright Comprehensive Behavioral Health Center
9 South Kedzie Avenue
Chicago, IL 60612
Voice: (773) 722-7900
Fax: (773) 722-0644
TTY: (773) 722-0633
Provides comprehensive mental health treatment for children, adolescents, adults and seniors; outpatient programs; community day treatment; arrangement for long and short term hospitalization; developmental disabilities programs; case coordination; day training; residential placements; respite services; and a comprehensive alcoholism and substance abuse program.

Cathedral Shelter of Chicago
1668 West Ogden Avenue
Chicago, Illinois 60612-3249
Voice: (312) 997-2222
Fax: (312) 997-3160
E-mail: info@cathedralshelter.org
Offers community services, recovery services and work transition assistance to those suffering from drug and alcohol addiction. A pioneer in addiction treatment, Cathedral Shelter opened the state's first residential treatment facility for men in recovery from addiction. Also offers a supportive housing program for individuals and single parents in recovery, which includes agency's counseling, educational, job preparation and emergency services.

Human Resources Development Institute, Inc.
222 S. Jefferson Street
Chicago, IL 60661
Voice: (312) 441-9009 or (800) 590-0880-Assessment Center, 24 hours
Fax: (312) 441-9019
Offers more than 40 programs at over 20 sites throughout the Chicagoland area and Mississippi. Services include mental health, alcohol and substance abuse, community health, comprehensive case management, prevention and education, criminal justice, educational, and children and family services.

Lifeline, Inc.
550 W. Webster, Grant Hospital
Chicago, IL 60614
Voice: (773) 275-9393 or (800) 822-4898
Fax: (773) 275-5352
Provides substance abuse treatment and referrals for other assistance.

Restoration Ministries
Harvey House
253 E. 159th Street
Harvey, IL 60426
Voice: (708) 333-3370
Provides a Christian-based residential recovery program for men battling drug addictions.

Tabitha House
456 E. 163rd Street
South Holland, IL 60473
Voice: (708) 333-0607
Provides a Christian-based residential recovery program for women battling drug addictions.

At both Tabitha House and Harvey House, Restoration provides opportunities to recovering addicts. Through Project Intercept, it offers after-school activities for underprivileged children and teens. Also operates two Thrift Stores to sell used furniture, clothing and appliances at affordable prices and provide job training for Harvey House and Tabitha House residents and community members with limited job experience.

Serenity House
891 South Route 53
Addison, IL 60101
Voice: (630) 620-6616
Fax: (630) 620-7924
E-Mail: serenity@serenityhouse.com
Provides counseling and housing for persons with substance addictions. Located in DuPage County, will provide services to individuals from other counties as well. Fee for Services.

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Supervised Visitation

Apna Ghar (Our House)
4753 North Broadway, Suite 632
Chicago, IL  60640
Voice: (773) 334-0173
Provides supervised visitation or supervised visitation exchanges in custody and guardianship cases. The services are provided free of charge when the agency is appointed by a court order.

E.M. Branch & Associates
3139 W. 111th St.
Chicago, IL 60655
Voice: (773) 238-1100
Provides supervised visitation or supervised visitation exchanges in custody and guardianship cases. The services are provided free of charge when the agency is appointed by a court order.

The Hamdard Center
1542 West Devon
Chicago, IL 60660
Voice: (773)465-4600
Fax: (773) 465-4666
They offer supervised visitation as well as a 24 hour hotline, shelter, mental health services and transitional housing. They also have five locations located throughout the Chicago Suburbs.

Help, Inc.
417 South Dearborn, Suite 1100
Chicago, IL 60605
Voice: (312) 939-6633
Provides counseling and supervision for child abuse cases, particularly sexual abuse. Supervision is provided at their office in the Loop. The fee is $40-60 per hour.

Mujeres Latinas En Accion - Sanctuary Project
1823 W. 17th Street
Chicago, IL 60608
Voice: (312) 226-1544
Mujeres Latinas En Accion only takes low income clients. Supervised visitation is provided at their center for 1-2 hours, once or twice a week. A copy of the order of protection or court order requiring supervised visits, attorney names and clients' income information is needed. No fee.

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Vocational Resources

Advocate Christ Medical Center Vocational Services Department
4440 West 95th Street
Oak Lawn, IL 60453
Voice: (708) 346-1330
Fax: (708) 346-2122
TTY: (708) 346-1291
Provides vocational evaluation, vocational counseling, work adjustment training, job placement, follow-up services and case management to adults with disabilities. Fee applies; insurance accepted.

Association House of Chicago
1116 North Kedzie Avenue
Chicago, IL 60651
Voice: (773) 772-7170
Fax: (773) 384-0560
E-Mail: info@associationhouse.org
Provides educational and vocational counseling for all individuals. Offers supported living for adults with disabilities. Also provides developmental training, case management and respite services. Interpreters for Spanish are available.

Bethel New Life
4006 W. Lake Street - 2nd Floor
Chicago, IL  60624
Voice: (773) 826-8430
Builds or re-habilitates units of housing to sell to low income residents in the Garfield Park area of Chicago. Also provides jobs and vocational training, manages economic redevelopment programs, provides low-cost health assistance programs and lifestyle assistance for seniors and runs social action campaigns.

Chicago Federation of Labor
130 E. Randolph
Chicago, IL 60601
Voice: (312) 565-9431
Stands up for working men and women by supporting organizing efforts to ensure that workers’ rights upheld both on the job and in the courts. Helps local unions resolve contract disputes in ways that create win-win solutions for both the employees and the employer.

Chicago Christian Industrial League
Food Service and Maintenance
123 South Green Street
Chicago, IL  60607-2636
Voice: (312) 491-2061
Serves poor and homeless men and families with children to provide the necessary tools, opportunities and support to return to the workforce and achieve economic independence. With the support of counseling and case management, teaches the technical, academic, interpersonal and employment skills necessary to return to the workforce.

Cicero-Berwyn Illinois Employment and Training Center
2138 S. 61st Court
Cicero, IL 60804
Voice: (708) 222-3100
Offers a single, convenient connection point for job seekers and employers to find each other and tap into a pool of education, training and employment opportunities.

Cook County President's Office of Employment Training
69 West Washington, Suite 2860
Chicago, IL  60602
Voice: (312) 603-0200
Helps residents of suburban Cook County get back to work through administering federally supported programs in employment training, placement and further education. Offers job training programs to enhance existing job skills, to assist in the search for employment, or to apply for financial assistance to enhance your ability to gain employment.

DuPage County Workforce Development Division 
837 S. Westmore/Meyers Road
Lombard, IL  60148
Voice: (630) 495-4345
Allows employers and job seekers to access a broad array of employment, training, education, and related services with one telephone call or visit. Includes an Employment Services Unit, Career Services Unit and Technical Services Unit.
 

The Employment Project of Inspiration Corporation
4554 North Broadway, Suite 207
Chicago, IL  60640
Voice: (773) 878-0981
Helps individuals who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless identify career options, make choices, and ultimately gain stability through employment. Offers career counseling, employment preparation and financial literacy training, free voice mail, networking opportunities with businesses and professionals, and job placement and retention support to homeless adults who want to become employed.

Employment Resource Center of Chicago
7909 South Racine
Chicago, IL  60620
Voice: (773) 783-3760
Provides client assessment and screening, job matching, service referral, resume preparation and job training programs to members of the Englewood, Auburn-Gresham, and other close neighborhood south side communities. Develops the employability of individuals so they may secure and retain meaningful career paths.

The Enterprising Kitchen
4426 North Ravenswood
Chicago, IL  60640
Voice: (773) 506-3880
Provides workforce development and support services to women who are working toward self-sufficiency and economic independence. Operates a business manufacturing natural soaps and spa products, offering women intensive workforce preparation and skills development including: paid employment, work and life skills training, individualized career planning, high school equivalency preparation, technology training, financial planning and a variety of other support services.

Goodwill Industries of Metropolitan Chicago
819 S. Wabash, 4th Floor
Chicago, IL 60605
Voice: (312) 212-1290
Fax: (312) 212-1263
TTY: (312) 212-2223
E-Mail: info@goodwillsew.com
Provides work opportunities and skill development for people with barriers to employment. Operates four business groups: human services, retail operations, commercial services and contract work at the Naval Station Great Lakes. In 2003, 30% of services were provided to people with disabilities. Some of the services are vocational services, employment services, a career center, training programs and a youth program.

Greater West Town Partnership
2021 West Fulton Street
Chicago, IL  60612-2367
Voice: (312) 563-9028
Provides essential education and employment opportunities for both youths and adults through customized training programs. Offers area youth pre-employment, career counseling, and placement services. Also provides an array of services to unemployed community residents and to local employers. Through GWTP's On-the-Job Training, Job Search Assistance, Dislocated Workers, Direct Placement, and Empowerment Zone programs, GWTP provides the skills, support, and employment opportunities critically needed by disadvantaged community residents.

Growing Home
1325 S. Wabash, Suite 205
Chicago, IL 60605
Voice: (312) 435-8601
Provides job training and creates employment opportunities for homeless and low-income people in Chicago within the context of an organic agriculture business.

Instituto del Progreso Latino - Manufacturing Workforce Center
2570 South Blue Island
Chicago, IL  60608
Voice: (773) 890-0055
Helps unemployed or underemployed Latinos gain marketable skills critical for employment and increased earnings. Strives to meet the needs of the labor market and offers comprehensive career-based language programs that integrate financial management strategies.

International Deaf-Tek, Inc.
4 Stanley Drive
Farmington, MA 01701
Voice: (508) 620-1777
Fax: (508) 626-0270
TTY: (508) 620-1777
Provides an electronic mail network dedicated to the deaf and hard of hearing communities, focusing on employment opportunities for individuals who are deaf and persons that serve this population. Organizations, agencies, schools, business and other entities wishing to fill positions may send employment announcements at no charge to the Deaftek website. Employment opportunities will be posted according to category. New categories will be added as needed.

Job Accommodation Network
P.O. Box 6080
Morgantown, WV 26506-6080
Voice: (800) 526-7234
Fax: (304) 293-5407
TTY: (800) 526-7234
E-Mail: jan@jan.wvu.edu
Provides information about job accommodations for individuals with disabilities.

Jobs for Youth
17 N. State Street, 6th Floor

Chicago, IL  60602
Voice: (312) 499-4778
Helps young men and women from low-income families become a part of the economic mainstream; and, in the process, provides the business community with motivated job-ready workers.

North Lawndale Employment Network 
3726 W. Flournoy
Chicago, IL  60624
Voice: (773) 638-1820
Improves the earnings potential of North Lawndale residents through employment initiatives that help economically isolated individuals, especially former offenders, secure jobs with family-supporting wages. Also, assists employers in recruiting and retaining workers, advocates on behalf of low-income job-seekers, and builds the capacity of partner organizations.

Northwest Suburban Employment and Training Center
723 W Algonquin
Arlington Heights, IL  60005
Voice: (847) 981-7400
Offers job-seekers and employers access to a broad range of employment, training, education, economic development and labor market services at one location. Supports business growth by connecting employers to a well-prepared labor force, fosters strong work preparation skills and empowers job seekers with the information and support they need to make an informed decision leading to permanent, long-term work.

OAI, Inc.
180 N. Wabash, Suite 400
Chicago, IL 60601
Voice: (312) 528-3500
Provides training for both currently employed workers and unemployed or underemployed individuals who are in need of job skills.

Pyramid Partnership- Retail Workforce Center
3057 N. Lincoln Ave.
Chicago, IL 60657
Voice: (773) 975-9339
Provides public- and private-sector clients in the following areas: employee recruitment, testing and selection; service delivery and procedure assessments; program design; market research and customer profiles; customized training and instructional materials; systems design; staff and program evaluations; and staff training and development. Public sector services include job placement and reading training; on the job and vocational skills training.

Spectrum Vocational Services
2302 Wisconsin Avenue
Downers Grove, IL 60515
Voice: (630) 852-7520
TTY: (630) 852-7520
Fax: (630) 929-2772
Provides vocational rehabilitation services for adults with disabilities, including community placement, job training, and development of social skills. Serves individuals primarily in DuPage, Western Cook, and Northern Will counties. Typically there is no fee for services, except for transportation costs.

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