May 2021
Jayne's Early Intervention to High School Graduation Success
Jayne has made incredible progress over the 15 years she received Occupational and Physical therapy from Easterseals DuPage & Fox Valley. Starting therapy as a baby after recovering from neurosurgery, she has proved that dedication and the right support from family and skilled therapists can have a tremendous long-term impact.

This spring, Jayne will be graduating with honors from the University of Chicago Laboratory Schools. She will then study at Washington University in St. Louis with a pre-med major concentrating in neuroscience. We know she will make a great impact on others that have similar diagnoses of congenital hydrocephalus, cerebral palsy, and vision impairment.

Jayne's mother, Pam, shares how instrumental Easterseals therapists and its community were for their continued movement to reach new goals. "It's here at Easterseals DuPage & Fox Valley that we feel we are not alone. That's one of the perks of your child being a client at Easterseals. The sense of community and knowledge that people around you understand what you are going through. This is vital in the therapy process and staying hopeful."
Congratulations Class of 2021!
Congratulations to all the hardworking individuals from preschool to college who graduated this year! 

We also recognize their families who managed the complexity of balancing school, day-to-day responsibilities and/or work this past school year at home.

We hope you take a moment to recognize this fantastic accomplishment, because you earned it! We wish you all the best in your future endeavors! Read these stories and share your accomplishments on our Facebook page.
Latest News
A Virtual Gala to Remember: Watch the live broadcast!
On behalf of our Board of Directors, gala committee volunteers, therapists and staff, we can't say thank you enough. More than 400+ supporters and families connected across the country to watch and participate during our live broadcast and silent auction.

We are grateful to all who embraced "Gala Reimagined" as we turned this long-standing event into a virtual live broadcast. Support of this annual event makes it possible for infants, children and adults with developmental disabilities and delays to reach their goals- and we've reached ours! With the support of many, we raised more than $438,000 (net).

In case you missed it, or wanted to re-watch your favorite parts- view the entire virtual program, complete with updates on services and therapy progress, recognition of our 2021 Carol & Jack Sanicki Crystal Heart Award Recipients, Shirley Ryan & Corbett Ryan, presentation to Jim Alviti as the Alviti Changemaker, and our live paddle raise.
Save the date for our return to the Four Seasons Chicago!

The 44th Annual Benefit Gala is on April 9, 2022.

Contact Susan Bonner at sbonner@eastersealsdfvr.org for more information.
Mental Health Awareness Month
May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to recognize those affected by Mental Health issues and help break the stigma around them.

We are proud to support children and families' mental health as an integral part of our services, and are expanding to serve more families. If you know of a great psychologist or someone who should join our incredible clinical team, please share our job openings.

Better Hearing and Speech Month
We thank and appreciate our spectacular Audiology (recent employees of the month), Speech and Assistive Technology departments for their work that makes a world of difference in children and adults' hearing, speech, and communication needs. They unlock a world of possibility for many.
Upcoming Events
We look forward to the return of these special events in late summer/early fall. We will continue to monitor all health and safety regulations and offer in-person and virtual participation options.
Bike for the Kids
Sign-up for our 6th Annual Bike for the Kids. Cyclists of all ages and abilities are welcome to ride distances ranging from 12 miles - 100 miles. Also features a family-friendly pedal parade with our adapted bike recipients!

The event will take place on Sunday, August 29 at our Elgin center. Easterseals clients and children under 12 can register for free. Join and create your team today!
Run for the Kids
Save the date for our 18th Annual Run for the Kids on Saturday, October 2 at our Villa Park center. Join us for this superhero-themed 5K Run/2 Mile Walk with family-friendly entertainment and fun.

Help support every child's journey to greater independence and the many amazing milestones that occur at the finish line. Start planning your team and costumes today!
For event sponsorship opportunities, registration needs or questions contact Susan Bonner at sbonner@eastersealsdfvr.org.
Wishing you a terrific summer! We are looking forward to seeing more children with new treatment spaces indoors and outside, along with a streamlined check-in process. Thank you for your commitment to help keep everyone safe and healthy.
Connect With Us @eastersealsdfvr