JCFS Chicago

As National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) ends, we’re sharing some resources compiled by our disability services staff that relate to inclusivity. The Job Accommodation Network (JAN) is the leading source of free, expert and confidential guidance on job accommodations and disability employment issues. https://lnkd.in/ekpQehNE “Demystifying Disability, What to Know, What to Say, and How to be an Ally” is a book by Emily Ladau. https://lnkd.in/gCGBhpC9 Disability Visibility: First Person Stories from the Twenty-First Century – audiobook written by Alice Wong, narrated by Alejandra Ospina. “The Accessible Stall with Kyle and Emily” is a podcast that also features Emily Ladau, along with Kyle Khachadurian, who keep it real while challenging views and expectations about issues within the disability community. 99% Invisible - Curb Cuts – podcast about the movement that demanded society see disabled people in a new way. Elevated Chicago asking, “Can You Walk There?” - Jannice Newson, coordinator with Elevated Chicago, highlights the successes and challenges of walkability in Chicago in this TikTok video series.

During National Disability Employment Awareness Month, we're sharing the story of an individual with disabilities who works in a restaurant, and with help from a Duman Opportunity Center Employment Specialist, she is taking small steps to improve her productivity. Thank you to the Employment Specialists who support people with disabilities in the workforce! Read the success story here: https://ow.ly/7gJS50TVAzo

During National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), JCFS celebrates the value and talent that people with disabilities bring to our workplaces. Our own Contracted Employment Services (CES) helps individuals with disabilities find janitorial, mailroom and warehouse work. #NDEAM Watch this video to learn more about CES, including one employee who has been working at various government buildings for over 28 years. https://ow.ly/WrQw50TH84N

In September, we installed our new JCFS board chair, Simon Fleischmann, and welcomed five new board members: Ryan Ferris, Zachary Kafitz, Eric Baer, Stephanie Gray, and Pam Levy We look forward to working with them to further strengthen our community! (Pictured left to right: Simon Fleischmann, Ryan Ferris, Zach Kafitz)

October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) which acknowledges the contributions of people with disabilities to America’s workplace. This year’s theme, Access to Good Jobs for All, is something we strive for at JCFS Chicago. Join us in ensuring that people with disabilities have equal opportunities to showcase their skills and talents in the workplace. #NDEAM

When it comes to the important and impactful work we do at JCFS Chicago, collaboration is key. Read about the many ways our staff has provided exceptional care and support by partnering with outside agencies, as well as with each other, in the 2024 JCFS Annual Report: https://ow.ly/vFXU50TqsTe

JCFS Chicago’s Response for Teens Community Education Team received the Elaine Schwartz Impact Award for its enthusiasm and dedication to young people and their families. In the past year, Response has reset and re-energized itself to be a standout resource for teens and young adults. Alyssa Robbins, Director of Response for Teens, and Brittany Sue Hines, Community Education Coordinator, accepted the award at our Annual Meeting on September 9. Thank you to Alyssa and her passionate team for their thoughtful leadership and being a great asset to the community! (Pictured left to right: Marlies Gramann, JCFS Chief Program Officer, Alyssa Robbins and Brittany Sue Hines)

Earlier this month, we honored Huntington National Bank as the JCFS Community Partner of the Year. Senior Vice President and Commercial Banking Team Lead Ryan Ferris, who is also starting his term on the JCFS Board, accepted the honor on behalf of Huntington. We are so grateful for our partnership with Huntington National Bank and the opportunity to expand our reach and strengthen our community. Pictured with (r) JCFS Chief Financial Officer Vince Everson.

Every year at the JCFS Chicago Annual Meeting, we recognize a board member who has gone “above and beyond” for the board and the entire JCFS community. This year we were pleased to honor Liz Roberts Turnipseed with the Above and Beyond Award, for her leadership and the unwavering dedication, motivation and energy she brings to each and every project she undertakes, most recently as co-chair of our very successful annual fundraising event, Elevate. Congratulations Liz! (Pictured with Immediate Past Board Chair Michael Capone)

We are hiring a full-time Occupational Therapist to work in our Integrated Pediatric Therapies (IPT) program at our Northbrook and West Rogers Park locations. The IPT team works with children with disabilities and developmental delays and their families, as well as with adults already participating in JCFS programs such as residential supports and customized employment. For more information and to apply, go here: https://ow.ly/ROcj50TjivH