Our Mission
At CTF Illinois, we create pathways toward independence, a higher quality of life, and economic prosperity for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Our mission is to empower the people we support to live the life they want to live. We believe that together, our Communities can Transform Futures for people with disabilities. We believe in individuality and hands-on learning, and create person-centered plans of service for each person we support.
We serve 620+ people each year throughout the state of Illinois.
Our Vision: To create a culture where people are not defined by their differences, but recognized for the value they bring their communities.
Our Values
Your choice, our goal.
Optimize resources with great responsibility and integrity.
Foster a culture of respect through open communication and thoughtful action.
Create a place to learn with room to grow.
Enjoy what you do and share that passion with others
Strive to find ways to continuously improve.
Embrace collaboration to create extraordinary achievements.
Supporting our community since 1971.
Our History
Charley Smith and Jerry Meyer partner to open Markham Workshop in Markham, IL.
1971
Southwest Community Services is formed; providing multiple service program to people with disabilities through out Chicago South Suburbs.
1978
Southwest Community services continues to expand its mental health and supported employment programs.
1980s
Charleston Transitional Facility opens in Charleston, IL providing day program and CILA services to people with intellectual disabilities.
2000
Both Southwest Community Services expand their days programs and CILA services, now in 7 counties throughout Illinois.
2000s
Our first community-based art program for adults with disabilities opens: an art studio and storefront that teaches people art therapy and gives them a place to showcase and sell their work to earn income.
2013
We launch our advocacy program, where people in our communities rally together to participate in campaigns defending the rights of people with disabilities.
2015
CTF merges with Southwest Community Services & LifeStyles Academy, expanding our reach from the south suburban area of Chicago through the Palos Park area.
Thanks to these mergers, we are able to offer easier access to a huge variety of high-quality services to people with developmental disabilities.
2016
We open ADAPT: behavioral health treatment for people with a dual diagnosis of a developmental disability and a mental health disorder.
2017
In late 2018, we open our second art center: RITA (Realizing Integration Through the Arts). RITA serves as an educational training center for adults with developmental disabilities with a focus on the arts.
We adopt LifeStyles Academy as a new program option, providing a secondary education option to people who are finished with high school.
2018
We open our first vocational training site Crestwood alongside a therapy center in Tinley Park.
Later that year, our THRIVE sensory program opens.
2019
Today, CTF Illinois continues to expand its services and will soon open its largest facility RISE (Realizing Integration by supporting Employment) in Orland Park and our first technology-supported CILA in Lincoln, IL.
Now
Ready to join our community?
