Center for Enriched Living

Member centered adult programs build and maintain social skills while engaging in education and recreational activities.  These include healthy living, money management, safety, arts, employment, sports, technology, current events, community events, social clubs and vacations and outings. Members have a chance to give back with volunteering in the community.

CEL's fastest growing program addresses the needs of adult 22 years and older who have transitioned out of the school system. Weekday programs focus on independent living skills, vocational readiness, recreation, continuing education, community outings and volunteer activities.  Programs also provide respite for families and caregivers. Participants spend much of the day in the community, where they develop work and volunteer skills, learn skills for greater independence and healthy living, strengthen peer and social groups and take the steps to achieve their life goals.

CEL works to combat the staggering 85% unemployment rate that members face by partnering with small businesses and large corporations to remove existing barriers so that members can explore a variety of career options in community-based employment. Our employment program was created in direct response to members’ interests in finding work opportunities. While people with developmental disabilities have the skills and the desire to work, they lack the opportunities. CEL’s Career Academy classes provide opportunities for individuals with IDD to learn more about the soft skills needed to find and keep a job. The success of this program shows that with targeted education and supports, for both employers and CEL members, we can help build a successful employment relationship.

The Robert Vihon Family Resource Center was developed following years of feedback from our members’ families and makes CEL a regional destination for those seeking reliable resources and information, mental health counseling, therapeutic and behavioral services, and peer support support groups. The program is led by a licensed Social Worker and housed at CEL’s Riverwoods facility.

The program focuses on two key areas:
a. Family & Member Services: The Family Services team works with members and families (one-on-one and in groups) to assist them in sharing resources to help navigate options; help in dealing with changes in life circumstances, such as the death of a parent or loved one; offering guidance in learning about guardianship options; and much more.
b. Interventions & Treatment: When the When the needs of our members and their families goes beyond coaching and support groups, CEL will offer more intensive intervention.