Kankakee, IL – Options Center for Independent Living (CIL) is celebrating 30 years in Kankakee County and more than a dozen years in Iroquois Counties. The non-profit organization advocates for equal rights, opportunities and services for people with disabilities. Today, Options held an awards luncheon to recognize dedicated leaders, partners and organizers for their work in the community, including Mayor Wells-Armstrong.

“As a trained social worker, it is very important to me that our city is inclusive and that all residents have access to full participation in their community.  I am proud the City of Kankakee has been able to support the work of Options through the Home Accessibility Program (HAP) and Community Development Block Grant (CDBG).  I understand the importance of funding services and when President Trump proposed a reduction to the funds in his budget for FY’19, I along with other mayors across the country lobbied congressional leaders to oppose those cuts.  The result was an additional $60K+ to the City’s CDBG allotment which has benefitted some of our most vulnerable residents,” said Mayor Wells-Armstrong.

“Celebrating 30 years of Options is a unique testimony to the commitment of advocates and partners, as well as, providing services in Kankakee and Iroquois County to people with disabilities,” said Advocate and Resource Coordinator, Donna Sample.

According to their mission, Options works to help people stay in their homes and out of institutions, maintaining their independence, getting jobs, as well as, making the community more accessible for those with disabilities. Options receives majority of their funding from state and federal grants administered by the Department of Human Resources. For more information or how to get involved, visit www.optionscil.org.

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The City of Kankakee is dedicated to protecting, building and nurturing the community while enhancing lives. We are a historic, vibrant, and active riverfront community. We continue to transform into an extraordinary place to dream, grow, and thrive. Embracing our diversity, we strive to be progressive, inclusive, and innovative. For more information on the City of Kankakee, please visit the website at www.citykankakee-il.gov.

  

  

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