Envision Unlimited Blog

In Fall 2020, Envision members launched a monthly newsletter to help others hear their voices. This Thanksgiving article expresses their appreciation for a generous donation from Cermak Fresh Market

By all accounts, twins Geneva and Geneil had a challenging transition into their new day program at Envision’s Westtown Center last summer. But that began to change after they started attending yoga classes facilitated by Program Coordinator David Pufundt

The pending sale of the massive Garnett machine at George Halas Jr. Vocational Center in Auburn Gresham signals a fresh start for members and staff who have met at that facility for decades. Envision is closing that location at the end of October.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, DSPs have been instrumental in supporting members in staying connected to their larger communities, families, and friends. Although the pandemic has prevented in-person connections, DSPs have found ways to maintain a sense of community and ensure our member's needs are safely met. DSPs have helped setup zoom calls with members families to help them stay in touch.

Envision Unlimited provides community living supports for over 350 adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (I/DD) and Mental Illness in the Chicago area. Although our Community Living Program's workforce is large, those most essential to our success are the DSPs.

For 33 years, the philanthropic arm of Pi Kappa Phi fraternity, known as The Ability Experience has sponsored an annual “Journey of Hope” cross-country bike ride to create awareness and raise funds to support people with disabilities. While en-route, participating cyclists stop along the way to enjoy “Friendship Visits” with organizations that serve individuals with disabilities, like Envision Unlimited.

Envision Unlimited’s collaboration with Pi Kappa Phi’s The Ability Experience has spawned another partnership; this one, between fraternity member Tim Smith and Envision member Matthew M. In 2018, Tim, who also is the CME Group’s chief corporate counsel, joined our Westtown Center’s Buddy Biking program as a community volunteer. Program volunteers pilot tandem bikes on the 606 Trail; our members ride the stoker seats.

Residents of Envision’s Campbell Community Integrated Living Arrangement (CILA) are on the move. Their goal: fitness and fundraising for the “InMotion for Envision” challenge.

Across Chicago, essential workers have stepped up to keep businesses open to serve the community. This includes Joel, an Envision Unlimited member, who works at a Jewel Osco grocery store in his neighborhood. Joel lives with his parents, who are his primary caregivers —unfortunately, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Joel became the sole provider for his family.

Envision Unlimited is complying with DPH/CDC guidelines to ensure the safety of our members and staff. As we continue to monitor the coronavirus (COVID-19) situation, we are taking extra precautionary measures to enhance our infection control efforts and minimize exposure for those in our care and on our staff. As the situation evolves, our policies will adjust to align with recommendations from public health experts.