Part of the vision of Lake Forest Library is to "enable everyone in the community to fulfill the universal desire to learn, explore, and belong." Our series of Accessibility Resources pages lists local nonprofit organizations that provide resources and services to help you or someone you know succeed and feel welcome in Chicago's North Shore.
The list is not comprehensive and is provided for informational purposes. The Library does not endorse nor sponsor these organizations. Specific questions regarding these groups should be directed to the organization.
For information about the Library's Accessibility Collections, Homebound Services, and other supports, please visit our Accessibility page.
Mission Statement
Anixter Center’s mission is to provide an array of services and support for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and related challenges to live, learn, work, and play in the community. Our leadership team and staff are committed to moving the mission forward.
Adult Services
- Day Services
- Residential Services
- Housing
- Employment Services
- Substance Use Disorder Assistance
- Community Mental Health Services
- Recovery Hub/Safe Space
- Mental Health Outreach
- Works with Chicago Hearing Society for Hearing, Deaf, and DeafBlind Services
Contact
Administration Office
1945 W Wilson Ave
Chicago IL 60640
773-973-7900
Residential Office
6610 N Clark St
Chicago IL 60626
773-973-7900
Mission Statement
The Center for Enriched Living exists so that people with developmental disabilities can be fully included in the community, achieve personal success, and enjoy a good quality of life.
Adult Services
- Social Enrichment
- Recreational Enrichment
- Educational Enrichment
Mission Statement
The mission of Dickinson Hall is to offer adults educational, social, and cultural opportunities as well as services fostering independence, involvement, and continued personal growth in a welcoming and dynamic environment.
Adult Services
Geared towards visitors 50 and older, newly retired, or new to the area, Dickinson Hall offers a variety of programs, classes, special interest groups, trips, and other events to foster community and offer seniors an opportunity to socialize as well as:
- Emotional Support
- Support for Family Caregivers
- Identifying Local Resources
- Financial Assistance Programs
- Medicare Assistance
- Senior Citizen's Assessment
- Freeze Assistance
- Benefit Access Program
- Scholarship Programs
- Notary Services
- Medical Equipment "Lending Closet"
Lake Forest and Lake Bluff residents can borrow mobility items from the Lending Closet free of charge for up to 3 months:
- Walkers
- Canes
- Wheelchairs
- Toilet Risers
- Bath Seats
- Transfer Benches
Contact
Grove Cultural Campus
100 E Old Mill Rd
Lake Forest IL 60045
847-234-2209
Mission Statement
The mission of Faith in Action is to help older adults maintain their independence and improve their quality of life. Volunteers help with many forms of non-medical assistance, such as transportation to medical and other appointments, help with shopping, reading or bill paying, minor home repairs, friendly visiting and telephone support, and respite care for family caregivers.
Faith in Action is non-sectarian. There is no charge for services, and they serve seniors of Lake Forest, Lake Bluff, and those residing within the Lake Forest High School District 115 regardless of their religious affiliation. This service is supported by a grant from the Lake Forest-Lake Bluff Senior Citizens Foundation.
Adult Services
- Non-emergency transportation services in Southeast Lake County
- Errand Service
- Respite care
- Social Support
- Information and Referral
Mission Statement
We strive to ‘Let No One Sit on the Sidelines’ and operate under a mission to promote and support the optimal development and well-being of youth, adults, and military veterans who have a physical or visual disability through the provision of inclusive recreation, fitness, and competitive sports activities.
Youth & Adult Services
GLASA provides programming to individuals with physical and visual disabilities. Programming can be adapted to meet the needs of individuals who use manual or power wheelchairs, in addition to those with ambulatory disabilities. GLASA serves athletes who have disabilities such as:
- Amputation
- Cerebral Palsy
- Muscular Dystrophy
- Spinal Cord Injury
- Spina Bifida
- Stroke
- Visual Impairment
GLASA believes that health is a lifelong pursuit and offers programs for individuals ages 6–60+. Specialized programming is offered to injured military veterans. Additionally, programming is offered without regard to socioeconomic status. No one is ever turned away due to an inability to pay. Recreational and competitive programs are available; no prior experience is necessary to join a GLASA program.
Contact
27864 Irma Lee Circle #101
Lake Forest IL 60045
847-283-0908
Mission Statement
Illinois developed the Supportive Living Program (SLP) as an alternative to nursing home care for low-income older persons and persons with physical disabilities under Medicaid. By offering personal care and other services, residents can live independently and take part in decision-making. Personal choice, dignity, privacy, and individuality are emphasized.
Adult Services
Resources and services vary by location. See the Provider Fact Sheet.
- Intermittent Nursing Services
- Social/Recreational Programming
- Health Promotion & Exercise Programs
- Medication Oversight
- Ancillary Services
- 24-hour Response/Security
- Personal Care
- Laundry
- Housekeeping
- Maintenance
- Meals and snacks
Contact
- Azpira Place in Lake Zurich
- Barton Senior Residences of Zion
- Heritage Woods of Gurnee
- Oak Hill SLF in Round Lake Beach
- Stonebridge of Gurnee
- Victory Centre of Vernon Hills
847-596-8226
Mission Statement
Lake Forest Open Lands Association is an independently funded conservation and educational organization devoted to the acquisition and stewardship of our natural landscapes, and to ensuring all generations have a meaningful, lasting connection to nature and our land.
Youth & Adult Services
In partnership with Access Ability Wisconsin (AAW), LFOLA is the first Illinois location to host AAW's motorized All Terrain Outdoor Wheelchair. This wheelchair gives those with temporary and permanent mobility issues the ability to enjoy the trails and nature preserves with family and friends.
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Free to use (a completed, signed waiver and $50, refundable deposit is required)
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Option to use trailer and transport wheelchair to different locations in and around Lake County
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Adjustable harness, lap, and leg safety belts
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The controller offers five speeds in addition to an easy-to-use joystick for turning and backing up
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Lights on wheelchair allow for low light use
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Fully adjustable for different reclining, arm, and leg angles
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About five hours of nonstop usage before wheelchair battery has to be recharged
Mission Statement
To facilitate the growth, development, and improvement of the Lake Forest Parks and Recreation facilities and offerings to the community.
Partners with Northern Suburban Special Recreation Association for more options. The organization is below.
Youth Services
Buddy Sports offers various programs for players with developmental and/or physical disabilities including:
- Baseball
- Basketball
- Soccer
- Dance
- Judd Goldman Adaptive Sailing is also offered outside of Buddy Sports.
Mission Statement
Helping people with developmental disabilities lead productive, happy lives and connect with the human spirit in us all.
Adult Services
- Residential Services
- Vocational Services
- Community Employment Services
- Wellness, Leisure, & Recreational Services
- Home-based Support Facilitation
- Business and Attractions
Contact
14245 W Rockland Rd
Libertyville IL 60048
847-362-4636
Mission Statement
To enrich the lives of people with disabilities in our partner communities through quality recreation services.
Youth & Adult Services
NSSRA runs more than 500 programs every year. Their programs can be challenging or competitive, with integral educational and social components as well as fun.
- Youth and Adult Programs
- Gator Athletics (Special Olympics)
- Day camps
- Overnight trips
- Lead: Leisure Education Awareness and Discovery
- Special events
Contact
1221 County Line Rd
Highland Park IL 60035
847-509-9400
Mission Statement
Ride Lake County is a borderless countywide paratransit service that provides seniors age 60+ and people with disabilities transportation to any area of Lake County for work, shopping, medical appointments, and more.
Adult Services
Ride Lake County is a borderless countywide paratransit service that provides seniors age 60+ and people with disabilities transportation to any area of Lake County for work, shopping, medical appointments, and more.
Contact
To book a trip, call the Pace Call Center between 5:30 am and 6:00 pm.
800-201-6446
Mission Statement
Riverside Foundation will provide quality services and supports to adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, ensuring opportunities for individual choice and with a commitment to providing these supports in a positive caring environment.
Adult Services
- Campus for Adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
- Group Homes for Independence and Community
- Work & Activity Center Develops Life-skills
Contact
Foundation
14588 W Highway 22
Lincolnshire IL 60069
847-634-3973
Activity Center in Vernon Hills
847-793-0010
Mission Statement
The Special Recreation Association of Central Lake County provides recreation programs and services to individuals with special needs or disabilities, and their families, who reside within the boundaries of Member Agency communities.
Youth & Adult Services
- Youth and Teen Programs
- Teen/Adult Programs
- Adult Day Programs
- After School Programs
- Outings for Seniors
- Financial Assistance
- Inclusion Assistance
- Special Events
- Special Olympics
- Summer Day Camp
- Vacation/Overnight Trips
- Weekly Programs