EdlyAllenGettingAnswersFlyer

GURNEE – State Senator Mary Edly-Allen and State Representatives Laura Faver Dias and Joyce Mason are reminding residents of their upcoming event, “Getting Answers: An Information Forum for Families of Adults with Disabilities,” that will run from 2-4 p.m. on Saturday, March 16 at the Warren-Newport Public Library in Gurnee.

“It was brought to my attention by two of my constituents, who are also disability advocates, that there was a need to have an event that would be not only educational, but be a safe place for people to share their stories with each other,” said Edly-Allen (D-Libertyville). “As an educator, I knew the best way to create such an event was through a combination of local experts and agencies that could best explain ways to help the community in their daily life.”

The informative event was created for families and caregivers of adults with disabilities. It will give them the opportunity to hear from experts from residential agencies, day programs, lawyers, independent service coordination agencies and other experts in addition to sharing their own experiences.

 

"While there are many resources available for families with adults with disabilities, it can be overwhelming to know where to start and who to trust,” said Faver Dias (D-Libertyville). "I am happy we can offer families and caregivers in our district this one-stop forum that will address many different options available to them."

Numerous expert panelists will be in attendance at the informational forum including:

  • Carole Rosen, Going Home Coalition Manager - Advocacy Program Specialist, and Suzanne Aaron, Illinois Life Span Information and Outreach Specialist, The Arc of Illinois
  • Michael Diaz, Chief Program Officer, and Kelly Czyzowicz, Associate Director of Social Services (Admissions), Lambs Farm
  • Cassie Wodrich, Superintendent of Administrative Services, Special Recreation Association of Central Lake County (SRACLC)
  • Kristin Molyneux, Service Inc. ISC, PAS Agency
  • Edward Gallagher, Community Relations Representative, Pace Suburban Bus
  • Neal E. Takiff, Attorney, Whitted Takiff LLC
  • Amber Desselles, Attorney, Churchill, Quinn, Hamilton & Van Donselaar, Ltd.
  • Jennifer Simpson & Jessica Findley, CEOs, Shining Abilities
  • Linda Springer Linn & Elizabeth Linn CEOs, Rockin’ the Spectrum

A local business, Rockin’ the Spectrum, will also be providing a sensory break room on site. The event is free, but registration is required. Tickets are available here.

For all inquiries, people can contact Senator Edly-Allen’s district office at 847-548-5631 or on her website.