Center for Independence

04/17/2026

Thank you Mental Health Commission of Lyons Township for including us in this initiative!

This April, the LTMHC is recognizing Child Abuse Prevention Month. 💙

Seen here is a photo shared from the Center for Independence in Countryside. Executive Director, Josephine Boggs, has painted one nail blue to represent 1 in 5 children who will experience abuse—children who deserve love, safety, and protection.

We all have a role to play. By raising awareness and supporting families, we can help break the cycle and build a future where every child feels safe and cared for.

It’s your turn - paint one nail blue and tag the Lyons Township Mental Health Commission.

Center for Independence

04/08/2026

April is Occupational Therapy Awareness Month! 💙

This month, we celebrate the incredible impact of occupational therapists who help individuals build the skills they need for everyday life. From fostering independence to supporting meaningful participation in daily activities, OT makes a differnce in ways both big and small.

We are proud of our dedicated OT team and the compassionate, creative care they provide to the children and families we serve every day.

Join us in recognizing and celebrating the power of Occupational Therapy! 🌟

04/03/2026

This is who we are! (Can you guess who is who???)💙

A team dedicated to empowering every child, supporting every family, and celebrating every step forward— big or small!

It’s rhe passion, the patience, and the purpose behind everything we do!

03/31/2026

Join us in congratulating Doctoral Student in Physical Therapy, Eduardo Cortez, from Governors State University, on receiving the Center For Independence’s Diversity Scholarship! 🎓🎉

CFI recognizes the importance of promoting diversity in physical and occupational therapy healthcare professions. The Center is committed to ensuring that healthcare professionals reflect the racial and ethnic identies of the people we serve.

It is a requirement of all recipients to complete a clinical rotation at the Center and we thank Eduardo for his compassion and commitment he has shown throughout his time here. We are so appreciative of the positive impact he has made on our team and the families we serve— we’re excited to see all that he accomplishes in his future career!

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Are you a PT/OT student interested in applying for the scholarship? Or a faculty member looking to refer a student please reach out to Lpazda@cfice.org for more info!

03/30/2026

I spy 👀 the Center’s Family Engagement Coordinator and Center Parent Courtney Coleman, MS-OTR/L with Mia Coleman in this video when she was an adorable toddler!
Along with OT infant motor specialist and longtime former CFI team member Jennifer Fliegel! Thanks for spreading the knowledge in importantce of early detection, motor therapy and intervention! 💚

03/25/2026

Today we recognize Cerebral Palsy Awareness Day💚

Stronger Together remjnds us of the power if community, support and connection. When we come together, we create more opportunities, more understanding and more impact!

We proudly Go Green for CP to raise awareness and celebrate the strength, resiliencr and individuality of those living with CP.

Together we are Stronger!

03/23/2026

We are so greatful to be a recipient to help us continue our mission!

03/21/2026

Today, we celebrate World Down Syndrome Day by honoring the incredible individuals and families we have the privilege to support every day. 💙💛


To our participants and employees, your joy, strength and unique perspectives inspire us constantly.

Together, we celebrate inclusion, advocacy and the beauty of every individual.🌎

Together Against Lonliness!

03/19/2026

Our team is committed to continuous growth and providing the best care possible!! 💚

Last Friday, some of our staff attended the Early Detection of Cerebral Palsy in Early Intervention: Collaboration, Tools and Training Conference. This valuable experience equipped them with the latest tools, strategies and collaborative approaches to support early identification and intervention.

We’re proud to invest in ongoing educatjon that helps us better serve children and families in our community!

03/11/2026

🌸Spring Clean for a Cause!!🌸

Spring is the perfect time to refresh your home. Still have holiday gifts lying around that you haven’t used or have yet to return?! Bring them into the Center so we can start prepping for our Annual Fundraiser in October!

✨Think: Jewelry, purses, home decor, childrens toys (new), kitchen items and more!

Ready to donate?? Send us a message for drop-off details!

Your donations help our programs! Every item makes a difference. Help us make this the best auction yet!

12/31/2025

2025 Wrapped ✨

Independence was our top track—and it played loud this year! From everyday victories to life-changing milestones, 2025 was powered by courage commitment and a community that believes in empowering independent futures.

Thank you to our participants, families, staff and supporters who make independence possible every single day. We could not have done it without YOU!

We are proud of what we have acomplished this year and we can’t wait to turn it up in 2026! 💙💚

Help us start 2026 our strong,donate today!
https://www.cfimove.org/donate/

12/24/2025

Wishing you joy, peace, and light this holiday season!✨

As we gather with friends and family, we reflect on the people who bring us joy. At the Center for Independence, that joy is found in moments like watching a child with a disability take steps with a walker or reach out to accept a gift from Santa.

A Season of Joy-Made Brighter through Independence!
Happy Holidays from out CFI family to yours! 💚