Community Support Systems

12/19/2025

We’ve really been getting into the holiday spirit around the Admin Building! 🎄 The Production crew has been bringing the cheer with themed dress-up days all week long, and they also held their annual Christmas party in the Production area, complete with a gift exchange and games. And, our staff jumped in with a fun office door decorating contest!

A week full of festive fun kicked off with pajama day and Santa hats on Monday, followed by Christmas socks on Tuesday, ugly (and not-so-ugly) Christmas sweaters on Wednesday, and Elf/Reindeer Day today. Tomorrow wraps up the week with Grinch Day–plus even more Christmas-themed fun planned for next week before Christmas break.

It’s been such a great way to have fun with friends at work, connect, and really pump up the holiday cheer. ✨

12/16/2025

'Tis the reason for the season. 💙

Back in July, Melvin shared a goal that truly mattered to him: helping kids have a better Christmas. With support from CSS staff member Seneca, Melvin hosted two hot cocoa bars in November to collect donations for Shop with a Cop.

The community showed up and showed out, and Melvin didn’t just meet his $500 goal… he surpassed it, raising $603.96! 🎉

Today, Melvin proudly handed the check to Officer Lustig, helping support the incredible work behind Shop with a Cop. And he’s already planning for Christmas 2026. 🎁🎄

Thank you to everyone who donated or spread the word, and to Melvin and Seneca for helping make it all happen.

12/09/2025

Our agency Christmas Party centerpieces were extra meaningful again this year, because they were handmade by the individuals we serve! 🎄💚

With the guidance of Mary Dust and the wonderful team at The Flower Patch Greenhouse, each person created a festive arrangement filled with holiday cheer. This is quickly becoming one of our favorite new traditions, and we’re so grateful for the joy it brings to our celebration.

If you’re still looking to add a little magic to your own holiday table, reach out to The Flower Patch for something special! 🌿✨

12/04/2025

We’re sending out a merry and bright thank-you to the Dieterich Bank elves and Santa for stopping by to spread some holiday cheer! Your visit has officially kicked off the Christmas season at CSS. ❤️💚

12/02/2025

🎭✨ Looking for something fun to do this holiday season? Consider checking out Krampus: The Untold Story, presented by Three Chicks & A Stage and the Effingham Elks Lodge #1016!

We’re extra excited because individuals served by CSS, along with one of our staff members, are part of the show. It’s sure to be a fantastic time filled with creativity, community, and holiday spirit! 🎄

📅 Showtimes:
• Fri, Dec 12 – Dinner at 5:30 PM, Show at 7 PM (Dinner tickets must be purchased by December 4!)
• Sat, Dec 13 – 7 PM
• Sun, Dec 14 – 2 PM

🎟️ Tickets:
Available at the Elks Lodge, Jansen Computers in T-Town, at the door, or by calling (812) 783-0853.
• Adults: $20
• Kids 12 & under: $10
• Dinner Tickets (include show): $40

Come out and support local talent—you won’t want to miss it! 💫

Hi all!
If you are interested in joining us for our dinner and show, tickets for the dinner need to be purchase by December 4 so the numbers can be passed onto the caterer!

Hope to see you at our show!!!

11/27/2025

We are so grateful for this community! This Thanksgiving, we would like to say, "THANK YOU" for your support of CSS!

11/25/2025

✨ Save the Date! ✨
Take a cozy evening drive and soak in the magic of the holidays at our Drive-Thru Wonderland of Christmas Lights event on Friday, December 12th, from 6–8 PM! 🎄🚗💡

Join us at 1898 N 1150th St, Mason, IL (Higgs Country Christmas Lights) for a glowing, joy-filled display you won’t want to miss.

What makes this night special?
🌟 Individuals served by the ICILA program will be there spreading cheer and handing out candy canes
🌟 A festive drive-thru of over 1,000 Christmas blow molds and dazzling lights
🌟 Freewill donations support ICILA group activities and help fund random acts of kindness in 2026

Load up the car, bring a friend, and enjoy a heartwarming holiday experience, all while supporting a great cause. We can’t wait to see you there!

11/21/2025

FunFest 2025 was such a blast! 🎉

All of our groups came together for an afternoon filled with sunshine, games, music, and so many moments of pure joy. Seeing everyone laughing, playing, and enjoying time together is what makes FunFest so special each year.

A huge thank-you to New Hope Church for welcoming us into such a beautiful space — we’re so grateful for your hospitality and partnership. 💙

Swipe through to relive some of our favorite FunFest highlights and smiles!

11/12/2025

🌟 Celebrating Geri Buhnerkempe’s Retirement! 🌟

After more than 40 years of life-changing, opportunity-enhancing service, Geri Buhnerkempe has announced her retirement from Community Support Systems.

Geri began her journey with CSS in 1978 as a summer camp counselor. She quickly proved herself a natural leader, moving on to serve as Camp Director, House Manager, Residential Coordinator, and, ultimately, Director of Residential Services.

Her care, compassion, and unwavering dedication have enriched countless lives—those of the individuals she supported, their families, and her coworkers. 💙

You're invited to join us for a celebration honoring Geri’s incredible career and wishing her well in retirement!

📅 Wednesday, November 19
🕟 4:30–8:00 PM (Open House)
📍 Stellar Cellar at Tuscan Hills Winery – 2200 Historic Hills Dr., Effingham

Please stop by anytime during the open house to share a memory, a laugh, or a heartfelt thank-you as we celebrate Geri’s remarkable legacy at CSS. 💐

11/11/2025

Happy Veterans Day 🇺🇸
Today, we pause to honor and thank all who have served our country. Your courage and sacrifice grant us the freedom to continue our mission each day—enhancing opportunities to Live, Learn, Work, and Play.

We extend a special thank-you to our CSS staff veterans: Tracy Marten, Nancy Campbell, and Jeffrey Pipher.

Please note that Day Services and the Administrative Office will resume normal business hours tomorrow.

11/11/2025

We are so grateful to the Effingham Elks Lodge #1016 and Three Chicks & A Stage for selecting Community Support Systems as the beneficiary of their 2024–2025 season! 🎭✨

Each year, proceeds from their performances are divided three ways — supporting the Elks, Three Chicks and a Stage, and a local charity. And CSS was honored to be chosen as that charity.

Your generosity helps us continue enhancing opportunities to Live, Learn, Work, and Play. Thank you for supporting our mission and the individuals we serve! 💙

11/08/2025

A few individuals in the Intermittent CILA Program had zip lining on their bucket list, so we took a trip to Shawnee Bluffs Canopy Tour to make it happen! The group had an incredible time experiencing the beautiful views, conquering fears, and encouraging one another throughout the adventure. It was truly inspiring to see the teamwork and support shine.