There was an informational meeting on Wednesday, September 3^rd about a “train the trainer” program being launched in September to develop and implement on-going services and support in the workplace for adults and young adults served through Illinois Growth Enterprises programs, who exhibit Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). There will be a series of four discussion groups about the training topics. For more information about this training program or to register for the discussion groups, contact IGE's Rehabilitaion Director 815/962-8333.

This is a collaborative effort with the Autism Team at Northwestern Illinois Association, other Special Education programs, other community based programs, and family members and individuals with a diagnosis of ASD.

Through the Norris A. & Margaret K. Aldeen Fund, the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois awarded a grant of $9,944.00 to IGE for “Effective Communication: the key to productivity”

Linda Sheridan, Director of Employment Services Program said, “This grant gives us additional resources to help the individuals we serve increase confidence and skills needed to pursue competitive employment which leads to a higher rate of success and a wider range of employment opportunities that match each worker’s interests and abilities.”

IGE is grateful for this opportunity through the foundation. As the area’s leading provider of philanthropic services, the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois stewards over $67 million. Each year the Foundation awards grants and scholarships of over $3 million on behalf of caring donors who want to give something back to their community.