ABOUT US
At Helping Hand, we believe what sets us apart is the same thing that can bring us together. We embrace our differences and create opportunities that allow people to be their best selves. In doing so, our clients change the lives of everyone they interact with. It’s as inspiring as it is rewarding.”
Bill Dwyer, President & CEO
Our Mission
Transforming lives of all connected to Helping Hand through genuine care and education
Our Vision
For people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to be equally valued in all communities
Our Awards
Reflects Helping Hand’s commitment to continually improving services, encouraging feedback, and serving the community.
The Best and Brightest Companies to Work For program recognizes companies that deliver exceptional human resource practices and an impressive commitment to their employees.
The highest level of recognition offered by GuideStar, this seal reflects our commitment to transparency and gives donors and funders meaningful data to evaluate our performance.
OUR HISTORY
In the early 1950s, parents of children with developmental disabilities struggled to find social and educational options that addressed their children’s unique needs. In response to this, a small group of parents established the Helping Hand Autism School in 1955.
We are grateful to these early pioneers, whose dedication and perseverance around supporting and celebrating the extraordinary accomplishments of children and adults with disabilities built the foundation of our current programming.
Today, Helping Hand serves more than 500 children and adults. We offer a wide array of services to more than 70 surrounding communities, including:
- Berwyn
- Brookfield
- Burr Ridge
- Chicago
- Cicero
- Countryside
- Downers Grove
- Hinsdale
- La Grange
- Lyons
- Riverside
- Summit
- Westmont
- Western Springs
- Willowbrook
SUPPORT COMES IN MANY FORMS
Helping Hand receives funding through a variety of sources, including:
- State of Illinois
- Lyons Township Mental Health Commission
- Riverside Township Mental Health Commission
- Corporate foundations
- Private foundations
- Helping Hand Foundation
- Individual financial and in-kind donations
- Legacy and planned giving
Our supporters are committed to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to be equally valued in all communities.