Hand Center

The mission of Helping Hand Center is to assist children and adults with disabilities to achieve their highest level of independence through quality programs and services. 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. The company is 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 the company's current programming. From the humble beginnings of just a few students, the organization grew to accommodate over 750 children and adults through a vocational program, a residential housing program, and eventually the wide array of services offered today. Currently, the company's clients span over 70 surrounding communities, including Berwyn, Brookfield, Burr Ridge, Chicago, Cicero, Countryside, Downers Grove, Hinsdale, LaGrange, Lyons, Riverside, Summit, Westmont, Western Springs, Willowbrook and numerous others. The company ensures exceptional standards of care through the company's high client to staff ratios, individualized training programs, 24-hour residential supervision, full transportation services, award winning School for Children with Autism, and fully accredited programs. Helping Hand Center is a valuable resource for the company's clients, their families, and the company's community. Helping Hand Center receives funding through a variety of sources, including the State of Illinois, Lyons Township Mental Health Commission, Riverside Township Mental Health Commission, corporate and private foundations, the Helping Hand Foundation, and other generous supporters who are committed to offering individuals with disabilities the opportunities they dream of and the quality of life they deserve.Read More