Riverside Foundation: A Community for Those With Developmental Disabilities

Since July 1976, Riverside Foundation (Riverside) has been dedicated to enriching the lives of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities through high-quality services and compassionate support. Their mission is to ensure every individual that is served can make meaningful choices, build independence, and thrive in a positive, caring environment.

Riverside believes in advocacy, education, and full community inclusion. The organization works in close partnership with families, volunteers, and the broader community to empower individuals, support their staff, and foster a professional, compassionate workplace where respect and dignity guide all that they do.

The organization operates a licensed Intermediate Care Facility (ICF), providing residential services to 87 adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. It additionally manages seven Community Integrated Living Arrangements (CILAs) and one intermittent CILA throughout Lake County, Illinois, supporting an additional 30 individuals. Looking ahead, Riverside plans to expand by opening three additional homes in the next two years, further extending their reach and impact.

The Riverside Community Center is the hub of the Community Day Program, which offers a robust schedule of educational, developmental, and leisure opportunities. Participants strengthen their life skills, express creativity, and engage meaningfully with the community that is created there. Individuals can explore local culture through museum visits, enjoy regular outings to restaurants, stores, and theaters, and take part in activities like bowling and movie nights. They additionally contribute through volunteer opportunities, fostering both personal growth and community connection.

Together, the residential and day programs provided by Riverside form a comprehensive system of support that empowers individuals to reach their fullest potential - socially, emotionally, and personally.

Riverside lives by five guiding principles:

• Supportive – Promoting independence while offering assistance as needed.
• Inclusive – Ensuring full participation in community life.
• Person-Centered – Tailoring support to each individual’s strengths, needs, and goals.
• Empowering – Building skills, confidence, and self-advocacy.
• Compassionate – Providing services with care, respect, and dignity.

The organization’s unwavering commitment is to promote the health, happiness, and independence of the individuals that are served, while always treating them - and their families - with dignity, respect, and understanding.

Learn more at riversidefoundation.net or call 847-634-3973.