Shore Community Services Lifelong Care Impacts Individuals, Families, and Communities

Since 1951, Shore Community Services, Inc. has been instrumental in meeting the needs of individuals with intellectual and other developmental disabilities through unique programs and community-integrated services that improve quality of life. For 74 years, the organization has served as a vital resource and network for individuals, families, and the communities it serves.

Each year, Shore serves nearly 400 children and adults through educational, residential, and vocational initiatives designed to promote and foster independence, dignity, and opportunity for individuals served. By offering critical care services and providing essential support, the nonprofit’s demonstrated impact is broad, indelible, and long-lasting.

“When individuals are introduced to Shore, they generally remain in our network of care throughout their entire lifespan,” said Erin Ryan, CEO. “We are honored that year after year, families choose Shore to provide support for their loved ones and choose to remain and grow along with us.”

Roxanne Verburg, a senior member of Shore’s community, has been receiving services and guidance since 1988.

"Many years ago, my mother found herself in extremely difficult circumstances—an immigrant woman from the Philippines, navigating life as a newly single parent to six young children, including one who required special care,” Robert Verburg, brother of Roxanne, shared.

“Alone and without family here, she faced many challenges and hardships--but luckily, she also found kindness and support to help carry her through--Shore became an essential part of that support system."

Verburg enrolled at Shore after graduating from high school. She obtained valuable vocational skills when packaging and fulfillment services were offered by Shore to area businesses. Earlier this year, Verburg participated in the 12-week Ready For Work certificate program that is offered through Shore’s True North – Find Your Path Program. The program goal is to maximize participation in integrated community life and increase self-determination for individuals by providing opportunities for vocational exploration and training, employment path services, and recreational pursuits.

Earlier this year, Verburg was the recipient of the organization’s President’s Award, which recognized accomplishments made throughout her lifetime while maintaining her independent living.

“Shore is dedicated to helping Roxanne thrive daily, and we look forward to guiding her abilities to accomplish even more in years to come,” Erin stated.

Next month, Shore will reopen its Joseph Koenig Sr. Training Center, where Verburg has received ongoing vocational training, support, and employment opportunities from adolescence through adulthood.

The training center, located in Morton Grove, is currently being renovated to offer a new state-of-the-art space for individuals like Verburg to grow, learn, and evolve their skills and abilities.

“Shore has been instrumental in my sister’s growth, development, and quality of life. My family takes great comfort in knowing that she is understood, cared for, safe, happy, and celebrated. I honestly don’t know what my mother would have done without this community. My mother is no longer with us, but my family is forever grateful for all that Shore has done and continually does for Roxanne and other families facing similar challenges,” stated Robert Verburg.

To learn more about Shore’s programs and services, go to shoreservices.org.