History
The Center for Enriched Living (CEL) began in 1968, when two mothers approached a social worker at a local community center, asking for help in finding after-school programs for their children with developmental disabilities. With the social worker's assistance, the two children were then integrated into programs at the community center. As these programs evolved, they began to include social and independent-living activities for people of all ages with developmental disabilities. CEL became an independent agency in 1984 with 60 members and has grown exponentially, now serving more than 450 people annually in our 20,000 square foot facility in Riverwoods. This building allows us to serve more people with developmental disabilities in a greater variety of programs with a gymnasium, art room, teaching kitchen and more! And now we have integrated Universal Design throughout our building to ensure that everyone, no matter their ability can navigate and use CEL with greater ease.
Specialties
The Center for Enriched Living provides opportunities for people with developmental disabilities to make new friends, acquire new skills for social inclusion and independent living and have fun. Choose from a wide variety of social, recreational and educational enrichment programs available seven days a week for people of all abilities - from teens to seniors. Programs cover a broad spectrum of interests and budgets to fit each individual's needs.