Working Together Chicago is a program of Center for Independence through Conductive Education Inc., an Illinois nonprofit under Section 501 C 3 of the Internal Revenue Code. The mission of the Center is to help people with disabilities achieve their highest level of potential. Center for Independence and the Working Together Chicago program is an approved community employment provider with the Illinois Department of Rehab Services. (DRS) Learn more about the Center.

Adults & Employment

DO YOU HAVE:

A documented disability.

An Individualized Education Plan (IEP) which is a legal document under United States law that is developed for public-school children who need special education?

Or a 504 plan which is a blueprint of how the school will support a student with a disability and remove barriers to learning. The goal is to give the student equal access to school.

Are you motivated and job-ready?
We want to talk to you about your future!

SEE IF YOU'RE QUALIFIED

Eligibilty

To Qualify

18 years or older and no longer in school
Have a documented intellectual or developmental disability
Motivated and interested in working
Eligible to open a Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) Adult Milestone case
Willing to provide consent to share information with appropriate parties
Have access to transportation
Live within our service area

Does this sound like you or someone you know?

Let’s get started!

Cost of Program

Services are free of charge to participants provided they are connected to a third-party funding source, such as IDHS-DRS

Private pay options are available.

Questions? Contact Us!

Our Services

WTC opens doors of employment through:

Intake & Assessment

We assess your needs to ensure the right fit and level of support.

Networking

We help you build meaningful connections in your community and beyond.

Job Development

We partner with you to define goals and create a clear path to employment.

Job Support & Advocacy

We advocate for your strengths and support both you and your employer for long-term success.

Resource Guidance

We connect you to valuable resources and supports that enhance your quality of life.

Social/Professional Events

We host events that foster connection, community, and opportunity.

WTC SUCCESS STORY: Meet Jake

A Big Step Forward
Jake came to Working Together Chicago with big aspirations for the next chapter in his life. In high school, he got his start at Domino’s making pizzas — a job he stuck with for years. Jake was ready for more. His goals were clear: find a full-tme job with benefits and a place of his own close to work.

After many leads and interviews during the job development phase, Jake and the WTC team found an opportunity at FedEx as a package handler. The only challenge? The shift began at 3 a.m. and ran until 8 or 9 a.m.

Jake didn’t let that stop him. He saw this as his chance to move forward and we knew that with the right support, even before sunrise, we could help make his goals a reality.

Today, with his paycheck in his pocket, Jake is working nearly 40 hours a week. He often picks up extra shifts, and has proudly moved into his own apartment just a short walk from work.

We are so proud of Jake and the Working Together Chicago team for showing what’s possible when determination meets opportunity. When you’re motivated and willing to go the extra mile, anything is possible.

Affirmative Action

In all activities, the Center for Independence and all of its programs, promote and ensure equal opportunity for all persons without regard to disability, age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin.

Know Your Rights

CFI Participant’s and Family’s Rights
Universal Declaration of Human Rights

Let's Work Together

The Center for Independence believes that people with disabilities can have great success in the labor market when they have the right supports and are given a chance. Join us today in making this possible.

Contact

Charlie O'Malley
312-995-3302 or Email

Center for Independence through Conductive Education Inc., an Illinois nonprofit under Section 501 C 3 of the Internal Revenue Code. The mission of the Center is to help people with disabilities achieve their highest level of potential.

Working Together Chicago promotes workforce diversity and inclusion through superior employment services for people with disabilities.

Learn more about the Center for Independence.