Community Day Services at El Valor is a structured daytime program for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Participants build life skills, explore their interests, and connect with their community through classes, outings, and activities designed around who they are.
Think of this program as a school for adults, but one shaped entirely by the people who attend. Every participant has an individualized service plan that reflects their goals, their strengths, and the things they enjoy.
Participants work on the skills that matter most to their daily lives. That could mean learning to cook a meal, manage a schedule, navigate public transportation, or handle personal care tasks. The goal is always to help each person do as much as they can on their own.
Our programming goes far beyond the basics. Last year, we offered 192 music and drama classes and 48 cooking classes. Staff design activities around the cultures and interests represented in the group. One team created a full program on Egypt, complete with videos and hieroglyphics. Another brought in live jazz, African dance, and traditional Mexican music.
Programming is built intentionally with individuals’ interests and needs in mind. It is real learning, exploration, and joy.
Getting out into the world is a core part of El Valor’s programs. Last year, our adult participants went on more than 1,000 outings. Whether it is a trip to a museum, a park, a restaurant, or a community event, these experiences build confidence, social skills, and a sense of belonging.
We know getting to a doctor’s office can be a challenge. That is why we bring health care to our participants. Dental providers, optometrists, and other specialists come on-site to provide exams and treatment. Last year, we coordinated 600 medical appointments and 100 dental appointments for our adult participants.
El Valor understands health goes beyond medical care. With a focus on daily exercise and nutrition, El Valor’s programs understand healthy living is a lifestyle. Every person also receives daily meals prepared with care.
Special Olympics and the El Valor Eagles
Many of our participants are proud members of the El Valor Eagles, our official Special Olympics team. Whether someone has been competing since childhood or joins for the first time at El Valor, the experience builds confidence, teamwork, and a powerful sense of accomplishment. Last year, our athletes earned 120 medals.
One of the most beloved parts of life at El Valor is the Monarch Conservation Program. Participants grow milkweed, raise butterflies, and care for our pollinator garden. Many of our adults serve as Monarch Ambassadors, leading tours for visitors and sharing their knowledge with pride.
Adults must have a Medicaid waiver through the state of Illinois to receive community day services at El Valor. If you or your family member already has a waiver, contact us to discuss enrollment and availability. If you do not yet have a waiver, we can help guide you through the state process.
Community day services is a structured daytime program where adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities participate in skill-building activities, classes, outings, and social experiences. At El Valor, every program is individualized and bilingual.
Yes. Many of our residents attend community day services during the day. Programs are designed to work together based on each person’s individualized service plan.
No. Our community day services are open to adults with disabilities throughout the Chicagoland area. While our programs are in the Pilsen neighborhood, participants come from across the city and surrounding communities. Contact us to learn more about how to get started.
Activities include cooking classes, music and drama, art, cultural programming, community outings, Special Olympics training, the Monarch Conservation Program, and more. Programming is designed around the interests and cultures of our participants.
Yes. Nutritious, culturally relevant meals are provided daily. Last year, we served over 52,000 meals across our adult programs.
Community day services are funded through Medicaid waivers. There is no direct cost to participants who have been approved for waiver services through the state of Illinois. El Valor also offers private pay options, contact our team to learn more.
