Easterseals, the affiliate of Easterseals serving Chicagoland and Rockford, fulfills their mission by operating campuses of Easterseals Academy that collectively serve 300 youth with autism. They also operate multiple early head start/head start centers across the Chicagoland area, lead the CFC #8 and CFC #12 in the south side of the city and south suburbs, and operate family support services and the autism program. Our organization is $60 million operating with 700 employees and we serve more than 30,000 families each year. Read below to learn more about Easterseals serving Chicagoland and Rockford.

Who are you?

Sara Ray Stoelinga, president & CEO of Easterseals serving Chicagoland and Rockford

How long have you been in the neighborhood?

4 months

What are your top challenges in growing your business?

Changes in the context around autism schooling; managing debt

Why did you join the West Central Association?

[We were] recommended by a colleague.

What makes your business unique?

We focus on autism and service to the community.

What’s your favorite part of the West Loop?

The diversity and vibrancy of the area.

What does the future look like?

The future of Chicago is bright, especially the west side which is growing and prospering. We are excited to be a part of this community and to serve the families and youth of our community.

Describe your business in 140 characters or less

Our purpose is to change the way the world defines and views disabilities by making profound, positive differences in people’s lives every day.

Bonus Question: Tell us a fun fact about you or your business!

We just opened a new state of the art gymnasium facility for our youth with autism. We would love to find ways to partner to open the facility for broader use in the west side community.