Clearbrook expands in Libertyville with services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities

Clearbrook, a nonprofit providing programs and services for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, recently opened a new community center adjacent to its mental health center in Libertyville.

Organization leaders with village and elected officials, clients and family members attended a ceremonial ribbon cutting last week for the center at 1659 Northwind Blvd., near Route 45 and Peterson Road (Route 137) on the village’s far northwest side.

The new facility, called CHOICE Libertyville, focuses on allowing people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to make their own choices for recreation, learning, socialization and well-being.

Libertyville is Clearbrook’s third CHOICE location joining Woodstock and Crystal Lake. The facility will offer day program services for about 50 people aged 18 and older.

The community center includes a lounge, kitchenette, sensory and mediation room, technology center, arts and crafts studio and physical fitness/therapy equipment.

According to Clearbrook, participants create personalized schedules using a 12-week course calendar focused on growth and self-determination, according to Clearbrook.

Dedicated spaces are available to support learning in technology, cooking, independent living skills, the arts, and literature.

Activities and support are tailored to each person’s strengths, interests and goals related to employment, learning, recreation and life experiences. Opportunities also are available for volunteering and community participation.

Libertyville Mayor Donna Johnson said the facility is a good option for families who can’t afford more expensive residential living facilities.

“It’s nice to have this alternative,” she said. “It’s a safe place to take them and allow them to function.”

The Libertyville CHOICE program already is near capacity due to demand regionally and statewide. About 18,000 people with intellectual/developmental disabilities are on waiting lists for similar services, including housing and home-based care, according to Clearbrook.

The adjoining mental health facility opened in January 2025. It offers individual, group, couple, and family mental health therapy, specializing in individuals with dual-diagnoses of mental illness and intellectual/development disabilities, according to the organization.

According to its website, Clearbrook serves more than 8,000 children and adults annually through early intervention, day programs, residential housing, vocational training and specialized clinical care at more than 80 Chicago-area locations.

mzawislak@dailyherald.com