AID hosting its first Summer Stroll and Roll fundraiser in effort to keep vital programs going

Posted May 06, 2022 6:00 am

By Kim Becker

AID hosting its first Summer Stroll and Roll fundraiser in effort to keep vital programs going

Participants in the small workshop program offered at AID. Activities may include job exploration, volunteer work or piece work, recreation and educational experiences. courtesy of Doug Milewski

The Association for Individual Development services take on a wide array of challenges - developmental, intellectual, physical and mental health.

Located in Aurora, AID touches seven counties and has served more than 6,000 people in the last year with a variety of programs that meet individuals where they are to live life with dignity.

There are community day centers in Elgin, Aurora, Batavia and Yorkville; mental health clinics; and various group homes, to name a few.

According to Doug Milewski, marketing and communications specialist for AID, the nonprofit, like many, is in need of more support to keep these vital programs going.

To help those efforts, AID is hosting its first Summer Stroll & Roll June 12 in Geneva.

Milewski shares more about AID and its programs, as well as the upcoming fundraiser.

Q: What is Association for Individual Development? Give a brief overview of what the organization does and who you serve.

A: Association for Individual Development (AID) is a not-for-profit organization that offers programs and services for individuals with developmental, behavioral and crisis needs across Kane, Kendall, DeKalb, DuPage, Will, McHenry and suburban Cook County communities.

Q: Where do the majority of your donations come from?

A: AID partners with local businesses, corporations, foundations and community advocates to support individuals participating in programs and services. The demand for services far outweighs the current resources. Community support is crucial to help preserve and enhance AID services.

For many years, AID clients Bill F., left, and Kenny K., middle, have refined multiple work, social and life skills while volunteering at the Habitat for Humanity ReStore Elgin. courtesy of Doug Milewski

Q: How many people per year do you serve?

A: In Fiscal Year 2021, AID served 6,398 individuals.

Q: What are some of your programs?

A: Vital, life-enriching services that promote the highest level of independence and community participation include: autism programs; permanent, supportive housing; in-home support; career planning and vocational preparation; job placement and on-the-job coaching services; crisis intervention; victims services; behavioral intervention; health and wellness; community education; and advocacy.

Learn more by visiting AID online at www.AIDcares.org.

Q: Tell us about the Summer Stroll & Roll.

A: On Sunday, June 12, AID Summer Stroll & Roll participants will enjoy a relaxing stroll or roll around the bucolic Peck Farm Park, 4038 Kaneville Road, Geneva; indulge in breakfast refreshments; learn about AID programs and services at various booths; and hear from individuals and families with lived experience.

The event runs from 9 a.m. to noon.

All proceeds help AID provide services for individuals with developmental, behavioral and crisis needs.

Q: How can people participate?

A: Participants can save with early bird pricing when registering online by May 13 at aidcares.org/stroll. Early bird registration is $25; $35 after May 13. Registration will be open until and on the day of the event. All registrants will receive a T-shirt and lapel pin.

A traditional small workshop program offered at AID assists individuals with the acquisition, retention and improvement in self-help, socialization and adaptive skills. courtesy of Doug Milewski

Q: How can readers help if they can't participate in the event?

A: Supporters can make contributions to the event online at aidcares.org/stroll, or take it a step further and become a sponsor and have their company, organization or name featured on the AID Stroll & Roll T-shirt and on yard signs throughout the Peck Farm Park course during the event.

Interested sponsors can contact Angela Cudmore, AID events coordinator, at acudmore@aidcares.org or (847) 931-2294 for more information.

Q: What else would you like readers to know?

A: AID, along with most nonprofits and businesses across the nation, continues to struggle with the workforce crisis.

We have more than 125 vacant positions at AID, most in the direct care field working with the individuals we serve. We are offering $1,000 sign-on bonuses for full-time positions and $500 for part-time positions.

Interested applicants can view and apply for open positions at AID online at aidcares.org/careers.

• • •

AID Summer Stroll & Roll

What: Fundraiser for Association for Individual Development

When: 9 a.m. to noon Sunday, June 12

Where: Peck Farm, 4038 Kaneville Road, Geneva

Cost: Early bird registration is $25 before May 13; $35 after.

Sponsors: Contact Angela Cudmore at acudmore@aidcares.org or (847) 931-2294

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