Expanding opportunities for those with special needs

Since 1965, Little Friends Inc. has been helping adults and children with autism and other developmental disabilities thrive in their communities. What started as a private day school for a handful of students has grown to serving nearly 1,000 people per year and employing over 400 full-time and part-time staff members.

"Little Friends evolved and expanded over time as we looked at the requirements and needs of those we help and support," said Mike Briggs, President and CEO of Little Friends.

The Naperville nonprofit is a multifaceted human services agency that operates three schools, vocational training programs, community-based residential opportunities, and the Little Friends Center for Autism. The Center serves as a resource for diagnosis, comprehensive evaluations, therapies such as speech and occupational therapy and a training center for families and providers working with this population.

Last year Little Friends also began offering Respite Family Services every Thursday evening and one Saturday per month. These scheduled times allow families to leave their loved one with special needs, as well as siblings, in the care of trained professionals at Little Friends, while caregivers run errands, take a few hours to relax, or complete tasks they normally can't because of caregiving responsibilities.

"It provides parents with the opportunity to recharge, just have a quiet moment, or go out for dinner and reconnect," said Briggs.

Little Friends relies on the generosity of individuals and companies to continue providing services to those with special needs and their families. Little Friends raises funds through the annual Little Friends Benefit Auction, which takes place this year on March 7, 2020, at Sheraton Lisle Naperville.

Organizations such as Gerald Subaru of Naperville also help support Little Friends' mission. The dealership selected Little Friends as the local beneficiary of donations made by car buyers during the Share the Love event at the end of 2019. Their support, along with other generous donors, allows Little Friends to serve families in eight counties and children in over 50 school districts.

To learn more or donate, visit www.littlefriendsinc.org.