Illinois Association of Rehabilitation Facilities

07/23/2025

Congratulations Glenkirk!!

07/22/2025

Congratulations to Aspire!!

07/16/2025

Today we welcomed the 2025 IARFuture Leadership Initiative Class to Springfield for our first module on Leadership and Culture, led by Goldie Floberg President & CEO John Pingo. We put our best foot forward for this first module!

We love seeing so many professionals looking to further lead where they are in member organizations!

07/15/2025

Our very own Jonathan Fitch and Alyssa Hart met with State Representative Sharon Chung to discuss Bridgeway's incredible work in the region! What a fantastic opportunity to connect and collaborate for a stronger community! 🎉

07/09/2025

The 2025 IARF Educational Conference & Expo: Four Generations of Leadership Full Conference Schedule is Now Available Online!

Check out our amazing keynote sessions and breakout educational offerings and register today! Slots are filling fast!

https://www.iarf.org/2025-conference-schedule.html

07/08/2025

Congratulations to both Rita Potter and Gene Stephens

A Fond Farewell and a Promising Future at Open Door Rehabilitation Center

After 35 years of dedicated service to Open Door Rehabilitation Center, Executive Director Rita Potter is retiring, closing a remarkable chapter in the organization’s history. The torch will be passed to Gene Stephens, the current Associate Director, who will step into the leadership role with nearly three decades of experience and a deep commitment to Open Door’s mission.

Rita’s impact on the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities and their families is immeasurable. For the past eight years, she has served with vision and compassion as Executive Director, leading the agency through growth, change, and innovation. Prior to that, she served as Program Director, where her leadership helped shape the person-centered approach Open Door is known for today.

Though Rita will be dearly missed in her day-to-day role, her retirement is filled with purpose. She plans to dedicate her time more fully to her lifelong passion—writing fiction. A celebrated author of 14 published books, Rita now turns the page to a new chapter of creativity and storytelling.

Fortunately, this leadership transition has been thoughtfully planned. To ensure a smooth transition, Rita will continue to serve as a contracted advisor for a time, providing guidance and support during this period of change. Gene Stephens is no stranger to Open Door or its values. With nearly 30 years of service, he has worn many hats, including QIDP, Program Coordinator, and most recently, Associate Director. Gene’s commitment, knowledge, and steady leadership make him the ideal choice to carry the organization forward.


We extend our deepest gratitude to Rita Potter for her decades of devotion, and we celebrate her lasting legacy. We also welcome Gene Stephens into his new role with full confidence and great anticipation for what lies ahead. The future of Open Door Rehabilitation Center remains bright, built on a foundation of compassion, excellence, and community.

"Opening Doors & Developing Opportunities” for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. www.odrc.org 💙🐙

07/07/2025

We are excited to invite you to a live conversation focused on Medicaid with Congresswoman Delia Ramirez this Wednesday, July 9, from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM.

This event will provide a platform for Congresswoman Ramirez to discuss the latest developments in Washington, D.C., specifically related to Medicaid and its impact on our communities.

As advocates for equitable healthcare, we believe it’s crucial to stay informed and engaged. Following Congresswoman Ramirez’s insights, our Family to Family Director, Susan Agarwal, along with the staff from The Arc of Illinois, will join the conversation to explore ongoing advocacy efforts surrounding Medicaid.

Don’t miss this opportunity to learn more and share your thoughts! Space is limited to ensure a meaningful dialogue, so please register as soon as possible. We look forward to seeing you there! 🧡

Register here ➡️ https://bit.ly/3Ts5kxu

07/07/2025

It is with great pleasure that we introduce you to the brand new CEO of CTF Illinois and Community Services Foundation, Tony Barrett!

07/07/2025

ICI's Amy Hewitt and Susan O'Nell have edited a new strategy guidebook on stabilizing the direct support workforce. Published by AAIDD. https://z.umn.edu/ajpd

07/04/2025

07/02/2025

Earlier this week the U.S. Senate passed major changes to the "One Big Beautiful Bill Act" that outlined further cuts to the Medicaid program. The version of this bill the U.S. House of Representatives is now considering contains over $1 trillion in cuts to the Medicaid program. Based on data we've seen, if enacted, this bill could lead to 11.8 million Americans losing access to healthcare and as many as 550,000 in Illinois alone.

Urge our members of Congress to REJECT the Senate budget bill

IARF Center for Governmental Policies