Welcome
Garden Center Services’ mission is to improve the lives of adults with developmental disabilities through superior residential and vocational services that last a lifetime. Garden Center was founded on the belief that anything is possible for persons with disabilities if you have a family-oriented environment with caring, committed staff.
Living.
Garden Center’s Residential Programs include options in small group homes known as Community Integrated Living Arrangements (CILAs), 16-bedroom homes known as Intermediate Care Facilities (ICF/DD) for those with developmental disabilities who require increased nursing and living supports. Garden Center staff members provide professional in-home support. These caring individuals feel more like an extended family members than the Direct Service Providers (DSPs) they are! Residence locations include homes in Berwyn, Burbank, Chicago Ridge, Cicero, and La Grange Park, and Westmont. Garden Center also manages Chicago’s L’Arche community located in the Austin neighborhood.
Working.
Garden Center offers both center-based and community-based work options for adults through all stages of their professional work life: from new-hire through retirement. Developmental training accompanies both options, enhancing vocational opportunities through on-going training in life and work skills. Companies like Chicago Metallic, Bagcraft Papercon and Burger King have greatly benefited from our Contract Services providing a reliable labor force of persons with disabilities who are capable, motivated, and truly appreciate work opportunities. Garden Center also customizes services to meet your unique needs.
Shopping.
Second Chance Thrift Shoppe located at 44 Stephen Street in Lemont, Illinois, is owned by Garden Center to raise money to fund the equipment, materials, and supplies that participants need to live rich, fulfilling lives. While completely staffed by a corps of dedicated volunteers, more volunteers are always welcome! The store is open Monday through Saturday from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm and until 7:00 pm on Thursdays. We also have an online store to sell items produced by persons with disabilities who work in our vocational centers.