Our October Informational Tour featured two creative employment models, both started by FAMILIES!
The Best Futures Café (www.bestfuturesinc.org) in Highland Park began operating in 2012 and employs more than 20 teens and adults with special needs. It is operated by Best Futures, Inc., a non-profit corporation formed by a small but passionate group of mothers who wanted to find ways for their children to live, work and contribute to their community.
The Perk Center Café (www.perkcentercafe.org) is a non-profit food service concept whose focus is to train and employ individuals with developmental disabilities. It was conceived by Jacob Metrick, the sibling of a young woman with autism. He believed that a food service business in a recreational setting would create both employment opportunities and disability awareness within the community. The café opened in 2008 and operates in collaboration with the Glenview Park District.
Special thanks to Betty Korey, Lisa Eissman, Gail Metrick and Ellen Bronfeld for coordinating our visits and lunch. Thanks also to the great group of parents, young adults and educators who joined us on the tours. We hope you enjoyed them as much as we did!