Perspectives & Press

Riverwoods, IL – Center for Enriched Living (CEL), a privately funded nonprofit organization that provides programs and services for people with developmental disabilities, has proudly announced the appointment of Herb Washington as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Assuming his new role effective November 13, 2023, Washington will help the organization build on its solid foundation and […]

“The courage needed to raise a child like Katelynn is relentless.”-Kristin Malek, CEL Board Member and Katelynn’s Mom The birth of a child is meant to be a time of celebration. Instead, what is supposed to be a moment of joy is met with silence followed by a nurse’s whisper, “You have a baby girl […]

A rainy downpour couldn’t stop the outpouring of support for CEL Members at the 28th Annual Golf Tournament! Illinois ranks 49th in support for people with disabilities, so independently-supported resources like CEL are lifelines for our members. Thunderstorms threatened to wash out this year’s golf tournament fundraiser that provides vital programs and services to people […]

Grabbing a beer with friends has been an activity people have enjoyed for centuries. CEL members recently visited our friends at Revolution Brewing, which has been a proud Chefs’ Night tasting partner since 2017. With goggles on and beer in hand, we had the opportunity to learn about the beer-making process, guided by our awesome […]

Fire trucks, ambulances, and police vehicles filled the Center for Enriched Living parking lot for three days straight, but not in response to an alarm. Instead, the sounds of conversation and laughter poured out of the building as local first responders participated in training exercises to recognize and safely interact with people with developmental disabilities. […]

The Center for Enriched Living (CEL) is proud to receive a Quality Assurances Accreditation with the Council on Quality and Leadership (CQL). CEL was recognized for our commitment to excellence in systems and practices that lead to an elevated quality of life for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. CQL is a leader in the […]

A Young Woman’s Journey to Employment and Beyond I started working at The Center for Enriched Living over two years ago.  Prior to finding CEL, I had so many discouraging experiences. Due to lack of experience, the door kept closing in my face, and that certainly did not make life any easier for someone who […]