Group Formed By Northbrook Moms Helps Provide Work for Adults with Special Needs

A group of Northbrook moms got together a few years back with a common goal: to make life easier for their adult children and others in the community with special needs.

“We all came together under the common goal of creating a full life for our children in the community where they grew up,” said Janice Weinstein, one of the six founding members of TotalLink2 Community (TL2C)- a group with an official mission to “empower people with these disabilities to have a great life in their own community through employment, lifelong learning, recreation and meaningful social connections.”

Also on Northbrook Patch: ‘Team Will’ - Inspired By Northbrook 7-Year-Old - Raises $30,000 For NKI

“We wanted them to have the same opportunities to work, live and play as other children,” Weinstein added. “So we first focused on programs and services after they graduate from school. We saw a huge need there for these young adults.”

Beginning three years ago, TL2C has put the focus on employment, and have reached a level of success even these magnificent moms couldn’t see coming.

The “Everyone Works” program develops sustainable partnerships with key stakeholders so that employment is the first and preferred option for people living with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Also on Northbrook Patch: Cardboard Regatta to Set Sail in Northbrook

To date, TL2C has placed 30 young adults in competitively paid positions within inclusive work settings, with notable companies such as ABT Electronics, Mariano’s, Kids First Pediatric Partners, Jennings Chevrolet and the Renaissance Chicago North Shore Hotel.

The success of Matthew Drake serves as a prime example of the remarkable amount of good the organization has done.

Drake, now a 28-year-old with a developmental disability, launched his own start-up business, Yikes! - a Chicago-area vending and beverage delivery business.

“Matthew worked closely with his family to create a business to allow him to utilize his strengths and also to support him the way he needs to be supported in order to live a full life,” Weinstein said. “He capitalized on his love of Coca-Cola products and being out in the community. He showed the excitement and motivation needed to be part of this collaborative process with his family.”

Also on Northbrook Patch: Northbrook Native Biking $30,000 For Cancer Research

With so much accomplished in its first seven years, TL2C looks to make an even bigger impact moving forward from here.

“I didn’t realize the focus on employment would bring us to where we are now, but I’m sure happy about it,” said Weinstein, who noted the group may soon shift its focus to providing more housing opportunities.

While all the moms who began TL2C are from Northbrook, the organization serves people in several surrounding communities, including Wilmette, Deerfield, Evanston and Lake Forest.