Ligas Family Advocate Program

"The Arc committed to sharing resources across Illinois!"

Wow, Central and Southern Illinois Arc of Illinois Family Advocate, Jerin Olson, traveled to Centralia on Friday to participate in the Transition Services and Job Fair hosted by the Kaskaskia Regional Transition Planning Committee.

We are incredibly grateful for opportunities like these that bring students, families, schools, and community agencies together in one place. Events such as this create meaningful spaces for students to build connections, explore future possibilities, and develop essential skills that support a successful transition into adulthood—well beyond the classroom.

The Arc remains deeply appreciative of every opportunity to connect with families across Southern Illinois and to stand alongside the many dedicated organizations committed to empowering transition-aged youth as they pursue and build their futures. So proud of you Jerin...

"We Are The Arc baby!"
Let me tell you something—Annie Bruno is a force. She doesn’t just show up; she stands firmly in her purpose and leads with unwavering commitment to her calling.

In her role as Central & Southern Family Advocate with The Arc of Illinois, Annie Bruno proudly co-chairs her local Transition Planning Committee (TPC), where her leadership continues to create meaningful impact. This year’s bi-annual half-day retreat for high school juniors and seniors with disabilities was nothing short of extraordinary.

More than 100 students from 10 area high schools—including Gibson City-Melvin-Sibley, Paxton, Fisher, Champaign, Heritage, St. Joe, Rantoul, Urbana, and Unity—came together for a day designed to inspire, educate, and empower. Students from two alternative schools, The Pavilion Foundation School and Ge**er Education Program, were also welcomed, making the gathering even more inclusive and impactful.

The day was powerfully launched by keynote speaker Taylor Sweeting, whose presentation, “Adapting Your Disability into Your Identity,” moved and motivated everyone in the room. Students also benefited from engaging and informative sessions led by the University of Illinois, the local Mass Transit District, and several dedicated disability service providers.

And the highlight? A vibrant showcase of exhibitors from near and far, all eager to connect with students and share the incredible resources and opportunities available to them.

This event was truly a smashing success—an inspiring reminder of what’s possible when passion, purpose, and community come together. Deep appreciation to the TPC members, volunteers, presenters, vendors, teachers, and especially the students who made this day unforgettable.

"Annie is about the business of sharing Information - Go Annie!"

Hello Everyone,
When I say that The Arc of Illinois Family Advocate Team is committed to sharing information across the state, I truly mean it. Just last evening, while our bilingual family advocate was attending a resource fair in northern Illinois, our Central/Southern Family Advocate, Annie Bruno, was delivering a presentation in another part of the state—spreading knowledge far and wide.

Annie recently presented to educators and staff from EIASE (Eastern Illinois Area Special Education), the largest special education cooperative in Illinois. Attendees represented several regional school districts, including Mattoon, Effingham, Cowden-Herrick, Hume, Central A&M (Assumption & Moweaqua), Sullivan, Shelbyville, and Paris. We also welcomed a professor from Eastern Illinois University who prepares future educators.

During the presentation, attendees learned about the PUNS waitlist, The Arc of Illinois, and the valuable resources available to support the families they serve.

Fun Fact: The Arc of Illinois has engaged with all 102 counties in Illinois. When we say we are statewide—we truly mean it!