Avenues to Independence

Partnership Board

What is the Avenues to Independence Partnership Board?

The Avenues to Independence Partnership Board is a group of business and civic leaders that wish to promote opportunities for people with developmental disabilities to live and work independently in the community.  The Partnership Board has two divisions, one that meets in the suburbs and one that meets downtown Chicago.  Together the groups are 50 members strong. 

Why a Partnership Board?

Nearly 20 years ago, a group of professionals and civic leaders came together to promote the general well-being of Avenues, and to support issues of concern for people with developmental disabilities.  Today, the Partnership Board meets: 

·        To cultivate and advance the interests and welfare of Avenues to Independence. 

·        To provide a place for members to be informed about the general activities of Avenues. 

·        To promote an understanding of developmental disability issues among the general public. 

·        To bring together influential and representative people interested in developmental disability issues. 

·        To provide support for Avenues endeavors; inquire into its needs; give encouragement and counsel.

How do Partnership Board members make a difference?

Members of the Partnership Board lend their expertise and their support to Avenues in a variety of ways including: 

Public relations and marketing
Finance
Law
Estate planning/planned giving
Human Resources
Technology
Fundraising/friendraising
Business development
Employment opportunities
Legislative issues
Real estate
Health-care
Public Speaking
Retail/Thrift Shoppe

 The Partnership Board meets approximately eight times a year to receive updates, problem solve and network.  Between meetings, board members often serve on sub-committees or work on projects where their special areas of expertise are needed.  Committee meetings often take place by teleconference. 

We ask board members to consider a contribution in support of our programs and choose to participate in several special events in addition to the Spotlight on Wine event.  Those events might be the Avenues/Gorman Golf and Tennis Classic; the Love Affair, our dinner/dance gala; and the Annual Dinner, our awards and recognition evening. 

If I have questions?

If you have any questions about our Chicago Partnership Board, please feel free to contact Vice President of Development Michele Shoolin at (847) 292-0870 ext. 116.