The Community Day Service program offers functional skills and training through repetitive learning activities and related support services to adults with intellectual disabilities. Transportation is provided to and from the center via local mass transit.

Program participants experience a broad range of activities to address their individual goals. Activities include vocational training, work orientation, paid work experiences, skills training, health and mind enrichment, and case management services. CDS Programs are funded by the Department of Human Services, Department of Public Aid, Effingham County 377 Board, and private pay individuals.

Work and Vocational Training

We value and appreciate the following businesses for providing in-house Contract Work which provides an invaluable, paid work experience for our participants:

  • Steven’s Industries
  • John Boos
  • Zerrusen Farms
  • Wortman Printing
  • Lorenz Wholesale
  • BK Resources
  • Fastenal
  • Conagra Brands
  • Kingery Printing
  • SRMD Solutions
  • Peerless of America

Yoga, Music, Technology and Art

CSS believes wholeheartedly that every life needs balance. We offer a holistic approach to our Community Day Service Program. Besides the work skills, participants are also offered the opportunity for Yoga classes. These classes promote relaxation, are very calming, and allow a different approach to promoting both physical and mental wellness.

Likewise, the therapeutic benefits of music are well known and complement the array of services offered through our programs. Instructors bring guitars, sharable music instruments, and fun plans to engage both verbal and non-verbal participants.

New to our class offerings is a Technology Class!  The Southeastern Community Foundation awarded CSS a grant to use to purchase Chromebooks for the individuals served, and we’ve hired a former teacher who offers weekly classes ranging from beginner to the more seasoned computer users.  The Chromebooks can be used to teach basic and more advanced computer skills, current events, geography, photo editing, and more!  The technology class is one that helps build confidence as well as skills.

Our most popular program at CDS is the Art Program. The unique and innovative program provides individuals with a creative means of self-expression and increases their self-esteem. Participants showcase their paintings at the Effingham Artisan Fair, and many of the pieces are for sale at the CSS Art Auction. A selection of the artists’ paintings are used in creating greeting cards! Purchase them online at https://www.mbsvet.com/artabilities-greeting-cards/. A portion of each purchase goes toward funding the art program.

Alternative Program

An Alternative Program is offered in a home-like setting to individuals who are aging and no longer wish to participate in traditional program training and work activities. An emphasis is placed on social interaction, community integration, and awareness through social trips, utilizing community resources and doing special projects.

Transportation Policies and Procedures

View our Transportation Policies and Procedures

Pete Niccum

Director of Employment Services

  217-705-4300 Ext. 7044

Barb Kessler

DT Coordinator

  217-705-4300 Ext. 2969