Newsletters
November/ December 2026
CEO Message
Across the agency, our teams have been busy, starting our FY27 year off strong while navigating the challenges that the nonprofit, Human Services sector brings. While we work hard, we also want to ensure we are taking time to celebrate the wins of the organization whether that is for someone supported, a coworker, a specific department, or the organization as a whole.
This edition of the newsletter is full of EP!C stories worth celebrating. We hope you can join us as we celebrate another – the opening of a new Peoria location.
This past summer we announced we’d be opening a second Behavioral Health Clinic along with expanding of our Career Development Services in the Peoria area. After months of work with building owner, Jim Sniff and vendor partners, staff have moved in and the new space is ready to open.
We’d like to invite you to join us for a Grand Opening & Ribbon Cutting on Wednesday, December 9th from 4:00-7:00 pm. The EP!C team will be there to give tours of the new space and talk about the programming happening at this second location. We are trilled to expand supports and give better visibility and access to our community.
*Email invitation to follow.
– Kim Cornwell, EP!C CEO
Upcoming Events
Event Note: Be sure to follow us on social media or check our website to stay up-to-date on new and changing events.
EP!C Thanks
After being rained out – twice, we were finally able to host our 2026 golf outing on October 26th at Arrowhead Country Club and what a beautiful day it was! Thanks to our generous sponsors, players enjoyed the day that also included a swag bag chock full of goodies.
The funds raised go towards supporting the EP!C Wellness Center, the onsite gym along with health and nutrition coaching that promotes healthier lifestyles for people supported and our staff who take care of them.
Please visit our social media for photos of the day and a full list of sponsors and save the date for next year’s outing on May 24th, 2027
EP!C Celebration
Undergoing radiation treatment can be a scary and overwhelming experience for anyone. For an individual with an intellectual and developmental disability (IDD), the unfamiliar environment, medical procedures, changes in routine, and uncertainty of treatment can bring additional challenges. Having a strong support system during this time is critical.
Gary received a cancer diagnosis and his team jumped in to support him and help him navigate this news. Recently, he was able to ring the bell in celebration of completing his radiation treatment. This accomplishment represents strength, courage, and perseverance throughout his journey. We are so proud of his determination and resilience and grateful to celebrate this special moment with him and his medical team.
EP!C Achievement
September is National DSP Week, where we take extra time to thank our front-line Direct Support Professional staff. This designated week is a national movement focused on recognizing and honoring the dedicated, innovative supports they provide every day!
We also nominated an EP!C DSP for a statewide award from our partners at Tarrytown Expocare Pharmacy and we are thrilled to announce that Jacob Ring Wilson was selected as one of their DSPs of the Year for Illinois. Jacob is a Team Lead for two group homes and was selected out of over 100 nominations from across the state. Jacob works with great care and approaches each day with excellence in mind. He’s a problem solver who has the drive and courage to collaborate across teams to drive the best outcomes for the people he supports.
EP!C Partnership
The Indo-American Society of Peoria (IASP) and PJ Dance Academy (PJDA) hosted their 4th annual UTSAV Diwali Gala. Over seven hundred guests enjoyed a Bollyverse performance that took them through the eras of Bollywood dancing.
This colorful display celebrated the Diwali holiday and united the community across cultures. We were thrilled to once again be the beneficiaries of this event that helps support our growing Career Center and associated programs.
EP!C Employees
September Employee of the Month
Owen Fifer was named our Employee of the Month for September.
His coworkers recognize him for his ability to anticipate needs,
communicate clearly, and handle difficult situations while keeping
safety, dignity, and respect at the forefront. Just as importantly,
Owen brings a positive attitude to his team and continues to show
up with a smile, even on the hard days. Owen brings patience,
compassion, and a steady presence to the people he supports every
day. Whether he is helping someone through a challenging moment,
encouraging participation in activities, or providing individualized
support, Owen approaches his work with calmness, understanding,
and genuine care.
October Employee of the Month
Bill Hascall was named the Employee of the Month for October.
As a Job Coach, Bill is often a face of EP!C in the community where he directly empowers individuals on the job to develop their work skills. He is insightful, patient, and has a positive influence on his workers. Bill has high expectations for the people he supports but is also eager to learn himself and will try anything without complaint; he’s a great role model for other coaches.
