Newsletters
July/August 2026
CEO Message
July 1 marks the beginning of our FY2027. Recently, I announced my plans to retire at the end of this year in June 2027.
I have spent over 37 years working alongside the most dedicated colleagues and advocating for the most wonderful people, many of whom I’ve now known for the majority of their lives, and mine.
This next year our board will focus on securing new leadership, and I will ensure there is a smooth handoff and transition period. The executive leadership team has been working with our board of directors to develop our next strategic plan, as FY2027 ends our current 3-year initiatives.
EP!C staff continues to find the best ways to support people while working to change the narrative of how people with cognitive differences are seen, respected, and engaged with our communities.
I’m excited for the continued growth of our programs, offering the most comprehensive supports south of I-80. I’ve been proud to serve EP!C staff, individuals, families, and our community locally and at the regional and national levels.
More details on my departure and the transition of leadership will be shared over the course of the next year. With your support, I know we’ll make this the most EP!C year yet!
– 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 Living
We embrace the philosophy that people with disabilities have the right to live in neighborhoods and experience the same community activities we all enjoy. To help people achieve that, we offer a number of residential options in order to help find the best fit.
Even if you or your loved one isn’t quite ready to move just yet, having a conversation and preparing for the future is important. With placement approvals, waitlists, and extensive funding plans, our team of experts can help you navigate options.
Learn more about available community living programs by contacting admissions@epicci.org or visiting https://epicci.org/programs/community-living/
EP!C Opportunities
July 15th is Developmental Disability Professionals Day recognizing the incredible people who dedicate their time, talents, and hearts to supporting people with IDD.
We’re hiring more QIDP positions! Qualified Intellectual Disabilities Professionals manage, assess, and coordinate care and personal development plans for people supported. These key positions know individuals best and help them navigate their entire EP!C journey.
If you or someone you know is interested, EP!C provides paid training to receive this credential from IDHS.
EP!C Achievement
Every four years EP!C has voluntarily taken part in an accreditation process through The Council on Quality and Leadership (CQL).
In May, we brought surveyors back to review how we provide person-centered outcomes; from the policies we keep, to how people are treated and supported, they conduct a deep dive into our organization.
Thank you to the staff, individuals, family and community members who were a part of this process. We are proud to share that, for our 4th accreditation cycle, we have once again received the level of “Person-Centered Excellence”.
EP!C Welcome
We are thrilled to announce a new addition to the EP!C team. Elizabeth Nelson has joined us as our new Chief Program Officer. This position will help oversee our Residential, Employment, and Day programs as they focus on their strength and continued growth.
Elizabeth has more than 25 years of experience in the intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) field. She earned an MSW in Social Work Leadership and has led multi-site, multi-state IDD operations. Elizabeth is a committed advocate for individual rights and values, building strong, collaborative teams.
New to the Peoria area, coming to us most recently from Indiana, Elizabeth enjoys rescue dogs and strong coffee. She looks forward to supporting EP!C’s work and building connections across the organization.
May Employee of the Month
Kayshaun Springer was selected as the May Employee of the Month.
Kay is a staple here at EP!C with 25 years of dedicated service. She is knowledgeable and a team player ensuring people get the most out of their day which results in them going home happy and sharing the positive supports EP!C has. She is patient with people and her positive behavior towards staff and those she supports makes everyone feel loved.
June Employee of the Month
Shari Gerber was named our Employee of the Month for June. Shari works with individuals to ensure they are able to fully utilize and be in compliance with their benefits so she is one of the most popular people when walking the halls. She has patience as she works with people who are their own guardian to ensure they understand paperwork they are signing. She is a master of navigating complex governmental aid plans and is eager to find answers for individuals and families which helps speed up processes. She is often needing to pull supportive documents when reviewing social security and immediately follows up to provide the best support possible.
