We are proud of our committed and talented staff that work tirelessly to ensure that adults with disabilities are reaching their full potential. Because of their efforts, we have doubled the number of individuals who are trained and then assisted in securing jobs in the community at 31 different employment sites. Our Educational Services staff currently assist 10 individuals who volunteer weekly in the community. These individuals are building friendships, providing a needed service and demonstrating how people with disabilities can make a difference in the world around them.
One of the challenges our staff and the people we serve face is the limited number of reliable vehicles EP!C has available. Access to transportation provides people the opportunities and freedom to live their lives outside the walls of their everyday work or home. This year we are focusing one of our annual appeal letters on raising funds to secure 3 used low mileage vehicles. Unfortunately, too often individuals want or need to go on an outing and all EP!C vehicles are in use or out of service. By securing additional, reliable vehicles we will be able to increase the number of opportunities offered.
This Giving Tuesday, please consider helping to invest in our independence by giving the gift
of transportation. Find out more information at epicci.org/transportation.
Please join us in supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
March 21st, 2019
Featuring Chef Shaun O’Neale, Masterchef Season 7 Winner
Visit EP!C Bon Appétit for more information.
Deciding where his life should go has never been an issue for Brett Dorrington. Joining EP!C in November 2015, Brett has worked his way from the classroom to data entry in the Technology Lab, where he performs tasks such as entering staff training hours and creating new business cards. Thanks to EP!C, he expanded his capabilities and is no longer in need of the assistance and accommodations he once needed on the computer. With his newly increased skills, Brett works part-time for EP!C at our front desk greeting guests and answering phone calls.
Brett is very passionate about being an advocate for the developmentally and intellectually disabled. He goes to the Illinois State Capitol in Springfield and speaks on behalf of the curriculum and standards that are set for state agencies.
EP!C’s certification courses in Technology, Horticulture, Culinary and Employment for Autism allow individuals to explore opportunities in a career field of their interest. While enrolled in classes, students build their portfolio and resume while learning relevant skills. As a testament to their new credentials, students receive a certificate upon completion of the course.
“EP!C has given me a sense of pride and independence.” – Brett Dorrington
July’s Volunteer of the Month was Esther House through Peoria Rescue Ministries! We love having these wonderful women come out to help in our Harvest Garden program.
Our August Volunteer of the Month was Ellen Cantrell! Ellen has been a valuable asset to our Technology Lab, where she assists individuals working at computers with adaptive technology.
September’s Volunteer of the Month goes to all of our HOI United Way Day of Caring volunteer groups! On a very rainy September 7th, we had a total of 63 volunteers work 170 hours on various projects from painting to cleaning to even playing Bingo!
Interested in learning more about individual and group volunteer opportunities at EP!C? Contact our Development Coordinator Carmen McCarthy at 309-689-3606 or cmccarthy@epicci.org.
Our Employee of the Month for September was Kaneica Lowe.
Her nominator said, “She is always willing to go above and beyond for the people we serve. Like taking residents to public settings like the Park or the mall.”
October’s Employee of the Month was Carmen McCarthy.
“Carmen has to be the perfect fit for her position. She has an
excellent personality and it makes everyone want to get involved.”
The Giving Tree provides an opportunity for both EP!C staff and community members to purchase gifts for program participants who would not normally receive a gift during the holidays.
Consider “adopting” an individual or EP!C house for the holidays!
Gifts can be dropped off to EP!C at 1913 W. Townline Road in Peoria until December 17, 2018. For more info contact Carmen McCarthy at
309-689-3606 or cmccarthy@epicci.org.
Pre-Orders must be received by December 7th. Available for pick up at EP!C starting December 17th.
For more ordering information, please contact Katie Murphy at 309-689-3724 or kmurphy@epicci.org.
6.5″ Poinsettias: $12. Assorted Styles. Available Starting Nov. 26th.
7.5″ Poinsettias: $15. Assorted Styles. Pre-Order Only
8.5″ Poinsettias: $25. Assorted Styles. Pre-Order Only
Availability is limited. First come, first serve. For more ordering information, please contact Katie Murphy at 309-689-3724 or kmurphy@epicci.org.
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