For more than half a century, Helping Hand has been making a meaningful difference for individuals and families across La Grange and the greater Chicagoland area. With a mission rooted in dignity, opportunity, and inclusion, this nonprofit organization is dedicated to ensuring that children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) are equally valued in their communities.
Founded in 1955 by a small group of parents seeking better educational and social opportunities for their children, Helping Hand has grown into a comprehensive resource serving more than 700 individuals each year. Today, the organization offers a wide range of person-centered programs designed to support individuals at every stage of life. Services include a specialized school, pediatric occupational and speech therapy, high school transition programming, progressive employment services, community living through multiple neighborhood-based CILA homes, and specialized aging programs for adults with disabilities and dementia. With on-site nursing support and high staff-to-client ratios, Helping Hand is able to provide individualized care that meets complex needs while promoting independence and confidence.
What sets Helping Hand apart is the breadth of its services and its holistic approach to supporting not just individuals, but entire families. From early childhood intervention to residential living and employment, the organization works to remove barriers and create pathways for lifelong growth and inclusion.
For Halimah Shukair, Marketing and Outreach Coordinator, the work is deeply personal. Inspired by her younger brother’s experience with a learning disability, Halimah is passionate about raising awareness so that more families know about the resources available to them. Through storytelling, she highlights the achievements, personalities, and everyday moments that make the Helping Hand community so special. “Everything I do truly makes a difference,” she shares. “I love being able to showcase the lives and accomplishments of our students and clients.”
Helping Hand’s roots in the La Grange area run deep. The organization opened its first school locally with just seven students and has continued to grow alongside the community. Today, its main facility is located at 9649 W. 55th Street in Countryside, with residential homes throughout nearby neighborhoods.
As a newer member of the La Grange Business Association, Helping Hand has quickly become an active community partner. You’ll often find their team at the Farmers Market, the Pet Parade, and other local events, where they connect with residents and share information about their programs and services.
Looking ahead, Helping Hand plans to expand its impact by opening additional community living homes, growing its clinic services, and reaching even more individuals and families who can benefit from its support.
Contact & Connect
Website: https://helpinghand-il.org/
Email: halimah.shukair@helpinghand-il.org
Social: https://linktr.ee/helpinghandil
Through compassion, innovation, and community partnership, Helping Hand continues to build a future where every person—regardless of ability—has the opportunity to thrive.