Dear Avenues friends,

Let me begin this letter by sending heartfelt concern for everyone’s health and safety in the coming months. These are challenging and unprecedented times that call on all of us to be vigilant, but also to keep in touch. So I wanted to write and update you about how the staff at Avenues is managing the challenges, and assure you that we are doing everything in our power to reduce the impact of this health crisis on our clients.

The health and welfare of everyone associated with Avenues is our utmost concern. For the prevention and mitigation of the Coronavirus (Covid-19), we are following all of the recommendations issued by the Center for Disease Control, as well as the Illinois Departments of Public Health and Human Services.

While no evidence of Covid-19 has been disclosed or diagnosed among any participants, families, volunteers, staff and others associated with Avenues to Independence, it is out of an abundance of caution that additional safeguards are being imposed. As circumstances continue to change, we will provide updates to keep everyone informed.

Due to the increasing concern regarding Covid-19, Avenues has restricted all outside and internal activities of our residents, staff, board and volunteers. No visitors will be permitted at any Avenues residential location. The Avenues Center for Independence in Wheeling and our Thrift Shoppe in Chicago will be closed until further notice. To assure that we will be able keep our residents safe, we will be sending staff members from the Center for Independence to our homes to ensure that all of our residents’ needs are being met.

People have asked how they can help.

As you all know, Avenues recently held our annual gala, the Love Affair, where a record amount of money was raised for Avenues residents and their homes. Little did we know how empowering that show of support would be as we face this pandemic. While your support and contributions are always needed, please know that the success of that special evening gives all of us hope and encouragement as we face the financial realities in front of us in the coming months.

Please continue to check our website, Facebook and Instagram for updates on how we will continue to act to keep our clients safe. If you have questions about specific programming, feel free to reach us at avenues@avenuestoindependence.org.

You should know that in these uncertain times, the people of Avenues to Independence remain fully committed to ensure the well-being of all the individuals with disabilities under our care. Your concern and support are also greatly appreciated.

Sincerely,

Bob Okazaki
President/CEO

 

Tags: covid-19 , coronavirus , chicago , cdc , idph , donations

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