Park Ridge-based Nonprofit Supports Adults with Developmental and Intellectual Disabilities

Park Ridge, IL – June 11, 2025 – Avenues to Independence, a nonprofit supporting adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, is hosting its first-ever Walking for Avenues fundraising walk. The family-friendly event will take place on June 14, 2025, at Maine South HIgh School in Park Ridge, and seeks to raise money to support critical programming for its clients.

“Walking for Avenues” will feature a 2-mile route with a shorter option available, plus fun, family-friendly activities designed to bring together Avenues clients, their families, staff, neighbors, and local supporters.

“At Avenues, we believe in making sure no one gets left behind, and that’s exactly what Walking for Avenues represents,” said Stephen Kray, CEO of Avenues to Independence. “We created this event to celebrate our clients, bring our community together, and raise the funds needed to help adults with disabilities live full, independent lives. I hope this becomes a tradition for years to come."

Walking for Avenues initially set a fundraising goal of $50,000, a milestone already surpassed thanks to an enthusiastic response from community members, client families and friends, and interested supporters. Funds raised will directly support housing, employment, and life-skills programs for adults with disabilities across the region.

Additional Walking for Avenues logistics details:

• Location: Maine South High School, 111 S. Dee Road, Park Ridge, IL
• Registration: 9:00 a.m. – 10:15 a.m.
• Walk Kickoff: 10:30 a.m.
• After Party with games, music, and refreshments: 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

About Avenues to Independence

Avenues to Independence is a nonprofit organization that empowers adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities to live the lives they choose with dignity and independence. Founded in 1953, Avenues serves more than 200 adults annually through personalized residential, vocational, and community-based programs. With locations in Park Ridge, Des Plaines, Wheeling, and Chicago, Avenues supports individuals with autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, and other developmental disabilities, and is committed to long-term care, community integration, and disability advocacy, to help clients achieve greater independence and quality of life. To learn more, visit www.avenuestoindependence.org.

 

Tags: walking for avenues , fundraiser , community , health , celebration , event

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