Northwestern Illinois Center for Independent Living (NICIL) is a 501(c)3 charitable organization. The majority of financial resources come from one (1) or more contracts received from the Illinois Department of Human Services through the Division of Rehabilitation Services (DHS/DRS), and we enjoy this opportunity. But, additional help is needed! Here are four (4) ways you can help us serve more people within the NICIL territory and programs:
Gifts
Gift-giving is one of the ways you can help NICIL for today and in the future!
Northwestern Illinois Center for Independent Living (NICIL) is a 501 (c) 3 charitable organization. The majority of our financial resources to our Center come through a subcontract by the Illinois Department of Human Services under the Division of Rehabilitation Services (DHS/DRS). However, we are not a state agency and operate independently. As you can imagine over the last few years our resources have declined.
Today we continue to deliver services to the best customers we could ask for. We’d like to offer more services but, we need your help. We look for help in a variety of ways:
Gift of Cash
A gift of cash is quick and easy to do and is tax-deductible to the fullest amount allowed by law. The contribution that is postmarked by December 31st is deductible for that tax year
In-Kind Gifts
In-kind contributions can qualify for a charitable tax deduction; however, limitations exist on what and how much can be deducted. Please contact your tax advisor for clarification
Matching Gifts
If you work for a company that matches your generous giving we would appreciate that effort
Gifts in Memory or Honor
Memory Gifts can be for a relative or friend upon their death. To make a memorial gift, please send your contribution along with acknowledgment information so we can notify the family of your gift. Donations to NICIL instead of flowers may also be recommended at the memorial services
Contact NICIL today to donate, at 815-625-7860!
NICIL Wish List
There are items that our team would like to have that support our work with our consumers. Some of the items are simply out of our budget. If you would like to help, we would be grateful for your assistance:
Complete place settings of formal dinner ware:
- China or Glassware
- Silverware
This is for our “Elbows Off the Table” class that teaches dinner etiquette and what are the right silverware, cups, and dishes in a formal setting. We use this class for our youth programs, etiquette class, and even in our job placement program.
Kitchen equipment and items
We do teach individuals and classes how to cook basic meals. We have a few pieces of kitchen equipment and items, but we could use more. Here is our current list of needs:
- Pots and pans
- Everyday silverware
- Serving utensils
- Cookbooks
- Baking pans and trays
- Stand mixer
- Blender
- Cutting boards
Stamps and note cards
This is for our relationship and communication classes as well as skill rebuilding for those new to a disability.
Office Supplies
We make kits to give to our job placement participants for their new positions as well as use them in teaching office skills
Travel size items
We make hygiene kits for participants in our daily living skills classes and other programs. These are unopened travel items that can go into our kits. We can use every item, but currently, we are in need of:
- Shaving cream
- Razors
- Toothbrushes
- Toothpaste
- Mouthwash
- Shower caps
Electronic communication tools
We use communication tools frequently. Items like tablets or notepads allow us to work with our consumers by using these tools to open up communication lines. We appreciate all our donors for their care and support!
Volunteering at NICIL
We could not get through our day without the help of our volunteers. They are the first person you see when you visit our Sterling office or the person who answers your call when you call our office! We call them our Directors of First Impressions! We truly count on their valuable support to NICIL every day.
If you would like to be a part of our volunteer crew, please call us at 815-625-7860. Since you will be greeted by a volunteer, we encourage you to talk with them about their experiences. We think you will quickly agree that not only are they amazing people but they are a valuable part of what makes NICIL successful.
Join us; you will be glad you did!
Sponsorships
NICIL hosts and/or participates in many events throughout the year within our many communities. These include:
- SVCC Child’s Fair
- Community Wellness Fairs
- Resources Expo
We also have our annual focus group, monthly peer groups, and we offer many independent living skills training regularly.
We can’t forget that there is regular programming and our Independent Living skills classes and workshops
All of these activities are a large part of the delivery of our programs and services. Your help through sponsorship will be used for:
- Classroom materials
- Instructor’s fees
- Refreshments for our classes and workshops
- Booth fees or participation fees for events
- Door Prize/Event giveaways
These sponsorships can be financial contributions or the actual items for events. Either way, we would be grateful for your assistance as these items are usually out of our budget.
Thank you for your consideration!