Hear Us On WGN Radio

Executive Director Maricel Aban, Program Directors Denise Badowski and Rebecca Larsen from Austin Special Chicago, along with astrologer Anne Nordhaus-Bike, guardian of Austin Special client Peter Nordhaus, were on the Frank Fontana Show on WGN Radio AM 720 on Sunday, August 23.

Listen to the interview now

Testimonials

"Because of Austin she has progressed into being a more self-reliant individual. She may never be able to live on her own, but she is capable of doing many things for herself, which is because of the skills she has been taught by attending Austin."

~ F.L., parent of a client

"They provide quality services and have had a tremendous impact on his life. If our mother were alive today, she would not believe the strides he has made."

~ M.H., sibling of a client

"My brother...has been a lifelong client of Austin Special. They have done a magnificent job of teaching him basic life skills and job training. Most importantly, they have created an environment of family for [him]."

~ J.K., sibling of a client

“I have been a client of Austin Special for a long time. I want to work! I want to see my friends!”

~ J.L., client

“I have been working at AS for 31 years. The services I get here make my life better.”

~ M.M., client

"This center has been a blessing for the young and old who work to help support their loved ones. ... It is impossible to look after our handicapped family members and work as well which is why WSMRCA is a blessing that we cannot lose. It relieves us of the worry about the safety of our kin."

~ B.L., sibling of a client

"Austin Special is a safe haven to those who are developmentally disabled, where individuals can lead productive and independent lives. I have seen the joy on my aunt's face when she comes home from Austin every day."

~ L.P., relative of a client

“I am the friend of one of the workshop clients... She is a 57 year-old adult who is blind and with developmental disability, and has worked at Austin Special for the past 25 years. This is the greatest joy in her life besides her family, music and coffee!”

~ K.P., friend of a client

“I have been coming to Austin Special for 19 years now, and I have made quite a few good friends here.”

~ M.B., client