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Two Pillars. One Story.

We are committed to two—often interconnecting—pillars of work: Early Learning and Disability. Through these pillars, we transform the lives of early learners and individuals of all abilities through access to expert educational, family, and community support.

We are an affiliate of America’s largest nonprofit health care organization. We have proudly served the communities and families of Chicagoland and Greater Rockford since 1936.

Key milestones

Easterseals and our affiliate have a rich history. See the journey from our roots to today.

1907

Tragedy leads to inspiration.

Businessman Edgar Allen lost his son in a streetcar accident. A lack of adequate medical services prompted Allen to fundraise to build a hospital.

1919

Making a difference for children with disabilities.

Through the hospital, Allen learned that children with disabilities were often overlooked. Inspired to make a difference, he founded the National Society for Crippled Children, the first organization of its kind.

1934

The Easter "seal" is born.

The organization launched its first Easter "seals" campaign to raise money for its services. To show their support, donors placed the seals on envelopes and letters.

1936

Our affiliate is established.

More than 80 years ago, our affiliate was established to serve metropolitan Chicago. Over the years, the reach of our affiliate was expanded to include the suburban areas around Chicago.

1945

The organization expands.

The national organization continued to expand its vision across the country and in communities nationwide, growing its services to adults and returning WWII veterans.

1967

The Easter "seal" becomes Easterseals.

The Easter "seal" became so well recognized, the organization formally adopted the name "Easterseals."

1990

The ADA is passed

After many years of advocacy and lobbying, Easterseals was thrilled to see the passage of the American Disabilities Act (ADA), a civil rights law that prohibits discrimination based on disability.

2019

100 years of service

Easterseals celebrated 100 years serving individuals with disabilities, families, veterans, and children.

Today

Easterseals Serving Chicagoland and Greater Rockford is stronger than ever

Our affiliate is dedicated every day to two pillars of work: Early Learning and Disability. Together, we maximize potential for children of all abilities from birth to age 5 with high-quality early learning, and expand possibilities for individuals with disabilities through support, education, and employment opportunities. Our affiliate is now one of the two largest providers of Head Start/Early Head Start in Chicagoland and widely respected for our expertise and service.

Leadership

Our senior leadership team, Board of Directors, and program leaders are individuals with extensive experience and deep expertise. They lead with empathy and a commitment to expanding possibilities for all.

Sara Ray Stoelinga, PhD

President and CEO

Sara Ray Stoelinga was named President and CEO in 2019 with 22 years of experience across education research, policy, and practice.
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Amy Blythe

Assistant Vice President of Early Learning Services

Amy Blythe is the Assistant Vice President of Early Learning Services.
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Dayna Dion

Vice President of Communications and Operations

Dayna Dion is the Vice President of Communications and Operations at Easterseals Serving Chicagoland and Greater Rockford.
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Donna Iwanski

Chief Financial Officer

Donna Iwanski is the Chief Financial Officer at Easterseals Serving Chicagoland and Greater Rockford.
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Juan Jimenez

Controller

Juan Jimenez currently serves as the Controller for Easterseals Serving Chicagoland and Greater Rockford, overseeing the accounting, financial reporting, and internal control structure of the organization. 
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Elliot Ransom

Vice President of Education and Innovation

Elliot Ransom supports the growth and success of Easterseals Academy, the Illinois Autism Partnership, and HB Threads.
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Rhonda Robinson

Vice President of Early Learning Services

Rhonda Denise Robinson currently serves as the Vice President of Early Learning Services for Easterseals serving Chicagoland and Greater Rockford. She has more than 12 years experience as a human resources professional. 
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Sarah Rose

Director of Non-Public Schools, Education, and Clinical Services

Sarah Rose is the Director of Non-Public Schools, Education, and Clinical Services of Easterseals Academy Chicago, Tinley Park, and Machesney Park Campuses.
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Chatia Shelby

Senior Director of Human Resources and Talent Development

Chatia Shelby is the Senior Director of Human Resources and Talent Development at Easterseals Serving Chicagoland and Greater Rockford
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