Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you have a question about DSC? If so, you have come to the right place. This section attempts to answer the questions most commonly asked by our constituents. Just start by following one of the links below.

If you are unable to find the answer to your question, please feel free to contact us.

  • What does your organization do?

    DSC provides services and supports for children and adults with developmental disabilities.

    As a tax-exempt, not-for-profit corporation, DSC serves individuals who may have epilepsy, cerebral palsy, autism, cognitive disabilities, Down syndrome, or other disabling conditions. Individuals seeking services may experience functional or environmental challenges that require extra support to live more fulfilling lives. These challenges may include adequate daily living skills, adequate work skills, recognized social behaviors, or the ability to access community transportation.

    Direct and indirect services to be provided include prevention, intervention/treatment, habilitation/rehabilitation, and support/maintenance are administered through the following program areas.

    FAMILY DEVELOPMENT CENTER
    Objective: To improve the quality of life for infants and toddlers with special needs through early identification, early intervention, and family support.

    CASE MANAGEMENT/FAMILY SUPPORT
    Objective: To ensure that individuals’ needs are identified, assessed, planned for, and monitored.

    RESIDENTIAL
    Objective: To provide services in a residential or community setting that enable individuals to live as independently as possible.

    DEVELOPMENTAL TRAINING
    Objective: To assist individuals in achieving greater levels of independence and self sufficiency through individualized instruction and support in community settings, vocational training sites, and center-based activities.

    EMPLOYMENT
    Objective: To provide evaluation, training, employment, and support services that maximizes independent living skills and self-support capabilities.

    CLINICAL
    Objective: To enhance the quality and effectiveness of DSC’s treatment programs.

  • How can I get involved?

    DSC is a community agency and we want you to be involved! Below are several ways you can help us, help others!! If you have additional ideas, please contact us as we are eager to share the individual differences that are being made at DSC each and every day!

    To get involved at DSC, consider one of the following ways:

    * Volunteer--We have many volunteer opportunities at DSC. All volunteer positions require some training, depending on your level of involvement. All programs at DSC have volunteer opportunities, so there are many ways you can help out. Currently, some volunteers are assisting us in the Family Resource Center, helping with fundraisers and providing social opportunities for individuals receiving services through our Apartment Services Program.

    * Serve on the Board of Directors -- All board positions are volunteer and require passion and belief in our mission. The support board members provide in providing direction of our agency is critical.

    *Donate--DSC eagerly accepts donations of all kinds. You can check out our Wish List which lists some of the most important items in which we currently have need, and as always, financial donations are greatly appreciated.

    *Bequests--To those friends who wish to help assure the longevity of DSC by mentioning DSC in your will, the following general form is suggested: “I give, devise,
    bequest to Developmental Services Center, an Illinois not-for-profit organization located at 1304 W Bradley Ave., Champaign, IL, the sum of $____ (or specifically described property).” For more information, please contact your financial advisor.

  • If I were to donate funds, how is my money used?

    We have a responsibility to our community and our donors and work hard to ensure long-term sustainability of the organization. When you make a donation to DSC, YOU decide where your donation goes.

    Many of the donations received at DSC are unrestricted, in that, DSC decides where the money will be allocated based on the agency's greatest need. Other donors may have a special program or project in which they would like to directly contribute, and when specified, the donations go directly to the program or project of their choice.

    The best way to decide where you would like to direct your donation is to come and visit DSC! We offer tours specific to your interests and can help you learn more about DSC and where you would like to make the most difference. To schedule a tour, simply call Janice McAteer, Director of Development, at 217.356.9176 or via email jmcateer@dsc-illinois.org to arrange your tour...it promises to be time well-spent!

    Below is some additional information regarding different ways you can donate!

    *Donate--DSC eagerly accepts donations of all kinds. You can check out our Wish List which lists some of the most important items in which we currently have need, and as always, financial donations are greatly appreciated.

    *Bequests--To those friends who wish to help assure the longevity of DSC by mentioning DSC in your will, the following general form is suggested: “I give, devise, bequest to Developmental Services Center, an Illinois not-for-profit organization located at 1304 W Bradley Ave., Champaign, IL, the sum of $____ (or specifically described property).” For more information, please contact your financial advisor.

  • What is your organization's privacy policy?

    Our organization takes our privacy policy seriously and takes steps to protect and ensure the safety of our supporters. We do not sell or otherwise disclose information about our volunteers or supporters outside of our immediate organization. This policy has no exceptions. We do not sell or exchange your information with any other organizations, public, private or nonprofit. If you have any questions, or would like your address removed from our mailing list, please contact Janice McAteer, Director of Development at 217.356.9176 or via email at jmcateer@dsc-illinois.org. Thank you for your support!

  • Do I have to pay for services?

    Services will not be denied if an individual or family is unable to pay.

  • Is there a waiting list?

    All of DSC programs have waiting lists. To be placed on the waiting list, please call 217-356-9176.