The Friendship House is where adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities will enjoy comfortable homes, meaningful friendships, and the freedom to live life on their own terms. We are building something special in Chicago, and we cannot wait to open our doors.
What We Are Building
The Friendship House is pursuing CILA licensure in Illinois. Once licensed, our residents will enjoy safe, comfortable homes and the support they need to live independently, build friendships, and be active in their community.
Each of our homes will be adapted and personalized to meet each resident's lifestyle, as well as their physical and emotional needs. Each home will be shared among 2 to 8 peers who enjoy living together and share responsibility for activities within their home.
Every resident will have a plan built around who they are, what they enjoy, and where they want to go in life. Plans are created together with the resident, their family, and our team so that everything we do reflects what actually matters to each person.
Our trained staff will teach and guide each person to live as independently as possible, learning new skills in self-care, cooking, cleaning, money management, communication, and how to enjoy being an active member of their community.
Residents and their families will have peace of mind knowing that health needs are handled with care. From medication management to doctor visits to behavioral support, our staff will be there every step of the way.
Residents will enjoy community life, visiting local establishments, participating in events, pursuing employment or volunteer work, and building real connections with their neighbors and peers.
Families are not visitors here. They are partners. We will keep families informed, involved, and always welcome. Regular updates, open communication, and shared celebrations will be part of how we do things.
Our Framework
A proprietary service delivery framework guiding every aspect of care at The Friendship House
A safe, dignified, and personalized living environment where our residents feel they belong.
Building independence through skill development, self-direction, and daily choice.
Protecting rights, amplifying voices, and ensuring informed choice in every interaction.
Strengthening bonds between our residents, staff, families, and community.
Pursuing meaningful goals, wellness, and a full life defined by each individual.
Get in Touch
Whether you're a case manager, family member, healthcare provider, or community partner, we'd love to connect as we prepare to launch our CILA program.
Chicago, IL
Adults aged 18 and older with a documented diagnosis of an intellectual disability, developmental disability, or both, including autism spectrum disorder, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, and other neurodevelopmental conditions recognized under Illinois law. We will serve individuals whose medical conditions are stable and manageable in a home-based environment, and who would benefit from consistent daily structure, guided skill development, and community participation.
Learn More
Helpful links for individuals, families, and professionals navigating the developmental disabilities service system in Illinois.
All services and supports for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities are funded and regulated by IDHS. Start here to understand your options.
Visit IDHS →Advocacy organization promoting the rights and full participation of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities throughout Illinois.
Visit The Arc →Free autism training opportunities throughout Illinois for individuals, caregivers, and professionals.
Visit TAP →For individuals with disabilities enrolled in high school who want to learn about programs and services available after graduation.
Visit ICTW →The full text of 59 Ill. Adm. Code 115, which governs licensing and operation of Community-Integrated Living Arrangements in Illinois.
Read Rule 115 →Training, resources, and credentialing for direct support professionals working with individuals with disabilities.
Visit NADSP →A Place You'll Love to Work
We are building The Friendship House to be a place where staff feel valued, supported, and proud of the work they do every day. Our goal is simple: become one of the best places to work in the disability services field. That starts with how we treat our own people.
Every day you will make a real difference in someone's life.
Ongoing training, professional development, and real career paths.
Supportive leadership, open communication, and mutual respect.
Help build something from the ground up. Your voice will shape this organization.
Future | Full-Time / Part-Time | Weekends Required
Provide direct care and support to individuals in their homes. Assist with daily living activities, community outings, skill building, and documentation. Weekend availability required. Must pass background checks per 225 ILCS 46.
Express InterestFuture | Full-Time
Oversee Implementation Strategies, coordinate Provider Support Teams, monitor individual progress, and ensure quality service delivery per Rule 115. Bachelor's degree in human services required.
Express InterestFuture | Contract / PRN
Provide medication administration training for DSPs per 59 Ill. Adm. Code 116, conduct annual staff re-evaluations, health assessments, and coordinate with physicians. Contracted role as needed per individual plans. Illinois RN license required.
Express InterestFuture | Full-Time
Support day-to-day operations including scheduling, documentation, compliance tracking, communication with ISC agencies, and intake coordination.
Express Interest