Consumer Stipend Program

The Arc of Illinois Consumer Stipend Program will help empower individuals with developmental disabilities and their family members from diverse backgrounds throughout the state with opportunities, experiences, resources, and information they need to actively participate in the decisions that are being made which affect their lives.  The Consumer Stipend is available to individuals with developmental disabilities, their family members, guardians, or personal support workers who could not otherwise afford the costs associated with attending a conference, workshop, or seminar. The conference or training must be informational and/or educational and not for the use of entertainment purposes. The goal of this program is to provide participants with opportunities, experiences, resources, and information at conferences and empower them to actively participate in decisions being made that affect their lives. Participants will be able to make a change in their life, connect with others and gain knowledge that will help them become better advocates.