The Coleman Foundation will Match Donations on #GivingTuesdayNow

Tinley Park, IL: In an effort to support the south suburban community and non-profit organizations, Giving Tuesday is hosting a global day of giving that will take place on May 5, 2020. Giving Tuesday traditionally advocates for a day of global donations and support on the first Tuesday after Thanksgiving. This new donation campaign, named Giving Tuesday Now, is in response to the unprecedented need caused by the global health crisis. St. Coletta’s of Illinois is proud to be a part of this initiative by accepting donations to relieve the increased expenses related to COVID-19.

In addition to the global day of giving and community support, the Coleman Foundation is matching all donations up to $25,000 made now through June 1, 2020. All donations count and the donor does not have to make any special requests or notes when donating. Donations can be mailed to the St. Coletta’s of Illinois Foundation at 18350 Crossing Drive, Tinley Park, IL 60487, or by visiting our website at www.stcolettail.org.

“We are so thankful for The Coleman Foundation’s commitment to helping the community, especially the developmental disabilities community, during this challenging time. The outpouring of support has made it feel like we really are in this together”, stated Carrie Seida, St. Coletta’s of Illinois Foundation’s Director of Development.

The increased need for personal protective equipment, sanitation supplies and additional salary costs for direct service professionals has created financial challenges for social services agencies, including St. Coletta’s of Illinois. Giving Tuesday Now has the goal of lessening the budget gaps for non-profits, which are considered essential services and have stayed open during this crisis.

St. Coletta’s of Illinois prioritizes the health and safety of our staff and participants and has been adhering to social distancing guidelines and CDC recommendations. The Residential Program, which provides housing for 140 participants, continues to follow social distancing guidelines by staying at home and limiting the amount of staff that enter and leave the group homes. Staff are taking additional precautions to limit their exposure by wearing masks to work, disinfecting high-traffic surfaces, and constantly washing their hands. The Adult Day Program will remain closed until the Illinois Department of Health and Services approves reopening and the Kennedy School will continue to implement e-learning programs for the eighty students currently enrolled.

St. Coletta’s mission is to serve children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities so they can achieve their greatest potential within society. Founded in 1949 by the Sisters of St. Francis of Assisi, St. Coletta’s provides a life-long continuum of care beginning in early childhood. Our residential, educational, and vocational training programs provide services for individuals that enhance their independence and well-being. For more information, or to schedule a tour, please call (708) 342-5200 or visit www.stcolettail.org.