It’s an honor to write to you as the Village of Progress’ newest board president. In the four years since joining the board, I’ve learned and experienced so much.

The Village’s Values statement says, in part, “We believe that interaction with the community, even one person at a time, has value in changing perceptions about those with developmental disabilities.”

This whole-heartedly reflects the level of importance the Village places on intentional integration — both for people with disabilities and for the community as a whole.

Over the past several years, I’ve seen the Village put a strong focus on creating opportunities for both work and play outside the walls of our building.

Our work programs have increasingly had the good fortune of being invited into community businesses so our individuals can be part of the regular work force. Our social programs are also designed to bring the community into a closer relationship with the men and women of the Village.

As we head into 2025, the Village is excited to take that integration to the next level.

This spring, we’re launching a joint venture with Kreider Services called Hill Street Neighborhood in Mount Morris. This will be comprised of 12 duplexes housing 24-30
residents. What makes this project special is that it’s designed so that half of the residents will be individuals with disabilities and the other half families simply looking for affordable housing.

We are looking forward to completing the project in the summer of 2026. Creating a neighborhood where people with disabilities can experience a high level of interdependence and integration, Hill Street Neighborhood may be among the first of its kind in the US, certainly in Illinois.

This is just one more example of the Village’s belief that an integrated community is a stronger, healthier, and more compassionate community. And doesn’t that benefit us all?

Thank you,

April Glosser
President, Village of Progress Board of Directors