The Douglas Center
Offers a range of community day services, including work skills training, life skills training, vocational training, and developmental rehabilitation for individuals with intellectual, developmental, and physical disabilities.
Our Mission: The Douglas Center is dedicated to assisting adults with intellectual, developmental, and physical disabilities in enhancing their independent living skills and enriching their quality of life.
This mission comes alive through a wide range of programs and services, including vocational and work skills training, life skills development, developmental rehabilitation, and behavioral health support. In addition, participants are given opportunities to explore art, recreation, and wellness programming—fostering self-expression, building confidence, and encouraging connection.
The Douglas Center’s impact is reflected in the lives of the countless adults who have achieved greater independence, dignity, and purpose through its services. Our staff, with more than 312 years of combined professional experience, represents the cultural richness of the community, speaking nine languages and reflecting more than ten countries and cultures. This ensures a supportive, inclusive environment for all participants. For over 25 years, The Douglas Center has stood as a home away from home, empowering individuals with disabilities to realize their fullest potential and engage more fully in their communities.
The Douglas Center is a non-profit organization providing community day services (CDS) for adults with intellectual, developmental, and physical disabilities. Founded in 1999 by Rifath Khan, CEO and President, the center has become a beacon of empowerment, growth, and support for individuals who are often among the most vulnerable in our community. Under Ms. Khan’s leadership, the center has expanded four times to meet the growing demand for services and today operates in a 40,000 square foot facility in Skokie, Illinois. Each day, The Douglas Center serves more than 100 participants from Chicago, Skokie, and the surrounding suburban areas.
Services
Community Day Services (CDS): A comprehensive program designed to foster independence, confidence, and meaningful engagement for adults with intellectual, developmental, and physical disabilities. Services include structured activities, therapeutic supports, and skill-building opportunities that enrich daily life.
Vocational Skills Training: Participants gain hands-on experience in areas such as light manufacturing, packaging, and assembly. Training focuses on building workplace readiness, enhancing communication and teamwork, and preparing individuals for community-based employment opportunities.
Employment Training Units (ETU): A structured 12-week course providing targeted skill development in office, retail, and hospitality settings. Participants graduate with certificates of completion, gaining both confidence and recognized credentials that can be added to resumes for future employment opportunities.
Independent Living Skills Development: Programs are tailored to strengthen essential everyday abilities, including money management, communication, personal care, and decision-making. These services support participants in becoming more self-sufficient and active in their communities.
Ink & Stitch Creations: Our newest initiative combines skill development with meaningful enterprise. Participants receive training in screen printing, heat press, and embroidery while producing high-quality, custom apparel and promotional products for local businesses. This program builds confidence, vocational skills, and provides participants with the pride of contributing to real-world projects.
The Douglas Center is more than a program—it is a place where adults with intellectual, developmental, and physical disabilities are empowered to live with dignity, purpose, and independence. For over 25 years, we have served as a home away from home, offering not just training and independent living skills building, but also compassion, connection, and belonging.
Our work extends far beyond our walls. Through initiatives like Art From the Heart Creations, Flowers From the Heart, and Ink & Stitch Creations, participants share their creativity, skills, and contributions with the community. Whether producing custom products for local businesses, delivering floral arrangements to seniors, or volunteering at food pantries, our participants experience the pride of giving back and being valued.
The Douglas Center is built on diversity, with a staff that reflects the rich cultural mosaic of our community. This inclusivity ensures that every participant feels welcomed and understood. Above all, what people need to know is that The Douglas Center changes lives—not only for the participants we serve but for the families, businesses, and communities touched by their success.