Our Life-Changing Story
Founded in 1950, Ray Graham Association empowers those we serve and those who care for them to reach, grow, and achieve. We believe in your loved one and are dedicated to providing the best care for them and your family. With you by our side, we’re meeting the unique needs, goals, and dreams of the nearly 2,000 people with disabilities we serve and the 350 people we employ.
Our Award-Winning Leadership
Since 1997, the Council of Quality and Leadership has accredited the quality and consistency of our programs. Led by President & CEO Kim Zoeller, our executive team and Board of Directors foster dignity, opportunity, and community for everyone, especially people with disabilities. You can be proud that 88% of every dollar donated to RGA goes directly to those we serve, ensuring high-quality services and support. For more information, see our annual report detailing our support services. As a registered 501(c)3 charitable nonprofit, all gifts are tax-deductible. Our dedicated team continuously strives to provide the best care and support.
Our Purpose-Driven Mission
Thanks to your continued support, Ray Graham Association provides a loving community, stability, and personal care, for people with disabilities. Our goal is to empower people to:
- Reach their potential by providing access to therapeutic programs, recreation, and family support resources.
- Grow their future through neighborhood living, life-skills training, and employment opportunities.
- Achieve their goals by pursuing personalized plans with measurable actions and results.
If you want to learn more about Ray Graham Association services, you can email ProgramServices@RayGraham.org or call 630-620-2222.
Our Person-Centered Ethos
President & CEO Kim Zoeller says, “In a person-centered culture, all people feel welcome, listened to, and supported in their decisions.” People with disabilities are at the center of our structure, policies, and procedures. To promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, people with disabilities serve on the RGA board of directors, RGA counsel, and various other committees. Who better to “have a seat at the table” than those we serve?
A person-centered culture does not only involve people with disabilities, however. We work hard to support everyone who loves and cares for each person in our community, including their families and their support staff. We advocate with Illinois legislators for a fairly compensated direct support workforce while sharing innovative practices with other providers through the Illinois Self Advocacy Alliance. Thank you for being a part of this life-saving and life-giving ethos.
Our Ground-Breaking Namesake
J. Ray Graham (1898-1961) was a lifelong public servant. Before being appointed the state’s first Director of Special Education, he was an educator, administrator, and superintendent for various Illinois school districts. Innovative and pioneering, he advocated for people with disabilities as a civil servant and expert lecturer.
Title VI Non-Discrimination
Ray Graham Association complies with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 which states, “No person in the United States shall, on the ground of race, color, or national origin, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance.” The final Title VI Program can be found here, which includes an explanation of the complaint and appeal process.
