Covenant Ability Network of Illinois
Promoting independence, security and a fulfilling lifestyle for those with intellectual disabilities.
Those of us who enjoy independent living may take it for granted, but those with developmental disabilities do not. Parents and the K-12 education system care for the young members of this population, but their options for independent living through adulthood become severely restricted.
Our Mission: “Covenant Ability Network of Illinois provides high quality living opportunities for adults with developmental disabilities, while protecting and nurturing its residents in a Christian environment.”
The concept for Covenant Ability Network of Illinois developed from this stark reality. June and Cliff Bjorklund began to wonder what would happen to their developmentally disabled son as he grew into adulthood. June initially worked with a friend, and then partnering with Covenant Women’s Ministries and in 1994, Bjorklund House became the first of four residential facilities under Covenant Ability Network of Illinois. All four homes are located about 30 miles southwest of Chicago’s loop within a mile of each other.
All of our homes are located in quiet residential neighborhoods and blend in with the other homes in the community.
If you would like more information about Covenant Ability Network of Illinois’ program services, current openings or admission process, please contact us at (708) 687-2038.
Bjorklund House
Established in 1994, Bjorklund House was the first Covenant Ability Network to open and is home to 16 developmentally disabled adults. Licensed as an Intermediate Care Facility it serves higher acuity individuals and a 24-hour staff encourages residents to achieve their maximum level of independence in a supportive group setting. From doing their laundry and helping with meals, to grocery shopping, residents experience the satisfaction of gaining the skills that help them to become contributing members to their household.
Bjorklund House – Main Office
15841 Terrace Drive
Oak Forest, IL 60452
Phone: (708) 687-2038
Fax: (708) 687-2762
Reynolds Home
Four years after Bjorklund House opened in 1994, Reynolds Home opened two blocks away. There, eight developmentally disabled male adults live together in a small community. With fewer developmental challenges than residents at the other homes, they experience a higher level of independence.
In an atmosphere that reflects the love of God and Bible-based Christian values, residents live in self-contained apartments. Each has its own bathroom and kitchen. Residents test their independence while having a live-in staff member and up to two additional staffers available during day time hours. Each day, we build on the independence residents have already achieved, enabling them to step closer to maximizing their God-given potential.
Elizabeth Court Home
In April 2014, CAN of Illinois was happy to celebrate our 20th anniversary with the opening of Elizabeth Court. This Community Integrated Living Arrangement (CILA) provides a community-based residential services for six of our female clients.
24 hour staff provide oversight and care to Elizabeth Court residents to assist them in learning to manage the household and to integrate into the community as much as they are able.
Long Avenue Home
In August, 2015, CAN of Illinois opened the doors of its newest CILA program, Long Avenue. This all-male 4-bed home in Oak Forest houses those with greater behavioral needs in a smaller setting, allowing us to provide the highest level of care. 24 hour staff provide the oversight and care to help clients build on the independence they have already achieved, enabling them to step closer to maximizing their God-given potential.