About Cornerstone
We help people with disabilities to live and work in the community.
Specialized Services For Empowerment
Providing the support necessary for individuals with disabilities.
Since 1969, Cornerstone Services has been an advocate for people with disabilities in Joliet and greater Will County area. The agency is a recognized leader in providing the support necessary for individuals with disabilities to live and work in the community. In recent years, Cornerstone has expanded services to Kankakee County, as well.
Cornerstone is guided by the belief that people with disabilities are entitled to live in their own communities and make choices for themselves, like everybody else. To this end, Cornerstone employees provide specialized services that empower individuals with as much independence as possible. Some individuals may need a lot of help, while others may need just a little.
The agency’s dedicated staff helps people find and keep jobs, maintain stable housing, and learn to access public transportation and community resources. Group and individual counseling and therapy for mental health needs are also provided by Cornerstone professionals. The organization is guided by an all-volunteer board of directors and has fostered partnerships with other local service providers.
Our Mission
Cornerstone Services provides progressive, comprehensive services for people with disabilities, promoting choice, dignity and the opportunity to live and work in the community.
Guiding Principles and Values
Providing the opportunity to all individuals of choice, community inclusion, and advocacy from our staff.
To guide the agency toward the fulfillment of this mission, Cornerstone Services values:
Individual Choice, as evidenced by the belief that:
- Individuals are treated with dignity and respect.
- Individuals are offered a variety of choices as well as the supports necessary to make informed decisions.
- Service plans developed with (not for) individuals lead to greater independence.
- Service planning should always be driven by the individual served and his/her supporters.
Community Inclusion, as evidenced by the belief that:
- Services are best when offered in typical community settings.
- Services contribute to the ability of individuals to live and work as typical residents of the community.
An advocacy role for staff and volunteers, as evidenced by a commitment to:
- Learn and practice skills necessary to act as advocates and teach individuals to advocate for themselves.
- A “team approach” for delivery of services.
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Statement: You Matter.
Cornerstone Services is dedicated to creating an environment that celebrates and encourages diversity in all of its forms. We are committed to fostering an inclusive community where all are appreciated and respected.
Our Core Values & Beliefs:
Social Justice
Everyone deserves access, equity, human rights and participation in the community.
Progressive
Advocating for positive change through action with new ideas and thoughts.
Excellence
World class service.
Compassion
Demonstrate care, concern and empathy for all.
Dignity & Respect
Treat everyone as how you want to be treated.
Honesty
Be truthful and transparent.
Unity
High performing teams communicate and work together as one.
Our Leaders
Administrative Officers
President & Chief Executive Officer
Ben Stortz
Vice-President & Chief Operating Officer
Kim Hudgens
Vice-President & Chief Financial Officer
Ken Mihelich
Vice-President & Chief Human Resources Officer
Susan Murphy
Vice-President &
Chief Development Officer
Michelle Allen
Board of Directors
Chairperson
Mike Paone
Alexandra Benigni
Bridget Beene
Judith A. Block
Vice Chairperson
John A. Kella
Chad Boden
Christina Carroll
Joann Grose
Kendall Jackson
Secretary
Mindy Diaz
Alex Ledesma
Cornell Lurry
Annette Parker
Treasurer
Paul H. Leber
Betsy Ruettiger
Janet Shaw-Binns
Dennis Sidley
Erika Williams
Honorary Board Members
Vincent A. Benigni
John R. Rogers
