Draft:Centers for Independence (CFI)


Centers for Independence (CFI) is a disability support nonprofit organization located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

It was founded in 1938 as Jewish Vocational Service. In 1990, its name was changed to Milwaukee Center for Independence. In 2021, its name was changed to Centers for Independence. CFI oversees four affiliates - Milwaukee Center for Independence, MCFI Home Care, First Person Care Consultants and iLIFE Financial Services. CFI programs include behavioral and mental health trauma treatment, medical day care for children (ages birth to 21), employment training and placement, adult day care, food and nutrition, and brain injury recovery treatment. Leif Elsmo is the current CEO and President of Centers for Independence. The previous presidents for Centers for Independence were: Michael L. Galazan (1938–1980), Norman Gerber (1980–1989), Howard L. Garber (1990–2017) and Teri Zywicki (2018–2023).[1]

Each year, CFI and its affiliates serve more than 20,000 people with special needs.[2]

In 2021, CFI was named honorable mention in the equity category of the Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce Focus on the Future Awards.[3]

In 2022, CFI was a finalist for the 2022 BizTimes Nonprofit Excellence Awards in the Large Nonprofit Organization of the Year category.[4]

In 2023, CFI received a $4 million federal grant from Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration to go toward behavioral health treatment.[5] Also, CFI celebrated its 85th anniversary.[6]

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References

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  1. ^ "What is CFI? - CFIhope.org".
  2. ^ "Urban farm helps those with developmental disabilities grow and cultivate skills". spectrumnews1.com. Retrieved 2024-09-14.
  3. ^ Thomas, Arthur (2021-07-15). "Finalists named for MMAC Focus on the Future awards". BizTimes - Milwaukee Business News. Retrieved 2024-09-17.
  4. ^ Smart, Ashley (2022-11-04). "Winners named for the 2022 BizTimes Nonprofit Excellence Awards". BizTimes - Milwaukee Business News. Retrieved 2024-09-17.
  5. ^ Spoto, Cara (2023-11-10). "Centers for Independence behavioral health program awarded $4 million federal grant". BizTimes - Milwaukee Business News. Retrieved 2024-09-17.
  6. ^ Independence, Milwaukee Centers for. "Story from Centers For Independence: Inspiring generations of hope". Journal Sentinel. Retrieved 2024-09-17.