CFI Celebrates 88 Years of Building Healthy, Hopeful and Inclusive Communities
For 88 years, dedicated employees, volunteers, community partners and supporters have worked together to make a difference in the lives of thousands of individuals and families. Their passion, innovation and commitment have shaped CFI into the organization it is today.
To celebrate this milestone, we brought team members together through pop-up dance parties and created a special anniversary video honoring all that we’ve accomplished. The celebration recognizes not only 88 years of impact, growth and community, but also the people whose dedication has helped make that impact possible.
While we’re celebrating where we are today, this milestone is also an opportunity to reflect on the journey that brought us here.
A Rich History
On July 27, 1938, Jewish Vocational Service, now known as Centers for Independence (CFI), was founded to help European immigrants fleeing persecution find employment, access rehabilitation services and receive vocational guidance. From the very beginning, we championed inclusion, empowerment and opportunity. Over the decades, we’ve evolved alongside our community, creating pathways to success and helping people overcome challenges to achieve their goals.
Our earliest work centered on job placement and vocational guidance, but our commitment to inclusion quickly expanded our impact. At a time when many employers were reluctant to hire people with disabilities, we launched a subsidized on-the-job training program. This innovative approach built trust with local businesses, opened doors for job seekers and laid the foundation for decades of progressive employment services.
Leading the Way to Meet Critical Needs
By the 1950s, we expanded services to support youth with disabilities, demonstrating that people with disabilities can thrive in the workplace and community. Those efforts helped influence state law, increasing access to public education for children with disabilities. Through advocacy and action, we continued breaking down barriers and responding to critical community needs.
As the years passed, we introduced pioneering programs, and that commitment continues today through Pediatric Specialty Care, Next Step Clinic, children’s behavioral health programs, and services that support medical, developmental and emotional well-being.
We also remain deeply connected to our roots. Through employment services, we help individuals discover their strengths, build skills and pursue meaningful careers. Our focus remains the same as it was in 1938: Empowering people to thrive at work and in their communities.
A Leading Provider of Advocacy and Support
Today, we are a leader in disability support and advocacy, behavioral health services, children’s health programs, and services that foster life skills, creativity and social connection. CFI is one of Milwaukee County’s largest behavioral health providers, supporting over 3,000 adults annually through outpatient care, case management and crisis resource programs.
As we look toward the future, our commitment remains unchanged. We will continue evolving to meet the needs of those we serve – building healthy, hopeful and inclusive communities for generations to come.