Generated by All in One SEO v4.9.5.1, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. # Centers for Independence - CFI Strengthening Communities by Fostering Hope ## Sitemaps - [XML Sitemap](https://cfihope.org/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website. ## Posts - [Bay View in Bloom: A Night of Celebration and Community](https://cfihope.org/news/bay-view-in-bloom-a-night-of-celebration-and-community/) - Bay View in Bloom: A Night of Celebration and CommunityCFI’s Bay View Campus Open House was a joyful celebration of renewal, creativity and community spirit. The event offered guests a firsthand look at the thoughtfully designed space dedicated to helping neurodiverse and medically complex adults build independence at home, at work and in the community.Guests - [Featured Jobs of the Month | June](https://cfihope.org/news/featured-jobs-of-the-month-june/) - Featured Jobs of the Month | JuneWe have several exciting positions available, whether you know someone who’d be a great fit for CFI or you’re looking for your next career move. Check out all our job openings here.Talent Acquisition Business PartnerDo you have a passion for connecting talented people with meaningful work? We’re looking for - [Meeting Community Where It Matters: CFI at Milwaukee’s Juneteenth Celebration](https://cfihope.org/news/meeting-community-where-it-matters-cfi-at-milwaukees-juneteenth-celebration/) - Meeting Community Where It Matters: CFI at Milwaukee’s Juneteenth CelebrationMilwaukee’s Annual Juneteenth Celebration comes alive each year on June 19, as the community gathers to honor the federal holiday marking the end of slavery in the United States. Milwaukee is home to one of the nation’s largest and longest-running Juneteenth celebrations — a vibrant, intergenerational - [Find Free Summer Meals in Southeastern Wisconsin](https://cfihope.org/news/find-free-summer-meals-in-southeastern-wisconsin/) - Find Free Summer Meals in Southeastern WisconsinWhen school is out, kids can still count on healthy meals. The Summer Meals Program provides free, nutritious meals for children across southeastern Wisconsin. In partnership with Hunger Task Force, CFI is serving meals at 150 community sites – including parks, schools and neighborhood centers. Meals are available to - [4 Tips for Supporting Your Child in Therapy](https://cfihope.org/news/4-tips-for-supporting-your-child-in-therapy/) - 4 Tips for Supporting Your Child in Therapy As more families seek behavioral health support for their children, knowing how to support your child through therapy can feel overwhelming. Parents may have questions about what to say, how to help or whether they’re doing the “right” thing. The good news is parents don’t have to - [Rooted in Possibility: Explore CFI’s Bay View Campus](https://cfihope.org/news/rooted-in-possibility-explore-cfis-bay-view-campus/) - Rooted in Possibility: Explore CFI’s Bay View CampusAfter a five-year hiatus due to the pandemic, CFI’s LIFE Services program has returned to Bay View—in a space designed specifically for the neurodiverse and medically complex adults we serve. We’d love to see you at our Bay View Campus Open House – a celebration of our return - [Carrie Belsky Appointed to Milwaukee County Commission for Persons with Disabilities](https://cfihope.org/news/carrie-belsky-appointed-to-milwaukee-county-commission-for-persons-with-disabilities/) - Carrie Belsky Appointed to Milwaukee County Commission for Persons with Disabilities Milwaukee County has appointed Carrie Belsky, CFI’s AVP of Employment, Home & Community Based Services, to the Commission for Persons with Disabilities. With more than 30 years of experience, including over 20 years at CFI, Belsky is deeply committed to advancing employment and community - [Join CFI at The Pfister for a May the Fourth Blutender Happy Hour](https://cfihope.org/news/join-cfi-at-the-pfister-for-a-may-the-fourth-blutender-happy-hour/) - Join CFI at The Pfister for a May the Fourth Blutender Happy Hour Celebrate Star Wars Day with CFI at a special happy hour at The Pfister Hotel’s swanky cocktail lounge, Blu. Join us for our Blutender event, where CFI will receive 10% of bar sales and 100% of tips to help fund programs that - [The Force Was Strong at CFI’s Blutender](https://cfihope.org/news/the-force-was-strong-at-cfis-blutender/) - The Force Was Strong at CFI’s BlutenderCFI’s Star Wars Day Blutender fundraiser was a big success, bringing our community together for an evening of galactic-themed fun, connection and supporting a great cause. Thanks to the generosity of The Pfister Hotel, attendees and community members, 10% of bar sales and 100% of tips from the night - [April is Autism Acceptance Month](https://cfihope.org/news/april-is-autism-acceptance-month/) - April is Autism Acceptance MonthApril is Autism Acceptance Month, a time to promote understanding, inclusion and support for people on the autism spectrum. Autism is one of the most prevalent developmental disabilities today, with one in 31 8-year-old children in the United States diagnosed with autism. Autism affects social interaction, social communication, behavior patterns and - [What to Expect at Your Child’s Autism Evaluation](https://cfihope.org/news/what-to-expect-at-your-childs-autism-evaluation/) - What to Expect at Your Child’s Autism EvaluationLearning that your child is being referred for an autism evaluation can stir up a mix of emotions. Many parents and caregivers feel anxious, unsure of what will happen or what the results might mean for their family. An autism evaluation is designed to be supportive, informative and - [CFI Hosts Senator Dora Drake for Dialogue on Expanding Access and Advancing Equity Across Wisconsin](https://cfihope.org/news/cfi-hosts-senator-dora-drake-for-dialogue-on-expanding-access-and-advancing-equity-across-wisconsin/) - Clockwise from top/left: AVP Strategic Operations Carson Maule, VP DEI & Community Affairs Al Hill, VP Legal, Public Policy & Government Affairs Steven DeVougas, Director, Project CCBHC Brigitta Harmon, President & CEO Heidi Chada, Senator Dora Drake, AVP Behavioral Health Services Rachel Leahy Hilker. CFI Hosts Senator Dora Drake for Dialogue on Expanding Access and - [CFI Joins Disability Advocacy Day at the Capitol](https://cfihope.org/news/cfi-joins-disability-advocacy-day-at-the-capitol/) - Clockwise from top/left: AVP Strategic Operations Carson Maule, VP DEI & Community Affairs Al Hill, VP Legal, Public Policy & Government Affairs Steven DeVougas, Director, Project CCBHC Brigitta Harmon, President & CEO Heidi Chada, Senator Dora Drake, AVP Behavioral Health Services Rachel Leahy Hilker. - [Featured Jobs of the Week | March](https://cfihope.org/news/featured-jobs-of-the-week-march/) - Featured Jobs of the Week | MarchWe have several exciting positions available, whether you know someone who’d be a great fit for CFI or you’re looking for your next career move. Check out all our job openings here.Pediatric Nurse ManagerAre you a natural leader? Do you want to help children with complex medical needs? We’re - [CFI’s Pediatric Specialty Care Kids Win Big Thanks to Heart of Canal Street](https://cfihope.org/news/cfis-pediatric-specialty-care-kids-win-big-thanks-to-heart-of-canal-street/) - CFI’s Pediatric Specialty Care Kids Win Big Thanks to Heart of Canal Street On Dec. 10, Potawatomi Hotel and Casino’s 2025 Heart of Canal Street promotion officially wrapped, awarding 30 nonprofits, including Centers for Independence (CFI), a portion of the proceeds. This year’s Heart of Canal Street campaign raised $722,380, with each nonprofit receiving $24,079 - [LIFE Services Clients Share Advocacy and Art with Mayor Johnson](https://cfihope.org/news/life-services-clients-share-advocacy-and-art-with-mayor-johnson/) - LIFE Services Clients Share Advocacy and Art with Mayor JohnsonEvery week, LIFE Services clients go to Bloom at Concordia 27 for art therapy—a space where creativity, healing and community come together. On March 18, they were joined by a special visitor: Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson.The mayor visited Scaling Wellness in Milwaukee (SWIM), a community partner - [We Energies Foundation Grant Supports Bay View Campus Reopening](https://cfihope.org/news/we-energies-foundation-grant-supports-bay-view-campus-reopening/) - We Energies Foundation Grant Supports Bay View Campus ReopeningCFI’s Bay View Campus (BVC) reopened Feb. 16 following significant renovation efforts made possible in part through strong community support, including a $10,000 contribution from the We Energies Foundation.Located in the heart of the Bay View neighborhood, we reopened the doors with renewed energy and purpose. With - [November is National Home Care & Hospice Month](https://cfihope.org/cfi-news-announcements/november-is-national-home-care-hospice-month/) - National Home Care and Hospice Month in November recognizes the dedicated professionals who make a daily difference in the lives of the people they serve. - [CFI leadership team participates in skills development seminar](https://cfihope.org/cfi-news-announcements/cfi-leadership-team-participates-in-skills-development-seminar/) - The conference aims to enhance knowledge, skills, and abilities, equipping staff members with the tools to advance CFI's D&I strategic objectives. - [CFI's Very Own Hunger Hero](https://cfihope.org/cfi-news-announcements/cfis-very-own-hunger-hero/) - Heidi Chada, CFI Vice President of Employment & Commercial Services, was recognized in the Hunger Task Force's prestigious ‘50 Faces of Ending Hunger’ series. - [CFI’s LIFE Services Returns to Bay View](https://cfihope.org/news/cfis-life-services-returns-to-bay-view/) - CFI’s LIFE Services Returns to Bay ViewAfter months of preparation, planning and teamwork, Centers for Independence officially reopened its Bay View Campus on Feb. 16 – bringing LIFE Services back to the space that was custom-designed for the program.The move from 2020 W. Wells St. marks more than a change of address. For many team - [Featured Jobs of the Week | Feb. 23-27](https://cfihope.org/news/featured-jobs-of-the-week-feb-23-27/) - Featured Jobs of the Week | Feb. 23-27We have several exciting positions available, whether you know someone who’d be a great fit for CFI or you’re looking for your next career move. Check out all our job openings here.Project Manager – iLIFEDo you thrive on bringing people, processes and technology together to drive results? We’re - [PSC Receives Heart of Canal Street Donation](https://cfihope.org/news/psc-receives-heart-of-canal-street-donation/) - PSC Receives Heart of Canal Street Donation Representatives from Potawatomi Hotel & Casino dropped by Pediatric Specialty Care (PSC) to personally deliver our Heart of Canal Street donation of $24,079. The donation is given to support our PSC program that provides critical services for children with complex medical needs. Our skilled nursing team provides medical - [Mission Moment: Turning Lived Experiences into Hope](https://cfihope.org/news/mission-moment-turning-lived-experiences-into-hope/) - Mission Moment: Turning Lived Experiences into HopeAt CFI, our Crisis Resource Centers (CRCs) play a vital role in providing short-term stabilization and compassionate support for people experiencing mental health crises. They rely on skilled behavioral health specialists who bring empathy, resilience and a passion for helping others. One of those specialists is Karyn Burrow, whose - [Local and Statewide Food Assistance Resources](https://cfihope.org/news/local-and-statewide-food-assistance-resources/) - Local and Statewide Food Assistance Resources No one should have to choose between food and other essentials. If you or someone you know is facing food insecurity, these resources can help. Quick Emergency Help If you or someone you know needs emergency food: Text MKEfood to 898-211 Call 211 or visit impactinc.org/impact-211 Local Food Pantries - [CFI Celebrates Halloween with Spooktacular Activities](https://cfihope.org/news/cfi-celebrates-halloween-with-spooktacular-activities/) - CFI Celebrates Halloween with Spooktacular ActivitiesCFI team members and clients came together to celebrate Halloween with a variety of festive activities across the agency.The fun began with a door decorating competition, where teams showcased their creativity. Brain Health clients served as judges, selecting the winning designs.Team members and clients then gathered in the LIFE Services - [Where to Find Free Thanksgiving Meals in Wisconsin](https://cfihope.org/news/where-to-find-free-thanksgiving-meals-in-wisconsin/) - Where to Find Free Thanksgiving Meals in Wisconsin Throughout Wisconsin, organizations and communities are coming together to provide free Thanksgiving meals to families and individuals in need. If you or someone you know needs support these resources can help you find a warm meal and a welcoming place this holiday season. Note: This list is - [WNOV Community Voice Spotlights CFI and Behavioral Health in Milwaukee](https://cfihope.org/news/wnov-community-voice-spotlights-cfi-and-behavioral-health-in-milwaukee/) - WNOV Community Voice Spotlights CFI and Behavioral Health in MilwaukeeKeith Parris, host of Community Voice on WNOV, recently sat down with CFI’s Vice President of Diversity Equity Inclusion and Community Affairs Al Hill and Associate Vice President Behavioral Health Rachel Leahy Hilker to discuss behavioral health in our community and to educate listeners about our - [Managing Winter Blues: Resources for Mental Wellness](https://cfihope.org/news/managing-winter-blues-resources-for-mental-wellness/) - Managing Winter Blues: Resources for Mental WellnessWinter can be challenging for mental health. Shorter days, holiday stress and cold weather can all take a toll on our well-being. If you’re experiencing the winter blues – or seasonal affective disorder – you’re not alone.To help you navigate this season we’ve compiled resources and strategies to support - [CFI Delivers Exceptional Client Care on All Core Metrics](https://cfihope.org/news/cfi-delivers-exceptional-client-care-on-all-core-metrics/) - CFI Delivers Exceptional Client Care on All Core MetricsAt CFI, we believe that every interaction matters. The results of our 2025 Q3 Experience of Care Survey show how our client-centered approach is making a real difference. These insights reflect the trust and confidence our clients place in us – and the positive impact we strive - [2025 Year in Review: A Year of Growth, Impact and Innovation](https://cfihope.org/news/2025-year-in-review-a-year-of-growth-impact-and-innovation/) - 2025 Year in Review: A Year of Growth, Impact and Innovation As 2025 comes to a close, we’re proud to reflect on a year defined by progress, resilience and community impact. Thanks to the dedication of our team and partners, we achieved milestones that strengthened our mission and expanded our reach. Here’s a look at - [CFI Receives Wispact Legacy Grant to Enhance Accessibility and Care](https://cfihope.org/news/cfi-receives-wispact-legacy-grant-to-enhance-accessibility-and-care/) - CFI Receives Wispact Legacy Grant to Enhance Accessibility and CareCFI is honored to receive a Wispact Legacy Grant totaling nearly $20,000, to support improvements to re-open our Bay View Campus and make Pediatric Specialty Care (PSC) more accessible for the individuals and families we serve. These improvements will help CFI strengthen programs and create more - [CFI Welcomes New Board Members](https://cfihope.org/news/cfi-welcomes-new-board-members/) - CFI Welcomes New Board Members The Centers for Independence Board of Directors on Dec. 18, 2025, elected Elizabeth Bartlett, Ritika Singh and Tracy Wymelenberg as new members, each serving a 3-year term. Morris Cain was re-elected to serve his final 3-year term. Members Morgan Phelps and Joy Rivera resigned their positions in December. “We are - [CFI Awarded DHS Contract to Continue Targeted Case Management Services in Milwaukee County](https://cfihope.org/news/cfi-awarded-dhs-contract-to-continue-targeted-case-management-services-in-milwaukee-county/) - CFI Awarded DHS Contract to Continue Targeted Case Management Services in Milwaukee CountyCenters for Independence (CFI) has been awarded the Targeted Case Management (TCM) contract through the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS). This achievement continues our long-standing partnership with DHS and reinforces our role as one of Milwaukee County’s largest providers of vital behavioral - [CFI Supports Bipartisan Legislation Expanding Access to CCBHCs in Wisconsin](https://cfihope.org/news/cfi-supports-bipartisan-legislation-expanding-access-to-ccbhcs-in-wisconsin/) - CFI Supports Bipartisan Legislation Expanding Access to CCBHCs in WisconsinCenters for Independence (CFI), a leading nonprofit provider of behavioral health and crisis services in Wisconsin and Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC), is voicing strong support for proposed bipartisan legislation that would expand access to lifesaving mental health and substance use services nationwide.CCBHCs provide comprehensive - [Farm2Table Dinner Highlights LIFE Services Talents and Community Partnerships](https://cfihope.org/news/farm2table-dinner-highlights-life-services-talents-and-community-partnerships/) - Farm2Table Dinner Highlights LIFE Services Talents and Community Partnerships LIFE Services was the star of the show on Sept. 24 at Braise, Milwaukee’s renowned culinary school and restaurant. An exclusive Farm2Table dinner transformed our clients’ homegrown heirloom tomatoes, kale, eggplants and more into a gourmet four-course dinner. Guests enjoyed chicken laab, Thai eggplant basil curry, - [CFI’s Pediatric Specialty Care Program Named Heart of Canal Street Beneficiary](https://cfihope.org/news/cfis-pediatric-specialty-care-program-named-heart-of-canal-street-beneficiary/) - CFI’s Pediatric Specialty Care Program Named Heart of Canal Street Beneficiary Play Heart of Canal Street Bingo now – Dec. 10 to help support kids in our community Centers for Independence (CFI) is honored to be selected as a beneficiary of Potawatomi Casino Hotel’s Heart of Canal Street. This annual fundraising initiative supports 30 local - [CFI welcomes Jess Williamson as VP of Marketing and Communications](https://cfihope.org/news/cfi-welcomes-jess-williamson-as-vp-of-marketing-and-communications/) - MILWAUKEE (Nov. 4, 2024) - Centers for Independence (CFI) is pleased to announce Jess Williamson as Vice President of Marketing and Communications. - [Next Step Clinic Moves to Centers for Independence ](https://cfihope.org/news/next-step-clinic-moves-to-centers-for-independence/) - The Next Step Clinic has moved to 2020 W Wells St., Milwaukee, offering autism screenings and support for families concerned about their children’s development. - [September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month](https://cfihope.org/news/september-is-national-suicide-prevention-awareness-month/) - September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month Suicide is a leading cause of death in the United States, and Wisconsin’s suicide rate has risen since 2014. According to the Wisconsin Department of Health, the state’s average is 1% higher than the national rate. Suicide affects millions every year, yet there are too many who struggle - [Centers for Independence Celebrates Community and Culture at Milwaukee’s Juneteenth Celebration](https://cfihope.org/news/centers-for-independence-celebrates-community-and-culture-at-milwaukees-juneteenth-celebration-2025/) - June 19 marks Juneteenth, a federal holiday commemorating the end of slavery in the United States in 1865. - [CFI Serves Healthy, Tasty and FREE Summer Meals for Kids in Need](https://cfihope.org/news/cfi-serves-healthy-tasty-and-free-summer-meals-for-kids-in-need/) - Summer is a time for kids and teens to take a break from school, but for some families, it can also mean losing access to reliable meals. - [PTSD Awareness Month: How CFI Supports Clients with Trauma](https://cfihope.org/news/ptsd-awareness-month-how-cfi-supports-clients-with-trauma/) - PTSD Awareness Month: How CFI Supports Clients with TraumaThis past June, we recognized Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Awareness Month — a time to raise awareness about the impact of trauma, and the importance of compassionate, evidence-based care. At Centers for Independence (CFI), we support clients facing PTSD and other co-occurring mental health conditions every day./p>At - [CFI’s LIFE Services Clients Recognized for Volunteerism](https://cfihope.org/news/cfis-life-services-clients-recognized-for-volunteerism/) - CFI’s LIFE Services Clients Recognized for Volunteerism For nearly two decades, the Centers for Independence’s (CFI) LIFE Services program has partnered with Meals on Wheels to deliver meals to members of the community across Milwaukee. This volunteer opportunity is a favorite activity among participants.Recognizing the impact of their contributions, Meals on Wheels gifted the LIFE - [Wellness Committee hosts annual PSN trick-or-treat](https://cfihope.org/news/wellness-committee-hosts-annual-psn-trick-or-treat/) - CFI's annual trick-or-treat event with the kids from our PSN area is one of the most popular events each year. - [Your Generosity Makes the Season Bright](https://cfihope.org/news/your-generosity-makes-the-season-bright/) - You can help the people we serve by donating items through Amazon. - [Battling the Holiday Blues? CFI Can Help](https://cfihope.org/news/battling-the-holiday-blues-cfi-can-help/) - Behavioral Health programs, including Crisis Resource Centers, provide vital resources Feeling blue as the holidays approach? You’re not alone. Studies show that most people feel more stressed and that mental illness can be harder to manage this time of year. This holiday season, we’re here to help you shoo the blues by making your mental - [Join Our Team: Make a Living and Make a Difference](https://cfihope.org/news/join-our-team-make-a-living-and-make-a-difference/) - CFI is growing and we need caring, compassionate, and dedicated people for a variety of full- and part-time positions. - [CFI’s Food & Nutrition Services Serves Up an Outstanding Year ](https://cfihope.org/news/cfis-food-nutrition-services-serves-up-an-outstanding-year/) - In 2024, CFI’s Food and Nutrition Services team provided a record-breaking number of healthy and appealing meals. - [Pediatric Skilled Nursing Program Receives Special Gift](https://cfihope.org/news/pediatric-skilled-nursing-program-receives-special-gift/) - Last week, our Pediatric Skilled Nursing program received a very special gift. - [CFI Ranks Among the Best for Rehabilitative Services](https://cfihope.org/news/cfi-ranks-among-the-best-for-rehabilitative-services/) - For the 24th consecutive year, Centers for Independence (CFI) has been accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF). - [Job Fair: Join Our Crisis Resource Center Team ](https://cfihope.org/news/job-fair-join-our-crisis-resource-center-team/) - Centers for Independence (CFI) is seeking caring, empathetic people to join our Crisis Resource Center Team. Ideal candidates have strong communication and analytical skills, and the ability to provide compassionate care to our diverse clientele. You’ll join a team providing comprehensive behavioral health crisis intervention services and supportive case management and housing at one of - [CFI Partners with Milwaukee Chamber Theatre on Play about Mental Health](https://cfihope.org/news/cfi-partners-with-milwaukee-chamber-theatre-on-play-about-mental-health/) - CFI Partners with Milwaukee Chamber Theatre on Play about Mental Health Brilliant thing #758: Collaboration! We are honored to collaborate with Milwaukee Chamber Theatre to raise awareness of the importance of mental health through the production EVERY BRILLIANT THING. This gentle take on a tough topic is enlightening, illuminating, and above all — entertaining. The - [CFI's Adult Day Services Honors Black History Month Through Music, Art Programming](https://cfihope.org/news/cfis-adult-day-services-honors-black-history-month-through-music-art-programming/) - CFI's Adult Day Services Honors Black History Month Through Music, Art Programming CFI’s Life Services and Brain Health Adult Day Services programming includes educational and interactive activities, known as tracs, every day of the week. These tracs include pet, horticulture, art, and music therapy, fitness classes, sensory experiences, nutrition and cooking opportunities, community integrated outings, - [MCFI expands behavioral health services to children](https://cfihope.org/news/mcfi-expands-behavioral-health-services-to-children/) - Study shows number of children with anxiety, depression grew nearly 30%. - [CFI among partners on $16M community center project](https://cfihope.org/news/cfi-among-partners-on-16m-community-center-project/) - CFI joins neighborhood project called Concordia 27 - [CFI earns three-year CARF accreditation](https://cfihope.org/news/cfi-earns-three-year-carf-accreditation/) - The Centers for Independence is honored to announce that it has been accredited by CARF for a period of three years. - [CFI welcomes Steven DeVougas as vice president of Legal and Compliance](https://cfihope.org/news/cfi-welcomes-steven-devougas-as-vice-president-of-legal-and-compliance/) - Steven DeVougas joins the Centers for Independence (CFI) as VP of Legal and Compliance - [CFI welcomes new CEO/President Leif Elsmo](https://cfihope.org/news/cfi-announces-new-ceo-president/) - Elsmo comes to CFI with a distinguished career as Executive Director, Community & External Affairs, at UChicago Medicine. - [Behavioral Health program receives $4M grant from SAMHSA](https://cfihope.org/news/behavioral-health-program-receives-4m-grant-from-samhsa/) - Grant will cover four years, aims to fund treatment of citizens of all ages, including children, suffering from mental health challenges - [Milwaukee County allocates $2M toward Concordia 27 project](https://cfihope.org/news/milwaukee-county-allocates-2m-toward-concordia-27-project/) - Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley signed the 2024 Adopted Budget as passed by the Milwaukee County Board of Supervisors during a ceremony Nov. 15 at the construction site for Concordia 27. - [MCFI Foundation receives support from Green Bay Packers Foundation](https://cfihope.org/news/mcfi-foundation-receives-support-from-green-bay-packers-foundation/) - Grant to go toward equipment for CFI kitchen at Concordia 27 project - [CFI elevates Alvin C. Hill, Jr. to Vice President of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Community Affairs](https://cfihope.org/news/cfi-elevates-alvin-c-hill-jr-to-vice-president-of-diversity-equity-inclusion-community-affairs/) - Hill will be responsible for the comprehensive planning, execution and supervision of CFI’s workforce and DEI, and belonging strategies and initiatives. - [MCFI Named Local Food for Schools Grant Recipient](https://cfihope.org/news/mcfi-named-local-food-for-schools-grant-recipient/) - The Milwaukee Center for Independence receives $500,000 award from Wisconsin Local Food for Schools program. - [Brian Blog: A visit to Hawthorne Coffee Roasters](https://cfihope.org/clientblog/brian-blog-a-visit-to-hawthorne-coffee-roasters/) - Hawthorne Coffee Roasters (4177 S. Howell Ave., Milwaukee) was a warm and inviting atmosphere with very pleasant and helpful staff. - [Meet Brian](https://cfihope.org/clientblog/meet-brian/) - Brian Baker is in CFI's Brain Health program. He loves computers. His blog lets him share about his experiences at CFI. - [Brian Blog: A visit to Anodyne Coffee](https://cfihope.org/clientblog/brian-blog-a-visit-to-anodyne-coffee/) - Anodyne Coffee (24 W Bruce St, Milwaukee, WI 53204) is a comfortable, fun and youthful environment. ## Pages - [Home](https://cfihope.org/) - At CFI, our mission is to give people with disabilities or disadvantages the tools and resources they need to achieve greater independence. - [Press Room](https://cfihope.org/press-room/) - If you're a member of the media and would like to contact CFI, reach out to Jess Williamson, VP of Marketing and Communications. - [Be the Breakthrough a Child Has Been Waiting For - Spring 2026](https://cfihope.org/spring2026/) - Be the Breakthrough a Child Has Been Waiting For. Every day in Wisconsin, children struggle with anxiety, trauma and ADHD. They need help managing their mental health. Close Donate Now The Impact of Your Support Your support provides the mental health care children deserve. When you give to the Centers for Independence (CFI), you open - [News & Announcements](https://cfihope.org/cfi-news-announcements/) - Check out our agency updates and inspiring stories about our team, the people we serve, and our work to help people with disabilities and complex needs live their best lives. - [Make a Donation](https://cfihope.org/donate/) - You Can Help Build Healthy, Hopeful & Inclusive Communities Your generosity supports our mission to serve & advocate for people with disabilities & behavioral health needs across Greater Milwaukee and beyond. Donate Now Make a Difference Today Your support empowers CFI to offer an unmatched breadth of life-changing support services for thousands of children and - [What is CFI?](https://cfihope.org/about-us/) - Since 1938, CFI has helped people reach their potential and independence through a diverse set of programs. - [Hope Begins with a Single Act of Compassion](https://cfihope.org/donna/) - Hope Begins with a Single Act of Compassion Your generosity fuels life-changing resources for 25,000+ Wisconsinites across the lifespan. Give a Gift Today More About Donna Make a Lasting DifferencePlease take a moment to make a gift today. Together, we can ensure that peoplelike Donna have the support they need to grow, learn, and thrive. - [Careers](https://cfihope.org/careers/) - CFI careers include nurses, therapists, CNAs, food service cooks, drivers and behavioral health specialists - [Donate Life](https://cfihope.org/donatelife/) - Support LIFE Services Please use the form below to give a gift to CFI's LIFE Services programming. Your gift supports services and advocacy for individuals with disabilities in Greater Milwaukee. Thank you! About LIFE Services: CFI’s Adult Day Services, also known as LIFE (Leisure, Inclusion, Fun and Employment), offers a range of experiences that help people with intellectual and - [Hope Begins with a Single Act of Compassion](https://cfihope.org/2025summerappeal/) - Hope Begins with aSingle Act of Compassion A Call for Help. A Life Transformed. Help Us Answer the Next Call. Donate Now Ben’s Story Is One of Hope.With Your Help, It Won’t Be the Last. It is a day Ben* remembers too clearly: April 14, 1994. On that day, his wife was killed in a - [MCFI Foundation](https://cfihope.org/donate-2/) - Our mission is to partner with people to advance their total health, which is not possible without contributions from donors and community partners - [Programs & Services](https://cfihope.org/programs-services/) - CFI offers disability support services, employment assistance, health care services, and mental health treatment. - [Blog](https://cfihope.org/client-blog/) - Hear from CFI clients themselves about their experiences. - [85th anniversary](https://cfihope.org/85th-anniversary/) - In 2023, CFI celebrates 85 years of operation - [Shop](https://cfihope.org/shop/) - Products available for purchase made by CFI clients. Proceeds benefit LIFE Services and Brain Health programming. - [Diversity and Inclusion](https://cfihope.org/diversity-and-inclusion/) - CFI is committed to creating a diverse, inclusive and culturally competent culture that best reflects and serves our clients, staff and community. - [Contact Us](https://cfihope.org/contact-us/) - If you are a member of the media and have questions, contact CFI. - [Internal Brand Assets](https://cfihope.org/brand/) - Raising Brand Awareness Centers for Independence, with MCFI affiliates, is doing incredible work for the people and communities we serve. We are addressing some of society’s most pressing challenges. Yet our important and selfless work is not always recognized or understood. So, we are launching a brand advertising and public relations campaign to boost our - [Compliance](https://cfihope.org/compliance/) - CFI is dedicated to delivering health care and social services that strictly conform to the highest standards of accountability. - [Search](https://cfihope.org/search-2/) - Search results for Centers for Independence (CFI) - [Terms of Use](https://cfihope.org/terms-of-use/) - Terms of use for Centers for Independence (CFI) - [Privacy Policy](https://cfihope.org/privacy-policy/) - Privacy Policy for Centers for Independence (CFI) ## My Templates - [Sidebar Archives](https://cfihope.org/?elementor_library=sidebar-archives) - Post Archives [site_wide_tags] - [Hero Banner for Donate Pages](https://cfihope.org/?elementor_library=hero-banner-for-donate-pages) - [Default Kit](https://cfihope.org/?elementor_library=default-kit) - [Elementor Single Post - CFI blog category](https://cfihope.org/?elementor_library=elementor-single-post-50772) - [CFI News Blog](https://cfihope.org/?elementor_library=cfi-news-blog) - Latest CFI Blogs CFI blog: Draft - [Elementor Single Post - Client Blog category](https://cfihope.org/?elementor_library=elementor-single-post-46128) - Latest Client Blogs Fox6 features CFI commercial kitchen Hawthorne Coffee Roasters - [Elementor Search Results #47152](https://cfihope.org/?elementor_library=elementor-search-results-47152) - find what you’re looking for didn’t find what you are looking for? - [Default Kit](https://cfihope.org/?elementor_library=default-kit-2) - [Default Kit](https://cfihope.org/?elementor_library=default-kit-2-2) - [Default Kit](https://cfihope.org/?elementor_library=default-kit-2-3) - [Default Kit](https://cfihope.org/?elementor_library=default-kit-2-2-2) ## Donation Forms - [Adopt a Child](https://cfihope.org/donations/adopt-a-child/) - Nostra dapibus varius et semper semper rutrum ad risus felis eros - [Home For Homeless](https://cfihope.org/donations/home-for-homeless/) - Nostra dapibus varius et semper semper rutrum ad risus felis eros - [Pure Water For Children](https://cfihope.org/donations/pure-water-for-children/) - Nostra dapibus varius et semper semper rutrum ad risus felis eros - [Save Wild Animals](https://cfihope.org/donations/save-wild-animals/) - Nostra dapibus varius et semper semper rutrum ad risus felis eros - [Food for Refugees](https://cfihope.org/donations/food-for-refugees/) - Nostra dapibus varius et semper semper rutrum ad risus felis eros - [Fundraising for Hospital](https://cfihope.org/donations/fundraising-for-hospital/) - Nostra dapibus varius et semper semper rutrum ad risus felis eros ## Parts - Header Top - [Header Mobile](https://cfihope.org/header-top/header-mobile/) - Programs & Services Crisis Resource Centers Behavorial Health Children’s Services Children’s Behavioral Health Services Medical Daycare Employment & Food Service Nutrition Services Home care Services for Adults Adult Day Programming Brain Health First Person Care Consultants iLife Careers Why work at CFI? Search for Jobs CBRF Training & Education About Us About CFI Contact Us - [Header Top Two Rows Left Logo](https://cfihope.org/header-top/header-top-two-rows-left-logo/) - Donate NOW Contact Us Programs & Services Crisis Resource Centers Behavorial Health Children’s Services Children’s Behavioral Health Services Medical Daycare Employment & Food Service Nutrition Services Home care Services for Adults Adult Day Programming Brain Health First Person Care Consultants iLife Careers Why work at CFI? Search for Jobs CBRF Training & Education About Us ## Parts - Page Title - [Page Title](https://cfihope.org/page-title/page-title/) - Home ## Parts - Footer - [Footer Style6](https://cfihope.org/footer/footer-style6/) - Careers Contact Us Compliance Privacy Policy Compliance ## Services - [Adult Day Care & Services](https://cfihope.org/services/services-for-adults/) - MCFI offers support services including day programming for adults with disabilities, and range from in-home personal care to fun recreational activities. - [Mental Health Treatment](https://cfihope.org/services/behavioral-health/) - MCFI Behavioral Health (formerly Whole Health Clinical Group) provides treatment to people with mental illness, trauma, addiction, or chronic health conditions. - [Food and Nutrition Services](https://cfihope.org/services/food-and-nutrition-services/) - CFI provides thousands of healthy meals throughout the Milwaukee community. - [Children's Behavioral Health](https://cfihope.org/services/childrens-behavioral-health/) - MCFI Children’s Behavioral Health aims to assist children ages 5 to 17 with mental health challenges and/or traumas. - [Employment & Food Service](https://cfihope.org/services/employment-food-service/) - CFI helps those with varying barriers to employment find work that fosters development. Plus, our food service program provides real-world training. - [Childrens Medical Services](https://cfihope.org/services/childrens-services/) - Educational programs aim to help children with developmental disabilities or complex medical issues thrive. - [Crisis Resource Centers](https://cfihope.org/services/crisis-resource-centers/) - Crisis Resource Centers (CRCs) are community-based programs that provide 24/7 support for people experiencing a mental health crisis. They offer assessment, stabilization, psychosocial groups, and peer support. CRCs are a safe and supportive alternative to the emergency room or inpatient hospitalization. - [Home Care](https://cfihope.org/services/home-care/) - MCFI Home Care supports independence at home and in the community. - [Dennyse Snyder](https://cfihope.org/services/childrens-behavioral-health-dennyse-snyder/) - Dennyse has a bachelor’s degree is from Asbury University and a masters from the University of Kentucky. - [Jessica Donato](https://cfihope.org/services/childrens-behavioral-health-jessica-donato/) - Jessica Donato is a child psychotherapist at Centers for Independence in the Children's Behavioral Health program. - [Meagan Langfield](https://cfihope.org/services/childrens-behavioral-health-meagan-langfield/) - Meagan Langfield Hi! My name is Meagan and I’m happy to join you and your child on your mental health journey. I have been a child and family therapist for the past nine years. I grew my passion for working with young children when I started my internship at Penfield Children’s Center. Over the years - [Donate with credit card](https://cfihope.org/services/donate-via-online/) - Give a gift with a credit card through our secure access. - [Donate goods, non-cash items](https://cfihope.org/services/other-ways-to-donate/) - There are many other ways to support the MCFI Foundation. - [Donate through the mail](https://cfihope.org/services/donate-through-the-mail/) - Send a check for any amount by mail to MCFI Foundation. - [Fundraise on Facebook](https://cfihope.org/services/fundraise-on-facebook/) - Host a fundraiser through your network of family and friends. - [Donate in honor or memory](https://cfihope.org/services/donate-in-honor-or-memory/) - Honor a loved one or someone who has touched your life. ## Staff - [Heidi Chada](https://cfihope.org/staff-items/heidi-chada/) - [Jess Williamson](https://cfihope.org/staff-items/jess-williamson/) - [Cindy Paulauskas](https://cfihope.org/staff-items/cindy-paulauskas/) - [Carson Maule](https://cfihope.org/staff-items/carson-maule/) - [Pamela Latherow](https://cfihope.org/staff-items/pamela-latherow/) - [Alvin C. Hill, Jr.](https://cfihope.org/staff-items/alvin-c-hill-jr/) - [Rachel Leahy Hilker](https://cfihope.org/staff-items/rachel-leahy-hilker/) - [LeighAnn Hanrahan](https://cfihope.org/staff-items/leighann-hanrahan/) - [Amy Graske](https://cfihope.org/staff-items/amy-graske/) - [Carrie Belsky](https://cfihope.org/staff-items/carrie-belsky/) - [Steven DeVougas](https://cfihope.org/staff-items/steven-devougas/) ## Categories - [News](https://cfihope.org/category/news/) - [Client Blog](https://cfihope.org/category/clientblog/) - [CFI blog](https://cfihope.org/category/cfi-news-announcements/) ## Tags - [news](https://cfihope.org/tag/news/) - [Client Blog](https://cfihope.org/tag/clientblog/) - [CFI blog](https://cfihope.org/tag/cfi-blog/) - [Archive](https://cfihope.org/tag/archive/) ## Services Categories - [Crisis Resource Centers](https://cfihope.org/services/crisis-resource-centers/) - [MCFI Behavioral Health](https://cfihope.org/services/behavioral-health/) - [MCFI Children's Services](https://cfihope.org/services/childrens-services/) - [MCFI Employment & Food Service](https://cfihope.org/services/employment-food-service/) - [MCFI Home Care](https://cfihope.org/services/mcfi-home-care/) - [MCFI Services for Adults](https://cfihope.org/services/services-for-adults/) - [Donate Online](https://cfihope.org/services/donate-online/) - [Donate in honor or memory](https://cfihope.org/services/donate-in-honor-or-memory/) - [Donate through mail](https://cfihope.org/services/donate-through-mail/) - [Fundraise Facebook](https://cfihope.org/services/fundraise-facebook/) - [Other ways donate](https://cfihope.org/services/other-ways-donate/) - [Food and Nutrition Service](https://cfihope.org/services/food-and-nutrition-service/) - [Childrens Behavioral Health](https://cfihope.org/services/childrens-behavioral-health/)