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A Life Without Limits: The Lyon Family Story

At the top of a snowy slope, skis strapped to an adaptive sled, Peter was ready. For his parents, the challenge wasn’t the mountain—it was everything it took to reach that moment. That slope represented the life they had worked tirelessly to build for Peter: one without limits.

Born with cerebral palsy, Peter has faced challenges that affect every part of his daily life. His parents, Cathryn and David, devoted themselves to helping him grow strong and independent, pouring love and energy into early therapies and adventures that pushed boundaries and created memories. Skiing became a symbol of possibility and perseverance.

But the demands of caregiving grew. When the family lost a long-term caregiver, they reached a breaking point and knew they needed lasting support. A visit to Marklund brought a moment of clarity:

“Here are our people. This could be Peter’s next step toward independence.”

Partnering with Marklund allowed Peter to receive the expert care and encouragement he needed, while giving his parents the chance to simply be mom and dad again. Today, Peter continues to inspire everyone around him with his joy and determination. “He’s my hero,” his father says.

Your support makes this possible. A holiday gift today ensures individuals like Peter can live fulfilling, independent lives, while their families find peace, balance, and hope. Your generosity provides personalized programs, compassionate care, and the resources that make everyday life possible.

Please donate today and help create a world where every Marklund resident, student, and client can pursue a life without limits.

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Did you know some employers will match charitable contributions made by current and former employees, and employees’ spouses?

See if your employer will match your donation today!

Want to DOUBLE YOUR DONATION?

Thank you for making everyday life possible for the children and adults living and learning at Marklund.

If you need any assistance with the online gift form, please contact Lauren Spitler, Annual Fund Manager, at (630)593.5473 or lspitler@marklund.org.

What is the Marklund Annual Fund?

The Marklund Annual Fund supports the mission of making everyday life possible for individuals with profound disabilities. While Marklund depends on the dollars received from the State of Illinois, a significant financial gap remains to provide every infant, child, teen and adult with “The Marklund Standard of Care”.  That’s where YOU come in! Each contribution helps close the financial gap of approximately $16,636 per resident that is not covered by State of Illinois reimbursements.

Marklund appreciates you! Our organization is built on the support and dedication of all staff, friends and donors. Thank you for being part of the Marklund family!

How can YOU  help close the gap?

  • Make a one-time donation by completing the information below.
  • Sign up to make a monthly donation (CLICK HERE for more information on the Monthly Giving Program)
  • Close the gap for one Marklund client and donate $16,636
2024 Impact Numbers and Financial Summary
2024 Impact Numbers and Financial Summary

Giving Programs

• Leadership Giving Circle: Become a member by contributing $1,000 or more in cumulative annual giving to Marklund.

• Monthly Giving Program: Recurring monthly donors continue to make everyday life possible – Every. Day.  Become an Everyday Supporter by starting your monthly donation today.

• The Marklund Always Society: Secure the future of Marklund now and always through meaningful estate and legacy gift opportunities.

FAQs

  1. How do I make my gift?
    The quickest way is to make a gift securely online. If you are giving by mail, please be sure to write the check out to “Marklund” and mail to 1S450 Wyatt Drive, Geneva, IL, 60134.
  2. What is a Matching Gift?
    Corporate Matching Gifts are offered by some employers – you may be able to double or even triple your gift to Marklund! Contact your Human Resources office
    to see if your employer matches gifts.
  3. Will my gift be eligible for tax deduction?
    Yes. Official receipts of acknowledgement will be issued.
  4. What does my gift fund?
    Gifts to Marklund support the Marklund Annual Fund. These unrestricted dollars allow Marklund to meet the organization’s most current and/or urgent needs and are critical to maintaining the exceptional care and programs Marklund is able to provide each and every day. The annual short-fall is $16,636 per resident, per year – Marklund serves 178 residents annually.
  5. Can I designate my gift to a specific program at Marklund?
    You can designate your gift to a specific program or general operations at Marklund Philip Center in Bloomingdale, IL, Marklund Wasmond Center in Elgin, IL, or Marklund Hyde Center in Geneva, IL.
  6. How can you start your recurring monthly donation?
    Visit our Monthly Giving Page. We will automatically charge your card on the date you select – the 1st or the 15th of each month.
  7. What are the different ways to give to Marklund?
    Click here for more information Ways to Give.

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