Holding your child for the first time is a moment filled with both joy and uncertainty. For the Lederer family, that uncertainty turned into a lifelong journey when their son Andrew had his first seizure at just two years old. As Andrew’s health complications grew, so did the demands on their family. Gary and Jean Lederer faced sleepless nights, caring for three children, all while managing Andrew’s worsening condition. Their family’s strength was tested, but their love never wavered.
“We can’t ask for help; it’s OUR job,” Jean recalls thinking during the hardest moments. But a simple statement from Andrew’s doctor changed everything: “We are doing this together.” With that, they realized they didn’t have to do it alone. Residential care at Marklund was the best decision for Andrew and their family. Today, Andrew, now 46, thrives at Marklund, surrounded by loving caregivers, and his family knows he is safe.
Your support makes this possible for families like the Lederers. A holiday donation today will ensure that Marklund continues to provide personalized care, resources, and support, giving families the confidence to focus on what matters most—loving and caring for each member of their family, while building a legacy of connection and compassion.
Join us in making a difference this holiday season. Your generosity changes the lives of Marklund residents, students and clients – AND their families!
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!
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 Taylor Egan, Annual Fund Manager, at (630)593.5482 or tegan@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 $19,155 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 $19,155
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
- 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. - 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. - Will my gift be eligible for tax deduction?
Yes. Official receipts of acknowledgement will be issued. - 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 $19,155 per resident, per year – Marklund serves 178 residents annually. - 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. - 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. - What are the different ways to give to Marklund?
Click here for more information Ways to Give.