NEWS RELEASE

 

October 19, 2012 (Geneva, IL)       Lois Sheaffer Kramer, director of government relations and community support for Marklund, an organization that serves persons with developmental disabilities, has been appointed to the Illinois State DD Facility Advisory Board. This five-member board will serve in an advisory capacity representing those with intellectual and developmental disabilities (ID and DD) to ensure compliance with the ID/DD Community Care Act.

“It is an honor to be appointed to serve as a member of the DD Facility Advisory Board,” Sheaffer Kramer said. “I am looking forward to working more closely with our state leaders to promote the quality of life that people with intellectual disabilities deserve as they strive to reach their highest potential in all areas of their lives.

“We are very excited about Lois’ well-deserved appointment,” said Gil Fonger, president and CEO at Marklund. “She is a passionate advocate for individuals with developmental disabilities and will serve very well in this new position. We are also appreciative of the recognition that Marklund is also receiving through this appointment as a leading advocate in the state for individuals with developmental disabilities.”

Sheaffer Kramer has served children and adults with DD for 28 years at Marklund, starting her tenure as a recreation therapist and eventually transitioning to director of children’s services before taking on her current role. As director of government relations and community support, she has served on various workgroups as an advocate to discuss legislative changes that impact people with ID/DDs, as well as leads the Illinois Skilled Pediatric group which includes 13 facilities throughout the state. She is also an active member of the Center for Developmental Disabilities Advocacy and Community Supports.

“I take this responsibility very seriously as I realize that I will be representing folks that I have known and served over the past 30 years that are not able to speak for themselves,” she added.