Mon - Thurs: 9:00am - 5:00pm | Fri: 9:00am - 4:00pm
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Education & Training

For 70 years, The Arc has provided education and training programs for self-advocates, family members, and professionals throughout the state. We host an Annual Convention, Executive Leadership Conference, Living with Autism Conference, and Healthcare Conference among other training events. These conferences offer continuing education credits and provide Best Practices to families and professionals that enhance the quality of life for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The Arc Programs also provide smaller trainings on specific topics around the state. 

Training Staff

Becca Schroeder, Director of Development

Becca

Director of Development
Rebecca Schroeder joined The Arc of Illinois in January 2019. She previously worked at the McGaw YMCA Children’s Center as their Admissions and Data Manager, where she was responsible for registration and billing, and worked with state agencies, the local university, and other organizations to help families receive financial assistance. This experience has helped her as the Events/Marketing Manager at The Arc of Illinois where she continues to provide her expertise with marketing, training events and data management. Rebecca moved up to Director of Development in July 2021. She is a graduate of Loyola University Chicago. 

Heidi Booth, MBA, Marketing & Communications Coordinator

Marketing & Communications Coordinator
Heidi joins The Arc of Illinois with over 15 years of experience in Marketing and Event Management. Her professional expertise has prepared her for the successful execution of events and outreach activities as well as marketing initiatives to build awareness and social media presence. She carries a Marketing undergraduate degree and MBA from Northern Illinois University. A mom of a daughter with a disability, she is passionate about advocating for all individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. She is dedicated to providing all people a happy and productive life to serve in our community. 

Kim Swanson, Events & Outreach Coordinator

Kim Swanson has previously worked at the American Cancer Society as a Senior Coordinator, supporting many events raising money for the fight against cancer, including athletic events and galas. She recently moved to Illinois to help take care of her mom. She loves volunteering wherever needs to help make a difference. She has four grown children who live all over the country and loves to travel and spend time with them. Kim holds a Bachelor’s Degree of Science in Advertising from Northern Illinois University.

Testimonial

"Well organized! Every presentation offered many thought provoking ideas to implement within our own family. Very Inspiring Stories!"