Foundation Donor of Distinction

The Regenstein Foundation

In 2010, The Regenstein Foundation invested in Envision Unlimited’s Therapeutic Arts Program with a three-year grant award of $30,000 annually. This generous support has allowed the agency to cultivate one of the premier art programs for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Chicago.

First year support from The Regenstein Foundation enabled Envision to substantially increase the number of program participants, all of whom being men and women with substantial cognitive and physical disabilities. Many of the practicing artists have limited speech capabilities. For these individuals, the arts became a voice that made it possible to express their thoughts and perspectives.

The Regenstein Foundation enabled us to expand our physical space for the program as well. Envision’s Therapeutic Arts Program had operated in a rather small studio at the agency’s Westtown Center for six years. With the assistance of the Regenstein Foundation, the program became capable of including more new client artists. The influx of the energy and resources permitted the Therapeutic Arts Program to flourish. The program expanded from beyond the studio to the main floor of the center.

In addition to increasing program participation and space, the Regenstein Foundation’s support afforded Envision’s artists with a new array of materials and media with which to experiment. The result was nothing short of astounding; now, the energy of self-expression and creativity permeates the Westtown Center and the facility thrives.

The Regenstein Foundation is one of the most respected philanthropic entities in the nation and has invested in many of the cultural institutions and landmarks which make Chicago a word-class city. Envision is genuinely honored and thankful to be among the recipients of their continued support.

Envision extends our deepest gratitude to Robert (Nate) LaTour, a member of The Regenstein Foundation’s Board of Directors, for designating the three-year grant award. Mr. LaTour’s support of Envision and the Therapeutic Arts Program has made a tangible difference in the lives of the individual artists who benefit from this remarkable resource.