Barbara Olson Center of Hope Launches $1.5 Million Capital Campaign to Expand Access, Independence, and Opportunity 

Aging facility and growing demand drive need for modernization and expanded accessibility

ROCKFORD, Ill. (June 30, 2026) – Barbara Olson Center of Hope, a  local non-profit and trusted provider of services for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) for more than 75 years, announced the public launch of a $1.5 million capital campaign to renovate and modernize its facility, ensuring it can continue serving participants and families for generations to come.
Community commitment has already resulted in over $248,000 raised. In addition, the Goellner Family Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Hennig, Inc. in Machesney Park, committed to a $100,000 matching gift to support the $1.5 million goal. Donations made will be matched 100 percent – doubling every gift.
With the campaign theme, Center of Hope. Center of Possibilities., the initiative will fund critical upgrades to the organization’s aging building, improving accessibility, safety, and overall quality of life for the 140 individuals it serves each year.
“For decades, the Center of Hope has been a place where individuals discover their potential, build meaningful connections, and live with dignity,” said Executive Director Pam Carey. “This campaign is about more than a building; it’s about sustaining opportunities and expanding possibilities for every person we serve.”
Meeting a Growing Need
As demand for inclusive services continues to rise, the Center of Hope is seeing increased needs among an aging participant population, many of whom rely on wheelchairs, walkers, and adaptive equipment. The current facility, originally built in the 1930s and occupied by the Center of Hope since 1982, presents challenges with accessibility, outdated systems, and infrastructure limitations.
Campaign Priorities
Funds raised through the campaign will support:
  • ADA-compliant upgrades throughout the building
  • Modernized restrooms and expanded mobility accommodations
  • Updated infrastructure to improve safety and efficiency
  • Enhanced program spaces to foster independence and engagement
Recent endowment funding has already made progress possible, including HVAC improvements and restroom accessibility upgrades. However, significant work remains to fully meet current and future needs.
 Community Impact
Every day, the Barbara Olson Center of Hope empowers individuals through:
  • Life skills development and independence training
  • Employment and training opportunities
  • Community integration and social connection
  • Volunteer opportunities and enrichment programs
Approximately 20 percent of individuals served have higher support needs and require consistent, hands-on assistance with daily living skills, and 80 percent benefit from varying levels of support in daily living skills including support with independence, community integration, and employment skills. Through structured programming and compassionate staff support, the Center of Hope remains committed to ensuring equal access to programming regardless of ability level.
Join the Campaign
Community support is critical. Currently, 75 percent of the Center of Hope’s funding relies on State of Illinois through Medicaid reimbursement, and the remaining 25 percent comes from grants, donations, and fundraising. There is an increasingly urgent need amid ongoing state funding pressures.
To date, more than $248,000 has been raised and to encourage further giving, the Goellner Family Foundation, representing Hennig, Inc., will match all campaign gifts up to $100,000, doubling the impact of contributions. The Goellner Family Foundation is involved in local economic growth, philanthropy, and workforce development and has a deep appreciation for the beacon of hope that the Center of Hope provides for individuals with IDD and caregivers.
“Every gift is an investment in people, not just a building,” said Carey. “Together, we can create a space that supports dignity, independence, belonging, and more possibilities for decades to come.”
To donate funds or for more information, visit b-olsoncenterofhope.org.
About Barbara Olson Center of Hope
Barbara Olson Center of Hope is a not-for-profit organization serving the Rock River Valley since 1948. Its mission is to help adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) reach personal goals through individualized skill development, vocational opportunities, and community service. The organization serves more than 140 adults with IDD who live in their homes or in residential settings. Each individual is unique in their abilities and needs.
The Center of Hope’s success over the years, with support from the community, has been built on continually evaluating and providing more choices and options for all participants so they can live the lives they desire.