Independence Center

Independence Center A nonprofit organization that takes a holistic approach to behavioral health services and recovery.

Dedicated to promoting and supporting the mental health and substance abuse treatment needs of our community. We offer many programs including individual and group therapy, supportive housing, occupational development, social skill-building, community support, health and wellness, crisis intervention, and other outpatient and psychosocial rehabilitation for adults with severe and persistent mental illness.

Art and generosity, woven into community healing.Diana Durkes returns to the Art of Wellness Exhibit, bringing both vibr...
09/02/2026

Art and generosity, woven into community healing.

Diana Durkes returns to the Art of Wellness Exhibit, bringing both vibrant canvases and a spirit of giving. As Founder of Forest & Found, Diana channels creativity into real-world impact, supporting local charities like Independence Center.

See how art and purpose come together. Visit the Dandrlion Gallery or learn more about Diana’s inspiring work.

The 5th Annual Art of Mental Wellness is three weeks away, and we want you there.This is not just an art show. It is one...
09/01/2026

The 5th Annual Art of Mental Wellness is three weeks away, and we want you there.

This is not just an art show. It is one of the most important community evenings of the year for Independence Center. The proceeds raised on September 24 go directly toward the programs and services that support over 1,000 adults with mental illness in Lake County every single year.

Here is what you can expect:
A curated exhibition featuring the work of local artists, all exploring themes of emotion, resilience, and the human experience. A silent auction. A chance to connect with community members who believe in the power of compassionate care and creative healing.

When you come, you are not just attending an event. You are standing with people who have faced hard things and are still moving forward.

The event is open to the community, and we welcome anyone who wants to be part of this.

Thursday, September 24, 2026
5:00-7:30 p.m.
Dandelion Gallery, 109 S. Genesee Street, Waukegan, IL

For tickets and information: icwaukegan.org or [email protected] or (847) 360-1020.

Share this with someone in your community who would want to be there.

A lifetime of creativity meets mental health. Dick Thorn returns to inspire. With decades in the creative industry, Dick...
09/01/2026

A lifetime of creativity meets mental health. Dick Thorn returns to inspire.

With decades in the creative industry, Dick’s passion for painting shines through every brushstroke. His work invites us to see the world, and mental wellness, through a new lens.

Experience his art at the 5th Annual Art of Mental Wellness Exhibit. Join us September 24 at Dandelion Gallery. Discover more at icwaukegan.org.

08/27/2026

MYTH: Mental illness and substance use are two separate issues that should be treated separately.

FACT: About 1 in 3 people with mental illness also experience substance use challenges. Treating both together leads to far better outcomes. 💙

At Independence Center, we provide integrated support for both — because the whole person deserves care.

icwaukegan.org

08/25/2026

What would you tell your younger self about asking for help? 💬

Sometimes the most powerful gift we can give is permission — to be honest, to be vulnerable, to reach out. Share your words in the comments.

08/20/2026

MYTH: Therapy is only for people in crisis.

FACT: Therapy benefits everyone — whether you're managing a diagnosis, navigating life's challenges, or simply wanting to grow. 💙

Mental health care is for every person, at every stage of life. You don't have to be in crisis to deserve support.

icwaukegan.org

Five weeks from today, something meaningful is going to happen at Dandelion Gallery in Waukegan.The 5th Annual Art of Me...
08/18/2026

Five weeks from today, something meaningful is going to happen at Dandelion Gallery in Waukegan.

The 5th Annual Art of Mental Wellness is an art show and fundraiser that brings together the Lake County community to celebrate creativity, support recovery, and raise vital funds for Independence Center's mental health programs.

Every year, this event reminds us that art is not just decoration. It is a language. It is how people process what is hard to say, find connection, and move forward.

The proceeds from this event directly support the more than 1,000 adults with mental illness that Independence Center serves each year in Lake County through outpatient therapy, vocational training, housing support, and crisis response.

Come be part of it.

Thursday, September 24, 2026
5:00-7:30 p.m.
Dandelion Gallery
109 S. Genesee Street, Waukegan, IL

More information at icwaukegan.org. Questions? Contact us at [email protected] or (847) 360-1020.

Artists: the submission deadline is September 17. Register via Zeffy today.

💙 Did you know?We fundraise with Zeffy to ensure 100% of your donation goes directly to our mission — no fees, no deduct...
08/13/2026

💙 Did you know?

We fundraise with Zeffy to ensure 100% of your donation goes directly to our mission — no fees, no deductions, just real impact for adults with mental illness in Lake County.

Every dollar you give stays here, working for our members. Scan the QR code to donate today!

⏰ TOMORROW is the day!Our Rummage Sale is this Friday, August 14 from 9:30 AM to 1:30 PM at 2025 Washington St., Waukega...
08/13/2026

⏰ TOMORROW is the day!

Our Rummage Sale is this Friday, August 14 from 9:30 AM to 1:30 PM at 2025 Washington St., Waukegan, IL 60085.

Find amazing deals on clothes, home goods, books, and more — plus food will be for sale! All proceeds support the adults we serve right here in Lake County.

Come shop, spread the word, and show up for your community. We hope to see you there! 🎉

www.icwaukegan.org

08/13/2026

MYTH: Once someone has a mental illness, there's no way to get better.

FACT: With proper treatment, community support, and the right resources, recovery is absolutely possible. 💙

Thousands of members at Independence Center are living proof — recovery is real, and it starts with one step.

icwaukegan.org

Address

2025 Washington Street
Waukegan, IL
60085

Opening Hours

Monday 8:30am - 5pm
Tuesday 8:30am - 5pm
Wednesday 8:30am - 5pm
Thursday 8:30am - 5pm
Friday 8:30am - 3:30pm

Telephone

+18473601020

Website

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