PARENTS & GUARDIANS
VOLUNTEER
GALLERY
WAYS TO GIVE

WHo we are

Compassion in Action

Enhancing

Quality of Life

Located in Sterling, Illinois, our not-for-profit organization provides compassionate care to those with severe and profound intellectual disabilities. We accept children and adults of any age though priority consideration is given to those 18 and over because our Day Training Program has a minimum age requirement of 18.

Formerly Exceptional Care and Training Center, Cornerstone has provided skilled care and educational programs in a residential setting since 1979. We are licensed as a Medically Complex Facility for Persons with Developmental Disabilities (MC/DD) by the Illinois Department of Public Health.

MISSION

Our mission is to advance the health and well-being of those we serve.

VISION

We aim to be a trusted leader and a beacon of compassion and excellence, providing the best housing and care options for healthier and more vibrant communities.

CORE VALUES

Our core values form the foundation of our commitment to excellence. These principles guide our every action and decision, ensuring that we consistently;

  • prioritize empathy in our interactions,
  • uphold the highest standards of integrity,
  • deliver services of the utmost quality,
  • foster a sense of community, and
  • drive innovation and empowerment in all that we do.

Together, these values shape our organizational culture, reflecting our dedication to creating positive and engaging environments for both our team and the communities we serve.

Recognized for Excellence

We're proud recipients of the Illinois Health Care Association's Excellence Award for long-term care. This annual award recognizes outstanding accomplishments that happen in long-term care centers throughout the state. It reflects our commitment to deliver the highest standard of care to provide the highest quality of life for those we're privileged to serve.

Frequently Asked Questions

Since 1979, Cornerstone (formerly Exceptional Care & Training Center) has provided loving and compassionate care, learning programs, and high-quality living opportunities. Our programs and services are designed to meet the needs of adults with medically complex and intellectual developmental disabilities, empowering them to achieve their fullest potential and highest quality of life.

Cornerstone has approximately 125 full- and part-time staff members that include direct support professionals, medical professionals, educators and administrative personnel.

Cornerstone serves more than 80 adults in our residential program coming from all over the state of Illinois.

Yes! We offer regular tours for individuals and groups where you can see firsthand the miracles that happen every day at Cornerstone. Please call us at 815-626-5820 to schedule.

Family visits are not only permitted – they’re encouraged. Most of our residents have families that visit often. In cases where distance makes travel cumbersome, we offer virtual visits.

In addition to your prayers, we need your financial support and the gift of your time and talents. We can also provide you with a Wish List of specific resident needs.

If you are interested in becoming a Cornerstone volunteer – please contact Melissa Francque, Executive Director at 815-626-5820. She will be happy to start the process with you, beginning with a visit and tour, followed by getting you an application. Based on your interests and talents, we feel sure we can find the perfect volunteer job for you.

There are not enough words to express our deep appreciation for the compassionate care that our daughter has received at Cornerstone (ECTC).
Resident Family Member