Hastings visits CTF Illinois in Orland Park

ORLAND PARK — State Senator Michael E. Hastings visited CTF Illinois this past month, one of the state’s largest nonprofit organizations serving individuals with developmental disabilities.

“Everyone is human. Everyone has value. Everyone has a purpose,” said Hastings (D-Frankfort). “CTF Illinois embodies these principles every day through their mission, compassion and commitment to dignity and inclusion.”

During the visit, Hastings met with staff and participants to learn more about the programs and services that help individuals with developmental disabilities live full, meaningful lives. He highlighted the importance of community providers in creating opportunities for all to thrive.

Read more …

Hastings announces $150,000 state grant for St. Coletta’s of Illinois

TINLEY PARK — State Senator Michael E. Hastings announced that St. Coletta’s of Illinois has been awarded a $150,000 capital grant through the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity. The funding will support critical infrastructure improvements at the nonprofit’s Tinley Park campus.

“This $150,000 investment is not just about improving facilities — it’s about strengthening an organization that is central to our community,” said Hastings (D-Frankfort). “By upgrading St. Coletta’s infrastructure, we are ensuring that residents with developmental disabilities and families in need of mental health care have access to safe, modern spaces where they can receive the care and support they deserve.”

Read more …

Hastings meets with St. Coletta’s leadership to address service efficiencies, Medicaid access and state payment processes

TINLEY PARK — State Senator Michael E. Hastings recently visited St. Coletta’s of Illinois to meet with CEO Heather Benedick and discuss how the state can better support organizations that provide critical services to individuals with developmental disabilities and families seeking mental health care.

“St. Coletta’s is an anchor for families who rely on these services,” said Hastings (D-Frankfort). “They not only provide quality care for individuals with developmental disabilities, but they also accept Medicaid patients and ensure mental health therapy is available to those who need it most. By working to streamline payment processes and foster partnerships with other providers, we can build a stronger, more efficient system of care for our community.”

Read more …

Hastings’ bill to ensure vet tech training signed into law

SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Michael E. Hastings’ measure to ensure anyone practicing as a veterinary technician is licensed and trained from an accredited program was signed into law on Friday.

“Veterinarians go through a lot of hard to work to become certified,” said Hastings (D-Frankfort). “Now we can reward our certified vet techs by raising the bar in the field.”

House Bill 3360 requires anyone referring to themselves as a veterinary technician to be licensed with the Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. The bill ensures veterinary technicians have graduated from an accredited program and passed the exam required for the license. The bill also requires vet techs to visibly display their license in their office.

Read more …