A group of advocates from Sertoma Star Services proudly traveled to Springfield on April 9 and 10 to support two critical efforts. The advocates consisted of individuals who receive support for intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), those living with mental illness working toward recovery, and Sertoma Star staff members.

On Wednesday, the group attended in support of the They Deserve More campaign. This effort seeks a much-needed increase in Direct Support Professionals (DSP) wages. DSPs provide care for the individuals supported in IDD programs, and these programs could not exist without compassionate and committed workers. In Illinois, the State wages for these caregivers are below the poverty level. The They Deserve More coalition fights for these caring workers to receive a sustainable wage and ensure long term stability so the support system for people with disabilities doesn’t slide back into crisis.

On Thursday, individuals and staff from the Mental Health and Counseling Center at Sertoma Star Services attended the 2025 Behavioral Health Advocacy Day. Led by the Community Behavioral Healthcare Association, Illinois Association for Behavioral Health, and Illinois Association of Rehabilitation Facilities, the gathering brought together those who depend on behavioral health resources and stressed to legislators the importance of continuing investments in the vital services and supports that individuals living with mental illness rely on.