Little City, Big Voices

Little City Foundation
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  • Non-Profit

Sharing the real stories of people who love, empower and champion children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities and mental health challenges.

  1. 4 days ago

    Policy, Advocacy and the Future of Disability Services - Part 1 (Guest: Kathy Carmody)

    On this episode of Little City, Big Voices, we’re joined by Kathy Carmody, CEO of the Institute on Public Policy for People with Disabilities. With more than 40 years of advocacy experience, Kathy shares her insights on Medicaid cuts, new federal requirements, and the policy issues shaping the future of Illinois’ IDD community. In this first part of our two-part conversation, we dive into why these issues matter and why advocacy is more important than ever.

  2. 11 Aug

    Designing Possibility: IKEA, Little City, and the Bell Family Arts Center (Guest: Todd Mrowice)

    Todd Mrowice of IKEA Schaumburg joins Little City, Big Voices to share how a simple campus visit grew into a meaningful partnership that helped transform the new Bell Family Arts Center. Todd talks about community engagement, corporate partnerships, and IKEA’s role in furnishing and designing a space built to support creativity, connection, and skill-building. The conversation comes just ahead of the Bell Family Arts Center ribbon cutting on August 15, celebrating the many partners who helped bring the new space to life.

  3. 17 Jun

    Empowering Through Recreation: A Story of Success (Guests: Mike Cusick & Nick D.)

    In this episode, we sit down with Mike Cusick, Director of Recreation Services, and Nick D., a Little City resident and Special Olympics athlete, to talk about the importance of recreation, connection, and community. Nick shares his experiences, interests, and the role meaningful activities and relationships play in building confidence, independence, and a sense of belonging.

  4. 22 Apr

    Big Footsteps and Bigger Connections - Guest: Andrea Biwer

    Andrea Biwer has spent 30 years building relationships across the Chicagoland business community, and in this episode she talks with host Rich Bobby about why those connections matter beyond the bottom line. As president of the Schaumburg Business Association, she shares how partnerships between local businesses and nonprofits like Little City create real, lasting impact.

  5. 25 Mar

    Creating Space to Shine - Guest: Julie Bell

    On this episode of Little City Big Voices, Julie Bell shares a personal perspective on the power of creativity and connection. Inspired by her sister Andy, she reflects on her belief that art can open doors, creating opportunities for expression, learning, and meaningful social engagement for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.   Julie also recognizes the people who make that impact possible every day, expressing gratitude for DSPs and staff whose compassion and commitment help create fuller, more vibrant lives. It is a conversation rooted in love, advocacy, and the idea that when we invest in creativity and care, everyone benefits.

  6. 27 Jan

    Families: Take a Breath, You Are Not Alone Guest: Samantha Alloway

    Little City, Big Voices welcomes Samantha Alloway, Executive Director of the Arc of Illinois, to the podcast this week. A former Director of Government Relations at Little City, Samantha now advocates for Illinois families supporting loved ones with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). She shares her powerful personal story—including her cancer journey and her son’s Autism Spectrum Disorder diagnosis at age 3—and how those experiences fuel her work today. Under Samantha’s leadership, the Arc of Illinois gives families a place to turn, take a breath, and know they are not alone.

  7. 19/12/2025

    Human First: Mental Health Advocacy - Guest: Quinette Hobson-Robb

    Quinette Hobson-Robb, Executive Director of the Township of Schaumburg Mental Health Board, highlights the importance of human connection, prevention, and community support in mental health advocacy.

  8. 09/12/2025

    Living Big: Howard's Journey Guests: Little City Resident Howard and Sarah Sanariz, Employee Development Operations Manager

    Little City resident Howard and Sarah Sanariz, Employee Development Operations Manager, talk about Howard’s journey, his work history, his involvement in Special Olympics, and the support that helped him succeed. An inspiring look at what a meaningful life can look like at Little City.

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About

Sharing the real stories of people who love, empower and champion children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities and mental health challenges.

Information

  • Creator
    Little City Foundation
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    14
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Little City Foundation
  • Show Website
    Little City, Big Voices