Individual Donors of Distinction:
Ryan Erickson and U-CARC

In 2006, a handful of socially conscious University of Chicago students took it upon themselves to make a difference in the lives of persons with developmental disabilities. These students created "U-CARC" – The University of Chicago's Chapter of CARC. The group was soon granted official status as a recognized student organization from the University of Chicago with the purpose of furthering CARC's mission within the collegiate community.

Since day one, Ryan Erickson has been an essential member--his dedication and leadership has kept the group strong and focused. U-CARC has indeed advanced CARC's mission of providing quality services to persons with developmental disabilities and other special needs that promote choice, independence and community integration by volunteering at several agency programs.

Initially, U-CARC established a formalized volunteer program at the agency's Senior Center. Their weekly two-hour visits provided an infusion of energy and support and friendships developed quickly. These basic interactions affirmed and delighted the senior citizens and U-CARC member's consistent presence added a compelling level of support.

In the spring of 2009, Ryan approached CARC about creating a new program in Hyde Park…an idea he and fellow U-CARC members considered to be an optimal way of giving back to the community while benefiting CARC. The result was a very popular resource for children enrolled in CARC's Foster Care Program…and a new mentoring program was created.

"This turned out to be a perfect match. Mentoring and tutoring programs are popular among the undergrads here at the U of C, so I knew it would be a rewarding experience for U-CARC members and a good way to recruit new volunteers."

Ryan Erickson

Needless to say, the boys and girls in CARC's Foster Care Program were delighted as well. This simple interaction epitomizes the importance and value of U-CARC. The mentoring program was more than a way to help boys and girls with their homework; this program provided one-on-one interaction with new, caring young adults and made the children feel as extraordinary as they are. Homework became less of a task…it was something of which the children looked forward to doing…as did the dedicated U-CARC mentors.

In all of the time U-CARC has benefited CARC and the people we support, there has been one constant: Ryan Erickson. From his freshman to senior year, Ryan has been the heart and soul of this incredible group. We extend our deepest gratitude to Ryan and all of the present and prior U-CARC members for a truly impressive level of dedication and genuine desire to help people with special needs of all ages and abilities.