July 23, 2026
Breese, IL- Since 1972, Community Link has been an innovator in providing work, learning, and recreational opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities. Recently, the organization has made it a priority to give participants more choices to fulfill a meaningful day and engage with the community.
One initiative has been a new Community Partners program. Partners share Community Link’s vision to build a community where everyone is valued for their presence and contributions. Partnerships provide opportunities for local businesses to connect with Community Link participants year-round, beyond annual events.
On June 26, Poettker Construction hosted a tour of the Columbia High School job site for many of the Community Link participants of the Metro location. Marketing Administrators, Ciara Perkes and Jaylah Bergmann kicked off the tour with a proper tutorial of the safety equipment before Project Manager, Ryan Fuller began the tour. The tour featured the brand new, state of the art auditorium and music rooms, as well multiple new classrooms. The group saw a wide range of the stages of production of a major project, with some rooms completed, and new sections at the early construction phase.
On July 8, participants from Community Link’s Breese East and West locations got their fill on construction at the Mascoutah High School job site. Once again, the tour began with Marketing Administrator, Ciara Perkes and Marketing Intern, Maya Bedard giving the Community Link participants the proper safety equipment run down. Project Manager, Ben Menke, and Superintendent, Eric Kohnen, began the tour and explained how they were setting steel and building walls that will soon provide a new front entrance to the school. Drone Operator, Logan Decker ended the tour with a drone showing and explained how the newest programs and features helped them throughout all stages of their projects.
Community Link participants enjoyed learning about all the different processes and asking many questions throughout both tours. Poettker Construction has been a valued supporter of Community Link for many years. The company stepped up once again to show just that.
Community Link, a nonprofit agency, is dedicated to enhancing the lives of individuals with disabilities through a person-centered approach that promotes self-directed living choices and community integration opportunities. The mission of Community Link is to provide opportunities for choice, growth, and independence for adults with developmental disabilities. For more information visit commlink.org.