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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.