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New members must contact a Community Engagement Coordinator to schedule a New Member Orientation and begin the membership process. Membership information should be completed in full and necessary documents provided to complete registration; The Community Engagement Coordinator will be the point of contact during this process. Please note that participation in an onsite program at CEL must occur prior to new members attending community excursions. Speak with one of the Community Engagement team members to set up an appointment: Cassara Cole (Community Engagement Coordinator), 847-315-0074 or Brittany Mussen (Community Engagement Supervisor), 847-315-9890.

We recognize that some members may require additional assistance to have a meaningful, safe, and successful experience. During the new membership process, the program team will assess needs to ensure necessary supports are in place, particularly for community-based activities. Our primary responsibility is the safety and security of all members, staff, volunteers, and community partners.

Payment is preferred in full at the time of registration. Payment plans can be arranged with a credit card on file. In order to keep your account current, any balances are due in full prior to an event, excursion, or recurring program. Please note that programs not meeting minimum enrollment may be subject to cancellation.

• A cancellation that occurs prior to the start of a weekly program will incur a service fee of $50 that will offset the refund. No refunds will be given after the first day of the weekly program.
• For special events and excursions, cancellations must be made 2 weeks prior to be eligible for a credit or refund. If tickets have been purchased for an excursion, the cost of tickets will not be reimbursed unless the spot is taken by another member. If an excursion is canceled by the venue or CEL, the program team will offer alternatives depending on the type of excursion and reason for cancellation. CEL has little control over venues that may cancel events.
•  If a medical condition prevents a member from participating in a program, a doctor’s note is required and will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis for credit or refund.
• Members who move out of the area will be eligible for a refund once the address change is confirmed.

We strive to accommodate the needs of our members and will do our best to meet requests. In some cases, particularly meals that are planned for a group event or those in the community, it may be difficult to ensure special menu choices. When snacks are offered during programs, members must bring their own gluten-free or dairy-free items as an alternative.