Celebrate 65 Years with Us!
We’re excited to invite you to join us in celebrating a major milestone: our 65th anniversary! In honor of this milestone, we have a full calendar of events planned, including:
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Classic and brand-new on-campus events
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Fun business promotions
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The grand reopening of our Farmyard renovation in the spring
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Our 65th Anniversary Gala
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…and much more!
Check out our full Calendar of Events page here, and be sure to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and subscribe to our email list to get first dibs on registration for select events!
Our Story
It all began in 1961, when Bob Terese and Corinne Owen opened a small pet shop on Chicago’s State Street. While it was like many other small businesses of its time, it had one key difference: all 12 employees had developmental disabilities.
Bob and Corinne believed that everyone deserved a productive, fulfilling life, which included meaningful employment. When they opened the doors for the first time, they planted the seeds of an idea that would grow into the thriving organization we are today—where adults with developmental disabilities continue to learn, work, and flourish.
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Growth and Community Support
During the State Street years, The Lambs gained recognition from the Chicago community, including individual donors, corporations, and foundations. Their support validated the mission: the Lambs Pet Shop was not only providing employment opportunities but also becoming a model program for others to follow.
In 1965, Bob and Corinne expanded their vision, moving 35 miles north near Libertyville, Illinois, thanks to philanthropist W. Clement Stone, who purchased and ultimately donated a 70-acre farm. With the help of family and donors, a restored century-old barn became one of the area’s largest pet stores. The additional space allowed them to create new businesses and bring more adults with developmental disabilities into the program.
Our Legacy Today
Over the years, we have continued to grow, opening new businesses and programs that provide meaningful work and community engagement for our participants, including:
…and much more!
As we celebrate 65 years of growth, we invite you to join us in honoring the past, present, and future of Lambs Farm.