Our Story
The Genesis Therapy Center was founded over 37 years ago by Cathy Fairfield, Bruce Bonecutter, and Mike Ideran. It was founded on two core principles: delivering care to clients and offering support and care to therapists. With an initial loan of $5,000, Cathy and Mike initiated the development of Genesis. Despite early challenges and uncertainty, we have achieved sustained growth over the years and are dedicated to advancing the counseling profession by serving as a training site for emerging professionals. By providing consistent encouragement, comprehensive instruction, and ongoing support, we have effectively guided and prepared many individuals pursuing careers in counseling. While navigating various changes in the field and successes, Genesis has remained resilient and continues its mission. In planning for the future, Genesis is committed to continuing its role as an essential resource for supporting mental health within our communities.
Community Care Program
As a not-for-profit counseling agency, our mission is to provide quality counseling services to individuals, couples, and families regardless of their financial means. Our Community Care Program provides services (on a sliding fee scale) to those in the communities we serve who have limited income and the ability to pay. We secure funding through our biannual fundraising events, donations, and grants, enabling us to subsidize counseling costs.
Fundraising Events
Each year, we host two fundraising events, one in the spring and another in the fall. These occasions offer a range of activities suited for families and/or adults and featured raffle items. Our spring event is designed as an adult-friendly gathering with engaging activities and games, while the fall event is a family-oriented bowling activity. We encourage all members of our community to participate and support our efforts to raise funds for our Community Care Program. To learn more about our upcoming fundraising event, check out our Events Page.
For our fundraising events, we partner with local businesses through sponsorships that strengthen our community ties. Sponsoring an event will not only provide crucial support to those in need but also offer you significant brand visibility and the opportunity to demonstrate corporate social responsibility to an engaged audience. Our sponsors are promoted locally through various promotional print and digital channels in accordance with the selected sponsorship. Our tier system for our events is as follows:
$250- Partner Sponsorship
$500 – Premier Sponsorship
$1,000 – Presenting Sponsorship
“Over the past three years, our therapists have conducted more than 4,500 counseling sessions for individuals, couples, and families experiencing financial challenges”. – Dr. Catherine E. Fairfield, Executive Director
Highlights From Our Fall Event
How You Can Help
Every donation helps someone take courageous steps toward mental wellness. Your tax-deductible donation may cover a client’s single visit, or ongoing support and generosity opens the door to care that is compassionate, confidential, and deeply needed.
What Your Support Covers
- $40 — Funds one counseling session, offering a safe space for someone to be heard, supported, and guided.
- $200 — Covers five sessions, helping individuals build trust, process challenges, and begin lasting healing.
“531,000 adults in Illinois reported needing mental health treatment but not receiving it between 2018-2019 . Cost is a prevailing factor in not receiving treatment.” - NAMI
