A Community Living Facility (CLF) in Illinois is a small group home where people with intellectual or developmental disabilities (IDD) can live in a more independent, home-like setting. It is meant for adults who do not need heavy medical care but still need some daily support to stay safe, healthy, and active.
CLFs are licensed by the State of Illinois, which means the state checks them to make sure they follow rules, keep people safe, and provide good care.
What a CLF Looks Like
A CLF usually:
Looks like a regular house in a neighborhood
Has up to 16 people living there (most have 8–16 residents)
Has bedrooms, bathrooms, a kitchen, living room, and common areas
Feels like a community home, not a hospital or institution
This helps residents feel included in normal community life.
Who Lives in a CLF?
A CLF is for adults with IDD who:
Can do many things on their own but still need some support
Want to live in the community instead of a large facility
Do not need constant nursing care
Do not need intensive behavioral support
Need steady help with daily living, learning new skills, or managing health needs
Residents may get help with things like cooking, cleaning, taking medicine, budgeting, or getting around town.
What Support Does a CLF Provide?
A Community Living Facility gives:
24-hour staff support, but not intense medical care
Help with daily living skills
bathing
dressing
laundry
cooking
cleaning
Help with medication
Teaching skills to increase independence
Recreation and community activities
Transportation to appointments or day programs
Safety supervision
Emotional support
The goal is for people to be as independent as possible while still having help when they need it.
What Makes a CLF Different?
CLFs:
Are smaller than big facilities like SODCs or ICF/DDs
Are more home-like and community-based
Focus on independence, not medical treatment
Have less medical staffing but still follow strict rules
Give people a chance to live more like other adults in the community
Rules and Oversight
CLFs must follow:
Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) rules
Safety and health standards
Staff training rules
Rights and privacy protections
Regular inspections
These rules make sure people are treated with respect, live in a clean and safe home, and get the support they need.
The Main Goal of a CLF
The goal is to help each person:
Live in the community
Make choices about their daily life
Learn new skills
Be as independent as possible
Stay safe, healthy, and supported
Build friendships and take part in regular activities
