Advocates for Aging Care Secures Certificate of Need Approval for New Skilled Nursing Facility

Advocates for Aging Care proudly announces that it has received Certificate of Need (CON) approval to build a new skilled nursing facility in Champaign County, marking a major milestone in the organization's mission to expand access to high-quality long-term care for older adults.

A delegation of volunteers from the nonprofit, joined by State Senator Paul Faraci, traveled to Bolingbrook on Tuesday to testify before the Illinois Department of Public Health’s Health Facilities and Services Review Board. Approval clears the way for the development of an innovative skilled nursing facility designed to address the growing shortage of skilled nursing beds in the region while redefining the standard of care through a person-centered approach.

"This approval represents an important step forward for older adults and families throughout our community," said State Senator Paul Faraci. "We are grateful to Champaign County residents who have supported this vision, and to Advocates for Aging Care’s Steering Committee for their hard work and dedication. I look forward to supporting AAC as they create a facility that provides compassionate, high-quality care in an environment where residents can thrive."

The planned facility will feature 120 skilled nursing beds designed around evidence-based, resident-centered care principles that promote dignity, independence, and quality of life. The project is intended to help meet the increasing demand for skilled nursing services while supporting families seeking high-quality care close to home.

Since its founding, Advocates for Aging Care has worked with healthcare leaders, community partners, and advocates to address the critical shortage of skilled nursing capacity in Champaign County. The organization envisions a unique model of skilled care that combines clinical excellence with innovative design, enhanced staff support, and meaningful partnerships to improve outcomes for residents.

"This milestone reflects years of collaboration and advocacy by community leaders who recognized the urgent need for additional skilled nursing resources," said Cathy Emanuel, AAC’s Steering Committee Chair. "We are excited to move into the next phase of planning and fundraising and remain committed to delivering a facility that serves our community for generations to come. We thank Senator Faraci for continuing to champion this effort on the State level."

Planning, fundraising, and pre-construction activities will continue over the coming months, with additional project updates to be shared as development progresses.

About Advocates for Aging Care

Advocates for Aging Care is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving access to exceptional long-term care services for older adults in Champaign County. Through innovation, collaboration, and community engagement, the organization is working to develop a new model for skilled nursing care that emphasizes dignity, quality, and person-directed living.