Friichtenicht to Retire After Nearly 40 years at Thrive Community Services

Ending a longstanding career in the field of developmental disabilities, Joyce Friichtenicht announces her retirement after nearly 40 years. Starting at Thrive Community Services in October of 1985 as a Recreation Therapist, she has held many positions in an effort to serve community members with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

“I have had the opportunity to be involved in the many changes that have occurred at Thrive over the years. I am proud of how we continue to evolve and improve,” states Joyce. Some of the positions she has held are Program Coordinator, Program Director, Senior Program Director and Senior Director of Community & Employment Services. For many years she accompanied participants on the annual camping trip to Ely, Minnesota.

It was through Joyce’s suggestion a location in Abingdon came to fruition. This helped better serve the participants in Abingdon and significantly decreased transportation time to the service site. She started the Seniors program at Thrive, which provided focus and specialized programming.

A longtime resident of Knox County, Friichtenicht has been an active member of Galesburg Lions Club for over 20 years, chairing the vision committee for the past several years. She has served on the Transition Planning Council, volunteered for Prairie Players and WIAR. Currently she is the co-chair of the Human Rights & Behavior Management committee, which provides programming insight and approval for individuals who live at home.

Join us in celebrating this milestone retirement Wednesday, August 6 from 3 - 6pm at the Hub, Thrive’s downtown location at 143 E Main Street, Galesburg, IL 61401. A virtual option for out of town guests is available. Please email mcrowl@thrivegalesburg.org for more details.

Established in 1956, Thrive Community Services, formerly KCCDD, has a long history of advocating and providing services for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Galesburg. Current programs include community day services, community employment services, SOAR respite program and Gordon Behrents Senior Center. Today, the organization serves over 300 individuals.

For more information please contact Dylana Larson at dlarson@thrivegalesburg.org or call 309-344-2600 ext. 1204.