In the late 1970s, Susan Friend moved away from her family’s farm in central Illinois to begin what would be a dedicated career in providing at outlet for recreational activities.

Friend began working at the South East Association for Special Parks and Recreation based in Downers Grove. This summer she is celebrating her 30th anniversary with the organization.

Today, SEASPAR serves 11 communities providing year-round recreation services to people with disabilities.

“At the time I was in college, special education recreation associations weren’t formed. Ones in DuPage County were just getting off the ground,” Friend said. “It was a new area with my degree. I had some experience through volunteer work. I was able to convince them to give me a shot at the job and they did.”

For the past three years Friend has served as the organizations executive director. She said she has seen SEASPAR grow tremendously, adding on seven more communities since she began.

Friend said some of her favorite memories of the job include watching the program participants grow.

“Watching some of the participants just barely walking and feeling their way through the world to growing up into nice men and women really gives me a perspective of this service,” Friend said.

Notable
Bachelor’s degree in recreation administration from Eastern Illinois University
Master’s degree in management from National-Louis University

RESIDENCE Lombard YEARS IN TOWN 31 FAMILY Husband, Bob, and two daughters, Jennifer and Jill

& quotable
“I’ve been here 30 some years, but feel incredibly rooted to that farm and central Illinois. The history of our family is all right there. I think growing up on a farm was a wonderful experience, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything.”

Philosophy
“You can get caught up in the day-to-day things. The ultimate thing is when you are out with the participants and you see them doing something they enjoy.”

Favorites
HOBBIES Gardening, walking with her Siberian husky, Kona, reading and biking
FOODS Steak, ice cream and pizza
SPORTS TEAM St. Louis Cardinals
MOVIE “Forest Gump”