Melvin Brooks Appointed Chairman of the Board for Habilitative Systems Inc.

CHICAGO, Oct. 8 /PRNewswire/ -- Melvin Brooks, attorney at the Chicago office of The Cochran Firm, has been named chairman of the board for Chicago-based Habilitative Systems Inc.

Habilitative Systems Inc. seeks to alleviate human suffering by developing and providing resources that promote maximum independence, personal responsibility and dignity for individuals with mental, physical, social and emotional disabilities. The agency has 14 sites across the South Side and West Side and administers more than 50 programs that provide support and services to more than 7,000 people annually. Brooks has been a member of the Habilitative Systems board of directors since 2006, and he will serve as chairman for a one-year term with the potential for annual board reelection.

"Habilitative Systems is a visionary and proactive agency which recognizes that the key to solving many of our social ills is delivering services and resources with a goal towards early intervention and prevention," Brooks says.  "As chairperson I intend to further that focus and increase HSI's visibility within the private sector, demonstrating the agency's commitment to those most in-need."

"In his four years of board service, Mel has brought a level of dedication and focus to HSI that has allowed us to expand services and reach segments to support our development and fundraising endeavors.  In his role as chairman, I am hopeful that Mel will help us navigate this turbulent period for human services and further achieve our mission," says Habilitative Systems President & CEO Donald J. Dew.

Brooks, who specializes in representing victims in wrongful death and serious personal injury matters, has been with The Cochran Firm since 2003. He is a member of the American Trial Lawyers Association, the Illinois Trial Lawyers Association and the Federal Trial Bar.  His legal career also includes stints at the City of Chicago and Costello, McMahon & Burke, Ltd.

"Mel is a champion for the disenfranchised, and I am excited that he will be leading the board," says immediate past HSI board chair Cynthia Washington. "He is a powerful litigator, and I have no doubt that those skills will benefit the organization and guide the body to the next level as we work to make a difference in the lives of the underserved."

"I am proud of Mel's undertaking. His volunteerism is consistent with our firm's commitment to the Chicago community, and he will enjoy Cochran & Montgomery's full support," says James D.  Montgomery, Sr.

ABOUT HABILITATIVE SYSTEMS, INC

Founded in 1978, Habilitative Systems, Inc. is a multifaceted human service agency that exists to alleviate human suffering by developing and providing resources to promote maximum independence, personal responsibility and dignity for mentally, physically, socially and emotionally disabled persons. It operates more than 14 sites across Chicago; please visit www.habilitative.org for more information.

SOURCE Habilitative Systems, Inc.