What We Offer
What is a CIL?
A Center for Independent Living (CIL) is a community-based nonprofit organization that advocates for the rights of people with disabilities and provides services to help them live independently. CILs are often run by individuals with disabilities and offer a range of support, such as peer counseling, skills training, advocacy, and assistance with accessing resources like housing, education, and employment. Their mission is to empower people with disabilities to take control of their own lives and participate fully in their communities.
CILs provide five core services: peer counseling, independent living skills training, advocacy, information and referral, and transition services, such as youth transition and support for those moving from institutions to the community.
Advocacy
Championing the rights of individuals with disabilities, working to remove systemic barriers, and promoting accessibility and inclusion in all aspects of community life. This can include individual advocacy to assist people in accessing services and systemic advocacy to change laws and policies.
Information and REferral
Connecting individuals with disabilities to resources, services, and supports that can help them live independently. This includes providing information on housing, transportation, healthcare, employment, and other essential services.
Independent Living Skills Training: Offering training and education to help individuals with disabilities develop the skills they need to live independently. This may include skills related to budgeting, cooking, personal care, transportation, and other areas.
Peer Support: Facilitating opportunities for individuals with disabilities to connect with and support each other. Peer support provides a sense of community, shared experiences, and mutual encouragement. 1
Independent Living Skills Training
Offering training and education to help individuals with disabilities develop the skills they need to live independently. This may include skills related to budgeting, cooking, personal care, transportation, and other areas.
Peer Support
Facilitating opportunities for individuals with disabilities to connect with and support each other. Peer support provides a sense of community, shared experiences, and mutual encouragement. 1
Transition Services
Assisting individuals with disabilities in transitioning to new living situations, such as moving from a nursing home to a community setting, or from school to independent adulthood.