• Council Links
• Resource Links
• Advocacy Links
• Government Links

Council Links

http://www.azheadspine.org

Arizona Governor's Council on Spinal and Head Injuries

http://www.acdhh.org

Arizona Commission for the Deaf and the Hard of Hearing

http://www.know-the-ada.com

ARIZONA OFFICE FOR AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES

http://www.de.state.az.us/rsa/gcbvi.asp

The Governor's Council on Blindness and Visual Impairment

http://www.de.state.az.us/rsa/srac.asp

ARIZONA STATE REHABILITATION COUNCIL

Resource Links

http://www.pascenter.org

PAS Center for Personal Assistance Services.

http://www.azlat.org

Arizona Loans for Assistive Technology (AzLAT)

http://www.cazad.org

The Connecting Arizona Advocates, Inc. (CazAD) is an umbrella organization run exclusively for, of, by deaf, hard of hearing and "those who deals with us" people in Arizona.

http://www.pbaaz.org

Prevent Blindness Arizona

http://www.azspinal.com

Arizona United Spinal Cord Injury Association

http://www.arizona-at.net

Arizona Assistive Technology

http://www.acdl.com

Arizona Center For Disability Law

http://www.phoenix.gov/MCDI/mcdiidx.html

Phoenix Mayor's Commission on Disability Issues

Advocacy Links

www.azdisabilityadvocacy.org

Arizona Disability Advocacy Coalition

http://www.azdisabilityvote.org

Just Vote Arizona Disability Vote Coalition

Government Links

http://www.de.state.az.us/rsa

Rehabilitation Services Administration

http://www.pafcoalition.org
http://www.ssa.gov/work (Social Security Website)
http://www.sba.gov (Small Business Assoc. Website)
http://www.nls.org (Neighborhood Legal Services)
http://www.usworkforce.org
http://www.rcep7.org (good site for SSI calculations!)
http://www.yourtickettowork.com
http://www.passplan.org

Other helpful links:

International and National

Great Lakes States Region
(Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio)

Middle Atlantic States Region
(Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania)

Midwestern States Region
(Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota)

New England States Region
(Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Vermont)

Pacific States Region
(California, Oregon, Washington)

Rocky Mountain States Region
(Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Utah, Wyoming)

Southern States Region
(Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia)

Southwestern States Region
(Arizona, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Texas)

Australia

Canada

Center for Self Determination has a mission to "change the nature of the support and service system for individuals with disabilities, using the principles of self-determination to help all persons create the lives they want, connected to and with their communities." The center offers assistance to both individuals and organizations. Information is not only disseminated via their website but also via resource lists and their informative newsletter. For more information, call (734) 213-5220 or e-mail selfdetermination@earthlink.net.

The Design Linc has a national listing of Independent Living Centers by state. They provide contact information, such as name, link to web page, physical addresses and telephone numbers of Centers for Independent Living.

ILRU Research and Training Center on Independent Living sponsored by the NIDRR and part of its National Technical Assistance Project for Independent Living offers a directory of 350 programs throughout the United States for $8.50. Ask the ILRU to search for you, using their database of Independent Living Programs. Contact ILRU at: 2323 South Shephard, Suite 1000, Houston, Texas 77019, (713)520-0232(V) or (713)520-5136 (TDD).

Independent Living website offers a variety of resources relating to independent living including training materials, technical assistance and information on personal assistance, advocacy, access, legislation and peer support. Their website also features links to various organizations, and a personal assistant locator.

Institute of Independent Living offers listing for independent living centers in almost 20 countries. They offer a state by state listing of CIL's in the United States. Other on-line services include Vacation Home Exchange, Global Networking, Assistant Referral, Library, Discussion Forums and Books on Disability.

Internet Resources for Special Children (IRSC) has a centers for independent living section that offers listings of CIL's in each state and other parts of the world, as well as disability links, news and more.

June Isaacson Kailes, Disability Policy Consultant offers an independent living section that contains links to CIL's by state, state associations, general information and more.

National Program Office on Self-Determination offers a great deal of information on the concept of self-determination. Their website offers a discussion forum on individual funding issues and self-determination, a calendar of events, an informative newsletter, helpful links to online resources and a listing of self-determination publications. For more information, write to Institute on Disability, 7 Leavitt Lane, Suite 101, Durham, NH 03824-3522.

Open Your World - Independent Living offers an excellent resource page relating to achieving independence. Particularly, they offer self-assessment tools, links to independent living centers throughout the United States, and links to other helpful associations and organizations.

U.S. Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA), Office of Special Education and Rehabilitation Service, United States Department of Education provides a description of the Centers for Independent Living Program from the national level. The RSA has an Office of Independent Living. They fund 150 centers across the United States. Contact this office and they should be able to help you: 330 C. Street, S.W., Switzer Bldg, Washington DC 20202, (207)732-1400.

Yahoo provides a listing of Center for Independent Living on the Internet in their Society and Culture: Disabilities: Independent Living: Centers for Independent Living category. Search for the CIL nearest to you.

Great Lakes Disability and Business Technical Assistance Center provides a fairly complete list of Centers for Independent Living in the area served by the Great Lakes Center by state. If you are looking for a center's address and telephone number in the state of Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Michigan, Minnesota, and Wisconsin, check out this site.

Illinois

Illinois Department of Human Services lists Centers for Independent Living in the state of Illinois.

Central Illinois Center for Independent Living is a non profit organization. The four core services the center offers include individual and system change advocacy, peer counseling and support groups, information and referral, and independent living skills training.

Chicago Mayor's Office for People with Disabilities offers Independent Living Skills (ILS) Workshops, which focus on educating and training people with disabilities to independently perform and manage their daily activities. ILS workshop topics include assertive behavior and effective communication training, personal attendant and homemaker management, nutrition and meal preparation. The workshops also offer peer counseling from people with disabilities who have transitioned into living independently. For more information, call (312) 744-7050 (Voice) or (312) 744-4964 (TDD).

Dupage Center for Independent Living is a non-profit organization in Dupage, Illinois. The four core services the center offers include individual and system change advocacy, peer counseling and support groups, information and referral, and independent living skills training. Additional services include Deaf services, personal assistant program, and technical assistance for businesses. Contact the center by e-mail at dcil@mcs.com.

Impact in Illinois serves Madison, Calhoun, Jersey, Greene, Macoupin and Bond counties. The four core services the center offers include individual and system change advocacy, peer counseling and support groups, information and referral, and independent living skills training. The website offers the history and philosophy of the independent living movement in the U.S., information on this center's personnel, programs and services, products and news. There are also several helpful and fun disability links.

Northwestern Illinois Center for Independent Living in Rock Falls, Illinois serves people with disabilities and their families in Whiteside, Lee, Carroll, Ogle and JoDaviess Counties of Illinois and will provide services to Bureau and LaSalle Counties upon request. The four core services the center offers include individual and system change advocacy, peer counseling and support groups, information and referral, and independent living skills training. Additional services include the personal assistance program, public education, outreach and technical assistance. Contact the CIL at (815) 625-7860 (V) or (815) 625-7863 (TDD).

RAMP Center for Independent Living in Rockford, Illinois stands for Regional Access and Mobilization Project, Inc. which has offices in Boone, DeKalb, Stephenson and Winnebago Counties of Illinois. Contact the Rockford office by e-mail at ramp@acrux.net. They provide independent living training, peer support, recreation opportunities, advocacy, information and referral, personal services, deaf services, and bus training.

Springfield Center for Independent Living in Springfield, Illinois serves Sangamon, Christian, Logan, Menard and Montgomery Counties of Illinois. Services include information and referral, skills training, peer counseling, advocacy, employment, personal assistance training and referral, transportation, housing assistance, serves for older blind persons, deaf services and various community services. This CIL also provides the Disability Research Network which is a statewide information/referral service. Call the DRN at (800) 447-4221 (v/tty) for information on agencies, disabilities, education, employment, adaptive equipment, funding, law, personal care, recreation, standards, statistics, and surveys.

Illinois and Iowa

Illinois/Iowa Center for Independent Living in Rock Island, Illinois and Davenport, Iowa offers four core services including individual and system change advocacy, peer counseling and support groups, information and referral, and independent living skills training. The training teaches everyday living skills needed to live independently. The training and individualized instruction can be offered at the center, in the home, in the classroom, or at another convenient location. For the blind, the center offers training in the areas of Braille, cane travel, bus travel, cooking, home management, typing, and computer literacy. Also, the center offers training in the use of assistive devices, including TTY's, signalers, and closed caption decoders.

Indiana

Comprehensive Development Centers, Inc. (CDC) is a non-profit organization located in Monticello, Indiana. Services include early intervention (infants to 3 years old), preschool special education, community-based work evaluation, transitional vocational training, supported employment and job placement services, personal, social and community services, and daily living skills training. For more information about these and other services, call (219) 583-8227.

Iowa

Black Hawk Center for Independent Living is located in Waterloo, Iowa. They offer independent living skills training, individual advocacy, system advocacy, peer counseling and support, and information and referral. For more information call toll free 888-291-7754.

Central Iowa Center for Independent Living is located in Des Moines, Iowa. They offer many programs and services, such as advocacy, peer counseling, independent living skills training, assistive equipment, socialization skills, health care, housing, transportation, financial and time management, homemaking skills, sexuality, community services, education opportunities, recreation and leisure and personal assistance program.

Michigan

Arenac Opportunities, Inc. (AOI) is a non-profit community rehabilitation organization located in Standish, Michigan. AOI provides a variety of services to disabled residents of Arenac County. Such services include vocational rehabilitation, job placement, independent living skills training, transportation, housing and recreational activities. For more information, call (517) 846-4441.

Center for Independent Living of Mid-Michigan located in Midland, Michigan provides information and referral, skills training, peer support and advocacy. Home and Community assistance program provides assistance in daily activities, personal care and accessing the community and the Transition Program for children. Contact by e-mail at CILMM@concentric.net.

Social Resources, Inc. (S.R.I.) is a non-profit agency serving adults with disabilities residing in Michigan. Services include vocational training, job placement and supported employment, skills training in a wide variety of areas, recreational activities and transportation. S.R.I. also offers four community based Adult Foster Care residences. For more information, call (586) 677-3631 (North Macomb S.R.I.), (586) 285-1967 (South Macomb S.R.I.) or e-mail socialresources@hotmail.com.

The Disability Network in Flint, Michigan serves the following counties: Genesse, Lapeer and Shiawassee. They provide peer support, information and referral, advocacy, planning for independent living, and ADA consultation. Contact the CIL at disnet@tir.com.

Minnesota

BLIND, Incorporated is a training center located in Minneapolis, Minnesota that focuses on making adjustments to blindness. They teach the skills that people who are blind need to become independent and employable such as Braille, home management, the use of a white cane, computer and assistive technology, and much more. They offer programs for children, teens, adults and senior citizens. For more information, call (612) 872-0100 or e-mail info@blindinc.org.

Courage Center is a non-profit organization located in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The center offers over 70 programs for people with varying disabilities. Specifically, they offer vocational services, medical rehabilitation education, sports and recreational opportunities, drivers education, support groups and much more. Their website also offers many links to helpful disability resources. For more information, call (763) 520-0520.

Minnesota Association of Centers for Independent Living

Center for Independent Living of Northern Minnesota (CILNM) is located in Hibbing, Minnesota. The four core services the center offers include individual and system change advocacy, peer counseling and support groups, information and referral, and independent living skills training. You can contact them by e-mail at cilnm@server.northernnet.com.

Freedom Resource Center is located in Moorhead, Minnesota. The four core services the center offers include individual and system change advocacy, peer counseling and support groups, information and referral, and independent living skills training. The training includes courses in using public transportation, managing a personal budget, dealing with insensitive and discriminatory behavior, and many more. These courses are to aid in gaining the skills that enable people to live independently. You can contact them by e-mail at Fcilfg9@mail.corpcomm.net.

Independent Lifestyles, Inc. in St. Cloud, Minnesota can be contacted by e-mail at ILCILCARA@aol.com. Independent Lifestyles serves Stearms, Benton, Sherburne, Meeker, Mille Lacs, Morrison, Kandiyohi, Wright, and Isanti counties of Minnesota. The four core services the center offers include individual and system change advocacy, peer counseling and support groups, information and referral, and independent living skills training. They also provide accessibility and socialization services and programs.

Metropolitan Center for Independent Living, Inc. in St. Paul, Minnesota serves the Minneapolis/St. Paul area and provides independent living skills, advocacy, information and referral, peer support, ADA Minnesota program, support groups, personal assistance services, ramp project, deaf independent living program and a transition program. Their training in independent living skills and deaf independent living skills include accessibility, management of personal service assistants, civil rights, communications, daily living, education, employment, equipment, financial benefits, health care, housing, recreation, and transportation.

Options: Interstate Resources Center for Independent Living in East Grand Forks, Minnesota can be contacted by e-mail at options@grandforks.polaristel.net. The four core services the center offers include individual and system change advocacy, peer counseling and support groups, information and referral, and independent living skills training.

SMILES Center for Independent Living is located in Mankato, Minnesota. The four core services the center offers include individual and system change advocacy, peer counseling and support groups, information and referral, and independent living skills training.

Southeast Minnesota Center for Independent Living (SEMCIL) in Rochester, Minnesota can be contacted by e-mail at options@grandforks.polaristel.net. The four core services the center offers include individual and system change advocacy, peer counseling and support groups, information and referral, and independent living skills training.

Southwestern Center for Independent Living in Marshall, Minnesota offers, four core services including individual and system change advocacy, peer counseling and support groups, information and referral, and independent living skills training. The training available is in activities related to daily living. Some of the areas of training are dealing with personal matters, home care management, and community access. The process includes an assessment, hands-on training, simulated environmental experience training, and training for and with significant others. You can e-mail them at swcil@means.net.

Ohio

The Ability Center of Greater Toledo provides information and referral, Equipment Loans, Independent Living Skills Training, Peer support, individual advocacy, housing services. personal assistance, financial assistance and a Consumer Resource Center and Camp Cricket. Other services include youth services, library and resource databases, featured links, disability web directories, educational advocacy and discussion groups. The website provides links to Ohio CIL's, to community resources, and CIL's across the nation. They can be contacted through their website, by telephone (419)885-5733 (Voice/TTY), or by fax (419)882-4813.

Access Center for Independent Living is located in Dayton, Ohio. They offer many programs including advocacy, information and referrals, peer support, and independent living skills training. Also, they offer REDI (Recycled Equipment Donated for Independence) Program and DIMENET (Disabled Individuals Movement for Equality NETwork). They offer numerous workshops and information on employment. For more information visit their website.

The Center for Independent Living Options, Inc. of the greater Cincinnati, Ohio/Northern Kentucky region provides individual and systems advocacy, peer support services, information and referral, independent living skills, family life education, housing information and referral, homeless disability program, ADA consultation, personal care assistance programs, community outreach activities, plan for achieving self-support, and a ramp program.

LEAP Center for Independent Living, located in Lorain, Ohio, offers independent living services, social security guidance and information, information and referral, systems advocacy, career focus, employment services, employment outreach and education and community education. For more information, visit their website or call (800) 410-5397.

Living Arrangements for the Developmentally Disabled Inc. (LADD), an organization located in Cincinnati, Ohio, offers several independent living programs for adults with developmental disabilities. Their progressive program begins with participants entering a group home located on one of several LADD campuses. As skills are better developed, individuals then transition to a campus apartment at which less supervision is required. The program concludes with LADD staff assisting individuals in locating an independent living environment off campus within the community. They also offer a community services program which assists individuals already living in a community setting with such items as money management, choices and options, community membership, health, housing and safety. Additional programs include the LIFE Program (LADD Individualized Integration and Family Education), SOAR (Services for the Ownership and Acquisition of Residences) and Community Connections Via Social Connections. For more information about these services, call (513) 861-5233.

Mid-Ohio Board for an Independent Living Environment (MOBILE) in Columbus, Ohio, is a non-profit Center for Independent Living. Programs available to individuals with disabilities living in central Ohio include such services as; advocacy, peer support, independent living skills training, information and referral, and home modification. The website features an extensive list of informative books, magazines, videos, newsletters, and Internet resources. MOBILE also publishes their own Newsletter, In Gear, which can be viewed on their website. For more information, write to 690 South High Street, Columbus, Ohio 43206 or call (614) 443-5936 (Voice) or (614) 443-5957 (TTY). You can also e-mail bev@mobileonline.org.

Wisconsin

Wisconsin Independent Living Centers Link to this page in the Wisconsin Department of Health and Family Services website under Programs and Services, Disabilities, Independent Living Centers (ILC). This directory allows you to find the Center for Independent Living in the state of Wisconsin nearest you by clicking on the name of the county in which you live. The Wisconsin Independent Living Centers provide an array of services, including: peer support, information and referral, independent living skills training, advocacy, community education, personal care and service coordination. Wisconsin Independent Living Centers also provide information and access to assistive technology as part of the WisTech Program. For information on filing a complaint about ILC services in the state of Wisconsin, contact the Wisconsin Client Assistance Program (CAP) at 1-800-3622-1290(Voice &TTY).

Access to Independence located in Madison, Wisconsin offers four core services including individual and system change advocacy, peer counseling and support groups, information and referral, and independent living skills training. They can be contacted by calling (800)363-9877.

Brown County Association for Retarded Citizens has a mission to ensure opportunities, development, and well being for all citizens with developmental disabilities. They offer several services including advocacy, daily living skills training, early intervention, family support and respite, parent support groups, supported employment as well as a grouping of Ancillary Services which include case management and address nutritious meals, community adaptation, personal needs and the overall quality of life. For more information, call (920) 498-2599 or e-mail barc@netnet.net.

Center for Independent Living for Western Wisconsin, Inc. serves Barron, Chippewa, Clark, Dunn, Eau Claire, Pepin, Pierce, Polk, Rusk and St. Croix counties of Wisconsin. They provide services in accessibility, adaptive equipment, independent living skills, peer advisement, service coordination and advocacy. In Menomonie, Wisconsin call (800) 228-3287, or in Eau Claire, Wisconsin call (715) 838-2900 (Voice) or (715) 838-2915 (TTY).

Curative Care Network provides a number of services for adults with disabilities throughout Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Such services include day services, assisting in the development of social and community living skills; vocational services, providing vocational evaluation, assessment, training, and consultation; community employment services, assisting persons seeking employment to choose, obtain, and retain integrated employment in the community or in their own businesses; and supported living services, providing training, support, and supervision to maximize independence. For more information about these services and others, call (414) 257-4057.

Great Rivers Independent Living Services in LaCrosse, Wisconsin serves Buffalo, Crawford, Grant, Iowa, Jackson, Juneau, La Crosse, LaFayette, Monroe, Richland, Sauk, Trempealeau, and Vernon Counties and the Ho-Chunk Nation in Wisconsin. Great Rivers provides advocacy, independent living skills training, information and referral, peer support, service coordination, housing services, assistive technology/device loan center, ADA, community awareness, and Ho-Chunk Outreach Services program. They can be reached at (888) 474-5745.

Independence First in Milwaukee, Wisconsin serves the metro Milwaukee area. They provide housing services, sports and recreation programs, personal assistance services, social and leisure programs, Interpreter Coordination Services, schools outreach, service coordination, assistive technology, ADA consultation IDEALS , addictions recovery, benefits coordination and Adventures in Independent Living Camp. Independence First offers various training in independent living, advocacy, and more. The center offers independent living skills training for transition into the community. Independent living skills include training in the areas of money, home management, housekeeping, communication self-advocacy, prevocational skills, socialization and hygiene. Also, personal assistance services are offered that include training for the consumer and the personal attendants in their employer/employee roles and responsibilities.

Independent Living Program is sponsored by United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) of Southeastern Wisconsin. This Independent Living Program (ILP) offers assistance to individuals with cerebral palsy or other developmental disabilities achieve more independent lives. The program is based on individual need and can include intensive support to obtain information on the essential components that make independent living possible. The program provides residential options including housing and attendant care; operates apartment programs in the county; offers community support services such as follow-along (follow-up) for adults living in their own apartments; includes independent living skills training, advocacy and counseling, self direction, budgeting, arranging transportation and identifying financial resources, participation in employment/day services/meaningful activity and other independent living skills. ILP staff work within the community, as consultants to consumers, their families and various community groups to solve problems and increase awareness regarding independent living.

Midstate Independent Living Center in Rhinelander, Wisconsin serves Adams, Florence, Forest, Langlade, Lincoln, Marathon, Oneida, Portage, Taylor, Vilas and Wood counties of Wisconsin. The four core services the center offers include individual and system change advocacy, peer counseling and support groups, information and referral, and independent living skills training. Other services provided include WisTEch, Architectural Accessibility, Public Education, Recreation, and Service Coordination. You can contact them at (800)311-5044.

Milwaukee Center for Independent Living (MCFI) is a non-profit, community-based rehabilitation facility, serving residents of Milwaukee County. Some of the many programs offered include; Adult Day Services, Employment Services, the Work Opportunity Resource Center, Mental Health Services, Community Living Program, and the Office of Family Resources. All of the programs are designed to assist individuals with disabilities learn to live and work independently within the community. For more information, visit their website or call (414) 272-1344 (Voice) or (414) 272-9200 (TTY).

North Country Independent Living in Superior, Wisconsin serves Ashland, Bayfield, Burnett, Douglas, Iron, Price, Sawyer, and Washburn counties and Bad River, Lac Court Oreilles, and Red Cliff reservations in Wisconsin. The four core services the center offers include individual and system change advocacy, peer counseling and support groups, information and referral, and independent living skills training. Other services provided include transition, technology, accessibility, recreation and public eduation. Call them toll free at (800)924-1220.

Options for Independent Living located in Green Bay, Wisconsin serves 17 counties in Northeast Wisconsin. The four core services the center offers include individual and system change advocacy, peer counseling and support groups, information and referral, and independent living skills training. Additional services provided include housing referral, public education, rehabilitation technology, deaf and hard of hearing services, et...Program, WisTech Try-Out, HOME program, and LEND Program. They can be contacted at (888)465-1515.

Society's Assets in Racine, Wisconsin serves Racine, Kenosha, Jefferson, Rock and Walworth counties of Wisconsin. The four core services the center offers include individual and system change advocacy, peer counseling and support groups, information and referral, and independent living skills training. Additional services provided include Supportive Home Care, Adaptive Equipment and Home Modifications, ADA Services, Financial and Medical Benefits Consultation, Housing and Transportation Information, and TRS. They can be contacted by calling (800)378-9128.

Southern Service Center for Independent Living is located in Mineral Point, Wisconsin.

Stevens Point Center for Independent Living located in Stevens Point, Wisconsin serves Adams, Florence, Forest, Langlade, Lincoln, Marathon, Oneida, Portage, Taylor, Vilas and Wood counties of Wisconsin. The four core services the center offers include individual and system change advocacy, peer counseling and support groups, information and referral, and independent living skills training. They also provide services in WisTEch, Architectural Accessibility, Public Education, Recreation, and Service Coordination. Call them at (800)382-8484.

Transitional Living Services, Inc. (TLS), serving Milwaukee, Ozaukee, Racine and Waukesha counties, provides an array of programs and services designed to assist consumers with persistent mental illness in their recovery. More specifically, TLS offers an outpatient medical clinic, residential services, disability benefits counseling, and community support services such as advocacy, case planning, medication management, life skills training, prevocational training, and money management. TLS also offers a community employment program. For more information, call (414) 476-9675 (Voice) or (414) 476-9617 (TTY).

Wisconsin Coalition of Independent Living Centers is the state's coalition consisting of eight Independent living centers. They can be reached at (800)690-6665.

ICON Community Services, a non-profit organization serving Northern Virginia, Maryland and Washington D.C., has a mission to "broaden public awareness and improve access to opportunities in the community for people who have historically been excluded because of disability." They provide employment services and community living services, which provide instruction on budget management, food and nutrition management, medication management, public transportation, relationship management, and community access. They also offer specialized services targeted toward the needs of individuals who have experienced brain injury, which include an intensive, short-term Life Skills Training program and the six-part seminar series Setting Your Sights, which is aimed at survivors who are entering the workforce and their families. For more information, call (703) 548-4048 or e-mail info@iconservices.org.

Melwood, a non-profit organization serving Maryland, Virginia and Washington DC, offers a wide variety of services designed to maximize the independence of people with developmental disabilities. Programs offer supported living services, family support services, vocational services, independent living skills training and recreational activities. For more information, contact them at (301) 599-8000.

Delaware

The Easter Seals Independent Living Center is a non-profit organization located in New Castle, Delaware. The four core services the center offers include individual and system change advocacy, peer counseling and support groups, information and referral, and independent living skills training. To find out about additional programs and services call (800) 677-3800 (Voice) or (302) 324-4482 (TDD) or write to 24 Reads Way Corporate Commons, New Castle, Delaware 19720.

Independent Resources Inc. is a non-profit organization located in New Castle, Delaware. The four core services the center offers include individual and system change advocacy, peer counseling and support groups, information and referral, and independent living skills training. To find out about additional programs and services call (302) 328-6704 or write to 52 Reads Way, New Castle, Delaware 19720.

Maryland

Learning Independence Through Computers (LINC) is a non-profit computer resource center that offers people with disabilities and their families the opportunity to explore adaptive technology, computer systems, software, and the Internet. Their goal is to help people with disabilities "fulfill their potential for productivity at home, at school, at the workplace, and in the community." LINC serves any individual with a disability regardless of their economic circumstance. Their website features many links to disability-related resources located in both Maryland and throughout the United States as well. For more information, visit their website or call (410) 659-5462 (Voice) or (410) 659-5472 (TTY).

Maryland Statewide Independent Living Council (MSILC) has a home page in which all Centers for Independent Living within Maryland are listed. The four centers serve a wide range of cities and counties with advocacy, peer support, information and referral and independent living skills training. For more information or to find the center that services your area, visit the MSILC home page.

New Jersey

New Jersey Statewide Independent Living Council establishes Statewide Independent Living Policies and provides a forum for issues concerning all persons with disabilities. Their website features a comprehensive list of the independent living centers throughout New Jersey. Each center offers information and referral, advocacy, peer support, and independent living skills training services.

Safety Shield program teaches children, people with disabilities and senior citizens the necessary skills for preventing violence by developing positive self and community awareness. Through hands-on activities and practice, students acquire the five basic skills of conflict avoidance: Getting the Facts, Active Listening, Body Language, Tone of Voice and Brainstorming. The goal of the program is for each individual to develop: positive peer relationships, a sense of belonging, a sense of self-achievement and a sense of security. For more information, call (201) 925-6278.

New York

Center for Career Freedom offers individuals with psychiatric disability an array of programs and services designed to assist in the recovery process at the pace desired. Programs include planning at psychiatric hospitals, a Drop-in Center offering arts and crafts, music, meals, clothing, a food pantry, discussion groups, outings, web surfing, desktop publishing, newsletters, a Certified MS/Office User Training Program, a computer repair shop, vocational counseling and job development leading to competitive employment. All of the center's Board and staff are survivors of a psychiatric disability. For more information, call (914) 288-9763.

Independent Group Home Living Program, Inc. offers several day habilitation programs in which participants are encouraged to "develop autonomy and self-sufficiency, establish relationships, make a positive contribution to society…and to choose where to live, work and recreate through an individualized service plan." For more information about these programs, call (631) 878-8900.

New York City Consortium for Independent Living is a non-profit organization that supports the six Independent Living Centers throughout the New York City area. The website offers a listing of the Centers as well as links to their websites. The site also features news, event postings, action alert, as well as a photo gallery, works of art, and poetry pieces created by individuals with disabilities. In addition to these offerings, there is also a comprehensive listing of helpful, disability-related resource links.

Three Rivers Center for Independent Living (TRCIL), located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, offers a wide variety of programs designed to maximize the independence of people with disabilities. These programs provide peer counseling and support groups, advocacy, independent living skills training, information and referral, including a comprehensive resource library, housing data and referral, home modification evaluations, recreational opportunities, transitioning from institutions to a more independent setting, assistive technology, educational outreach, and personal assistant services. For more information, call (412) 371-7700 (Voice) or (412) 371-6230 (TTY).

Pennsylvania

Community Resources for Independent Living is located in Erie, Pennsylvania. Programs and services offered include accessibility, advocacy, assistive technology resource center, attendant care, computer access services, deaf and hard of hearing services, independent living skills, information and referral, new life computer, peer support, personal care attendant training, recreation, Title XIX, life skills education, employment and more. Please visit their website for details.

Soltane Communities, in affiliation with Camphill Soltane, is located in Chester County, Pennsylvania. They offer individuals with developmental disabilities, aged 18 to 25 a "long-term, open ended residence in which individual vocational, social and domestic possibilities can unfold." They are also in affiliation with Soltane College, which seeks to foster independence throughout the transition from adolescence to adulthood. For more information, call (610) 469-0933 or e-mail information@camphillsoltane.org.

Opportunity Village, a non-profit organization based in Clear Lake, Iowa, serves people with a wide variety of disabilities. With a focus on "person-centered" planning, the Village offers residential services, including community living, in-home support in private homes and support in independent living. They also offer vocational services to help an individual identify his or her job interests, assess skills, learn new jobs and find meaningful work. For more information, call (641) 357-5277 or e-mail information@oppvill.org.

Kansas

Topeka Independent Living Resource Center is a private, non-profit, consumer-controlled organization that provides services to individuals with a variety of disabilities. Services include personal assistant management, individual and system advocacy, independent living skills training, housing assistance, communication services, peer counseling, information and referral, and legal advocacy. The website features a list of disability-related links as well as a list of other independent living centers in Kansas. The site also features Federal, State and Local news and a calendar of events. For more information, call (785) 233-4572 or e-mail info1@tilrc.org.

Missouri

College for Independence is a private, non-profit, accredited agency that provides continuing education for adults with developmental disabilities residing in St. Louis County, Missouri. The class structure is aimed at increasing independent living skills. Basic skills classes such as Math and Money Management, Home and Personal Management, Reading, and Computer Skills are offered each semester. The classes are designed to teach students how to live in the community, find a job, stay healthy and make new friends. There is a $40 fee for each class. However, if you are unable to pay the $40, you may qualify for financial aid. For enrollment information, call (314) 569-1324.

Ozark Independent Living is located in West Plains, Missouri. Their core services include, information and referral, peer support, skills training, and advocacy. Their website features several links to disability resources as well as a guestbook in which you can share you experience with other visitors. For more information, call (888) 440-7500 (Voice/TTY).

Paraquad in St. Louis, Missouri offers a products and supplies program and several education programs. These programs vary from education on Career Options and Employment Program, Deaf and Hard of Hearing Program, and a Laptop Computer Program. Besides all their programs, their website offers Legislative Alerts, Cafe Paraquad, and their newsletter "Paraquad Participant Calendar" on-line.

Nebraska

Center for Independent Living of Central Nebraska is located in Grand Island, Nebraska. The four core services the center offers include individual and system change advocacy, peer counseling and support groups, information and referral, and independent living skills training. To find out about additional programs and services call (308) 384-7896 or write to 1804 South Eddy, P.O. Box 1863, Grand Island, Nebraska 68801.

League of Human Dignity is a non-profit organization located in Lincoln, Nebraska. The four core services the center offers include individual and system change advocacy, peer counseling and support groups, information and referral, and independent living skills training. To find out about additional programs and services call (402) 441-7871 or write to 1423 0 Street, Lincoln, Nebraska 68508.

League of Human Dignity of Southwest Iowa is a non-profit organization located in Omaha, Nebraska. The four core services the center offers include individual and system change advocacy, peer counseling and support groups, information and referral, and independent living skills training. To find out about additional programs and services call (402) 558-3411 or write to 5513 Center, Omaha, Nebraska 68106.

League of Human Dignity, Inc. Independent Living Center is located in Lincoln, Nebraska. The four core services the center offers include individual and system change advocacy, peer counseling and support groups, information and referral, and independent living skills training. To find out about additional programs and services call (402) 471-7871 or write to 1701 P Street, Lincoln, Nebraska 68508-1741.

North Dakota

Dakota Center for Independent Living is a non-profit organization located in Bismark, North Dakota. The four core services the center offers include individual and system change advocacy, peer counseling and support groups, information and referral, and independent living skills training. To find out about additional programs and services call (800) 489-5013 at 3111 East Broadway Avenue, Bismarck, North Dakota 58501.

Freedom Resource Center is a non-profit organization located in Fargo. The four core services the center offers include individual and system change advocacy, peer counseling and support groups, information and referral, and independent living skills training. To find out about additional programs and services call (218) 236-0459 or writ to 1 Second Street North, Suite 200, Fargo, North Dakota 58102.

Independence, Inc is a non-profit organization located in Minot, North Dakota. The four core services the center offers include individual and system change advocacy, peer counseling and support groups, information and referral, and independent living skills training. To find out about additional programs and services call (800) 377-5114 or write to Arrowhead Shopping Center, 1600 Second Avenue SW, Minot, North Dakota 58701.

South Dakota

Prairie Freedom Center For Independent Living is a non-profit organization located in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. The four core services the center offers include individual and system change advocacy, peer counseling and support groups, information and referral, and independent living skills training. To find out about additional programs and services call (605) 367-5630 or write to 301 South Garfield Avenue, Suite 8, Sioux Falls, South Dakota 57104. You may also e-mail prairie@ideasign.com.

Prairie Freedom Center for Disability Independence is a non-profit organization located in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. The four core services the center offers include individual and system change advocacy, peer counseling and support groups, information and referral, and independent living skills training. To find out about additional programs and services call(605) 339-6558 or write to 301 South Garfield Avenue.

Tateya Topa Ho is an Inter-Tribal, non-profit Independent Living Center located in Winner, South Dakota. Although the center specializes in offering services to Native Americans, all individuals with disabilities are welcome as well. The center offers peer support, advocacy, information and referral and independent living skills training. For more information, please call (605) 842-3977 or visit their home page.

Yankton Prairie Freedom Center is a non-profit organization located in Yankton, South Dakota. The four core services the center offers include individual and system change advocacy, peer counseling and support groups, information and referral, and independent living skills training. To find out about additional programs and services call (605) 668-2940 or write to 413 West 15th Street, Suite 107, Yankton, South Dakota 57078.

New England ADA Technical Assistance Center offers a list of 21 independent living centers as well as other ADA-related affiliates throughout the New England area. If interested in locating a center in Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Connecticut, or Rhode Island visit their website. The website also features news and events as well as a list of helpful publications.

Connecticut

Connecticut State Independent Living Council (SILC) coordinates and promotes independent living throughout the state of Connecticut. The website features a list of Independent Living Centers in Connecticut, a list of disability resource links, a legislative calendar, as well as an online version of the Connecticut Independent Living Book, which is a guide for consumers and the community. There is also an opportunity to sign up for the "advocacy alert system," allowing users to receive important disability-related information via e-mail. For more information, write to 1183 New Haven Road, Suite 200, Naugatuck, CT 06770 or call (203) 729-3299 (Voice) or (203) 729-1281 (TDD). You may also request information by e-mailing ctsilc@geocities.com.

Disability Resource Center of Fairfield County, Inc. (DRCFC) is a consumer-controlled, community based organization. They offer individual and system advocacy, peer support, information and referral, independent living skills training, technical assistance and training, disability awareness, and resource assistance. The website provides FORUM, DRCFC's newsletter, a peer support chatroom, and links to several disability-related resources. For more information, call (203) 378-6977 (Voice) or (203) 378-3248 (TDD).

Maine

Alpha One is located in Maine and has seven locations throughout the state. The locations include South Portland (two branches), Augusta, Brewer, Presque Isle and Lewiston. Programs and services include able ads, access consultation, adaptive driver, adaptive equipment, consumer-directed personal assistance, home to community, independent living, information and referral, open water, peer support and rink link. For more information, visit their website or e-mail at info@alpha-one.org.

Massachusetts

CLASS Inc. (Citizens League for Adult Special Services) is a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering people with disabilities by providing services that promote personal choice, growth and full participation in their communities. Services include assistive technology assessment, resource information and referral, clinical and case management support, transportation services and employment services including job placement, on the job training, vocational evaluation, job search assistance, structured training environments and specialized clinical supports. For more information, call (978) 975-8587.

Easter Seals Massachusetts has a mission to "help children and adults with disabilities expand their independence." They offer job training, which includes, vocational evaluation, career skills training, computer training, and job support services. Additional services and programs offered include information and referral, an equipment loan closet, assistive technology trial. They also offer recreational opportunities including a camp and adaptive swim classes. For more information about these services and more, call the state headquarters at (800) 922-8290 or visit their website.

Massachusetts Rehabilitation Division: Independent Living Division offers a home care assistance program. "The Home Care Assistance Program provides homemaker services to eligible adults with disabilities who are functionally limited in meeting their own nutritional and environmental needs." Homemaking Services are defined as direct assistance with, meal preparation, grocery shopping, medication pickup, laundry and light housekeeping. To be eligible for these services, individuals must be between the ages of 18 and 59, must not be legally blind, and must live alone or with another adult with a disabling condition. For more information about this program or to learn of other assistance programs call (800) 245-6543.

MetroWest Center for Independent Living (MWCIL) is a non-profit, community-based, consumer-controlled center. The center serves twelve towns, between Boston and Worcester, by providing information and referral, peer support, independent living skills training, and advocacy services. The website offers an extensive list of disability and general resource links, including a National directory of Independent Living Centers. The site also features an on-line information request form as well as a comprehensive summary of Federal and Massachusetts State disability laws. For more information, write to 63 Fountain Street, Suite 401, Framingham, MA 01702 or call (508) 875-7853 (V/TTY).

South Shore Educational Collaborative is a non-profit multipurpose educational collaborative within the Massachusetts South Shore school district. They offer several programs designed to develop skills among individuals with profound disabilities. The Community Program serves severely multi-handicapped students aged 3 to 22. The program emphasizes the development of daily living and communication skills, as well as social and emotional development. The program also offers recreational and leisure activities as well as pre-vocational, pre-academic and academic training. An additional program is the Community Adult Program, which serves individuals over the age of 22 with profound developmental delays and significant medical needs. This program emphasizes the development of functional skills, community awareness, vocational preparation, socialization and therapeutic intervention. The program also receives weekly consultation services from speech, occupational and physical therapists. For more information about these and many other programs, call (781) 749-7518.

Toward Independent Living and Learning (TILL) is a private, not-for-profit human service agency serving Massachusetts and New Hampshire residents. TILL provides a wide range of services to individuals with varying disabilities with focus on developmental disabilities. They offer residential, support, and vocational services that will ultimately lead to a higher level of independence. Residential models include community residences, staffed apartments, and group home residences. Each living option offers a maximum level of independence. Support services include recreation, estate-planning assistance, in-home training, and clinical consultation among others. Vocational services include a day habilitation program as well as various business settings that allow participants to learn various vocational skills. For more information, visit their website or call (781) 302-4600.

Rhode Island

Ocean State Center for Independent Living is a consumer controlled, community based, non-profit organization located in Warwick, Rhode Island. Services and programs include peer support, advocacy, disability awareness, transition to independent living, an accessible housing program, assistive technology and home modification, deaf services, sign language interpreter referral, and recreational program. Their website also features a number of helpful community resources. For more information, call (401) 738-1013 (Voice) or (401) 738-1015 (TTY).

Vermont

Vermont Center for Independent Living (VCIL) has offices in Montpelier, Brattleboro, Bennington, and Burlington, and field-based services in every county of Vermont. Their programs and services include the Deaf Independence Program, VT E. D. P. -- Vermont Telecommunications, the Equipment Distribution Program, Peer Advocacy Counseling, the Home Access Program, Meals on Wheels, Information and Referral, and Legislative Advocacy. For more information, call 800-639-1522 or e-mail vcil@vcil.org.

Alaska State Independent Living Council has a mission to "promote consumer control, peer support, self-determination, equal access, and individual and system advocacy in order to maximize the leadership, empowerment, independence, and productivity of individuals with disabilities." The Council oversees the state Centers for Independent Living (CIL). Their website offers links to and contact information for all of Alaska's CILs, as well as links to many other independent living resources.

Kenai Peninsula Independent Living Center is located in Homer, Alaska and services the Kenai Peninsula, Kodiak Island, Valdez and Cordoba. Services offered include advocacy and disability rights, ADA, assistive technology devices, information and referral, skills and training, transportation, vision services, vocational rehabilitation, work incentive program and more.

Mat-Su Services for Children and Adults, Inc. (MSSCA) is a Valley-based non-profit corporation providing a wide range of home and community based services for people with developmental disabilities and their families. Services include in-home and out-of-home respite; supported employment; supported living, including such services as supervised apartment living, foster care, companion living, shared care and in-home support; and family support, including information and referral, short term case management, crisis respite, advocacy and technical assistance. For more information, call (907) 352-1200 or e-mail mssca@mssca.org.

California

Center for Independent Living - Berkeley, California offers many program and services, such as personal assistant services, client assistance project, employment services, blind and deaf services, financial benefits counseling, housing and independent living skills, information and referral, legal clinic, peer support services and youth services. Also, they offer information and links to other California CIL's.

Foundation of Resources for Equality and Employment for the Disabled (FREED), located in Grass Valley, California, offers numerous programs and services including information and referral, personal assistance services, individual advocacy, system advocacy,peer support, independent living skills training, education and awareness, ADA, computers and Internet access, wheelchair and mobility aid recycling and many more. Also, they have a free telephone service program and home delivery of library books. For more information on their programs and services or to find out if they service your country, visit their website.

Independence Center is a non-profit organization located in Los Angeles, California, that assists individuals with learning disabilities learn independent living skills. The program teaches independent living skills in a hands-on atmosphere, allowing participants to move towards a more independent lifestyle. There are three program levels in which participants can complete. The first level is the residential level in which participants are paired with a roommate to move into an apartment. While living in an apartment, participants are trained in a number of independent living skills. The second level, transition, encourages individuals to determine which services should be mandatory and which should be optional. The final, outreach level is for those individuals that are currently in an independent living situation but wish to seek assistance in acquiring specific independent living skills. Applicants must be at least 18 years of age and must have completed high school to be eligible for the program. For more information, visit their website or call (310) 202-7102. You can also write to 3640 South Sepulveda Boulevard, Suite 102, Los Angeles, CA 90034

Los Angeles City Fire Department, Disaster Preparedness Section offers fire safety education and earthquake safety programs for individuals with disabilities. The courses can be anywhere from one to four hours long depending on the group's needs. For more information about the programs, call (818) 756-9672.

Marin Ventures serves those individuals with developmental disabilities living in Marin, California. There is no fee for any of the services provided. They offer two day programs; Accessing Community Experiences (ACE) and the Adult Development Center. ACE is designed to allow participants to develop independent living skills within a community environment. The Adult Development Center is an on-site program that offers training in vocational skills, social skills, recreation and leisure skills, communication, independent living, and community integration. They also provide occupational therapy and sensory integration training. For more information, visit their website or call (415) 472-4961.

Taft College: Transition to Independent Living Program is a 22-month program for individuals with developmental disabilities. Located on the Taft Community College Campus in California, this program allows those 18 years of age or older to move into a residence hall so that they can begin independent living skills training. The skills training areas include meal preparation, money management, shopping, housekeeping, appliance use, safety, communication, transportation, personal care and interpersonal relationships. There is a rental fee that will cover all meals and utilities. Some eligibility requirements apply. For more information, visit the informational web page or call the college at (661) 763-7700.

Hawaii

Hawaii Center for Independent Living is located in Honolulu, Hawaii. Core services include elderly and blind services, independent living services, outreach and research and training. Others include assistive technology, benefits application assistance, home accessibility assistance, housing assessments, community training and much more.

Oregon

Oregon Commission for the Blind offers an Independent Living Program, providing legally blind individuals with daily living skills training, counseling, personal management training, adaptive materials as well with assistance in increasing functional vision, orientation and mobility. They also offer vocational training, utilizing their Career Center and Technology Center. Their website also features a listing of all Independent Living Centers in the state as well as a helpful resource guide. For more information, call (888) 202-5463.

Washington

disAbility Resource Center is a non-profit disability organization located in Everett, Washington. Their services include, information & referral, peer support, skills training, computer and Internet skills training, personal assistance services, systems and self advocacy, men's support group, and Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) training. Their website features current news as well as links to many helpful resources. For more information, call (425) 347-5768 (Voice/TTY).

Independent Living Resources, Inc. serves people with disabilities in the Portland metropolitan and Washington areas. Services include information and referral, peer counseling, advocacy, independent living skills training, ADA education, hearing loss services, housing services, vocational services, and more. For more information, call (503) 232-7411 (Voice) or (503) 232-8408 (TTY). You may also e-mail ILR@yahoo.com.

Washington Coalition of Citizens with Disabilities, located in Seattle, Washington, has a mission to teach people with disabilities to become effective self-advocates so that they may become as independent as possible. Their website features links to many advocacy and independent living resources as well as links to other general disability resources that can be found in Washington State. They also offer consumer services that include, travel training, employment counseling, disability law training, computer skills training, housing assistance services as well as personal assistant services. For more information, call (206) 545-7055.

Center for Independence is a non-profit organization located in Grand Junction, serving thirteen counties in Western Colorado. The center offers peer counseling and support groups, individual and system change advocacy, information and referral services, and independent living skills training. They also teach Braille and sign language. The website provides the center's calendar of events, news, and a listing of many other useful website links. For more information, call (970) 241-0315 (Voice) or (970) 241-8130 (TTY).

Center for People with Disabilities (CPWD) offers an Independent Living Program for people with varying abilities. This program is designed to allow each individual to take control of their lives rather than continue to be dependent upon others. After referral, assessment and acceptance into the program, each person develops an Independent Living Plan and works closely with CPWD staff members to address independent living skills such as: cooking, housing, peer counseling, employment, self-advocacy, money management, benefits counseling, transportation, homemaking skills and social skills. For more information about this program, call (303) 442-8662 (Voice) or (303) 449-8158 (TTY).

Atlantis Community Inc., Independent Living Center is located in Denver, Colorado. They provide services, that will empower people with disabilities so that they may integrate with full and equal rights, into all parts of society including employment, affordable, accessible, housing, transportation, recreation, communication, and education. They also offer a number of unique programs designed to supply low-income individuals with disabilities safe, affordable housing so to provide a more independent lifestyle. For more information, visit their website or call (303) 733-9324 (Voice) or (303) 733-0047 (TDD).

Idaho

Idaho State Independent Living Council (SILC) is a non-profit organization whose mission it is to empower individuals living with disabilities. The website offers a calendar of (SILC) meeting dates, all of which are open to the public. The site also features Federal and Idaho state legislative news, Idaho state plans and reports, National and Idaho state disability resource links, as well as a complete listing of and links to Independent Living Centers throughout Idaho. For more information on what the Idaho state SILC offers, visit their website or call (208) 334-3800 (Voice/TDD).

Montana

Montana Independent Living Project is a non-profit organization located in Helena, Montana. The four core services the center offers include individual and system change advocacy, peer counseling and support groups, information and referral, and independent living skills training. To find out about additional programs and services call (406) 442-5755 or write to 38 South Last Chance Gulch, Helena, Montana 59601.

Summit Independent Living Center is a non-profit, non-residential program, serving people with mobility impairments, neurological disorders, hearing impairments, learning disabilities, visual impairments and other disabling conditions. Services are available to residents of Missoula, Ravalli, Mineral, Lake, Sanders, Flathead, and Lincoln Counties. They offer information and referral, advocacy, peer counseling, independent living skills training, benefits analysis, a care direction program and more. For more information contact the office in your county.

Nevada

Endeavor is a non-profit agency serving Nevadans with a wide variety of physical and developmental disabilities. All services are designed to develop maximum opportunity for community access and inclusion for persons with disabilities. Services include, a prevocational program for people with developmental disabilities, an on-site work program, employment services, supported living, daily living skills training and assistance, adaptive computer training and more. For more information, call (702) 870-7050 or e-mail Info@endeavor-nv.org.

Nevada Association for the Handicapped is a non-profit organization located in Las Vegas, Nevada. The four core services the center offers include individual and system change advocacy, peer counseling and support groups, information and referral, and independent living skills training. To find out about additional programs and services call (702) 870-7050 or write to 6200 West Oakey Boulevard, Las Vegas, Nevada 89102.

Northern Nevada Center for Independent Living is a non-profit organization located in Sparks, Nevada. The four core services the center offers include individual and system change advocacy, peer counseling and support groups, information and referral, and independent living skills training. To find out about additional programs and services call (775) 353-3599 or write to 999 Pyramid Way, Sparks, Nevada 89431.

Oregon

Center on Self-Determination, a program of the Oregon Institute on Disability and Development at the Oregon Health Sciences University has developed a number of projects in an effort to support the self-determination of people with disabilities. Projects address such issues as youth leadership, career planning, the development of self-determination skills, the development of problem-solving skills, transition planning and many others. They also offer a number of helpful workshops on the issues mentioned above. For more information, call (503) 232-9154 or write to 3608 S.E. Powell Blvd., Portland, OR 9720.

Utah

Red Rock Center for Independence is an Independent Living Center located in St. George, Utah. The center offers such services as peer support, advocacy, information and referral and independent living skills training. The website offers an on-line newsletter and calendar of events. The site also offers several links to other Independent Living Centers in Utah as well as disability-related resource sites. For more information, visit their website or call (435) 673-7501.

Wyoming

Wyoming Independent Living Rehabilitation is located in Casper, Wyoming. Services include information and referral, skills training, home modification, adaptive equipment, loan closets, cross-disability peer counseling, advocacy and more. To obtain more details, please visit their website.

Independent Living Center of Mobile serves Clark, Monroe, Escambia, Baldwin, Mobile, Washington, and Choctaw counties. The core services they provide include skills training, peer support, advocacy and information and referral. They also offer programs including housing acquisition and home modification, job placement, volunteer auxiliary, drivers training, sign language interpretation, as well as social and recreational programs. For more information, call (334) 460-0301 (Voice) or (334) 460-2872 (TTY).

Florida

Caring and Sharing Center for Independent Living, Inc. (CASCIL) is located in St. Petersburg, Florida. Services include information and referral, advocacy, peer mentoring and independent, living skills training. They also offer housing services including Project Renew, which is aimed at assisting individuals in nursing homes in re-entering the community, so that they may live more independently. Additional services are also provided in regard to employment and transportation. For more information, call (727) 577-0065 (Voice) or (727) 576-5034 (TDD). You can also e-mail cascil@cascil.org.

Center for Independent Living of Northwest Florida located in Pensacola, Florida serves Escambia, Santa Rosa, Okaloosa and Walton counties. Services include individuals and systems advocacy, information and referral, independent living skills training, and peer counseling. Programs include communication services such as sign language interpreter referral and TDD machines for use on site, Internet and web page information, short-term and long-term loan programs, and funding source referrals. They also offer art classes as well as social and recreational activities. For more information, call (877) 245-2457.

Florida Independent Living Council is a statewide council whose mission is to promote independent living opportunities for individuals with disabilities. This service is controlled by consumers and is designed around the specific needs of the disabled community. Their website offers a list of all independent living centers throughout Florida. All of the centers offer a variety of individualized services including; peer support, advocacy, independent living skills training, and information and referral. The website also offers various news items and events of interest to those with disabilities. For more information, write to 1018 Thomasville Road, Suite 100A, Tallahassee, Florida 32303, or call (850) 488-5624.

Independent Living Resource Center of Northeast Florida (ILRC) is located in Jacksonville, Florida and serves residents of Northeast Florida. Services include sign language interpreting, sign language classes, temporary equipment loans, telecommunications equipment distribution, Americans with Disabilities Act training, Disability awareness and deaf culture training, accessibility training, information and referral, advocacy, independent living skills training and peer mentoring. For more information, call (904) 399-8484 (Voice), (904) 398-6322 (TTY), or toll free at (888) 427-4313. You can also e-mail cilj@southeast.net.

Self Reliance, Inc. is a non-profit organization located in Tampa, Florida. Services offered include evaluation and planning, counseling and support, independent living skills training, outreach and advocacy, community education, information and referral network, as well as equipment loans and services. They also provide housing in two apartment communities including New Horizons Apartments and Independence Village Apartments. For more information, call (813) 975-6560.

Space Coast Center for Independent Living (SCCIL) is a non-profit organization with three locations throughout Florida including one in Palm Bay, Cocoa Beach, and Titusville. Each location provides a variety of services including peer support, skills training classes, free or low-cost social and recreational activities, equipment loan program, transportation program, financial assistance in obtaining assistive technology, as well as information and referral services. They also offer deaf and hard of hearing services, low vision and blind services as well as ADA accessibility services. For more information, call the main office in Cocoa Beach at (321) 784-9008 or you may also e-mail sccilglm@bellsouth.net.

Suncoast Center for Independent Living, Inc. (SCIL) is a non-profit organization located in Arcadia, Florida, serving Sarasota, Manatee, Desoto, Hardee and Highlands Counties. Services include information and referral, peer counseling, independent living skills training (on site or at an individual's residence), advocacy, support groups, equipment loan and repair, home modifications and community business consultation. For more information, call (941) 351-9545 (Voice), (941) 351-9943 (TDD), or toll free at (800) 299-0297. You can also e-mail scillori@aol.com.

Georgia

Access Center for Independent Living is a non-profit organization serving thirteen counties in Northeast Georgia. The center offers advocacy, information & referral, peer support, and independent living skills training services. The website also offers a list of disability-related resources as well as a monthly online newsletter. For more information, visit their website or call (770) 534-6656 (Voice) or (770) 534-6626.

Walton Options for Independent Living, Inc. is a non-profit, non-residential Center for Independent Living for people of all ages with all types of disabilities living in the greater Central Savannah River Area (CSRA). Services provided by the center include advocacy, information and referral, independent living skills training, peer support, home modifications, computer recycling and training, materials in alternative formats and a personal assistance services registry. For more information, call (706) 724-6262.

Kentucky

BEST Center for Independent Living is located in Bowling Green, Kentucky. The four core services the center offers include individual and system change advocacy, peer counseling and support groups, information and referral, and independent living skills training. To find out about additional programs and services call (270) 796-5992 (Voice) or (270) 796-5992 (TDD).

Center for Accessible Living is a non-profit organization located in Louisville and Murray, Kentucky. The four core services the centers offer include individual and system change advocacy, peer counseling and support groups, information and referral, and independent living skills training. To find out about additional programs and services call the Louisville location at (502) 589-6620 or the Murray location can be contacted by calling (888) 261-6194 (Voice) or (270) 753-7729 (TDD).

Disabilities Coalition of Northern Kentucky is a non-profit organization located in Covington, Kentucky. The four core services the center offers include individual and system change advocacy, peer counseling and support groups, information and referral, and independent living skills training. To find out about additional programs and services call (606) 431-7668 (Voice) or (606) 431-7668.

Independence Place is a non-profit organization located in Lexington, Kentucky. The four core services the center offers include individual and system change advocacy, peer counseling and support groups, information and referral, and independent living skills training. To find out about additional programs and services call (606) 266-2807 (Voice) or (606) 266-2807 (TDD).

Pathfinders for Independent Living is a non-profit organization located in Harlan, Kentucky. The four core services the center offers include individual and system change advocacy, peer counseling and support groups, information and referral, and independent living skills training. To find out about additional programs and services call (606) 573-5777 (Voice) or (606) 573-5777 (TDD).

Louisiana

Independent Living, Inc. is a non-profit organization located in New Orleans, Louisiana. The four core services the center offers include individual and system change advocacy, peer counseling and support groups, information and referral, and independent living skills training. To find out about additional programs and services call (504) 522-1955 or write to 1001 Howard Avenue, Suite 300, New Orleans, Louisiana 70113.

New Horizons, Independent Living Center is located in Alexandria and Monroe, Louisiana. The four core services the centers offer include individual and system change advocacy, peer counseling and support groups, information and referral, and independent living skills training. To find out about additional programs and services call the Alexandria location at (800) 968-4322 or write to 1756 Elliott, Alexandria, Louisiana 71301. The Monroe location can be contacted by writing to 1803 Hudson Lane, Monroe, Louisiana 71201, or by calling (318) 323-4374.

Resources for Independent Living is a non-profit organization located in New Orleans, Louisiana. The four core services the center offers include individual and system change advocacy, peer counseling and support groups, information and referral, and independent living skills training. To find out about additional programs and services call (540) 522-1955 or write to 1555 Poydras Street, Suite 1500, New Orleans, Louisiana 70112.

Southwest Louisiana Independent Living, Inc. is a non-profit organization located in Lake Charles, Louisiana. The four core services the center offers include individual and system change advocacy, peer counseling and support groups, information and referral, and independent living skills training. To find out about additional programs and services call (318) 477-7198 or write to 3104 Enterprise Boulevard, Lake Charles, Louisiana 70601.

Mississippi

Life Inc. is located in Jackson, Mississippi. This center offers a number of services including, advocacy, peer support, information and referral and independent living skills training. Each service can be designed to meet the specific needs of each individual. For more information, call (601) 362-9599.

North Carolina

EnVisioned: Independent Living is located in Timberlake, North Carolina and offers individuals with disabilities, physical rehabilitation, independent living training, adaptive technology equipment, driving & vehicle adaptation, basic computer skills / voice command & dictation (i.e., NaturallySpeaking) training, mentorship, information on accessible housing and on seeking public assistance programs. For more information, call (336) 322-1383

GAP is a non-profit organization located in Greenboro, North Carolina. The four core services the center offers include individual and system change advocacy, peer counseling and support groups, information and referral, and independent living skills training. To find out about additional programs and services call (910) 272-0501 or write to 620-South Elm Street, Suite 322, Greenboro, North Carolina 27406.

LINC is a non-profit organization located in Newton, North Carolina. The four core services the center offers include individual and system change advocacy, peer counseling and support groups, information and referral, and independent living skills training. To find out about additional programs and services call (800) 315-LINC (Voice) or (828) 464-2838 (TDD) or write to 1147 North Main Avenue, Newton, North Carolina 28658.

Pathways for the Future is a non-profit organization serving Haywood, Jackson, Macon, Swain, Graham, Clay and Cherokee counties. The four core services include peer counseling, information and referral, advocacy, and independent living skills training. They also offer ADA consulting, assistive technology demonstration and home assessments. In addition to these services several social programs and activities are also offered including, CyberPals, Disability Outdoor Awareness Day, and Super Kids Awareness Today. The website features several links to other useful disability-related resources. For more information, call (828) 631-1167.

Programs for Accessible Living is a non-profit organization located in Charlotte, North Carolina. The four core services the center offers include individual and system change advocacy, peer counseling and support groups, information and referral, and independent living skills training. To find out about additional programs and services call (704) 375-3977 or write to 1012 South King Drive, Doctor's Building G-2, Charlotte, North Carolina 28283.

Tennessee

Memphis Center for Independent Living is a community based non-profit organization dedicated to integrating people with disabilities into community life. Their core services include peer support, advocacy, information and referral and independent living skills training. They also offer personal assistant referrals, disability awareness groups, and seminars. An additional program is Partners Accessing Life (PALs), which pairs children and young adults with an adult mentor that has a similar disability. They also author The Declaration, a quarterly newsletter. For more information visit their website or e-mail mcil@mcil.org.

Texas

Texas Commission for the Blind offers an Independent Rehabilitation Program for Texans who are blind. The program offers in-home instruction in adaptive skills information and about adaptive aids. Counseling and advocacy are also available to help consumers manage their daily lives. Additional services include, eye examinations, information and referral, orientation and mobility training, counseling, recreation and socialization, as well as independent living skills training. For more information about this program call (512) 377-0500 or (800) 252-5204.

Virginia

disAbility Resource Center located in Fredericksburg, Virginia, is a non-profit, consumer-driven, community-based, cross-disability organization in a non-residential facility whose primary purpose is to enable people with disabilities to access training, education and other resources so that they can live most independently. Services include peer-to-peer support, independent living skills training, advocacy, information and referral, housing and home modification programs, assistive technology demonstration and more. For more information, call (800) 648-6324 (Voice) or (540) 373-5890 (TTY).

HELPU Fire and Life Safety is non-profit organization that works with individuals with disabilities as well as Fire and Rescue Personnel. HELPU offers guidance and support for instruction regarding fire and life safety and in working with the special needs population. They have developed several training manuals as well as an online disaster-planning manual for individuals with disabilities. Their website features an abundance of information on fire and life safety, as well as many links to related organizations. For more information, visit their website.

Independence Center is located in Norfolk, Virginia. They offer counseling services (peer and group), independent living skills training (self-advocacy, assertiveness, sexuality, employment readiness and literacy), advocacy and workshops (system advocacy, individual advocacy, information and referral and education workshop), disability services (technical assistance, housing referral and placement, employment services, and contract service), volunteer services, education and transportation. Also, they have a listing of Internet disability resources.

West Virginia

Coordinating Council for Independent Living is a non-profit social services agency dedicated to providing services to assist individuals achieve an independent lifestyle. Services provided include: Case Management, daily living and personal care assistance, social and emotional support, and communication assistance, among others. There is also an opportunity on the website to submit an on-line referral to the Case Management Services program. Offices are located throughout West Virginia. For more information or to locate an office near you, visit their website or email ccil@angelfire.com.

Arizona Bridge to Independent Living has two offices, one in Mesa, Arizona and one in Phoenix, Arizona. Their mission indicates "ABIL offers and promotes programs designed to empower people with disabilities to take personal responsibility so they may achieve or continue independent lifestyles within the community." They offer information and referrals, advocacy, a survival manual, an assistive technology bulletin board, a monthly newsletter and a terminolgy section. Programs offered include ADA Services, Early Intervention, Employment Services, Home Modification Services, Independent Living Skills Instruction, Peer Mentor Volunteer Program, Personal Assistant Service (PAS) and Socialization Through Recreation.

Arizona Council of the Blind is a non-profit organization made up of blind, visually impaired, and sighted Arizonans with a primary focus on blindness-related issues - especially on dealing effectively with the challenges of daily living. The council offers a forum for the free exchange of opinions, ideas and information relating to matters of concern to the blind and visually impaired and encourages and assists the blind, especially the newly blind, to develop their abilities and potentials and to assume a responsible place in the community. They also provide scholarships to assist qualified blind college students to pursue higher education. For more information, call (602) 273-1510.

CyberCIL is the first virtual center for independent living in the nation. They offer information and referrals, skills training, peer counseling and advocacy for residents of Arizona. "The mission of CyberCil of Arizona is to provide innovative, meaningful assistance in accordance with the principles and philosophy of independent living to, and on behalf of, Arizonans with disabilities so that they may attain or continue an independent lifestyle."

Direct Center for Independent Living is located in Tucson, Arizona. They offer independent living skills training, peer mentoring services, personal assistant services, information and referrals, rural and minority outreach, disability benefits appeal services, accessibility programs, youth programs, supported employment, art club, social group, personal assistance management training, alcoholics anonymous, home modifications and housing referrals.

NHILC New Horizons Independent Living Center is located in Prescott Valley and has another office in Flagstaff, Arizona. NHILC New Horizons Independent Living Center "is a non-profit, consumer-driven 501(c)(3) organization that advocates and promotes independent living for persons with disabilities. The majority of our board and staff are persons with disabilities. We serve persons with all types of disabilities in Yavapai and Coconino Counties." The four core services the center offers include individual and system change advocacy, peer counseling and support groups, information and referral, and independent living skills training. They have a resource guide, a schedule of events and a newsletter for individuals with disabilities.

Services Maximizing Independent Living and Empowerment (S.M.I.L.E.) is an independent livin