What is SILO?
The Suffolk Independent Living Organization (SILO) is a consumer-controlled, 501(c)(3) not-for-profit, non-residential, human and civil rights, mentorship and educational organization. Funded primarily by the NYS Education Department, we are philosophically tied to the nationwide Independent Living Movement which asserts that people with disabilities have the same rights and responsibilities, needs and desires as their non-disabled peers. We empower people with disabilities to take an active role in the community in which they live, work, and play. As the premier cross disability, grass roots, advocacy-based agency on Long Island, with nearly 25 years of service to the community, SILO has long had the reputation of providing the most comprehensive disability related services within the community. Our areas of expertise include education, advocacy, employment, youth, housing, and benefits. The programs and services of this agency emphasize engaging in systems change by removing architectural, communication and attitudinal barriers, which prevent the full integration of persons with disabilities into the community. Our other focus is to provide direct services to individuals with disabilities to assist them in developing skills and abilities that will enable them to attain autonomy and independence. SILO works with individuals with disabilities to increase their self esteem and sense of value, thus enabling them to better participate in determining and attaining their goals. As part of our systems advocacy program, we provide the most current and factual data regarding laws and regulations that pertain to people with disabilities. We also provide technical information to assist in achieving full compliance with all disability related laws including the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. SILO has been providing services since 1985.