Independence is about making choices and not being hampered by barriers, tangible or attitudinal. Independence means being able to fail and succeed on one’s own terms.    Independent Living Centers (ILCs)  provide individuals with tools and resources for independence.

There are two views of disability. The medical model believes that disability is something to be cured through medical intervention.  ILC’s treat disability as a  construct of society rather than an individual problem. 

The first ILC opened in 1972 in Berkeley, California.  Today, ILC's exist throughout the world.  In New York alone, there are 39 centers.  The Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (as amended) includes provisions for the funding of these centers. ILC's are private, not-for-profit organizations, governed and staffed primarily  by people with disabilities.   According to the National Council on Independent Living, services and resources for individuals encompass:   “information and referral services, peer counseling, individual and systems advocacy, and independent living skills training. Other services vary from center to center but generally include: assistance with housing, education, employment, medical needs and personal attendant services”.

ILC's are vital community resources.  They help to empower and educate people with disabilities and their families. In addition, they serve as  

What is an Independent Living Center?beacons of disability awareness to the entire community.