Springfield Center for Independent Living

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Who is INCIL? The Illinois Network of Centers for Independent Living (INCIL) is a statewide organization made up of 24 Centers for Independent Living (CILs) in Illinois. INCIL coordinates the activities and efforts of all CILs, resulting in a stronger, more unified voice to promote needs and priorities of the CILs and the people they serve. Operated by the executive directors of these CILs, this aggressive core of leadership advocates for and works to ensure that all people are treated with respect and given the same opportunities in life, regardless of their abilities. What is CIL? Centers for Independent Living (CILs) exist to empower individuals with disabilities to take charge of their lives and make their own choices and decisions in order to be as self-sufficient as possible. CILs also lead efforts to break down barriers and prejudices within communities, replacing them with positive attitudes resulting in equal access to society for disabled persons. Run by people with disabilities who have successfully established independent lives of their own, the staff has a deep commitment to assisting other disabled people in achieving independence. How do CILs assist people? CILs work to increase the involvement of people with disabilities in every aspect of life. Through a wide variety of services and support, CILs provide assistance for disabled persons in their transition to independent living. Information and referral CILs respond to inquiries on a variety of issues from people with disabilities, family members and professionals, as well as the general public. Comprehensive information is available regarding services available in the community to help disabled persons live independently, such as accessible housing, transportation, employment opportunities, personal assistants, interpreters for people who are hearing impaired, readers for people who are visually impaired and more. Peer Counseling The foundation of CIL services is the peer relationship. Staff who have experience living with a disability and are achieving their personal goals assist others who have similar disabilities, serving as role models, mentors and advocates. The peer relationship helps individuals work through problems specific to a particular disability, and also offers a source of encouragement as the transition is made to independent living. Advocacy CILs offer two types of advocacy: Individual advocacy focuses on the individual with a disability and services available within the community to assist them in living independently and to eventually become their own advocate. Systemic advocacy involves working together to eliminate barriers and allow people with disabilities to fully participate in their community. Independent living skills training The heart and soul of independent living is being in control of your own life. CILs offer a variety of training to equip disabled persons with the skills and information to manage their own lives and live more independently. Courses include use of public transportation, managing a personal budget, dealing with insensitive and discriminatory behavior and many other topics. Other services Each CIL also offers unique services based on the specific needs of the community. Among the most frequently provided services are community education and other public information services, equipment repair, recreational activities and home modifications.. Achieve your potential Many people with mobility impairments, visual impairments, hearing impairments, mental retardation, mental illness, traumatic brain injury and other disabilities have all worked to establish lives of independence. They fulfill various roles within their communities, including employer, employee, husband/wife, parent, student, athlete, politician and taxpayer. Fortunately, they don't have to do it all on their own. CILs serve a wide variety of people, providing the opportunity for persons with disabilities to make their own decisions and pursue any activity they choose. There really is no limit to the places we can go! For a CIL in your area contact INCIL at 1-800-587-1227;

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