Create Your Independent Living Plan

Centers for Independent Living Serve Every County in Florida

Depending on where you live in Florida, there is a Center for Independent Living (CIL) that can assist you with your goals to maintain or increase your current level of independence. CILs were created to assist persons with disabilities in maintaining or increasing their level of independence. CILs do not provide housing or financial assistance; however, the staff who work there know the community and can assist you in developing a plan to access existing community, state and federal resources for you to find housing and prepare to support yourself. And because of your disability, this also applies to any barrier you may encounter that is keeping you from leading the life you envision for yourself.

It Is Up to You

When you contact the CIL in your community, you will be connected with an Independent Living Specialist (ILS). This person is your advocate, coach and consultant. They are there to facilitate whatever goals you identify and want to achieve. Your ILS may also have a disability, because 51% of staff who work for CILs must be persons with a disability. Although the ILS provides multiple roles and brings a wealth of experience, it will be up to you to put your plan into action.

Independent Living Goals and Plan

When you first meet with the ILS, they will conduct an extensive interview. You will talk about your disability and any barriers that are keeping you from achieving the life you want. The ILS will assist you in identifying goals to overcome those barriers. You will then apply those goals to an overall independent living plan (ILP). The ILP is the roadmap to achieving your goals and the life you have imagined.