DESCRIPTION:
Independent Living Centers (ILCs) provide individual services and systems change activities aimed at integration, inclusion and independence through 41 site locations across New York State. ILCs are nonresidential programs with services that promote integration of New Yorkers with disabilities and their families in all aspects of community life. ILCs also work to increase communication, programmatic and physical access to all services available in the public and private sectors.
ILC operation is based on a self-help model and State law requires that the majority of all ILC boards of directors be comprised of individuals with disabilities. ILCs provide an array of services to enable people with disabilities to make choices based on information that can maximize their independence and self-direction. Core services include: information and referral, peer counseling, individual advocacy, independent living skills development, personal assistance services, employment housing, transportation and related services.
On the systems level, ILCs lead their local communities in implementing the Americans with Disabilities Act and in advocating for individuals living, learning and working in the most integrated settings possible. ILC expertise and services are in high demand and will remain so for the foreseeable future. Two particular populations benefiting from ILC services are youth in transition from school to adult life and individuals seeking support to leave or avoid admission to institutional settings.
AUTHORITY:
Federal Statute: Rehabilitation Act - Title VII
Federal Regulation: 34 CFR 367
State Statute: Education Law Sections 1120-1124
State Regulation: 8NYCRR Part 248
FUNDING SOURCE(S):
State- $13.4m
Federal- $ 1m
Special Revenue-
Total- $14.4m