CILO's Core Services

CILO is here to support people with disabilities in living independent, empowered, and self-directed lives. Our core services are designed to provide guidance, skills, and connections to resources that help individuals thrive in their communities.

Advocacy

We stand alongside people with disabilities to help them understand their rights and what resources are available to them. Our advocacy services support individuals in navigating systems, addressing barriers, and speaking up for their needs in areas such as housing, employment, education, and access to services.

Independent Living Skills

We help individuals build the skills they need to live independently and confidently. This may include learning how to manage daily activities, budget and manage money, access transportation, communicate effectively, and make informed choices about health, housing, and personal goals.

Information & Referral Services

We provide up to date, accurate information and connect people to community resources and supports. Whether someone is looking for housing assistance, healthcare services, benefits, or disability-related programs, we help guide them to options that best meet their needs.

Who do we serve?

CILO serves any individual of any age with any disability.

The Americans with Disabilities Act is a landmark civil rights law that took effect on July 26, 1990. It marks a significant milestone in the fight against discrimination based on disability.

Federal Disability Definition

According to the Americans with Disabilities Act:

  1. A person with a physical or mental impairment that restricts one or more areas of major life activities.
  2. A person with a history or record of such impairment.
  3. A person whom others perceive as having such impairment.



Types of Disabilities

Disability can take many forms and may be visible or invisible. Each person's experience is unique. Below are common categories of disabilities, with brief explanations to help build understanding and inclusion.

01

Physical Disabilities

Physical disabilities affect a person's mobility, strength, or physical functioning. This may include difficulty walking, using hands or arms, or maintaining balance. Some people use mobility aids such as wheelchairs, walkers, or prosthetics, while others may not require visible support.

02

Mental Health Disabilities

Mental Health disabilities affect mood, thinking, or behavior and may interfere with daily life. Examples include anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

03

Neurological Disabilities

Neurological disabilities affect the brain, spinal cord, or nervous system. Epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, traumatic brain injury, and Parkinson's disease are some of the examples included.

04

Developmental Disabilities

Developmental disabilities typically begin early in life and affect physical, learning, language, or behavioral development. Examples include autism spectrum disorder and cerebral palsy. These disabilities may be lifelong.

05

Chronic Health Conditions

Chronic health conditions are long-term illnesses that may limit daily activities or energy levels. Examples include diabetes, lupus, chronic pain conditions, and autoimmune disorders.

06

Invisible Disabilities

Not all disabilities are apparent. Invisible disabilities include many mental health conditions, chronic illnesses, and neurological disorders. Even when you cannot see a disability, the need for accommodations and understand is just as real.

07

Sensory Disabilities

Sensory disabilities involve differences in hearing, vision, or sensory processing. Examples include blindness or low vision, deafness or hearing loss, and conditions that affect how sensory information is experienced. People may use tools such as hearing aids, screen readers or Braille.

Interested in our services? We’re here to help!

We want to know your needs exactly so that we can provide the perfect solution. Let us know what you want and we’ll do our best to help.