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.
Peer Support
Peer Support connects individuals with disabilities to others who have shared similar life experiences. Through encouragement, understanding, and mutual respect, peer support provides a welcoming space to share challenges, celebrate successes, and learn practical skills for independent living. By building meaningful connections and fostering a sense of community, peer support helps individuals gain confidence, discover resources, and achieve their personal goals.
Transition Services
Transition Services help individuals with disabilities navigate important life changes and achieve greater independence. Whether transitioning from school to adulthood, moving into the workforce, or adjusting to new living arrangements, our team provides guidance, resources, and support every step of the way. We work with individuals to build skills, explore opportunities, and create a personalized plan for successful transition into the next stage of life.
A Common Misconception
Housing & Independent Living
Center for Independent Living (CILs) support individuals with disabilities in achieving independence and community integration, which may include guidance on housing options and resources.
However, CILO does not own, operate, or provide housing units.
Our role is to support consumers in navigating housing resources, advocating for accessibility, and connecting with community programs that promote independent living.
Who do we serve?
CILO serves any individual of any age with any disability.
Disabilities may be short-term or permanent, diagnosed and undiagnosed.
We work with everyone!
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
Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities
Intellectual & 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.
08
Cognitive Disabilities
A cognitive disability is a broad term for any condition that significantly limits an individual's mental functioning, making it harder to process information, learn, remember, or communicate compared to the average person. It encompasses a wide spectrum ranging from mild learning challenges to severe intellectual disabilities.
Interested in our services? We’re here to help!
Call: 561-966-4288
Email: cilo@cilo.org
