Questions

What is a CIL?
A CIL is easily distinguished from other organizations by the large number of people with disabilities in every area of it's operation. The majority of a CIL's Board of Trustees and Staff are people with disabilities. A CIL has a unique understanding of those it serves.

What is Independent Living?
It is a concept of having the right and the opportunity to pursue a course of action, the freedom to succeed or fail and to learn from one's failures just as people without disabilities. Most Americans take for granted choice and opportunities regarding living arrangements, social and recreational activities, employment, education, transportation, and other rights and responsibilities. For people with disabilities living in Oakland and Macomb Counties, barriers in our community severely limit or take away these choices. Independent Living changes attitudes, expands community options, removes barriers, and increases choice. The independent living philosophy values choice and self-determination, not disability characteristic