Independent Living, as seen by its advocates, is a philosophy, a way of looking at disability and society, and a worldwide movement of people with disabilities who proclaim to work for self-determination, self-respect and equal opportunities.
In most countries, proponents of the IL Movement claim preconceived notions and a predominantly medical view of disability contribute to negative attitudes towards people with disabilities, portraying them as sick, defective and deviant persons, as objects of professional intervention, as a burden for themselves and their families, dependent on other people’s charity. These images, in the IL analysis, have consequences for disabled people's opportunities for raising families of their own, getting education and work, which, in turn, result in persons with disabilities making up a large portion of the poor in any country.
Universal Design :: Disabled
Accessibility :: Disabilities

Association of Programs for Rural Independent Living - A national network of rural independent living centers, other programs, and individuals concerned with the unique aspects of rural independent living. APRIL is an advocate for increased funding and policy changes to improve rural disability services.
Meta Description: [ The home page ]
Canadian Association of Independent Living Centres (CAILC) - A national umbrella organization which consists of local autonomous Independent Living Resource Centres (ILRCs). Each ILRC is community-based and controlled by and for persons with disabilities.
Centers for Independent Living Web Sites - Links to centers and resources for the United States and Canada.
Meta Description: [ independent living centers web sites ]
Design Linc - Listing of Independent Living Centers in the United States.
Meta Description: [ The Design Linc provides design tips, product information and other resources for people with disabilities and the elderly. ]
Disability World - A web-zine dedicated to advancing an exchange of information and research about the international independent living movement of people with disabilities.
Meta Description: [ E-zine of the International Disability Exchanges and Studies (IDEAS) Project 2000-2004 ]
Family Village--Independent Living Resources - Links to papers on Independent Living philosophy and lists of Independent LIving Centers.
IMPACT Center for Independent Living - A site to preserve and promote the rich history and philosophy of the independent living movement.
Meta Description: [ IMPACT is a self-help, advocacy organization, which was formed in September of 1985 primarily by people with disabilities. IMPACT continues to be operated by people with disabilities. It is our mission to assist people with disabilities to achieve their full human potential and to advocate for a ... ]
Independent Living USA - Resource for individuals with disabilities, their families, providers of services, Independent Living centers, and professionals.
Institute on Independent Living - Promotes the opportunities of persons with disabilities to gain more personal and political power, self-determination, full participation and equality, both in Sweden and internationally through educational activities.
Meta Description: [ The Independent Living Institute offers people with disabilities and their organizations online services and information, training materials and technical assistance on personal assistance, advocacy, accessibility, legislation and peer support. ]
Mobility, HYG-5276-95 - Ohio State University Extension fact sheet on the subject.
National Centre for Independent Living (NCIL) - Britain's National Centre for information about independent living issues affecting disabled people.
National Council on Independent Living (NCIL) - A membership organization that advances the independent living philosophy and advocates for the human rights of, and services for, people with disabilities to further their full integration and participation in society.
Meta Description: [ A membership organization that advances the independent living philosophy and advocates for the human rights of, and services for, people with disabilities to further their full integration and participation in society. ]
National Home of Your Own Alliance - Funded by the Administration on Developmental Disabilities to promote opportunities for people with disabilities to own and control their homes.
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Opening Doors - A housing initiative designed to provide information and technical assistance on affordable housing issues to people with disabilities, their families, advocates, and service providers across the United States.
Meta Description: [ Fireworks Splice HTML ]
Rebuilding Together with Christmas in April - This national nonprofit free of charge rehabilitates homes for low-income homeowners, particularly the elderly and those with disabilities.
Meta Description: [ Rebuilding Together's mission is to preserve and revitalize houses and communities. ]
Wheelchair Accessible Homes - Articles of interest to people with disabilities, wheelchair accessible homes, contractors that specialize in this field.
Meta Description: [ Information bureau for disabled individual
and their families. Includes wheelchair accessible homes for sale or for
rent, used medical equipment, conversion vans and cars, new and used
wheelchairs and scooters ]
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