Independent Living Skills

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The Independent Living (IL) philosophy emphasizes consumer control. Consumer control is the idea that people with disabilities are the best experts on their own needs, and deserving of equal opportunity to decide how to live, work, and take part in their communities.

Independent Living Programs

Centers for Independent Living (CILs), part of the CLC network, are non-profit organizations that are designed and operated by people with disabilities.

• CILs are unique in that they operate according to a strict philosophy of consumer control, wherein people with all types of disabilities directly govern and staff the organization.
• CILs primarily serve youth in transition and adults with disabilities. Children with disabilities are primarily served through the Washington DSHS State Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) and its many local programs and network partners.
• Learn more about CIL’s in Washington State

ILST is provided by a network of Centers for Independent Living (CILs) in Washington State. Other organizations provide Independent living services for persons with specific disabilities include:

• Washington’s Office of Deaf and Hard of Hearing
• Department of Services for the Blind