Northern Regional Center for Independent Living

Independent Living Program

Program Director - Kim Smith

Independent Living is controlling and directing your own life. It means knowing what choices are available, selecting what is right for the individual and taking responsibility for one's own actions. Independent living means being in charge of your life, creating a community where people with disabilities attain equality.

Information and Referral

Information on all resources
Referrals to community support services and agencies

Individual Advocacy

Assists individuals to access benefits, services, and programs
Assist in appeals processes
Develop Independent Living plans

Self-Help Groups

Current issues and concerns are discussed between peers
Provides a social network based on common experience
Share specific ways of coping from experience

Peer Counseling

Provided when an individual wants to talk to an advocate who is a peer
This advocate has personal experience with a specific disability

Education & Employment

Employment Center
Employment Counseling
Mock Interviews
Resume review
Employment Support Group
Job/Life Skills
Work History
Information and referral to local educational and vocational services
Job board is available at NRCIL

Benefits Assistance

Assists individuals with applications and hearings
Information on SSI & SSDI work incentives

Community Work Incentive Coordination

Information / Referral
Benefits Planning
Benefits Management
Problem Solving & Advocacy
Benefits Analysis

Mental Health Advocacy

Promote personal empowerment by assisting individuals in accessing information
Improving and developing skills and strengthening supports

Architectural Accessibility Consultation

NRCIL maintains materials on renovating or building accessible structures
Staff will visit a structure to determine accessibility and assist in design modifications on request

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

Provide training and advocacy for individuals, businesses, and local government
Surveys on community accessibility
Reasonable accommodations in the workplace

Housing Information

Assists individuals with disabilities in finding safe and affordable housing within our community

System Advocacy

Change legislation through action
Change community processes
Affect the outcomes of local, state, and national issues

NRCIL's Loan Closet

Adaptive equipment for short-term loan
Shower benches
Wheel chairs
Portable ramps
Walkers
Canes
& More