RI Statewide Independent Living Council

The Rhode Island Statewide Independent Living Council and the Rhode Island Office of Rehabilitation Services of the Department of Human Services promote the implementation of an independent living philosophy of self-determination and equal access in society of individuals with significant disabilities through developing and monitoring a Statewide Plan for Independent Living which will: target the needs of individuals with significant disabilities; strengthen and enhance the existing two Centers for Independent Living; educate the public and policy makers of the needs and abilities of Rhode Islanders with significant disabilities; and maximize the full inclusion of individuals with disabilities into the mainstream of American society.

Description:
The Rhode Island Statewide Independent Living Council (RISILC) is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting Independent Living for people with disabilities throughout the State. Independent Living is a philosophy that empowers people with significant disabilities to manage and control their own lives and live in the community. The Council's membership is comprised of volunteers appointed by the Governor of Rhode Island, and the majority of the members are people with disabilities. The Council has joint responsibility with the Office of Rehabilitation Services for developing and monitoring Rhode Island's State Plan for Independent Living (SPIL), a three-year blueprint funded through Title VII of the Rehabilitation Act, which directly addresses issues important to the advancement of Independent Living. Some issues are home modifications, adaptive equipment and accessible transportation.

History:
Each state is mandated by the federal government under Title VII of the Rehabilitation Act to establish a Statewide Independent Living Council. The establishment of each state's Council and the development of the State Plan allow federal funds for independent living to flow into the state. For Rhode Island this is approximately $1 million, with most of it being used for services for people with disabilities. The Rhode Island Statewide Independent Living Council was established in 1993 and is a non-profit tax-exempt corporation.

Contact people:

Lisel Rockwood, Program Coordinator, (401) 253-8949, (email) Camille Pansa, Executive Director, (401) 253-8949, (email) Liz Graves, Council Chair, (401) 769-5315, (email)

Office fax number: (401) 253-8929

Address:

93 Gooding Avenue Suite 3 Bristol, RI 02809 (See a map)

Web Site: http://www.risilc.org

Directions:

Call for directions.

Miscellaneous Information

Handicap accessible?
	Yes
Does your agency accept court-appointed volunteers?
	No
What type of VCRI membership did this agency have in 2008?
	Full Year

Last updated on August 12, 2009