Founded in 1980, Services for Independent Living (SIL) is a non-profit, non-residential, community-based, cross-disability Center for Independent Living (CIL) in Northeast Ohio serving Cuyahoga, Geauga and Lake counties. 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.
As a CIL, Services for Independent Living (SIL) provides an array of individual and community services designed to help and empower individuals of all ages and all disabilities lead healthy, productive lives and participate in community life as they choose.
Individual services focus on providing individuals with disabilities access to information and skills needed to facilitate and enhance their independence and to remain in the community of choice.
Community services are designed to address barriers to community living and promote the concept of independent living and choice.
The majority of SIL Staff and a majority of SIL Board of Directors are individuals with disabilities.
All SIL services are guided by the independent living philosophy and SIL’s mission which in turn supports the agency’s vision of a society that is accessible to all people.
Our Approach
SIL embraces the Independent Living Philosophy that promotes the rights of individuals with disabilities to control and direct their own lives; to make decisions and take responsibility for their actions; to have opportunities to participate in all aspects of community life; to exercise the greatest degree of choice about where you live, with whom you live and how you live; and to take risks, being allowed to fail and to learn and grow from those efforts.
We recognize that each person’s disability and life circumstances may pose unique challenges. SIL services are designed to provide supports and skills to individuals remain in the community of their choice. Staff work with consumers to develop a plan to address their individual needs. Our experienced, dedicated and passionate team are often regarded as being able to think outside the box and pride themselves on excellent customer service.
Our Vision, Mission and Values
Our Vision
VISION: SIL envisions a society that is accessible to all people.
Our Mission
MISSION:To empower persons with disabilities to lead inclusive lives through advocacy, community engagement, and self-directed services.
Our Value Statement
VALUE STATEMENT: To provide the highest quality programs and community services, remove barriers to community living and promote societal change.
Principles include:
- Self-direction, choice and control
- Information and community education
- Compassionate, positive leadership
- Integrity and humanity through ethical practices
- Innovation, diversity, and flexibility
- Collaboration at local, state, and national levels
