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Center for Independent Living (CIL) Resource Manual

The purpose of this guide is to provide information about maintaining a Center for Independent Living (CIL). The information provided should help provide the Centers with technical support for the planning, operation, conduct, administration and evaluation of a Center for Independent Living. You should seek appropriate expertise in all areas mentioned in this manual.

It is important for the centers to maintain a clear understanding of the independent living philosophy and committed to devoting time to maintaining a quality CIL.  Many groups and organizations use the term“independent living”, thus, it is important to understand Independent Living philosophy according to Title VII of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 as follows:

"Philosophy of Independent Living includes consumer control, peer support, self-help,
self-determination, equal access, and individual and system advocacy, in order to maximize
the leadership, empowerment, independence, and productivity of individuals with significant
disabilities, and the integration and full inclusion of individuals with significant disabilities
into the mainstream of American society."

 The Independent Living Philosophy is also embodied in State Statutes Section 178.651 through 178.658 RSMo.

Training and consultations from an organization that promotes the independent living philosophy can be helpful. The Missouri Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (MDVR), the Statewide Independent Living Council (SILC) or the Missouri Centers for Independent Living (MOCIL) are resources that can help in understanding the Independent Living Philosophy.

History of Independent Living

Ed Roberts "The Father of Independent Living"

What is Independent Living - A Personal Definition

Independent Living Services
Board of Directors

• Characteristics of an Effective Board of Directors

• Board Training

• Activities of the Board

• Legal Responsibilities of the Board

• Financial Oversight

• Steps to protect Board Members from Liability

• Board Committees

• President Job Description

• Vice-President Job Description

• Treasurer Job Description

• Secretary Job Description

• Board Member Job Description

• Legal Responsibilities and Standards of Conduct

• Procedures for Recruitment of Board Members

• Board of Directors Composite Table (pdf)

By-Laws
Sample By-Laws

Policy and Procedures

Financial Management

Monitoring

• CIL On-Site Compliance Review (pdf)

Personnel

• Executive Director

• Role of the Executive Director

• Office Manager

• Program Manager

• Disability Advocate

• Access Specialist

• Assistive Technology Coordinator

• Assistive Technology Specialist

• Secretary/Receptionist

CIL Insurance Coverage
Equipment

• Equipment Policy

• Instructions

• Inventory Requirements and Monitoring Schedule

• Missing for Damaged Equipment and Disposition Requirements

• Equipment Bid Information (pdf)

• Inventory List (pdf)

Certifications

• Assurances (pdf)

• Certifications regarding Lobbying, Debarment, Suspension, and other Responsibility Matters, and Drug-Free Workplace Requirements (pdf)

• Civil Rights Certificate (pdf)

Definitions

Resources

Technical Assistance, Resources, and Funding Cycles

IL Audit Parameters (pdf)

• 2008 Meeting Information
• SILC Members
• SILC Committee Information
• State Plan
• 704 Report (pdf)
• SILC Publications