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Independent Living Orientations
This orientation offers participants the opportunity to learn about the Independent Living Movement and how and why Centers for Independent Living got started. The history of the Ann Arbor CIL, including current activities and services, are highlighted. The activities of Disability Network/Michigan are also explored. Participants are introduced to the basic philosophy of independent living, the idea that each individual has the right and the responsibility to make choices for their own lives – choices that affect:
- Where and with whom they live
- How they handle finances
- What type of work they do
- How they contribute their time and talents to the community
What Participants Receive
Each person who participates in the orientation has the opportunity to register to vote, join the Washtenaw Talent Exchange, and begin an Independent Living Plan to help them chart their course toward greater independence and personal fulfillment. Participants also learn of upcoming recreational opportunities and skills classes.
Disability Community
As a participant in this orientation, individuals will be exposed to the idea of Disability Culture and Community and will be invited to participate in this community as a person with a disability or as an ally. The Disability Community is a richly diverse minority with a broad range of talent, skills, knowledge, and ability. Both people with disabilities and non-disabled allies are vital to this community. As a part of the larger community, members of the Disability Community strive to understand and support each other’s issues and to build bridges of understanding among other minority groups.
Who Should Attend?
- People with disabilities
- Family members and friends of people with disabilities
- Service providers
- Board members of nonprofit organizations
- Business owners
- Recipients of Vocational Rehabilitation or Community Mental Health services
- People working for social justice
- Educators
- People interested in volunteering
Registration
Orientations are scheduled as needed and can be held during the day or evening. Please call Peg Ball at 734-975-1504 or email her at pball@aacil.org to reserve your space at the next session. Be sure to mention any accommodations you may need such as materials in alternate format, an interpreter, etc.
Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living
3941 Research Park Drive
Ann Arbor, MI 48108
(734) 971-0277 phone
(734) 971-0826 fax