Independent Living

This blog is geared towards students and parents of students who are striving to become more independent in their lives! It is so important that students with disabilities realize that they can provide for themselves and push become as independent as possible. Students and their families should become aware of the services that are provided around their area so that they can work hand in hand to make the move possible. There are so many different ways that our students can self-advocate for an independent life. We all deserve it so lets get it!!

Resource #1:
http://www.ilusa.com/articles/mshreve_article_ilc.htm

This first resource is a great starting point for those who are looking to live independently, or have a child who is ready for that step in their life. This article provides detailed information on the movement to independent living and where it all began. I especially enjoy this article because it gives a great list of rights as an individual with a disability. We can let people deny us of service if it is our right to have it. This is a great starting point to learn about the background of the movement and what we deserve as citizens.

Resource # 2:
http://www.fldoe.org/ese/pdf/publist.pdf

This website leads you to a publication list where you can get the book: Dare to Dream. This book is a wonderful resource for the transition student in many ways. Specifically section 8 talks about "Choosing a Place to Live and Transportation." This section provides a checklist that lists different living situations, types of places to live, size and location of the community you want to live in, and financial choices. This checklist is easy to follow and shows the person that is wanting to live independently what kind of choices are out there and what best fits that person. If the website does not work here are is additional information to getting this amazing book:
Phone-(850) 245-0477
Email: cicbiscs@mail.doe.state.fl.us

Resource #3
http://www.ilru.org/html/publications/directory/index.html

This website is wonderful for anyone across the United States. On it's homepage it provides a map where you can click on the state that you want to live in. After you have done this a list of contacts are provided for independent living services. These services aid you in general information and how to get referred, independent living skills training, individuals and system training, and peer counseling.