The Center for Independent Living of Gulf Coast (CILGC) advocates for people with disabilities before public and private agencies, local, state, and national public officials, and other community-based organizations.

We encourage and support consumers to become self-advocates— a skill critical to independence. Self-advocacy starts with knowing your rights. Consumers learn about the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the Fair Housing Act, the Rehabilitation Act, the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), and various other civil laws as appropriate.

CILGC assists people with disabilities gain or increase life skills needed to function independently at home, at work, and in the community. Independent Living Workshops are held every Thursday from 1:30-2:30 pm. 

Due to COVID-19, CIL Gulf Coast is hosting all Independent Living Workshops online via Zoom. You can register for workshops at: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86826445065

At Home

• Money Management
• Cooking and Meal Preparation
• Nutrition
• Fitness / Recreation

At Work/In the Community

• Managing Stress
• Using assistive technology
• Improving computer skills
• Public speaking

The Center for Independent Living of Gulf Coast (CILGC) helps consumers connect to valuable community resources to support their independence and full integration into society. We offer connections to:

• Extensive Resource Library
• Community Based Organizations
• Community Service Agencies
• Government Agencies

Peer counseling groups offer a forum for consumers to share their experiences, teach one another how to access resources, and share strategies for solutions to disability-related issues.

With a staff and board of directors comprised of 51% of individuals with significant disabilities, we identify with the significant needs of our consumers. CILGC Independent Living Specialists offers consumers one-on-one peer support when needed.

CILGC also organizes and sponsors peer support for groups with similar disabilities so individuals can share their concerns, issues, and ideas. Currently, CILGC staff engage in support groups for those with spinal cord injuries, brain injuries, the deaf and hard of hearing, and various other groups as necessary.

At the Center for Independent Living (CILGC), we assist many people in transitioning into the services that fit them best. Specifically, we offer: 

• Youth: Any service that develops skills specifically designed for youth with significant disabilities between the ages of 14 and 24 to promote self-awareness and esteem, develop advocacy and self-empowerment skills, and the exploration of career options, including the transition from school to post-school activities such as postsecondary education, vocational training, employment, continuing and adult education, adult services, independent living, or community participation.

• Nursing Home Transition: Any services that facilitate the transition from nursing homes and other institutions to the community. Services that assist those at risk of entering institutions.