Independence First

As a nonprofit organization and Center for Independent Living, Independence First has a vision for full inclusion of people with disabilities in every aspect of our community and commits itself toward this end.

We offer more than 40 programs, workshops, and services of all kinds for various age groups. Independence First provides programs on disability awareness, independent living skills, and recreation. We work with individuals and families for whatever someone needs to successfully live in the community, helping with resources from assistive technology to home modification to personal care or supportive home care services.

Independence First also provides programming, whether it’s art classes or cooking classes, peer support, and even adaptive video gaming. More than 50% of our staff, managers, and Board have disabilities themselves and this peer-approach leads to excellent outcomes.

Our services also include benefits counseling and Personal Care Support. We advocate for change and inclusivity, and help people who want to stay in or move to an independent living situation in their own home instead of institutions.