Through the Independent Living Skills (ILS) Program, Community Resources for Independence offers people with disabilities the opportunity to develop the skills needed to live independently.

The residential program allows people with disabilities to explore the process of becoming independent through actual experience; participants learn to manage their own lives and become active participants in the day-to-day affairs of their community. They are provided with information on available services and programs, gain practice in daily living skills, and are able to interact with role models - all of which facilitate the process of becoming independent. Training is conducted in both classroom and residential training apartment settings.

In addition to the residential program, independent living skills training is also offered on a "day program" basis. This type of training is suited for individuals who live in the Erie area, and do not require housing or transitional services. Participants may attend training from one to five days per week, and receive instruction in any independent living skill areas. The ILS Day Program is considered especially beneficial for people with disabilities who need to improve their independent living skills in only a few areas, or who may benefit from the opportunity for increased peer interaction in an environment outside their own home. During the summer months, the ILS Day Program serves as an excellent opportunity for high school students with disabilities to develop independent living skills prior to graduation.

Goals

• To provide persons with disabilities the information and skill development opportunities needed to live independently.



• To provide a variety of opportunities to make choices and decisions, and to practice new responsibilities.



• To provide role models showing how people with disabilities can lead active and rewarding lives.

1. Attendant care management
2. Self-care and daily living
3. Functional ability and equipment
4. Health care and medical issues
5. Communication
6. Financial management and budgeting
7. Civil rights law and advocacy
8. Housing
9. Transportation
10. Social and recreational
11. Self-help and personal
12. Educational and vocational
13. Employment

1. Be 18 years of age or older.
2. Have a physical disability.
3. Be medically stable.
4. Be able to attend ILS classes for five hours a day.
5. Acknowledge that there are certain aspects of his/her life that he/she would like to change in order to live more independently.