Special Message

Panhandle ILC is your "Key to Independence" a symbol of the assistance and encouragement we offer to people with disabilities. More than 40 years ago in California, a group of people living in nursing homes simply because they were disabled, refused to give up their rights. Working together, they formed the first Independent Living Center, left the nursing homes, and began advocating for themselves.

This spirit continues in Centers all across America and in Amarillo where we help fill in the gaps left by other agencies. We encourage people to become their own advocates, take risks, accept responsibility, and gain control over their own lives. It's about participating as full and equal members of the community.

The philosophy behind Independent Living is that: "Everyone, regardless of disability, should have equal access to the rights and responsibilities that each citizen has to be as active and productive a member of society as he chooses to be."

“Ticket To Your Future” Draws 300 Youth and Educators

Career-minded students enjoyed remarks from Andy Justus of KAMR-TV during the annual PTC Job Fair.

Educators and students from 29 schools in the Texas Panhandle poured into the Amarillo Civic Center to learn more about vocations and future opportunities.

The Third Annual Job Fair sponsored by the Panhandle Transition Coalition (PTC) drew nearly 300 students and teachers eager to hear motivational speakers, company representatives and information offered by 17 agencies. The October event featured KAMR-TV News Anchor Andy Justus as Master of Ceremonies who shared his challenges while growing up at Cal Farley’s Boys Ranch.

PILC's Cynthia Pacheco invited job fair students to check out the Center's Youth Encountering Success program.

Among the crowd of youth were several students who participate in PILC’s Youth Encountering Success program. Along with touring the numerous exhibits, they listened to employers who discussed opportunities for people with disabilities. The various sessions offered information about careers in business, medicine and communications. Other students were interested in automotive, welding and rewarding industrial vocations.

The event was called “Ticket to Your Future: Transition Career Fair,” and represents the dedicated work of allied agencies who participate in the PTC. These agencies include The Texas Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services, Department of State Health Services, Amarillo College, Coalition of Health Services, Uniting Parents, Region 16 Education Service Center and PILC.

The PTC’s job fair has grown considerably over the years thanks to supportive school districts and their dedication to ensure greater opportunities for students transitioning from high school.