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."

Chris Joins Special Olympics Torch Run

Energetic men and women ran, jogged, walked and cycled from Amarillo to Arlington, Texas during the Special Olympics Law Enforcement Torch Run.

PILC Transportation Coordinator Chris White was among Texas peace officers who supported the Special Olympics Torch Run to Arlington.

PILC’s Chris White was among civilian volunteers who joined peace officers during the 346 mile journey to raise money and awareness for Special Olympics. The trip began May 26, and ended Friday, May 28 when hundreds of runners from Texas cities crossed the finish line at UT Arlington’s Maverick Field. Checks totaling close to $850,000 were presented to Special Olympics during opening ceremonies for this year’s summer games.

Chris said the long trip to Arlington was just an extensive workout, until she reached the stadium in Arlington. “That’s where my heart poured out; seeing the athletes lined up with hundreds of officers made my heart sing. The athletes hugged you, shook your hand and thanked you more times than I could count.” Chris added that she hopes to represent PILC again in next year’s Torch Run, and recommends the event for everyone.

This year’s Torch Run was a huge grassroots effort that included nearly 400 volunteers traveling 3,000 miles across Texas. The support from this event contributes greatly to local Special Olympics games which involve more than 36,000 athletes with intellectual disabilities.