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."

Max Pitches A Passionate Message

Max Hudson (at right) asked YES students to find the hidden word in a pile of letters.

“Realize your passion and follow your dreams” was the challenge given to PILC youth during another exciting visit from motivator Max Hudson.

Max, of Region 16 Education Service Center, reached out to young people attending the Center’s Youth Encountering Success after school program. He began by having each youth participate in a group activity where they worked together to create a word from a pile of letters. The word was PASSION.

Students were asked to think about their own passions; some enjoy sports and being with friends while others preferred spending time with the computer. Whatever their favorite pastime, it’s important to find something in life they enjoy and, whenever possible, make their life’s work their passion.

Max also believes in getting kids off their feet, and he explained that our brains need to be active, too. Students laughed during several exercises to stimulate their minds while catching a football or testing their balance by standing on one leg. While students laugh at Max’s unpredictable antics, they take to heart his serious messages that challenge them to become confident, productive citizens.