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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."
Pam’s Television Appearance Boosted PILC’s Annual Benefit
Pam and David Bowerman and Leader Dog Major shared some treacherous travel to appear on TV. PILC consumer Pam Bowerman, her husband David and Leader Dog Major braved icy roads and zero-degree weather to tell others about the Center’s services for people with disabilities.
On the morning of February 10, Amarillo was recovering from a major winter storm that dumped six inches of snow with high drifts and bone-chilling cold. Pam was scheduled to appear on KVII-TV with PILC Outreach Coordinator Doug Hammett to talk about the Center’s services and the upcoming benefit, “A Heart to Heart Affair.” The interview was at 6:00 a.m.
“Fortunately, a friend from North Dakota stayed with us the night before to drive us to the TV station,” Pam recalls. “I normally don’t do ice because I once broke an ankle on the ice, but ya’ll asked me to be there.” PILC’s Diane Campa helped arrange Pam’s appearance because of her independent living achievements.
Pam was referred to PILC by Amarillo College’s Disability Access staff who recognized her need for computer training. Utilizing PILC’s accessible software in the computer lab, Pam acquired the skills to complete her Associate’s Degree. “Diane and the Center provided the encouragement and assistance that helped me go back to school,” Pam said.
PILC is grateful to Pam and her family for sacrificing the warmth and safety of home to share her story on television.
