Upcoming Events

Limited activities during May due to building renovations. We still keep regular office hours. Call 806-374-1400.

May 31 - 3:00pm

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."

PILC Youth Land a Few Punches and Good Advice

Students from across the Panhandle are getting a kick out of PILC’s summer youth program!

Master Lister received a few good punches from YES student Samuel Silva.

Martial Arts instructor Michael Lister and his daughter Chelsea delivered a few tips about personal safety and self-defense to students attending this summer’s Youth Encountering Success program. Master Lister is a Seventh Degree black belt in the Korean art of Tae Kwon Do. His annual visit to the YES program promotes healthy awareness of simple defense mechanisms, how to address threatening situations and building self-confidence.

“Tae Kwon Do is also about respecting others,” Master Lister said. “Martial Arts is not to be used as a weapon, but how to deal with rude people or bullies in school who want to hurt you.” He talked with students about the importance of good breathing and posture for this sport, and also the art of using defensive skills.

YES students earned self-confidence and new friendships with Martial Arts instructor Michael Lister and Chelsea.

Regardless of a student’s disability, they shared the lessons that helped build confidence and self-empowerment. Master Lister’s visit truly lifted spirits among students whom he also asked, “Please kids, don’t try this out on your parents!”