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 Share the Pride of Accomplishment at Graduation

Students and guests shared recognition and high-fives during graduation ceremonies for Youth Encountering Success.

Excited boys and girls earned “high-fives” and lots of applause during this year’s Youth Encountering Success graduation ceremonies. While receiving awards on August 12, students from five Panhandle counties were recognized for their achievements and individuality.

This event concluded the eighth year of PILC’s youth transition program, a busy ten-week schedule of activities that promotes self-confidence, making positive choices, and cultivating ideas about building productive lives after high school graduation. Graduation day is important because it celebrates the students’ accomplishments and emphasizes their value to society as individuals. Each student receives a certificate that includes their personal achievement such as “Most Determined”, “Best Memory”, and “Social Butterfly” award.

This year, five youths received plaques as veteran students who graduated from high school and will be leaving the YES program. Iesha Adams, Nikki Camarillo, Tryniti Chaney, Charlie Patton and Omar Ramirez were honored for their exceptional achievements. Graduation was a bittersweet moment for these students who will miss next summer’s YES program; but they have transitioned into young adults to become active in their community.

PILC Board President Susan Stokes presented plaques to graduating seniors Iesha Adams and Omar Ramirez, two of five students leaving the YES summer program.

PILC President Susan Stokes joined the YES staff in presenting awards. Many parents, volunteers, Board members and representatives of sponsor ConocoPhillips offered applause and pats on the back. Especially obvious to everyone was the love, camaraderie and team spirit that exists among the students. And for some, saying “goodbye” was a very, very hard thing to do.