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."

Texans Gather to Revitalize, Reorganize and Rejuvenize

Dennis Borel with the Coalition of Texans with Disabilities discussed funding for Centers with PILC President Susan Stokes.

Texans with disabilities celebrated many achievements and challenges in independent living during the State Independent Living Council annual conference in Dallas.

PILC Vice President D.J. Stubben received a warm welcome from Jerry Price, representing the Texas Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services.

This year’s symposium offered unique presentations including assistive technology, therapeutic recreation, and even a chance to go “hand-to-hand” with a martial arts instructor who taught the importance of self-defense. Informative sessions, fascinating exhibits and motivating discussions were enjoyed by consumers, service providers, educators and volunteers who share the independent living mission. Attending from PILC were Board members Susan Stokes, D. J. Stubben and Ray Aplin, along with staff members Diane Campa, Jessica Young, Doug Hammett, Bart Hill and Carl McMillen.

PILC Treasurer Ray Aplin learned more about assistive Technology while speaking to many SILC Conference vendors.

Especially vital to the future of independent living is the need to advocate for greater recognition of disability issues. Everyone was charged with being involved in the next session of the Texas Legislature to promote many issues including access to healthcare, housing options and increased services for relocation from nursing homes. Efforts are now underway to develop a formal consumer advocacy group to represent statewide legislative initiatives.

Highlighting the annual conference was keynote speaker Kelly Buckland, Executive Director of the National Council on Independent Living who applauded the work of Centers in Texas. “Yours is not just a job, but a passion and commitment,” he said. Mr. Buckland emphasized that Centers are cost effective in terms of ensuring and promoting independence and play a vital role in overcoming societal barriers.

While recognizing the work that still lies ahead, the conference also offered new strategies to revitalize, reorganize and rejuvenate the Independent Living movement in Texas.