Upcoming Events
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."
YES Activities Fascinate Young Minds
Students look forward to an array of activities that change from year to year and the YES staff works hard to find beneficial, accessible field trips and classroom lessons. Youth Coordinator Cynthia Hammett says “If we continue doing the same things year after year the kids will lose interest, especially our veteran students.” While some destinations may be repeated each year, new activities keep the educational standards and interest levels high.
Kicking off the year with a new classroom activity was PILC’s Doug Hammett who used his giant Tinker Toys to describe the steps toward gaining independence. Students took turns adding pieces to a bridge while learning about independent living. As the structure took shape they gained a clear picture of life skills, self-advocacy and peer support.
YES students toured the majestic Palo Duro Canyon which for many students, was their first time to see this natural wonder. Park Ranger Bernice conducted a nature walk where they first spotted a tiny bug that lives on cactus. The Cochineal beetle’s red color is used for dye in food, art paints and even cosmetics.
Things got really wet and wild at the West Texas A&M Activity Center where students swam and cruised down the lazy river with buddies. It was another chance for fellowship while beating this summer’s extreme Texas heat.
