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."

Youth Explore History At Panhandle Plains Historical Museum

YES students discovered their roots and potential careers at the Panhandle Plains Historical Museum.

YES students gained some extra class, culture and sophistication during a fascinating trip to the Panhandle Plains Historical Museum.

The group was met by educational specialist Millie Vanover who led them on a tour of the museum while introducing the various employees and volunteers. She explained the different jobs and the skills necessary to ensure the museum is properly run.

Students had time to view much of the museum’s vast collection of art, historical and cultural exhibits. They learned that people have lived in the Texas Panhandle for thousands of years; a great way to find out about some of their ancestors. A pioneer town allowed them to see how folks lived during the Old West days, and there some neat facts about the oil boom years, as well.

The girls especially enjoyed “Belles of the Ball,” a collection of gowns worn by wealthy debutants over the years. The guys seemed to like exhibits about famous athletes or Old West lawmen. Dozens of other exhibits featured famous paintings, sculptures and even Native American art.

It takes a lot of people to run such a large museum, and students learned that they could someday find a job amid the valuable relics and art. But for now, it was a time for fun and fellowship during another great YES field trip.