Independent Living began first with a center at the University of California, Berkeley, in 1972. The unstoppable Independent Living movement has since grown rapidly as demonstrated by the nearly 500 centers now operating nationwide. This Independent Living success story is mainly attributable to the unique and practical philosophy which sets Independent Living Centers apart from other approaches to helping people with disAbilities: Independent Living Centers are run by and for people with disAbilities.

"The creation of centers for independent living is based on the "philosophy of independent living, which includes consumer control, peer support, self-help, self-determination, equal access and individual and system advocacy, to maximize the leadership, empowerment, independence and productivity of individuals with disAbilities, and the integration and full inclusion of individuals with disAbilities in the mainstream of American society."
from Chapter 1 of the Title VII of the 1973 Rehabilitation Act, as Amended.

"Independent Living is a philosophy and a movement of people with disAbilities who work for self-determination, equal opportunities and self-respect."
Adoloph Ratzka.

One person with a DisAbility assisting another to find innovative, fair and cost-effective solutions, that's what independent living is all about.
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