Vision

Independent Living Canada envisions an inclusive and accessible society where people with disabilities are valued equally and participate fully.

Mission

Independent Living Canada is a national non-profit association of Independent Living Centres run by and for people with disabilities who promote the Independent Living Philosophy.

Independent Living Canada supports the development of Independent Living Centres, and provides education and leadership for its member organization, partners and communities.

Mandate

Founded in 1986 by the Independent Living movement membership, Independent Living Canada is the national umbrella organization, representing and supporting the network of IL Centres at the national level. Its office is located in Ottawa, the Nation's Capital.

Independent Living Canada's primary activities include:

• Promoting the development of Independent Living Centres in Canadian communities;
• Articulating and promoting the Independent Living vision, philosophy and work of the Independent Living Centres at the national level;
• Providing organizational assistance, training and the implementation of programs to Independent Living Centres; and
• Acting as a liaison between the Independent Living Centres, various federal government departments, and Members of Parliament.

Who We Are and Who We Service

Independent Living Canada and its member Independent Living Centres are organizations run by and for people with disabilities. We support individuals with any type of disability including, but not limited to: invisible, mobility, mental health, sensory, intellectual and those who live with multiple disabilities. However, these are only labels and categories.  In the Independent Living Movement we believe that the attitudinal and environmental barriers in society create disabling conditions and are rather the result of living in a society designed by and for non-disabled persons.

We also believe it is up to the individual to self-determine whether they have a disability or not, by identifying for themselves if they experience barriers that prevent their full participation in society.

Your Support Helps.

When you donate to Independent Living Canada, you empower the entire network to do more, to reach out to more people, to make an impact from Coast to Coast.

When you donate to Independent Living Canada, you help us invest in the lives of many, and you reduce the duplication of costs at the fundraising level, as our members can focus on what they do best, while we financially support them.

Independent Living Canada’s ultimate goal is to contribute to the reinforcement of autonomous Centres, and ensures proper program reporting.