Ohio Statewide Independent Living Council: A Path to Empowerment and Inclusion
Looking for a way to foster independence and promote inclusion for all Ohioans? Consider applying to join the Ohio Statewide Independent Living Council. (OSILC).
Established in 1992 under the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, per the Council website, OSILC plays a vital role in promoting independence for individuals with disabilities across the state. As an autonomous entity not tied to any state agency, OSILC ensures that the Independent Living (IL) Program in Ohio operates with the freedom necessary to effectively serve the diverse needs of people with disabilities throughout the state.
The website further details how OSILC is tasked with developing, implementing, and monitoring the State Plan for Independent Living (SPIL), a strategic framework that spans three years. This plan focuses on enhancing access, inclusion, and independence for Ohioans with disabilities. The Council collaborates with various organizations and state agencies to coordinate services that support independent living, while also fostering a support network among the 12 Centers for Independent Living (CILs) throughout Ohio.
With a commitment to consumer control, peer support, and advocacy, according to the “About” page of OSILC’s website, the Council aims to empower individuals with disabilities, promoting their leadership and integration into mainstream society. The Council consists of 19 members appointed by Governor DeWine, with a significant portion representing individuals with disabilities to ensure that the voices of Ohio’s 1.6 million residents with disabilities are heard.
The “Committees” Section of the OSILC website explains how members of the Council work to promote and further its mission via the following:
Executive Committee: This committee handles urgent business between Council meetings and supervises administrative operations.
Education and Outreach Committee: Focused on raising awareness about independent living, this committee actively recruits new members and engages the disability community with OSILC’s SPIL development and other advocacy efforts.
Community Advancement and Advocacy Committee: This group assesses community needs and champions systemic changes to enhance the living conditions for individuals with disabilities.
State Plan for Independent Living Committee: Responsible for monitoring the progress of the SPIL, this committee ensures that goals are met and recommends necessary revisions.
Joining OSILC: Your Opportunity to Make a Difference
Individuals interested in becoming a member of the Ohio SILC are encouraged to apply. The “Become A Board Member” section of the Council website elaborates on how the Education and Outreach Committee, along with the Executive Committee, reviews applications and submits candidate names to the full Council for approval. The final recommendation is then sent to Governor DeWine for appointment.
To apply, candidates must complete the following steps:
1. Fill out the State Boards and Commissions Application.
2. Complete the Ohio SILC New Member Application.
3. Include a resume or curriculum vitae.
Applications and all required materials should be sent to:
Ohio SILC
670 Morrison Rd, Suite 200
Gahanna, OH 43230
For more information, visit OSILC’s website at http://www.ohiosilc.org/
