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Canadian Independent Living Centres: impact on the community
P Hutchison1, A Pedlar, P Dunn
1Department of Recreation and Leisure Studies, Brock University, St. Catharines, ON, Canada.
Summary
Independent Living Centres (ILCs) empower individuals with disabilities through self-direction and community inclusion. Research shows ILCs positively impact empowerment, community change, and the broader independent living movement.
Area of Science:
- Social Policy
- Disability Studies
- Community Health
Background:
- The Independent Living (IL) paradigm shifts disability support from traditional models.
- Independent Living Centres (ILCs) are consumer-driven organizations promoting IL principles globally.
- Key ILC principles include empowerment, self-direction, cross-disability support, choice, and inclusion.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of Independent Living Centres (ILCs) in Canada.
- To assess the influence of ILCs on their connected communities of interest.
Main Methods:
- A survey methodology was employed to gather data.
- Surveys were distributed to formal organizations, informal groups, and family/friends associated with ILCs.
- A response rate of 52.6% (111 out of 211) was achieved.
Main Results:
- Overall, moderate to good levels of familiarity with ILCs were reported.
- Significant involvement and impact of ILCs within their communities were observed.
- The findings affirmed the crucial role of ILCs in fostering individual empowerment and community development.
Conclusions:
- Independent Living Centres are vital for advancing the independent living movement.
- ILCs contribute significantly to individual empowerment and community transformation.
- Further research is needed to fully understand the impact of ILCs.