Welcome to SILC!
Be sure to save the date for the 2008 Disability Policy Seminar; Advancing Disability Policy in an Election Year from March 2-4, 2008. More information to follow soon!
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"Independent Living is the right of all people to make informed choices, to have personal control over their own lives, and to participate to the fullest extent possible in the everyday activities of work, school, home, family and community."
The Michigan Statewide Independent Living Council (SILC) is an organization of individuals who represent the interests of people with disabilities across Michigan. Council members are appointed by the Governor and a majority must be people with disabilities. In addition, non-voting ex-officio members provide a vital link to state agencies which provide services for people with disabilities.
What is the purpose of SILC?
The Council promotes a philosophy of independent living. This includes consumer control, peer support, self-help, self-determination, equal access, and individual and systems advocacy to maximize the leadership, empowerment, independence, and productivity of people with disabilities. The Council promotes integration and full inclusion of people with disabilities into the mainstream of American society.
What does the SILC do?
The Statewide Independent Living Council works cooperatively with the Michigan Department of Labor & Economic Growth-Rehabilitation Services (MDLEG-RS) and the Michigan Commission for the Blind (MCB) to develop and submit the State Plan for Independent Living (SPIL). The SPIL establishes a blueprint for present and future independent living programs and services in Michigan.
How can I be involved in SILC activities?
Input from people with disabilities is vital for the development of the SPIL. Public comment at SILC meetings and at public hearings helps shape the independent living service delivery system. The SILC welcomes consumers' comments, criticisms, questions and concerns, and consistently works to improve independent living services in Michigan. The SILC Council meets four times a year at an accessible location; each of these meetings are open to the public.