About Us

At Independent Living (IL) Canada, the term "Independent Living" is not just a label – it is a way of life. We apply an IL perspective to everything we do, advocating for the autonomy of all Canadians with disabilities. Our mission is to protect and preserve their independence in every aspect of life. We work through strong partnerships and collaborations with like-minded organizations, striving to build the largest and most supportive IL community possible.

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.

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

GOALS

• All Canadians with disabilities take control of their lives and advocate for themselves
• All Canadians with disabilities direct and manage their own resources to live autonomously

Our approach to IL emphasizes the importance of enabling individuals with disabilities to explore their own choices, make their own decisions, and take their own risks in order to live and manage their lives autonomously and with dignity. IL was created by and for people with disabilities as an alternative to outdated models based on medical, clinical, and institutional frameworks. Founded in 1986 by the IL Movement Membership, IL Canada serves as the national hub for a network of IL Member Centres, representing Canadians with disabilities that choose IL as their way of life.

We ensure a unified, powerful voice on national issues, advocating for the implementation and preservation of IL principles in Canada while defending the fundamental rights and freedoms of all people with disabilities. Independent Living is a way of thinking and living!