Independent Living Centers provide the four core services:

Peer Support – One-to-one Peer Support is available from trained volunteers and staff who have personally experienced a disability and are willing to share their life experiences. Information, assistance, and support may be provided to assist a consumer dealing with issues related to their disability.

Independent Living Skills Training – IL Skills Training provides assistance in assessing and developing the skills individuals need in order to live independently. Skill areas may include communication, financial management, household management, accessing community services, problem-solving and identifying, and using adaptive/non-adaptive equipment.

Information / Referral – CILWW Staff provides information on disability-related subjects and resources. Referral information for community services is provided. CILWW maintains a library of books, catalogs, and periodicals relating to disabilities that are available to the public. CILWW also publishes a quarterly newsletter called the Advocate.

CILWW also provides the following services:

ADA Implementation and Assessments
CILWW staff can assist your business or organization to understand and meet the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This may include helping with a self-evaluation and working to develop an implementation plan.

Benefits Analysis
A Benefits Specialist will meet with an individual to discuss their current benefits situation and explain how employment may affect these benefits.  The Specialist will explain the options that the person may choose to utilize once they begin their job.

Braille Services
Braille documents may be printed for consumers or agencies.  An electronic format (diskette, e-mail, etc.) copy of the document is required.  There is a minimal charge to agencies.

Communication
We provide information, resources, and access to assistive technology, explain available options, and demonstrate equipment.  Assistance with TEPP, TAP, and other funding program applications is also available.

Community Education
CILWW personnel may provide information and training on disabilities and disability-related issues. This includes presentations on disability awareness, Center services, assistive technology, legislation, and independent living issues.

Computer Assessment/Training
This assessment is a hands-on approach to trying out the computer and adaptive equipment. The assessment generally takes 2 – 3 hours with a comprehensive report included. CILWW also provides short-term training in the use of adaptive computer software and hardware. This may also include installation of software and/or hardware.

Device Loan and Demonstration Program
CILWW has over 2,000 pieces of assistive technology available for short-term trials.  This provides an opportunity for consumers to try out equipment and determine if it meets their needs. Adaptive equipment may increase a person’s independence by giving them more control within their environment, the ability to communicate better, manage household tasks, and accomplish daily living needs. CILWW staff also has knowledge of where to acquire equipment and any potential funding options that may be available.

Home Modifications and Accessibility
Center staff will meet and discuss ways to improve a consumer’s home accessibility.  Staff will assist in identifying areas that could be improved and offer possible solutions.  Recommendations could include a ramp design, building information, or suggestions on how to remodel a bathroom for better access.  CILWW will also provide information on funding options for these projects.

Independent Living Assessments
Independent living assessments are used to help assist individuals seeking to stay independent in their homes. Independent living includes the skills and knowledge an individual needs to direct his or her life at home and in the community.

Independent Living Skills Assessment
This in-home assessment identifies a person’s independent living skill strengths and areas needing improvement. A participant may perform hands-on tasks, use adaptive equipment, and demonstrate abilities in community living circumstances. A written report is provided.

Medical Assistance
Personal Assistant Services (PAS)
The provision of Personal Care Services to individuals living within the community is provided by engaging agencies throughout our ten county area.  As a result, CILWW is better able to ensure those individuals choosing to live in their communities are able to do just that. CILWW’s Personal Assistant Services program provides assistance to adults and children with disabilities. The services are provided in the comfort of the individual’s home. Help can range from simple personal needs, supportive home care, respite care, to complex personal care.

PASS (Plan for Achieving Self-Support) Development
A Benefits Specialist may assist in the development of an individualized PASS plan.  The specialist will discuss with the consumer their PASS plan options and assist in the writing and submission of the plan.

Transition (youth, nursing home, etc)
This service is to facilitate the transition of individuals with significant disabilities from nursing homes and other institutions to home and community-based residences, with the requisite supports and services; provide assistance to individuals with significant disabilities who are at risk of entering institutions, so that the individuals may remain in the community; and facilitate the transition of youth who are individuals with significant disabilities, who were eligible for individualized education programs under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and who have completed their secondary education, or otherwise left school, to post-secondary life.

Transportation
The transportation service offers a wide variety of services. Transportation staff may provide you with information and resources for transportation in your area.  Transportation is provided through our volunteer and voucher program services. Our goal is to make transportation access easier for people with disabilities or frail elderly who have barriers accessing transportation. We advocate for more options for accessible transportation.

Youth Services
Youth service is a service that develops skills specifically designed for youth with disabilities between the ages of 14 and 24 to promote self-awareness and esteem, develop empowerment skills and to explore career options, including postsecondary education

Wisloan/TEPP/Telework 
The Wisconsin Telework Loan Program is a statewide, alternative loan program for residents with disabilities to purchase computers and other equipment needed.

The WisLoan Program offers loans for assistive technology. The loans help people buy equipment such as hearing aids, modified vehicles, wheelchairs etc.