Mission
To strengthen the voice of Iowans with disabilities on issues affecting their lives, to build a statewide network of centers for independent living, and to collaborate with our partners in advancing the independence, productivity, and full inclusion of Iowans with disabilities.
What is the Iowa Statewide Independent Living Council (IASILC)?
The Iowa Statewide Independent Living Council (IASILC) is a federally-mandated, not-for-profit, Governor appointed council. A majority of council members must be people with a disability.
Does the SILC perform direct services or referrals?
No. Federal law prohibits the SILC from providing direct services to individuals or referrals. The exception is that the SILC may refer individuals to a Center for Independent Living.
What is the purpose of the IASILC?
By federal law, the SILC must:
- Develop and maintain a Statewide Independent Living Council,
- Develop and support a statewide independent living network with the Centers for Independent Living (CILs),
- Develop a State Plan for Independent Living (SPIL) with the CILs, which includes a resource plan for the SILC,
- Monitor, review, and evaluate the SPIL.
What are the federal requirements for the SILC board composition?
The SILC has fifteen positions. At least 51% of the SILC Council must be persons with disabilities who do not work for a State agency or a Center for Independent Living.
Of the three ex-officio positions:
One position is for a staff member from the Designated State Entity (DSE), which is the State Agency that receives the federal Part B funds and the State funds for Independent Living for the SILC and the CILs, and who administers those funds to the SILC and CILs.
Two positions are ex-officio, non-voting for staff from a state agency that works with disability issues.
The twelve voting members:
Must represent a broad range of individuals with different types of disabilities across the state.
Include one Director of an Iowa CIL, selected by the other CILs to sit on the Council as their representative.
Annually elect a President, Vice President, Treasurer, and Secretary from among the Voting Members of the Council.
Review applications and provide recommendations on membership the Governor of Iowa makes all appointments.
Independent Living
The Independent Living (IL) Movement is part of the disability rights movement, significantly impacting current language, thought, and public policy regarding disability.
Iowa Independent Living Network
The Independent Living (IL) Movement is part of the disability rights movement, significantly impacting current language, thought, and public policy regarding disability.
The Council
Our council members’ talent, vision, and experiences fuel their commitment to spreading independent living values and services across Iowa.
Seeking Your Input!
The SILC meetings are open to the public and public comment is welcome. For meeting dates, locations, agendas, or minutes, or if you or someone you know is interested in serving on the SILC, please contact us.
