About Us

Arizona Statewide Independent Living Council (AZSILC) is federally mandated and funded under the Rehabilitation Act. AZSILC is comprised of individuals appointed by the Governor. These Council members are Arizonans who have diverse disabilities, as well as advocates for people who have disabilities from across the state.

AZSILC develops, implements, monitors, and evaluates the Arizona State Plan for Independent Living (AZSPIL), along with the Arizona Centers for Independent Living (CILs), who together form the Arizona Independent Living Network (AZILN).

By design, Statewide Independent Living Councils are a catalyst for statewide outcomes and strategic systems change through collaboration, and do not provide direct services to individuals. SILCs cannot provide independent living services, manage such services, or compete with Centers for Independent Living (CILs) in the delivery of such services. Therefore, AZSILC does not deliver services or have programs, but rather works on initiatives in solidarity with others to bridge gaps, reduce barriers, and enhance community living opportunities for all Arizonans who have disabilities.

MISSION

The mission of AZSILC is to facilitate systemic changes that promote equity, inclusion, and choice for people who have disabilities.

VALUES

• People who have disabilities are the best experts on their own lives and needs
• People who have disabilities have the right to make decisions, learn from them, and live with the consequences
• Self and systems advocacy are critical components of community inclusion
• People who have disabilities are adept at navigating challenging circumstances and their lived expertise is invaluable
• Accessible community life is essential for the well-being of all community members
• People who have disabilities must engage in leadership and decision-making roles to ensure their interests are acknowledged and represented
• Cross-movement solidarity and coalition building is essential for effective systems change