About Us

Arizona Statewide Independent Living Council (AZSILC) is federally mandated and funded under the Rehabilitation Act. AZSILC members are appointed by the Governor, and the Council is comprised of members of the cross-disability community, and 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 they 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 Arizona disability community members.

MISSION

The mission of AZSILC is to foster opportunity, engagement, 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 enhance communities and create avenues for all to contribute and thrive within them
• People who have disabilities are adept at navigating challenging circumstances and that 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