The Independence Center

To view the Independence Center Website, just click HERE

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The Independence Center – Jeanette As we age vision loss becomes more and more prevalent through acquiring macular degeneration, cataracts, or diabetic retinopathy. It is always alarming when our vision starts to change and we’re not sure what to expect in the future. The Independence Center believes that seeing less does not mean doing less. We offer support groups for seniors with low-vision to discuss ways to continue living a full life. Technological advancements as well as simple no cost tips can assist us in continuing to read, be involved in our hobbies, cook, travel, and do all the things we enjoy. Please contact Teri or Jeanette at 719 471-8181 x 126 to discuss how to be involved in a support group in your area. http:// www.theindependencecenter.orgThe Independence Center – DonIs the local home of civil rights for people with disabilities.They support and promote these civil rights throughout our service area which includes El Paso, Cheyenne, Elbert, Kiowa, Kit Carson, Lincoln, Park and Teller counties. They provide services for individuals with disabilities such as Information & Referral, Benefits Assistance, Employment Services, Independent Living Skills Classes, Peer Support, among other services

Older Individuals with Blindness (OIB) Coordinator

3rd Wed of the Month

@the Paulson Center

406 Cheyenne St, Calhan

Every Thursday

@ the Community Outreach Center

Noon- 1:00 pm

PH: 719-471-8181 x126

10:00 am – 2:00 pm

Or by appointment

PH: 719-471-8181 x105

Please see the attached job description for the position of the Independent Living Specialist for the eastern counties. Preference given for locals in the area. Candidates can submit their resumes on The Independence Center’s website: http://www.theindependencecenter.org/employment

For additional information about this job position- Click ILSpecialist_EasternCounties

H.O.M.E.
HOUSING OPTIONS MADE EASY

THE INDEPENDENCE CENTER PRESENTS A WORKSHOP ON FAIR HOUSING

When: August 22, 2013 – 1 PM to 3 PM

Where: The Independence Center
729 South Tejon Street
Colorado Springs, CO 80903

Guest Speaker: Supportive Housing (Denver)

Topics:
·      What is section 8 – section 8 101
·      What other types of housing assistance are available – like public housing
·      Fair housing specifically for persons with disabilities
·      Review of regulations: reporting income, who can live with you, etc.
·      Other programs offered – homeownership
·      Housing quality standards – based on what your unit needs

For further information and to RSVPplease contact:
· Becky Shute (bshute@The-IC.org)
· Valeria Jones (vjones@The-IC.org)

ADA Event Highlights History

The Independence Center celebrated the anniversary of the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and how it has affected the lives on those with disabilities on July 25^th at Stargazers Theatre. The ADA Celebration included a silent auction with items donated from around the community, a screening of the PBS documentary “Lives Worth Living” and local heroes involved in the Disability Rights movement sharing their stories. “During the movie, you could hear a pin drop,” Yeager said. “I think maybe people did not realize what a recent and rich history we have across the country. We are not alone!”Read more about the evening on our website.

Call for Artists with Disabilities

The Independence Center announces a call to artists for a one night juried art exhibition, October 25 at The Warehouse in Colorado Springs, CO. We are seeking art in every medium! Find out more here.

We’re on Pinterest!

We have joined Pinterest! Through this social media medium, we hope to provide our consumers with inspirational stories, adaptive equipment options, news stories and advocacy pieces. Check out on Boards.

Yes We C.A.N. Expo! Draws Record Attendance

The third annual Yes We C.A.N. Expo was a huge success! Read more about the day on our website and check out our Facebook album.

Fires Help Community Realize Needs of People with Disabilities

In the aftermath of the Waldo Canyon Fire, The Independence Center (The IC) held a forum for officials from the City of Colorado Springs, Manitou Springs and The Red Cross to discuss what the fire was like for people with disabilities. The forum provided a public avenue for those with a disability who were affected by the fire to speak up.

The forum was the first step in trying to bring about a more comprehensive and inclusive emergency plan. Over the last year, The IC has continued to work with city, county, local media and emergency officials, initiating contact, hosting meetings, and sharing information. The Black Forest Fire revealed how far we have come. The city, county, local media and emergency officials made great strides in their efforts and response to emergency information and communication for people with disabilities.

To see our full report, including pictures and more details on what we’ve done and where we are going, please visit our website.