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Independent Living Services Independence First has more than forty programs and workshops that are often necessary to help a person live independently in the community. We also have programs and workshops that are fun, creative, and educational.
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Independence First is Metro Milwaukee’s leading nonprofit resource for people with disabilities. We empower people with disabilities to live independently, advocate for their rights, and fully participate in community life.
Founded on the principles of the Independent Living Movement, Independence First believes that disability is a natural part of the human experience, and that people with disabilities are the best experts on their own lives.
Independence First is a Center for Independent Living (CIL). CILs are community-based, consumer-controlled organizations that emphasize:
Self-determination and choice
Peer support and lived experience
Community integration
Civil rights and systems change
We do not view disability as something to be “fixed.” Instead, we work to remove, physical, social, economic, and attitudinal barriers that limit full participation.
More than half of our staff, leadership, and board members are people with disabilities, ensuring our work is grounded in real-world experience.
Independence First serves people with all types of disabilities, including physical, sensory, cognitive, mental health, and chronic conditions. We support individuals across the lifespan from youth transitioning to adulthood, to working-age adults, to older adults aging with disability.
Our work also supports families, caregivers, employers, service providers, policymakers, and the broader community.
Helping empower individuals with disabilities through these five core services:
Independence First fights for change in systems that stand in the way of equal opportunity and inclusivity. We work with other advocacy agencies and with community leaders, employers, and the general public for awareness. Independence First also works with people to advocate for themselves in any situation that impedes equality.
Independence First is dedicated to offering meaningful education and skills training that can help people to live more independently. We offer many options for individual as well as group programs, classes, guidance and support.
Independence First has complete access and knowledge of local agencies and efforts to help with various needs and we can provide information and referral to other sources.
More than 50% of our staff have disabilities and many work directly with people in the community seeking our assistance. This peer approach puts people who have first-hand knowledge and experience in touch with people seeking help. We also have trained volunteers who offer peer support.
Independence First will work for those who wish to leave nursing homes or other institutions and live independently in the community in their own homes. In addition, we also work with youth transitioning from secondary education into post-secondary life and adulthood and assist them with accessing the skills and information they need to be successful.