Independent Living Centers are non-residential community-based organizations providing services and advocacy by and for persons with all types of disabilities. They receive all or at least part of their funding from the Rehabilitation Services Administration; usually they are controlled by a board of directors the majority of whom have disabilities themselves. The "independent living movement" was born out of both civil rights and consumer activism movements of the 1960s. They are private, nonprofit organizations. Many independent living centers serve as a strong advocacy voice on a wide range of national, state and local issues. They work to assure physical and programmatic access to housing, employment, transportation, communities, recreational facilities, and health and social services. There are nearly 500 independent living centers nationwide. Most belong to the National Council on Independent Living..

For a listing of independent living centers nationwide, visit the Independent Living USA website.