Guest author: Susan Mack of Engage IL
Engage IL is a grassroots coalition representing the interests of self-advocates with disabilities and their families who want to create a self-directed, strength-based life in their home community.
Many families in Illinois use Home-Based Funding to build meaningful lives for their loved ones. However, current funding is inadequate, forcing families to pay out of pocket for essential services. Engage IL believes no one should have to move to a more restrictive setting to access the support they need. We advocate for equitable funding of more flexible, community-based programs, such as supported living.
Supported living was first introduced in 1993 by John O’Brien, who, alongside Connie Lyle O’Brien, championed respectful, person-driven supports that treat people as citizens—not clients (click here to read John O’Brien’s article Supported Living: What’s the Difference?).
We’re proud to partner with Clancy and Associates to share resources and elevate family voices. Please join Engage IL and add your voice to the call for more progressive, community-based living options.
About Engage IL
“We are a grass-roots coalition of families and self-advocates with disabilities who want to create a self-directed, strength-based life in their home community. Through education and outreach, we are building a strong, unified voice to advocate for these interests.“
For more information, visit engageil.org