Independence Northwest: Home Page

Independence Northwest Logo: Outline of the State of CT + figure with upstreched arms.

... the Center for Independent Living of Northwestern CT

What does independent living mean?

What does independent living mean to you? That's important to us. We are here to give you the information, support and guidance you need to reach your goals of independent living. This might mean technical assistance in constructing a ramp or learning such things as how to hire and manage your Personal Care Assistant. To us independent living does not just describe a set of skills. It is a way of thinking. It is belief in the capacity of all individuals, regardless of disability, to make their own decisions, direct their own life, live in the community of their choice and have access to things conducive to quality of life: housing, transportation, social opportunities, education, etc.

What is a Center for Independent Living?

Independence Northwest, is part of the nationwide network of Centers for Independent Living that grew out of the disability rights movement of the early 1970's. Prior to then, many persons with disabilities lived segregated lives away from the community of their choice. Many did not have access to the educational, social and vocational opportunities that others in society considered their right. Centers for Independent Living differ from traditional service providers in several key ways:

Centers for Independent Living are directed, managed and staffed to a substantial degree by qualified persons with severe disabilities.

The consumer directs the services.
Centers advocate for positive change in the community through education and advocacy.
Center services are based in the community.

What services does Independence Northwest provide?

Like other centers for independent living, Independence Northwest provides services in such areas as peer counseling, advocacy, independent living skills training and information and referral. In addition, we also provide services to the community in the form of disability awareness programs and technical assistance in such areas as architectural barrier removal and community organizing.

Who are we?

We are a group of individuals with and without disabilities. A majority of the staff and board of directors at Independence Northwest are persons with disabilities. Many of us have experienced discrimination and exclusion first hand. Our experiences have taught us that no one can better represent the interests and needs of persons with disabilities than those very persons. That is why we will not diagnose, prescribe, judge or do anything that violates an individual's right to self-determination. We see peer support, community education, advocacy and skills training as ways to achieve the full inclusion of persons with disabilities in the community with dignity and equality.

How can you learn more?

For more information about Independence Northwest or to request services:

You may call (203) 729-3299 (Voice) or (203) 729-1281 (TTD); Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5: 00 PM. Answering machines are available at both numbers after hours and weekends. Our fax number is (203) 729-2839.

You may also reach us by e-mail at: indnw@aol.com or on America On Line at IND NW.

Our offices are located at: 1183 New Haven Road -- Suite 200, Naugatuck, CT 06770

Learn more about us:

Summary of Services

Northwest Activists for Disability Rights (NADR)

Meet the Staff

Read our News Letter, The Northwest Corner:

Winter 2000

Spring 1999

Fall 1998

Links to other Sites

CT State Independent Living Council