News

🚨 Join Us for the 1st Annual Columbia County Emergency Preparedness Expo!

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🗓 Saturday, February 22, 2025
🕘 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
📍 Columbia County Senior Services, 628 SE Allison Court, Lake City, FL

At this FREE event, we’re all about HELPING OTHERS, AFTER THE DISASTER – focusing on emergency preparedness for individuals with disabilities in our community.

What to Expect:
✅ A variety of vendors and expert speakers
✅ Resources and tips for emergency preparedness
✅ ASL interpreters available to ensure accessibility for everyone

📝 REGISTRATION: Visit www.cilncf.org to sign up!

A huge thank you to our generous vendors for their incredible support in making this expo possible.

For more information, contact Kevin Towles at ktowles@cilncf.org or call (352) 368-3788.

We look forward to seeing you there and empowering our community to be better prepared!

ID: Image shows details for the 1st Annual Columbia County Emergency Preparedness Expo (including all the same event information shared in the caption), featuring registration info and vendor logos.

Help CIL Win Best of the 352 – Vote Daily!

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We’re honored to be nominated for Best of the 352 in Non-Profit Organization and Customer Service! 🎉

This recognition highlights our commitment to empowering people with disabilities. Winning would help us expand our impact and continue serving our community.

✅ Vote once per day to help us win!

1️⃣ Cast your vote here: https://bestofthe352.com/vote/
2️⃣ Select “Services”
3️⃣ Select “Nonprofit Organization”
4️⃣ Select “Center for Independent Living”
5️⃣ Click “Submit ballot” on the right
6️⃣ Set a reminder to cast your vote every day

Your support makes a difference—thank you! 💙

A blue graphic with "Best of the 352" text, a green "Vote for Us" banner, and the CIL logo for the Center for Independent Living.

ID: A blue graphic with “Best of the 352” text, a green “Vote for Us” banner, and the CIL logo for the Center for Independent Living.

Staff Appreciation & Wellness Luncheon

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Our CIL team came together for our Annual Staff Appreciation Luncheon to celebrate the holiday season and each other! We shared laughs over our competitive White Elephant game, enjoyed a delicious potluck, and honored team members who achieved milestone awards this year.

Beyond the festivities, CIL is committed to fostering a supportive workplace by prioritizing staff well-being. We incorporated wellness activities to encourage connection, relaxation, and self-care, ensuring our team feels valued not just for their work, but as individuals.

More than just a festive gathering, this luncheon reflects our commitment to creating a space where everyone feels valued and celebrated. We’re grateful for our amazing team and all we’ve accomplished together!

ID: Image descriptions are provided in the Alt Text for each image respectively.

A group of seven smiling people pose in front of a decorated Christmas tree, with one person in a festive shirt playfully extending arms.
A group of six smiling people, dressed in festive attire, pose in front of a decorated Christmas tree, with one person seated in front.
Two smiling women pose in front of a decorated Christmas tree, one wearing a red top and black pants, the other in a navy dress and denim jacket.
Three smiling people sit and stand around a festive table, two using wheelchairs, with a colorful mural and holiday decorations behind them.
Four smiling people pose together in front of a colorful mural and a CIL logo, dressed in casual and business-casual attire.
Four smiling people pose together in front of a colorful mural and a CIL logo, dressed in casual and business-casual attire.
Four smiling people sit at a festive table with red and green decor, one giving a thumbs-up, with a Christmas tree in the background.
Two smiling women serve themselves from a buffet of holiday dishes, one wearing a Santa hat, in a festive gathering setting.
A smiling woman in a festive red snowman shirt stands outside an open door, waving and holding the handle, with a courtyard behind her.
A smiling person in a red sweater holds a plush throw blanket prize in a festive room with decorated tables and a colorful mural.
A smiling person holds a holiday card and gift bag at a festive table, with others in the background celebrating in a colorful room.
A man in a hat and sweater examines wooden spoons from a holiday gift bag with a snowman design, standing near a CIL logo on the wall.
A smiling woman in a festive green sweater holds a holiday gift box that reads "Dear Santa, I Want Presents," standing in a decorated room.
A smiling woman holds up a bag of Ghirardelli chocolates at a festive gathering, with a space-themed mural and holiday gifts behind her.
A smiling woman in a red top holds up a Publix gift card at a festive gathering, with decorated tables and a colorful mural behind her.
A smiling woman in a Santa hat holds a Mr. Potato Head toy at a festive gathering, with decorated tables and a colorful mural behind her.
A woman with pink hair holds a folder and a small item while speaking in a festive room, with a fireplace video playing on a TV screen.
Blue background with white bold text that reads: A strong community is built on the strength of individuals who lift each other up.

Celebrating Lunar New Year!

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Recently, our staff came together to celebrate Lunar New Year, a time of renewal, reflection, and connection. We enjoyed each other’s company, trivia, traditional foods, and learned about our Chinese Zodiac signs, deepening our appreciation for this rich cultural tradition.

A highlight of the event was exchanging red envelopes (Hongbao), symbolizing good fortune, prosperity, and shared joy—values that align with our mission of empowerment and independent living.

Celebrating traditions like Lunar New Year strengthens our community by fostering understanding, appreciation, and unity. Wishing everyone happiness, success, and good fortune in the Year of the Snake!

ID: Image descriptions are provided in the alt text for each image, respectively.

Bright yellow background with bold red text explaining Lunar New Year as a time of rebirth, togetherness, and new beginnings. Two red envelopes are illustrated in the bottom right corner.
A hand holds two red envelopes with gold snake designs, in front of a sign explaining the significance of red envelopes in Lunar New Year.
CIL staff gathered around tables at the center's Lunar New Year celebration, enjoying food, holding red envelopes, and engaging in activities together.
CIL staff are smiling and holding red envelopes in celebration of Lunar New Year, standing in front of a festive display with lanterns.

Happy Valentine’s Day!

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This Valentine’s Day, we’re embracing the power of love in all its forms – a love that sees beyond limitations and celebrates the unique abilities of every person.

At the CIL, we believe that love, kindness, and respect should be extended to everyone, no matter their ability. Let’s continue to build a world where everyone is seen, valued, and accepted.

Today, we honor the beautiful differences within our communities and the incredible individuals who inspire us every day. Whether you’re surrounded by family, friends, or just sharing a moment of self-love, know that YOU are an important part of a loving and united world.

Happy Valentine’s Day! Let’s spread kindness, love, and respect – today and every day.

ID: image descriptions provided for in the Alt Text for each respective image

The image shows colorful Valentine's Day candy hearts with a message, "If people with disabilities wrote Valentine’s Day candy hearts.."
The image features a pink candy heart with the words "DIFFERENT IS BEAUTIFUL" in bold lettering, framed in a pink border.
The image features a light blue candy heart with the words "KINDNESS IS STRENGTH" in bold lettering, framed in a light blue border.
The image features a purple candy heart with the words "UNIQUE AND LOVED" in bold lettering, framed in a purple border.
The image features a mint green candy heart with the words "YOU ARE ENOUGH" in bold lettering, framed in a light green border.

Transition Fair 2025!

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The CIL will be attending the upcoming Citrus County School District’s Transition Fair and presenting about the important services we offer to the Citrus County community!

Event Details:

📅 Date: Saturday, February 22nd
⏰ Time: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
📍 Location: Christ Community Church
1690 S. Lecanto Highway, Lecanto, FL 34461

Other amazing organizations, including Special Olympics and Family Care Council, will also share valuable information on how we can support individuals with disabilities.

💡 Don’t miss the chance to connect with multiple vendors and learn more about available resources in Citrus County!

We look forward to seeing you there!

Spring Transition Fairs in Clermont and Leesburg!

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We’re excited to invite you to the following Spring Transition Fairs, where the CIL will be tabling, specially designed for families of students with disabilities. These events are a fantastic opportunity to learn about resources and services that support the transition from school to adulthood, helping students become successful learners, wage earners, and engaged members of the community.

CLERMONT EVENT DETAILS:
🗓 Date: Tuesday, February 4th, 2025
🕓 Time: 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
📍 Location: Cooper Memorial Library
Room 108 A & B, Lake-Sumter State College
1250 N. Hancock Rd, Clermont, FL 34711

Register for Clermont Spring 2025 Transition Fair Leesburg: https://bit.ly/ClermontSpring2025TransitionFair

The image is a flyer promoting a Transition Fair for families of students with disabilities. The top section features the Lake-Sumter State College logo and a photo of a woman in a wheelchair working at a desk, surrounded by other people in a modern office environment. The text on the flyer reads, "Transition Fair for Families of Students with Disabilities," and provides details about the event. It emphasizes the fair’s focus on helping individuals with disabilities transition into adult roles as successful learners, wage earners, and members of the community. The event will take place on Thursday, February 4, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Cooper Memorial Library, Room 108 A & B, in Clermont, FL. The flyer also highlights various topics covered at the fair, such as Independent Living, Job Training, and Support Services, and mentions the presence of representatives from organizations that can assist with transitioning. There are also social media handles and a "Learn More Here!" link at the bottom, directing viewers to more information about the Student Disability Services.

LEESBURG EVENT DETAILS:
🗓 Date: Thursday, February 6th, 2025
🕓 Time: 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
📍 Location: Magnolia Room, Lake-Sumter State College
9501 US Hwy 441, Leesburg, FL 34788

Register for Leesburg Spring 2025 Transition Fair: https://bit.ly/LeesburgSpring2025TransitionFair

The image is a flyer promoting a Transition Fair for families of students with disabilities. The top section features the Lake-Sumter State College logo and a photo of a woman in a wheelchair working at a desk, surrounded by other people in a modern office environment. The text on the flyer reads, "Transition Fair for Families of Students with Disabilities," and provides details about the event. It emphasizes the fair’s focus on helping individuals with disabilities transition into adult roles as successful learners, wage earners, and members of the community. The event will take place on Thursday, February 6, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Magnolia Room, Lake-Sumter State College, in Leesburg, FL. The flyer also highlights various topics covered at the fair, such as Independent Living, Job Training, and Support Services, and mentions the presence of representatives from organizations that can assist with transitioning. There are also social media handles and a "Learn More Here!" link at the bottom, directing viewers to more information about the Student Disability Services.

These fairs are hosted by Student Accessibility Services at Lake-Sumter State College in collaboration with the Lake County Interagency Transition Council. They will provide valuable information on adult independent living, education, job training opportunities, finances, guardianship, health services, rights and responsibilities, and social security support services.

This event is designed for students, parents, and caregivers who are looking for guidance and resources to help support independence and success for individuals with disabilities in adult roles. Don’t miss the chance to connect with experts, gather important resources, and take the next step in the transition journey.

We look forward to seeing you there and helping to create a positive impact on the future of students with disabilities!

The Arc of Alachua County’s 3rd Annual Arts and Crafts Expo

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Our staff, Sada, Kevin, and Claudia had an amazing time at The Arc of Alachua County’s 3rd Annual Arts and Crafts Expo, where they had the opportunity to connect with the community and raise awareness about the resources available for people with disabilities.

Our team had a great time tabling at the event, spreading the word about the invaluable services we offer while supporting local artists. One of our consumers showcased and sold her beautiful hand-knitted scarves and beanies, and we’re proud to share that she made some fantastic sales! Sada was even able to grab a cozy beanie herself! Sada is also pictured holding a bearded dragon pet of one of the event attendees.

Events like this are so important in promoting diversity, inclusivity, and showcasing the incredible talents of individuals with disabilities. Throughout the day, we connected with many community members, answered questions, and shared the resources we offer. Thank you to everyone who stopped by our table and to the organizers for such a wonderful event!

The image shows Sada, Kevin, Claudia, and a consumer standing in front of a booth at the 3rd Annual ARC Arts and Crafts Festival. The booth is set up by the CIL, and it features informational brochures, resource materials, and a banner with the CIL logo. The group includes three individuals—two women and one man—who are smiling and posing in front of the booth. The booth is set up under a blue canopy, and the background shows trees and sunny weather. The photo highlights the event’s atmosphere of community engagement and resource sharing.
The image shows a woman (Sada) smiling and holding a bearded dragon in front of a banner for the Center for Independent Living (CIL) of North Central Florida. She is wearing a dark jacket with colorful patterns and appears happy and engaged with the pet. The bearded dragon is perched on her hand, and the banner behind her displays the CIL logo and contact information. The background includes trees and sunlight, indicating an outdoor event. The image captures a fun and friendly moment at the festival.

🏡 Free Legal Clinic: Housing Assistance & Attorney Consultations ✨

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Are you facing housing challenges or need legal guidance about your living situation? Don’t miss our upcoming Free Legal Clinic! In collaboration with Florida Legal Services and Alachua County Community Support Services, we’re offering a chance to speak directly with an attorney and learn more about the free home legal services available in your community.

The image is a flyer promoting a free legal clinic hosted by the Center for Independent Living in collaboration with Florida Legal Services and Alachua County Community Support Services. The flyer includes a purple and blue color scheme with a balance scale icon. The main text reads "Free Legal Clinic" in large purple font at the top. Below, there are bullet points highlighting information provided in the caption. The CILNCF logo is displayed in the top left corner, the Florida Legal Services' logo is displayed in the top right corner, and the Alachua County Florida logo is displayed in the bottom left corner.

📅 When: January 28th | 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM
📍 Where: Center for Independent Living, 222 SW 36th Terrace, Gainesville, FL

This is a wonderful opportunity for you to receive valuable information and personalized advice on any housing-related legal issues you may be facing.

👉 Got questions? Call us at 352-378-7474 for more details!

We’re here to help you navigate any housing challenges and connect you with the services that can make a real difference. See you there! 🏡💙

🚨 Winter Storm Watch for Alachua County 🚨

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The image features a bold red triangle with an exclamation mark at the top, symbolizing a warning. Below this symbol, the text "A Safety Reminder" is displayed in a smaller font. The central text reads "WINTER STORM WATCH FOR ALACHUA COUNTY" in large, white letters. At the bottom of the image, a message reads: "A Winter Storm Watch has been issued for Alachua County from 7 PM Tuesday (Jan. 21) to 1 PM Wednesday (Jan. 22)." The background is a soft blue with a subtle snowflake pattern, and the text is framed by a red section at the bottom.

From 7 PM Tuesday through 1 PM Wednesday, Alachua County is under a Winter Storm Watch. There is a possibility of slick and hazardous road conditions, especially on bridges, overpasses, and rural roads. 🚗💨

📍 Local Impacts:

⚠️ There is a 15% chance of freezing rain causing ice accumulation of over 0.10″ in Gainesville (moderate impact).

⚠️ A 28% chance of minor ice accumulation (over 0.01″).

⚠️ Wind chill values are expected to be in the 20s°F each morning this week. ❄️

⚠️ Northern areas, including High Springs, may see more significant impacts with up to a 40% chance of freezing rain causing ice accumulation of over 0.10″.

Freezing rain could affect roadways and powerlines, leading to driving hazards and possible localized power outages. Please stay safe, avoid unnecessary travel, and keep an eye on weather updates.

Stay warm and stay prepared!