News

Today, we celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

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Dr. King’s vision of equality, justice, and inclusion continues to inspire us every day. As we reflect on his work, we are reminded of the importance of breaking down barriers and creating communities where everyone, regardless of ability, is respected and given the opportunity to thrive.

At the CIL, we are committed to promoting inclusivity and empowerment for people with disabilities, ensuring that their voices are heard and their rights are upheld. Together, we can build a future where everyone is valued equally.

Let us honor Dr. King’s legacy by continuing to work toward a world that celebrates diversity, champions accessibility, and provides opportunities for all. 💙

The image features a powerful quote by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. that reads, "Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere." The text is presented in a modern, elegant font, with the word "anywhere" highlighted in a flowing script. The background is divided into two sections, one side is black and the other is blue, creating a strong visual contrast. Below the quote, the name "MARTIN LUTHER KING JR." is displayed in smaller, clean text. The design evokes a sense of urgency and unity in the pursuit of justice for all.

Event Recap: National Healthcare Coalition Preparedness Conference

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This year, our very own Kevin Towles had the privilege of attending the National Healthcare Coalition Preparedness Conference in Orlando! Over the course of three days, Kevin had the chance to connect with healthcare leaders, including representatives from the Department of Health, hospitals, and health care coalitions. 🏥🤝

The conference featured a variety of speakers and sessions, offering valuable insights into the future of healthcare. Kevin had the opportunity to engage with different groups and learn about upcoming advancements that will impact the healthcare landscape. 🌍💡

We’re excited to bring this knowledge back to help strengthen our community and continue improving care for all.

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Event Recap: World AIDS Day Community Resource Fair

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A big thank you to Claudia and Cammeron for braving the cold and making a difference at the World AIDS Day Community Resource Fair at GRACE Marketplace!

Claudia led demonstrations of two amazing assistive devices, helping participants with low vision and low hearing learn about new ways to enhance their daily lives. She also shared helpful apps and offered guidance to those who needed it.

Cammeron provided valuable information about our Center for Independent Living (CIL) resources, ensuring over 100 people received the assistance they needed.

Together, Claudia and Cammeron made a lasting impact, empowering our community with tools, information, and support! 💙

The image shows two individuals standing behind tables at the World AIDS Day Community Resource Fair at GRACE Marketplace. On the left is a man wearing a gray sweatshirt, and on the right is a woman wearing a white jacket and beanie. Both are standing next to informational tables displaying pamphlets and materials related to the Center for Independent Living (CIL) and FAAST (Florida Alliance for Assistive Services and Technology). The setting is outdoors with cars parked in the background. The sky is clear, and the atmosphere appears sunny but cool. The red text at the top of the image reads "WORLD AIDS DAY COMMUNITY RESOURCE FAIR" and at the bottom, it says "GRACE MARKETPLACE."
The image shows a selfie of two people standing outdoors in front of a building. On the left, a woman, Claudia, with sunglasses and a white knit hat smiles at the camera while wearing a cream-colored jacket. On the right, a man, Cammeron, with a beard and a gray shirt flashes a peace sign. The background shows a clear blue sky and a building with purple accents, and there are cars parked in the background. The red border frames the photo.

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🌟 Happy New Year from all of us at the CIL! 🌟

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As we reflect on the past year, we are filled with gratitude for our incredible community—your support, strength, and resilience inspire us daily. Together, we’ve made great strides toward creating a more inclusive and accessible world, but there’s still important work ahead.

In 2025, we remain dedicated to empowering individuals, breaking barriers, and fostering environments where everyone can thrive. Here’s to new beginnings, continued progress, and a year full of possibility.

Thank you for being part of our journey. 💙

The image features the text "Happy New Year" in bold blue letters at the top. Below, the year "2025" is displayed in large, colorful numbers, with characters interacting playfully with the digits. A boy holds a megaphone by the "2," a woman leans on the "0," a girl reaches out to the "5," and a seated boy is positioned by the "5." The design incorporates vibrant colors and lively energy, with the "CIL" logo at the bottom center and curved lines in blue, purple, and green at the corners.
The image features the text “Happy New Year” in bold blue letters at the top. Below, the year “2025” is displayed in large, colorful numbers, with characters interacting playfully with the digits. A boy holds a megaphone by the “2,” a woman leans on the “0,” a girl reaches out to the “5,” and a seated boy is positioned by the “5.” The design incorporates vibrant colors and lively energy, with the “CIL” logo at the bottom center and curved lines in blue, purple, and green at the corners.

Toys 4 Tots!

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This holiday season, Santa’s CIL Elves were hard at work spreading cheer and ensuring families in our community could experience the magic of Christmas. Our incredible team—Myrtle, Destini, Cammeron, Kevin, Terri, and Medjina—dedicated their time and hearts to the Toys for Tots program, helping to brighten the holidays for so many.

Thanks to their efforts, we were able to assist 37 families, making the holidays special for exactly 100 children! Each toy wrapped and delivered came with love, joy, and the promise of a smile on Christmas morning.

We are honored to partner with Toys for Tots again this year, and we thank all of you who supported this wonderful initiative. Together, we made a difference that truly embodies the spirit of the season.

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ID: This is a collage of four images from a Toys for Tots event, showcasing community engagement and generosity during the holidays: Top Left: A man in a blue jacket and a woman wearing reindeer antlers stand with a young child. They are indoors near donation boxes, exuding holiday cheer. Top Right: Two women, one in a pink polo shirt and the other in a colorful dress, smile together outdoors. One of them holds a large black bag filled with donations. Bottom Left: A table filled with donated toys, including sports balls, boxed games, and other gifts, is neatly organized in an indoor space. Bottom Right: A man wearing a white shirt and cap holds a black bag filled with donations while standing outdoors in a serene, tree-lined area. The collage is tied together with a red ribbon and features a gift tag with the Toys for Tots logo, including Santa’s face and a festive wreath. The images collectively highlight the joy of giving and the sense of community fostered by this event.
ID: This is a collage of four images highlighting a Toys for Tots event, featuring volunteers and donations: Top Left: A woman with red hair and a bright smile stands indoors holding black bags of donations, with a bicycle and more gifts visible in the background. Top Right: Two men outdoors, one standing near a stone wall and holding donation bags, and another in the background walking towards him. The setting is surrounded by trees, giving it a serene feel. Bottom Left: A volunteer in a green sweatshirt sorts through a large collection of colorful toys, including board games and boxed gifts, on an indoor table. Bottom Right: A woman in a patterned shirt helps organize toys into labeled boxes, while another person works nearby. The toys include sports equipment and games. The collage is decorated with a red ribbon and a gift tag featuring the Toys for Tots logo, including Santa’s face and a festive wreath. The images emphasize the spirit of giving, teamwork, and community involvement.

Happy Holidays from all of us at the CIL!

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As the year comes to a close, we are so grateful for the incredible community that supports us. Your compassion and generosity have been a beacon of hope for individuals and families living with disabilities. Together, we’ve broken barriers, brightened futures, and fostered inclusion and independence.

From all of us at The CIL, we wish you a joyful and peaceful holiday season filled with love and warmth. Thank you for being a vital part of our journey—we can’t wait to continue building a brighter, more inclusive future with you in the year ahead!

This is a holiday greeting card featuring a group photo of individuals posing outdoors in front of a brick building with a banner that reads "Happy Holidays." The group consists of diverse people, some standing and others sitting, including individuals in wheelchairs. The background shows a green lawn and part of the building’s porch. The card is framed with a festive design, including small gold and white starbursts, and features the text “Happy Holidays” in elegant red script, followed by “From All of Us at the CIL” in uppercase black letters beneath it. The overall tone of the card is cheerful and inclusive.

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🎄 Happy Holidays from The CIL! 🎄

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As we celebrate this special season, we want to thank our incredible community for your support and partnership throughout the year. 💙 Wishing you and your loved ones a joyful and peaceful holiday!

📅 Holiday Office Hours:

Christmas Week:
Closed 12/24 – 12/27

New Year’s Week:
Open 12/30 (8:30 AM – 5:00 PM)
Closed 12/31 – 1/1
Open 1/2 – 1/3 (8:30 AM – 5:00 PM)

We look forward to serving you in 2025! ✨ Stay safe and enjoy the holidays! 🎁

A festive flyer titled "CIL’s Winter Holiday Hours" in dark green text at the top, surrounded by holiday-themed decorations such as holly leaves with berries and colorful snowflakes in red and light blue. The flyer is divided into two sections: Week of Christmas: Tuesday 12/24/24 – Friday 12/27/24: CLOSED Week of New Years: Monday 12/30/24: OPEN 8:30 am – 5:00 pm Tuesday 12/31/24 - Wednesday 01/01/25: CLOSED Thursday 01/02/25 - Friday 01/03/25: OPEN 8:30 am – 5:00 pm The layout is clean and easy to read, with decorative elements providing a cheerful holiday touch.
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Embracing Diversity: A Panel Discussion on DEI in Today’s World

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Earlier this fall, the CIL had the privilege of participating in the Greater Gainesville Chamber of Commerce’s Lunch and Learn event, “Embracing Diversity: A Panel Discussion on DEI in Today’s World.” This inspiring panel brought together leaders across our community, all deeply committed to advancing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in meaningful ways. Among these distinguished panelists was our very own Executive Director, Tony Delisle, who shared the CIL’s mission and insights on fostering inclusivity.

The discussion was both enlightening and thought-provoking, focusing on the strategies and efforts local organizations are using to create more inclusive environments. Panelists highlighted actionable steps businesses and agencies can take to integrate DEI principles into their workplaces, fostering cultures where all individuals can thrive.

As a community, we were reminded that promoting diversity and inclusion isn’t just about checking boxes—it’s about creating spaces where everyone belongs and can contribute fully to their organizations and communities. At the CIL, we are proud to champion these values and were grateful to be part of such a meaningful exchange of ideas.

Let’s continue to embrace diversity and inclusivity as we work toward building a stronger, more unified community!

This image shows a panel discussion at a Greater Gainesville Chamber of Commerce "Lunch and Learn" event titled "Embracing Diversity: A Panel Discussion on DEI in Today’s World." Five panelists are seated in a semi-circle in a meeting room, engaged in conversation. A screen in the background displays the event title and sponsor logos. The panelists, representing a diverse group of individuals, appear to be listening and sharing insights. The setting is professional, with panelists seated in office chairs, and the room has bright lighting with windows on either side. The top of the image includes the event title in bold white text on a turquoise background, while the Greater Gainesville Chamber of Commerce logo and text are displayed at the bottom. The Center for Independent Living (CIL) logo is featured in the top right corner.
This image shows a panel discussion at a Greater Gainesville Chamber of Commerce “Lunch and Learn” event titled “Embracing Diversity: A Panel Discussion on DEI in Today’s World.” Five panelists are seated in a semi-circle in a meeting room, engaged in conversation. A screen in the background displays the event title and sponsor logos. The panelists, representing a diverse group of individuals, appear to be listening and sharing insights. The setting is professional, with panelists seated in office chairs, and the room has bright lighting with windows on either side. The top of the image includes the event title in bold white text on a turquoise background, while the Greater Gainesville Chamber of Commerce logo and text are displayed at the bottom. The Center for Independent Living (CIL) logo is featured in the top right corner.

Panelists:
Jillian Dinius, Leader of Diversity & Inclusion Committee, Infotech
Brett Buell, Development Director, Gainesville Opportunity Center
Zeriah Folston, Equal Opportunity Director and Small Business Director, City of Gainesville

The Panel Moderator was Ian Fletcher, COO / VP of Talent & Education, Greater Gainesville Chamber of Commerce.

ILS Fire Safety

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A few weeks ago, our Independent Living Skills (ILS) classes had the privilege of learning about fire safety from local heroes. The Ocala Fire Rescue team visited the Ocala ILS group, while the Gainesville Fire Department stopped by the CIL Gainesville office.

During their visits, the firefighters shared essential fire safety tips and gave us an up-close look at their equipment. They demonstrated how they put on their uniforms, explaining the purpose of each piece and how it helps keep them safe. They even passed around their heavy-duty gloves for everyone to try on—most of our participants agreed they were bulky, heavy, and not as easy to handle as they look!

Outside, we got an exciting tour of their fire trucks, learning about the tools and equipment they carry and how they’re used. The firefighters showed us different types of axes and explained their uses in emergency situations. The highlight of the day was getting a chance to use the fire hose! It was a fun yet challenging experience, and everyone gained a new appreciation for the strength and skill it takes to handle one.

We’re so grateful to the Ocala Fire Rescue and the Gainesville Fire Department for taking the time to visit us, share their knowledge, and show us the incredible work they do to keep our communities safe. A big thank-you to these everyday heroes!

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This image features a group of people standing in front of a fire truck. The group includes individuals of diverse ages and appearances, with some smiling for the camera. The fire truck is red with a closed storage compartment visible in the background. The photo is framed by a blue border with the text "OCALA FIRE RESCUE" at the top and "CIL OCALA" along the bottom-right corner, accompanied by the logo for the Center for Independent Living of North Central Florida. The setting appears to be outdoors, with trees and a cloudy sky in the background.
This image is a collage of four photos surrounded by a blue border with the "CIL" logo at the center, representing the Center for Independent Living. Top Left: A classroom setting where a firefighter is standing and engaging with a group of individuals seated around a table. The table has snacks, drinks, and a decorative tablecloth. Top Right: Outdoors, a firefighter assists a young person in holding and spraying a fire hose. They are standing on a grassy area with residential buildings visible in the background. Bottom Left: Another outdoor scene where a firefighter helps a participant operate a fire hose. Both are smiling as they direct the water stream. Bottom Right: A firefighter guides another participant in using the fire hose, with water spraying across the grassy lawn. The collage highlights an educational and interactive experience between the fire rescue team and participants, fostering community engagement.
This image shows a group of people standing together in front of a Gainesville Fire Rescue truck. The group includes participants from the CIL Gainesville office and firefighters. The truck is red and white, with the words "Gainesville Fire Rescue" prominently displayed on its side, along with an American flag design on one of the windows. Some individuals in the group are seated, including one person in a wheelchair, while others are standing. The setting appears to be outdoors with trees in the background. The image features a purple border with the text "GAINESVILLE FIRE DEPARTMENT" at the top and "CIL GAINESVILLE" at the bottom, along with the logo of the Center for Independent Living of North Central Florida in the corner.
This image is a collage featuring four photos framed by a purple border with the CIL logo in the center. Top-left photo: A participant is holding a fire hose, guided by a firefighter. A firetruck is visible in the background, with two additional firefighters and a staff member observing. Top-right photo: Another participant is using the fire hose, assisted by a firefighter, while others stand nearby watching. The Gainesville Fire Rescue truck with an American flag design on its window is prominently displayed in the background. Bottom-left photo: Indoors, a firefighter demonstrates fire safety gear, with a turnout jacket placed on the floor. Participants and staff members observe the demonstration, standing and seated. Bottom-right photo: A group of participants sits at tables, paying attention to a speaker standing to the right. The setting is a classroom or meeting room, with a whiteboard and mobility aids visible in the background. The collage captures moments of engagement and learning during the fire safety presentation facilitated by the CIL.

Vaccine Clinic, Provided by CVS and UF Health Street!

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In our ongoing effort to address health inequities within the disability community, the CIL recently hosted a free, accessible vaccine clinic. At the event, we were able to offer both COVID-19 and flu vaccines, provided by CVS and UF Health Street. In addition to the vaccines, a few community partners such as Florida Legal Services and Disability Rights Florida set up resource tables to provide valuable information and support to help individuals on their journeys to independence. We are deeply grateful for the continued support you provide to the CIL. Your contributions were essential to the success of this event, and the clinic was a testament to our commitment to ensuring that individuals with disabilities have equal access to healthcare, while also promoting the health and safety of our entire community. Thank you for helping us make a meaningful impact!

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This image shows the vaccine clinic held indoors at the CIL Gainesville office, with tables and representatives from different organizations set up around the room. On the left, a table is labeled "Florida Legal Services, Inc." with two people sitting and working. To the right, a table with materials is labeled "Disability Rights Florida." Several individuals are standing or sitting in different areas of the room, engaging in conversations or activities. In the background, two healthcare professionals in blue scrubs are preparing or assisting at another station. The room has a clean and bright interior, with a light-colored ceiling and wooden floors. A purple banner across the bottom reads "Vaccine Clinic," accompanied by the Center for Independent Living (CIL) logo.
This image captures the vaccine clinic taking place in the brightly lit activity room at CIL Gainesville. Several tables and chairs are arranged throughout the room, with representatives from different organizations engaging with attendees. On the left, a table is covered with materials, while a few people are seated or interacting near it. In the center, two attendees are conversing, one holding a document or pamphlet. On the right, more people are seated at tables, some working on laptops or having discussions. The back wall features colorful maps and a projector screen, while the right wall showcases a vibrant mural with illustrations of graduates and community-themed artwork. The room has wooden flooring and a drop ceiling with fluorescent lighting. A purple border frames the image.
This image shows the vaccine clinic taking place in the activity room at CIL Gainesville. In the foreground, two women are seated at a table, engaged with paperwork or materials. The table is covered with a white cloth and has items like a water bottle and a bowl of snacks on it. To the right, attendees are interacting with representatives at tables for organizations, including one labeled "Disability Rights Florida" and another for the Center for Independent Living. A person using a walker is speaking with another individual near the center. The back of the room features more interactions, with tables set up displaying informational materials and a map on the wall. The room has wood flooring, a drop ceiling with fluorescent lighting, and a purple border framing the image.
The image shows the vaccine clinic, taken place in the activity room at CIL Gainesville with several people seated at tables and engaging in various activities. The room has a casual atmosphere, with some individuals filling out forms, interacting with others, or focusing on tasks. A person standing near the center appears to be addressing the group. The tables are covered with blue tablecloths, and some have informational materials or supplies. The background includes a map, a TV screen, and a large cabinet, suggesting an organized environment. The image is bordered by a bold purple frame.