December at ILS is all about the spirit of giving! 🎁 Throughout the month, we embrace the traditional theme of “Giving of Ourselves.” Throughout the month, we’ve been busy crafting heartfelt gifts to share with others. Last week, we celebrated with a “wrap” party where we wrapped up these handmade treasures to gift to family and friends. 🌟 The festivities continued with pizza, games, and a little treat for each of us from the CIL. It’s the season of giving, and we’re making it memorable at ILS!
Recently, CILNCF had the privilege to assist a consumer in their transition out of experiencing homelessness. This journey began with the referral for a Section 8 housing voucher, providing the individual with the opportunity to secure a newfound residence. 🏠 With the voucher in hand, our consumer took the crucial step toward a brighter future. However, after covering the hefty move-in costs, they found themselves with no funds to transform their new space into a true home.
This is where the incredible power of community came into play. Through the relentless advocacy of our CIL staff, we connected with the amazing charity organization, Mitzvah Makers. Together, we secured funds to ensure a comfortable and smooth transition for our consumer. Thanks to the incredible generosity of Mitzvah Makers, we have successfully transformed a house into a home for this consumer.
The funds were stretched to cover all the consumer’s requests for necessary personal items, and we’re thrilled to share the incredible list of contributions made possible by the generosity of various CIL staff and an anonymous donor:
◽️New queen mattress and bed frame
◽️Microwave and toaster oven
◽️Round table and chairs
◽️TV and stand
◽️Pots and pans
◽️Bed frame
◽️Curtains and rods
◽️Area rugs
◽️Bed sheets
◽️Cleaning supplies
◽️Toiletries
This transformation, made possible by the collaboration of many hands, showcases the impact we can create when we come together as a community.
Special thanks to our staff: Claudia for donating 4 chairs and coordinating 2 large furniture deliveries, CIL for donating the table and a TV stand, Kim for donating a TV, Sada for donating a Toaster Oven and Microwave and assisting with the final large delivery!
🌟 STAY SAFE. STAY UP TO DATE. 🌟
🗓️ December 18th
🕛 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM (no appointment needed)
📍 CIL Gainesville Office
(222 SW 36th Terrace, Gainesville, FL 33625)
Your health matters, and so does the health of the people you love. We believe in the power of prevention and protection, especially for those who are more vulnerable. If you’re 65+ or have a compromised immune system, getting vaccinated is a crucial step in safeguarding yourself and your community.
Why Vaccinate?
Vaccines are safe, effective, and play a crucial role in saving millions of lives. For those aged 65 and older or individuals with compromised immune systems, getting vaccinated is an essential step in preventing and protecting against certain diseases. In the face of the flu and COVID-19, these vaccines are particularly important for older adults and people with disabilities.
Spread the Word!
Help us create a shield of protection around our community! Spread the word about our upcoming Vaccine Clinic and encourage your friends and family to join us.
What to Expect:
– Free vaccines
– Accessibility with ASL interpreters
– The first 25 people vaccinated receive a $10 gift card
Together, let’s empower each other to make informed decisions for our health and the well-being of those we care about. Your participation in our Vaccine Clinic can make a significant impact, and we look forward to seeing you there!
For more information:
Phone: (352) 378-7474
VP: (352) 240-3079
Email: eberndt@cilncf.org
Today, let’s celebrate the strength, resilience, and unique abilities of individuals with disabilities. 💙
This day is a reminder that inclusivity knows no bounds, and together, we can create a world where everyone is valued and embraced for who they are. Let’s break down barriers, challenge stereotypes, and champion the rights of every person to live a life of dignity and opportunity.
#IDPD2023 is a call to action for a more accessible, inclusive world. Let’s commit to fostering environments where everyone can thrive, irrespective of abilities. Share your stories, amplify diverse voices, and let the world know that differences make us stronger. 🤲
As we continue embracing the spirit of gratitude, let’s take a moment to relive the incredible moments we shared during our Community Wellness Wednesdays last month. It was a celebration of growth, well-being, and the bonds that make our community truly special.
Activities held included:
🌱 Seeds of Growth: We got our hands dirty and our hearts full as we planted seeds in pots, symbolizing the growth and resilience within each of us.
🥦 Fueling Our Bodies with Knowledge: A huge shoutout to the nutritionist who joined us for an insightful session on healthy eating! Interactive activities made learning about nutrition a fun and engaging experience for everyone.
🎲 Interactive Games: From friendly competitions to collaborative challenges, we celebrated the power of play.
🐾 Mindfulness Moments with Furry Friends: The therapy dogs’ visit brought smiles and calmness to our space. Mindfulness practices allowed us to pause, breathe, and appreciate the present moment.
🍁 Nature’s Canvas: We explored the outdoors during our walk, collecting items for crafts. Painting leaves and stamping them on paper, and crafting turkeys from pinecones, turned nature into a vibrant masterpiece.
🌟 Healthy Relationships with FOSTER at UF: A heartfelt thank you to the FOSTER team from UF for sharing insights on healthy relationships! Interactive activities empowered us to navigate the journey of connection and understanding.
Every activity was a step towards building a healthier, happier, and more connected community. 🤝💚 Our consumer’s participation, energy, and enthusiasm make The CIL a space where wellness thrives! Here’s to more moments of growth, learning, and community love in the months to come.
Celebrating a Fall season filled with joy, creativity, and connection at The CIL’s Youth Social Group! 🍁🍂 From circus thrills to culinary skills, our incredible community came together for a series of unforgettable activities. The memorable activities we shared included: Gainesville Circus Center visits the CIL, Clay Creations, Cooking Class, Mini Pumpkin Painting, Costume Party Game Night, and Sustainable Craft Night.
These moments wouldn’t be possible without the incredible support and enthusiasm of our Youth Social Group members. 🤗💙 Thank you for making this Fall season so special! Stay tuned for more adventures and heartwarming experiences as we continue to build an inclusive and vibrant community at The CIL.
ID: This post contains a total of 3 graphic collages, each with a search bar in the middle that reads, “CIL Youth Social Group” and a magnifying glass next to it (imitating an internet search bar).
Graphic 1 displays three photos from the Costume Party Game Night. The top photo is a group photo of 9 members. The bottom left photo shows 5 members sitting around a table playing games. The bottom right photo shows a member playing a party; they are blind folded and are attempting to place a sticker on a skeleton placed on the wall.
Graphic 2 has three photos from when the Gainesville Circus Center visited the CIL. The top photo is a group photo of the members along with the Gainesville Circus Center. The bottom left photo shows two girls showcasing their balancing skills. The bottom right photo is a member of the Gainesville Circus Center dressed as a clown.
Graphic 3 has four photos from the Clay Creations, Cooking Class, Mini Pumpkin Painting, and Sustainable Craft Night. The top left photo is a member holding a clay creation of a green guitar. The top right photo shows plates of food from Cooking Class. The bottom left photo shows a member holding pine cone crafted into a bat. The bottom right photo shows a painted mini pumpkin.
Join us for a festive celebration at the CIL Holiday Party! 🎄❄️
Friends and family, you’re all invited to indulge in the holiday spirit with cookie decorating, a cozy hot chocolate bar, ornament making, and delightful holiday crafts. 🍪☕🎨 Let’s come together to create special memories and spread the joy of the season! Save the date, bring your loved ones, and let’s make this holiday season unforgettable! 🎁
WHEN: Monday, December 4th | 6 pm – 8 pm
WHERE: CIL Gainesville | 222 SW 36th Ter, Gainesville, FL 32607
Join us for a webinar on the latest COVID-19 update that will discuss the new variant, with Dr. IV Mirus!
🗓️ Date: Tuesday, November 28th, 2023
🕒 Time: 5pm – 7pm EST
📍 Location: ZOOM
Webinar link: https://us05web.zoom.us/j/86942422408?pwd=7wO9bO8iaxFzcgR6NTogW74IQnbYEA.1
ZOOM Meeting ID: 869 4242 2408
Passcode: 7adTyM
Dr. IV Mirus, Assistant Professor of Emergency Medicine and ER Physician at UT Southwestern, Parkland Hospital, and Children’s Dallas Hospital, is not only a medical expert but also a passionate advocate for the Deaf community. Born as a CODA (Child of Deaf Adult) and equipped with experience as an ASL interpreter, Dr. Mirus has dedicated himself to bridging the communication gap between Deaf patients and the healthcare system. His commitment has been pivotal in shaping policies and practices that cater to the unique needs of Deaf individuals, making significant strides toward healthcare equity. 🤝
Join us as Dr. Mirus shares valuable insights, empowers the community, and educates on the latest developments regarding COVID-19 and the new variant.
Do you or do you know someone who is in need of Durable Medical Equipment Here’s what to know about our DME Closet:
🔍 WHAT: Step into our DME Closet – a carefully maintained inventory featuring wheelchairs, walkers, crutches, canes, shower chairs, and more! We’ve got the tools you need for a more accessible life.
👥 WHO: The DME Closet is a valuable resource for community members living with disabilities and those in recovery from injury or surgery. We’re here to support you on your journey to greater independence.
💙 WHY: We’re on a mission to provide DME to uninsured and underinsured community members, empowering them to lead more independent lives. Your well-being is our priority!
📍 WHERE: Our catchment area includes Alachua, Bradford, Citrus, Columbia, Dixie, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Hernando, Lafayette, Lake, Levy, Marion, Putnam, Sumter, Suwannee, and Union counties.
🗓️ WHEN: Please call to schedule a pick-up or drop-off. Our DME inventory is kept in a storage unit, and scheduling an appointment will give us time to go collect the requested item(s).
📞 HOW: If we have the item, we will arrange a pick-up or drop-off. If we do not, we will hold onto your request until the item is made available and share resources that may help with obtaining the item.
Call CILNCF Gainesville at 352-378-7474 or CILNCF Ocala at 352-368-3788
🤝 Let’s spread the word about this amazing resource and continue supporting each other on the journey to independence!
Brandon and Andrea rocked the Oak Run Health Fair! Representing both CIL and FAAST, they shared valuable information to the wonderful residents of Oak Run community. 🌳
It was a day filled with community connection and health awareness. Brandon and Andrea worked tirelessly, sharing insights and resources to empower everyone with the knowledge they need. 💙
Big shoutout to Oak Run for hosting such a fantastic event! Let’s keep fostering a healthy community together! 🍃
