Disability Advocacy and Training

The National Council of Independent Living (NCIL) is a membership organization that advances the independent living philosophy and advocates for the human rights of, and services for, persons with disabilities to further their full integration and participation in society.



The independent living philosophy holds that individuals with disabilities have the right to live with dignity and with appropriate support in their own homes, fully participate in their communities, and to control and make decisions about their lives.



NCIL represents over 700 organizations and individuals including: Centers for Independent Living (CILs), Statewide Independent Living Councils (SILCs), individuals with disabilities, and other organizations that advocate for the human and civil rights of people with disabilities throughout the United States.  Member supports and services included information and referral, training on various issues including organizational development; coalition building; and strategies to accomplish systems change within local communities. NCIL also provides its membership, Congress, Federal agencies and the general public with educational materials related to national disability polices and laws.