Brazos Valley Center for Independent Living (BVCIL) - Bryan, TX

Location: Bryan, TX.

The BVCIL is a consumer-based, consumer-controlled, cross-disability, cross-cultural, non-residential, private nonprofit 501(c)(3) charitable organization whose mission is to promote the full inclusion and participation of individuals with disabilities in all aspects of community life.

BVCIL was funded in October, 2010 to address state-level priorities for providing independent living services to un-served or under-served populations in the counties of Brazos, Burleson, Madison, Robertson and Washington.

The BVCIL provides four core independent living services (a) information and referral, (b) IL skills training, (c) peer support, including cross-disability peer support; and (c) individual and systems advocacy. The BVCIL, as directed by its consumer-controlled board of directors offers an array of independent living services to fulfill its mission such as:

• Adaptive and assistive technology supports (e.g., equipment loan and recycling);

• Supports related to securing affordable and accessible housing;

• Transportation and mobility training;

• Supports and training for individuals with cognitive and sensory disabilities including life skills training, interpreter and reader services;

• Personal assistance supports, including attendant care and training of personnel that provide these services;

• Consumer information programs on the rehabilitation and IL services available under the Rehab Act, especially for un-served and under-served populations;

• Education and training necessary for living and participating in community activities;

• Individual and group social and recreational services; and

• Training to develop skills specifically designed for youths who are individuals with significant disabilities to promote self-awareness and esteem, develop advocacy and self-empowerment skills, and explore career options.