DIRECT Center for Independence, Inc - Tucson, AZ

Location: Tucson, AZ

OUR MISSION

DIRECT Center for Independence, Inc. advocates voice, choice and independence for people with disabilities.

OUR VISION

Universal access and opportunity for all people with disabilities.

ABOUT DIRECT

DIRECT is a designated 501 c (3) non-profit organization dedicated to the promotion of the Independent Living philosophy by encouraging, equipping, and empowering individuals with disabilities within the Tucson/southern Arizona community to lead active and independent lives to the fullest extent possible.

DIRECT receives funding from various sources including: the Arizona Rehabilitation Services Administration, Arizona Department of Economic Security, the City of Tucson Community Development Block grant, Pima County, United Way of Southern Arizona, and through fundraising and private donations. Through these funding sources, DIRECT is able to offer most services free of charge.

HISTORY

DIRECT was the first agency of its kind in Arizona serving as a non-residential, independent living center operated by and for persons with disabilities. In 1980, DIRECT began operations under the name Metro Independent Living Center (MILC) through the efforts of dedicated volunteers. A year later, MILC joined with Catholic Community Services of Southern Arizona, Inc. to obtain its first government funding to support agency programs. At this time, the name was changed to Disability Resource Center of Tucson (DIRECT). It soon became apparent that the word “resource” confused consumers in relation to the services that the agency provided, so the name was changed to DIRECT Independent Living Center. In November 1994, DIRECT became a separate, incorporated entity from Catholic Community Services of Southern Arizona, Inc., and had to again change the agency name to what it is currently DIRECT Center for Independence, Inc.

DIRECT has served southern Arizona from five different Tucson locations, including its first at the back of Cushing Street Bar and 28 years at its Tyndall location. In November 2014 DIRECT moved to its current location at Speedway and Alvernon. The building was renovated for DIRECT; features include fully accessible bathrooms, an accessible training kitchen, large staff offices, and office rental space.

THE INDEPENDENT LIVING PHILOSOPHY

Independent Living (IL) is part of the civil rights movement for people with disabilities. Instead of agencies deciding what is best for you; IL means that whatever disability you experience, you are the best expert on you! You know your own needs, decide if and how you want to give to your community, and have equal rights that cannot be taken away from you just because you have a disability.

DIRECT is a Center for Independent Living (CIL), and by coming to DIRECT you are taking part in the Independent Living Movement, which created CILs. Being a CIL means the agency is run by and for people with disabilities. Over half of the DIRECT team and Board of Directors experience disabilities themselves.

DIRECT Works In Partnership With The Arizona Bridge to Independent Living (ABIL)

Since October of 2011, ABIL has partnered with DIRECT in bringing their over 27 years of experience of providing Attendant Care, Personal Care, Homemaking and Respite services to Pima County. ABIL, like DIRECT, is one of over 550 Centers for Independent Living throughout the country that is consumer-controlled and offers programs that empowers people with disabilities and seniors so they may achieve or continue independent lifestyles in the community.