Independent Living Center (TILC) - Joplin, MO

Location: Joplin, MO.

The mission of The Independent Living Center is to increase the independence of people with disabilities.  To achieve this mission in southwest Missouri, The Independent Living Center was founded in 1994 as a satellite office of the Springfield Center for Independent Living through the Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA). A year later, TILC became a fully funded, independent center.  TILC is "consumer driven" meaning that we believe the individual knows their needs better than anyone else and should be the responsible party in directing their own care and their own future.  

The core services that The Independent Living Center provides include:

• Advocacy - both individual & community disability-related advocacy. 

• Peer Support - social club activities, support groups and one-on-one peer network

• Independent Living Skills Training - one-on-one and group training including:

  • Self Advocacy

  • CPR/First Aid

  • Budgeting

  • Nutrition

• Information and Referral - we operate a large information and referral system and maintain the Southwest Missouri Area Agency Resource Directory and the Southwest Missouri Area Rental Housing List

• Transition Services

TILC is governed by a board of directors made up of community members that either have a disability or special interest with disabilities as well as the success of The Independent Living Center. Kevin Walker, supervisor with Ozark Center, is the Chairperson of the Board of Directors. 

TILC is headed by Executive Director, Jeff Flowers, who is active in community and statewide advocacy. Jeff was instrumental in ensuring that Joplin schools were rebuilt with accessibility in mind as he served on the Joplin School Board from 2008 until 2015. Jeff is the past chairperson for the Missouri Council for Independent Living where he continues to serve as a member. 

TILC's office staff is made up of 39 individuals including Stephanie Brady, Assistant Executive Director; Robin Harrison, Director of CDS; Lea Mercer, Director of In-Home Services; Stormi Nordstrom, Director of Business Operations; and Joanne Carlson, Core Services Manager.