Connecticut Centers for Independent Living

Connecticut — Statewide

Last Verified: July 23, 2026

About

Centers for Independent Living, commonly called CILs, are disability-led, community-based, cross-disability nonprofit organizations.

They are not residential facilities or assisted-living homes.

Their purpose is to help people with disabilities make their own decisions, develop skills, obtain community resources, and participate fully in their communities.

Connecticut has five Centers for Independent Living serving different parts of the state.

Core Services

  • Information and referral
  • Peer counseling and peer support
  • Independent-living skills training
  • Individual advocacy
  • Systems advocacy
  • Youth transition
  • Nursing-facility transition
  • Assistance remaining in the community

Individual centers may also assist with:

  • Housing
  • Employment
  • Education
  • Public benefits
  • Assistive technology
  • Personal-care assistance
  • Healthcare resources
  • Transportation
  • Community participation

Who They Serve

People of all ages and with all types of disabilities, including individuals who are blind or visually impaired.

Connecticut Centers for Independent Living

Access Independence
Serves communities in southwestern Connecticut.
Website: https://accessinct.org/

Center for Disability Rights
Serves communities in south-central Connecticut.
Website: https://cdr-ct.org/

Disabilities Network of Eastern Connecticut
Serves eastern Connecticut.
Website: https://www.dnec.org/

Independence Northwest
Serves northwestern Connecticut.
Website: https://independencenorthwest.org/

Independence Unlimited
Serves north-central Connecticut.
Website: https://independenceunlimited.org/

Geographic Area Served

Statewide throughout Connecticut through five regional Centers for Independent Living.

Contact Information

Organization: Connecticut State Independent Living Council
Statewide directory: https://ctsilc.org/centers-for-independent-living/
Telephone: 860-869-0684
Email: [email protected]

Visitors should use the statewide directory to determine which Center for Independent Living serves their town.

Why We Recommend This Resource

Centers for Independent Living provide disability-led support and can help people locate services, develop practical skills, advocate for themselves, and remain active in their communities.

Learn More

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