The New York State Independent Living Council (NYSILC) is a planning council working with peers and partners on an Independent Living mission of leadership, empowerment, and advocacy. Our primary purpose is to jointly develop, implement, monitor, and evaluate the 3-year Statewide Plan for Independent Living (SPIL). The Independent Living movement strives to achieve a world where people with disabilities can expect and enjoy equal choices and opportunities to work, play, lead, and live freely in their community.  You can support us and our efforts through two programs: The NYS Disability Rights Hall of Fame and the Pat Figueroa Scholarship program.

INVEST IN INDEPENDENCE – THE NYSILC ANNUAL FUND

Your donations to INVEST IN INDEPENDENCE provide unrestricted gifts to bridge the funding gaps for the following critical programs:

PAT FIGEUROA SCHOLARSHIP FUND

The Pat Figeuroa Scholarship Fund provides funding assistance for young adult New Yorkers with disabilities to participate in conferences, seminars and workshops focused on enhancing their advocacy skills. These scholarships help defray out-of-pocket costs arising from participation in these interactive events where attendees build their networks and develop their leadership skills. Since its inception in 2012, the fund has assisted over 70 young adults. Yet, typically the demand is greater than the funding available. Your gifts can fully equip more independent living social advocates with a first-person story to tell. Learn more about the Pat Figeuroa Scholarship Fund and view the application.

DISABILITY RIGHTS HALL OF FAME FUND

Established in 2018, the NYS Disability Rights Hall of Fame honors individuals whose lifelong achievements have had positive impacts on the lives of people living with disabilities. After two in-person ceremonies and a break due to the coronavirus, followed by one virtual and one hybrid event, the NYS Disability Rights Hall of Fame (HOF) has honored 23 inductees to date. Refer to the inductee webpage to review their bios. In addition to attending the celebration, supporters may serve as members of the Honorary Committee, become a sponsor or advertiser, and/or provide gift basket and silent auction items. Proceeds raised above the costs for the event fund NYSILC special projects. Learn more about NYSILC's Disability Rights Hall of Fame.