The Importance of Centers for Independent Living Supporting Youth With Disabilities: A Critical Contribution to Maximize Transition Service Delivery

Abstract

An integral element of maximizing positive postschool outcomes for youth with disabilities is interagency collaboration. Centers for Independent Living (CILs) can be critical service providers for youth and young adults with disabilities. This study explored CIL professionals’ contributions in supporting transition-age youth. Furthermore, the study examined these professionals’ perspectives of why CIL involvement is vital in transition service delivery. Eight dyads consisting of a CIL administrator and a CIL staff member providing direct services to transition-age youth with disabilities were interviewed from eight CILs from across the country. Thematic analysis of each interview transcript yielded themes related to the scope of services that CILs are providing in tandem with special education professionals, and why CIL professionals believe their involvement in secondary transition is critical. Findings included that interview participants delineated three overarching areas where CILs support transition-age youth while collaborating with schools. Furthermore, the findings showed that the crucial nature of CIL involvement in the transition service delivery process is rooted in several value-based principles. These five value-based principles were as follows: (a) Empowerment-, autonomy-, and independence-based, (b) youth-led and individualized, (c) strengths-based and goal-driven, (d) peer-based and disability-pride-driven, and (e) ensuring services were available and accessible. These findings, implications for practice, and future research directions are also discussed.

Exploring Special Education and Center for Independent Living Professional Beliefs on Collaboration and the Value-Based Principles That Drive Secondary Transition Service Delivery

“…Although we agree that this is a crucial element of building a strong foundation to a partnership, a deeper understanding of stakeholder's potential contribution is needed. A recent study by (Plotner & Walters, 2022) explored the scope of CIL services in supporting SWDs finding that CILs provide services under three primary areas: college and career preparation, personal development, and independent living. These areas are primary areas for most (if not all) transition providers; thus, transition collaborative partners need to know specific contributions (e.g., approaches, strategies, and activities) of each partner and how professionals from different fields complement transition service delivery.…”

“…More recently, (Plotner & Walters, 2022) interviewed eight dyads of CIL administrators and staff members across various regions of the United States to examine their perspectives on why CIL involvement in transition is critical. Using a narrative inquiry approach to analyze content yielded from interviews, the authors uncovered that CIL professionals believe the unique principles that drive CIL service delivery are paramount when serving transition-age youth.…”