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Your help is vital in ensuring that we continue to fulfill our mission of exceptional care.

Independent Living Association Services: You don’t have to feel like it’s you against the world

Feb 14, 2020

We tend to take a lot of things for granted in this world. We have everything we need at our fingertips. We have our own lives, and for the most part, we make our own way in the world.

But for individuals with developmental disabilities and their families, it’s not quite as easy as all that. Raising a child isn’t easy at the best of times, but if your child has special needs, you face unique challenges.

They may learn at a different pace than other children. They may not be able to communicate what they are feeling, or there might be social or behavioral problems. No matter what your unique experience might be, all of these things can have consequences to your psychological wellbeing.

Whether you are raising a child or caring for an adult with intellectual or developmental disabilities, you don’t have to feel like it’s you against the world. ILA is here to help.

ILA in Action

ILA was established to support individuals with special needs and their families, creating hope, providing insight, and creating opportunities for growth that may not have been possible otherwise. We work very closely with our individuals, helping them gain independence and self-sufficiency to the best of their abilities.

For the families, we want them to know they are not alone. Seeing that their loved one can thrive and be happy despite their challenges is an incredible thing. However, it doesn’t happen overnight, and it’s never without patience, love, empathy, and significant effort on the part of all involved.

The greatest reward any of us can imagine is when an individual can embrace their individuality through independence.

Ryan’s Story

Ryan has been an ILA resident for several years now. During his time here, he has made friends, developed relationships, and discovered new things that he loves to do, like go bowling and swimming. He takes care of himself, cleans up after himself, and is thriving, largely because of the skills he has learned at ILA and the confidence he’s gained because of it.

To a parent, this is perhaps the greatest gift of all. Ryan is living life, being productive, surrounded by positivity and caring, and taking on new challenges every day. His behavior has changed, he is safe and happy, and he is surrounded by people who are just like him as well as and supporting individuals, volunteers, and ILA staff who genuinely care how he feels.

Your Donations Are Important

ILA is a not-for-profit organization with more than three decades of history in New York City.

We are supported by federal and state funding, but we would not survive without private donors. Every dollar donated goes directly into programs and supports for our residents, ensuring they can continue to live their best life possible.

Without ILA, many of our residents would never have the same opportunities for independence and fulfillment. Our staff really love what they do. They work closely with residents to find out their interests and learn what makes them happy. Just like us, these individuals have hopes and dreams. Your support can help these dreams come true.

Reach out today to learn more about us, and to find out how your donations can help people like Ryan live a happy and fulfilled life.

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