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News

ARTICLE

Date ArticleType
8/12/2025 4:00:00 AM Member News

Center for Independent Living Celebrates 50 Years of Impact: A Future Without Limits

Celebrating Five Decades of Empowering People with Disabilities and Building Inclusive Communities

Winter Park, FL — The Center for Independent Living (CIL) proudly announces the official kickoff of its 50th Anniversary Campaign, commemorating five decades of dedication to empowering individuals with disabilities to live independently and with dignity across Central Florida.

Since its founding in 1976, CIL has been a pioneering force in disability rights advocacy, breaking down barriers and providing essential services, education, and support to thousands of people with diverse abilities. This milestone campaign will celebrate CIL’s rich history, highlight its ongoing impact, and fundraise to expand programs and services for the next 50 years.

“Fifty years ago, CIL was born out of a vision for a world where people with disabilities have full access and equal opportunity,” said Charlotte Leavitt, Associate Director of CIL. “As we launch this campaign, we honor that vision and recommit ourselves to breaking down barriers and building a more inclusive community for generations to come.”

The 50th Anniversary Campaign will feature a variety of community activities, outreach initiatives, and fundraising efforts aimed at engaging supporters, partners, and the public.

Community members, supporters, and media are encouraged to join us to learn more about the campaign, hear from CIL leaders and partners, and celebrate this important milestone. Connect with us for future updates!

About the Center for Independent Living in Central Florida

Founded in 1976, the Center for Independent Living in Central Florida (CIL) is the region’s longest-standing cross-disability, grassroots organization led by people with disabilities, for people with disabilities. CIL empowers individuals through a comprehensive array of programs that foster independence, inclusion, and self-determination. Signature programs include Foundations to Freedom, Family Disability Navigator, Step Ahead, Aspire to Hire, Community Inclusion, and Deaf Voice. To explore the full scope of programs and services, please visit www.cilorlando.org.

MEDIA CONTACT
Jim Moody
jmoody@cilorlando.org
Development Director
407-623-1070

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