Independent Living Skills (ILS) is a program that offers instruction and support covering a wide variety of skills necessary to help the people we support develop and sustain independent lives. Services are flexible and individualized, based on each individual’s needs and preferences, and continue throughout the person’s life as long as needed and desired.
ILS services are available to adults who require a moderate amount (2 – 50 hours/month) of services. Individuals typically live alone or with house mates in their own homes in communities of their choice but may also live in their familial homes as they prepare to eventually move.
ILS services help the people we support to live as independently as possible while maintaining their health (physically and emotionally) and safety and meeting their financial obligations. In addition, CS believes that true independence is much more than just completing responsibilities. Staff also offer each individual social/recreational opportunities to participate in activities of their choice and to explore areas of interest. Through our social program, the people we support develop social networks and hobbies that enrich their lives.
This program provides services in the following areas:
- Advocacy/Self-advocacy
- Cooking
- Cleaning
- Community/Generic Resource Awareness
- Independent Recreation/Social Skill Development and Implementation
- Menu Planning & Nutrition
- Money Management
- Personal Health and Hygiene including Medical/Dental needs and Laundry
- Safety (home & community)
- Shopping in natural environments
- Transportation (public and/or generic)
ILS programs are monitored by the regional centers and the Dept. of Developmental Services (DDS); you may review the information provided by DDS at: https://www.dds.ca.gov/LivingArrang/IndLiving.cfm and/or you may check your local regional center’s website.