Greetings | The Center for Independent Living of North Central Florida welcomes you! If you have any questions about the center or the services we provide, please contact us at 352-378-7474. Our number again, is 3, 5, 2, 3, 7, 8, 7, 4, 7, 4.
Every summer, our ADA Paratransit team has the privilege of partnering with RTS bus drivers in Gainesville to enhance their Disability Awareness and Sensitivity skills. Over the course of 16 weeks, we conducted 12 engaging classes, training approximately 160 drivers. Our sessions covered the history of the disability community, the challenges faced, and essential tools for better supporting riders with disabilities.
This year, we introduced a new segment focused on transportation-related sign language, which aims to improve communication with the hard-of-hearing community. We also updated drivers on the latest laws, policies, and procedures, and emphasized ways to foster inclusivity and compassion.
But the learning goes both ways. Our Paratransit specialists gathered valuable feedback from RTS drivers and riders, allowing us to continually adapt and enhance our services. It was a fantastic experience working with our dedicated drivers, and we’re grateful for their commitment to our consumers. Thank you, RTS Road Warriors, for your incredible support and dedication!
ID: Graphic has a blue background with a photo of Paratransit team member Cammeron taking a selfie on the bus with the drivers and Destini (fourth person down on the left). The CILNCF logo (in white) is displayed in the top right corner. “Disability Awareness & Sensitivity Training” is written in white above the top left of the photo. “ADA Paratransit team” is written in white in the bottom right corner underneath the photo.
In the Gainesville and Ocala ILS groups this past month, our consumers learned some Basic Cooking Skills. They discussed how, in this heat, it is good to eat cool foods, like salads. They also discussed how to make them unique each time so they don’t get bored. Plus, how and why to use different fruits and veggies to make them healthier. They discussed various salad dressings and also watched a few salad related videos. Terri Poucher, CIL ILS Coordinator, demonstrated how to make a Strawberry Fluff Salad. Once it was done, they all got to try it and everyone said that they loved it. They were given the recipe, so that they could make it at home.
STRAWBERRY FLUFF SALAD RECIPE: Prep time: 10 mins Serves: 6
INGREDIENTS 4 cups Cool Whip, thawed ½ cup sour cream (optional) 3 oz. box strawberry jello mix 2 cups fresh strawberries, quartered 2 cups pineapple, chunks (optional) 2 cups mini marshmallows
INSTRUCTIONS 1. In a large bowl, combine strawberries, pineapple, Cool Whip, sour cream, jello mix and mini marshmallows. 2. Stir well until everything is thoroughly combined. 3. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to plate and serve cold. 4. Change it up-add different fruits with different color/flavors of Jell-O
ID: Graphic has a blue background with “Independent Living Skills” written in white in the top center. Beneath is 4 images. The top 2 pictures show consumers sitting around at table at The CIL Ocala office. 2 pictures directly beneath show consumers sitting around a U-shaped table configuration at The CIL Gainesville office. In the center of all 4 photos is the CILNCF logo.
We’re just 2 weeks away from our annual Give4Marion Fundraiser, happening on September 17-18! The CIL is excited to participate in our 5th year of Give4Marion, a crucial event that supports our mission to empower individuals with disabilities to achieve independence.
🗓 When: September 17-18 🌐 Where to Donate: www.give4marion.org
The CIL has been a cornerstone in Marion County, and this past year alone, we served nearly 3,000 individuals. Through our Five Core Services—Advocacy, Information & Referral, Independent Living Skills Education, Peer Support, and Transition—as well as specialized programs like ADA Paratransit, Employment Services, Deaf Services, and High School High Tech, we remain committed to enhancing the independence and quality of life for people with disabilities. Donations will directly benefit these vital programs, ensuring that our community continues to receive the support and resources they need.
But we can’t do it without you! Your donation, big or small, will directly impact the consumers and programs that rely on the CIL. Every contribution helps ensure that individuals with disabilities in our community have access to essential resources, services, and the support they need to live independently.
Please mark your calendar and join us in making a difference by donating through the Give4Marion platform. Together, we can continue to champion community inclusion, equal access, and civil rights for all.
Thank you for being a part of our journey and for your unwavering support. Let’s create lasting change together! 💙
ID: Graphic reads, “Give Marion. Love Marion. Give4Marion!” in red on the top left corner. Underneath reads, “Mark your calendars! In just 2 weeks, support The CIL by donating to Give4Marion during a 33-hour giving campaign that makes a difference!” The CILNCF logo is displayed on the bottom left corner. There is a red design on the right corner with the Give4Marion logo displayed above it.
Today, we celebrate the hard work, dedication, and contributions of all workers, including those in our community who are breaking barriers and showing the world that everyone deserves an opportunity to thrive.
At The CIL, we’re committed to ensuring that individuals with disabilities have access to the resources, support, and opportunities needed to achieve their career goals. Whether it’s through job training, advocacy, or workplace accommodations, we’re here to help you succeed.
Let’s honor the resilience, strength, and achievements of all workers today and every day. Together, we can build a more inclusive and equitable workforce for everyone.
ID: Image shows 3 women in an office setting, interacting with each other. One on the far left woman is leaning against a table, the woman in the middle is sitting in her chair, and the woman on the far right is sitting in her wheelchair holding a clip board. There is a purple line running vertically on the left side of the image with “Happy Labor Day” written in white beneath the line.
From now until Friday, September 6, you can purchase qualifying disaster preparedness supplies *tax-free*. This is a great opportunity to stock up on essentials and ensure your home is ready for any emergency.
Whether you’re preparing for hurricanes, storms, or other natural disasters, now is the time to get what you need without the added cost of sales tax.
For a full list of qualifying items and more information, visit the Florida Department of Revenue’s webpage: https://floridarevenue.com/DisasterPrep
Stay safe and prepared!
Graphic shows a picture of storm waves crashing into a pier and includes a full list of qualifying disaster preparedness supplies that can be found at https://floridarevenue.com/DisasterPrep
In July, our Gainesville and Ocala teams came together for a day of learning, connection, and relaxation as part of our monthly health and wellness activities. We had the privilege of participating in the Community Wellbeing Mentor Training, led by the amazing Dr. Carol Lewis, PhD, MPH, from the UF Mobile Outreach Clinic. This training is designed to empower community members, organizations, and churches by equipping them to become Community Wellbeing Mentors (CWMs). Our staff found it incredibly valuable, as it aligns perfectly with our mission to enhance the lives of people with disabilities.
After the insightful training, we indulged in a delicious picnic-style lunch with burgers, hot dogs, potato salads, watermelon, chips, and a variety of pies for dessert. Shoutout to our grill master team members who made it all possible!
But the fun didn’t stop there! We enjoyed a “Fascinating Florida Facts” trivia game, played various games, and simply took some time to unwind and connect with each other. It was a fantastic day of low-key, low-stress fun—just what we all needed!
We’re grateful for opportunities like these to learn, grow, and enjoy each other’s company. Looking forward to what next month’s wellness activity will bring! 🌞
ID: There are two graphics, both with a blue background. The first graphic is photo of 5 members of the CIL staff sitting at a table in the CIL activity room, smiling at the camera while playing games together. “Wellness Training & Picnic” is written in white above the top left corner of the photo, with a vertical line drawn down the left side. The CILNCF logo is displayed in the top right corner. A horizontal white line is drawn below the bottom right corner of the photo with CILNCF written in white. The second graphic is a compilation of 4 photos showing staff participating in various the activities that took place during the Wellness Training & Picnic event. The CILNCF logo is displayed in the center.
🚀 Our Youth Social Group recently had an absolute blast exploring the Cade Museum! From building zany Rube Goldberg machines to diving into wild chemical reactions, we were hands-on with all things science and creativity. We even got our names printed on newspapers from an old-school press and crafted some amazing ocean collages!
But that’s not all—we also learned about Dr. Robert Cade’s creation of Gatorade and rocked out to the history of Gainesville’s own Tom Petty! 🎸🔬
If you’re a youth or young adult with disabilities (ages 14-24) looking to make new friends, get ready for adulthood, and discover cool new experiences like this, we’d love to have you join us! Reach out to Ashlyn at (352) 378-7474 ext. 2056 or email amichael@cilncf.org to learn more.
ID: There are 2 graphics, both with a light blue background. The first graphic consists of a photo collage of 5 pictures. These pictures include YSG consumers and staff standing for a picture together, looking and participating in exhibits, swinging at Depot Park, and playing musical instruments outside. The second graphic consists of another photo collage of 4 pictures. These include more YSG consumers participating in the hands-on exhibits as well!
🌟 We are 4 WEEKS out from our annual Give4Marion Fundraiser on September 17-18!
ID: Graphic has a beige background with all the information shared above. “Save The Date” is written in red in the top center. Give4Marion is written in large, blue font directly beneath. The “4” is underline with a red line. Directly beneath reads, “Together, we can make a lasting impact on the lives of people with disabilities in our community”. Two hands holding a red hard from the left and right side, is displayed in the center of the graphic.
The Center for Independent Living of North Central Florida (CILNCF) is gearing up for our 5th year of participating in the Give4Marion fundraising event on September 17-18! This event is a pivotal moment for us, and your support is vital in helping us continue our mission to empower individuals with disabilities to achieve their dreams of independence.
🗓 When: September 17-18 🌐 Where to Donate: www.give4marion.org
For 42 years, CILNCF has been a cornerstone in Marion County, and this past year we supported nearly 3,000 individuals through our comprehensive services. Whether it’s through our Five Core Services—Advocacy, Information & Referral, Independent Living Skills Education, Peer Support, and Transition—or our specialized programs like ADA Paratransit, Employment Services, Deaf Services, and High School High Tech, we are dedicated to enhancing the independence and quality of life for people with disabilities.
But our work isn’t possible without you. 🙌
How You Can Make a Difference:
Your donation, no matter the size, will directly benefit the consumers and programs that rely on CILNCF. Every contribution ensures that individuals with disabilities in our community continue to have access to essential resources, services, and the support they need to live independently.
Please mark your calendar and join us in making a difference by donating through the Give4Marion platform. Together, we can continue to champion community inclusion, equal access, and civil rights for all.
Thank you for being a part of our journey and for your unwavering support. Let’s create lasting change together! 💙
We love our CIL team and all that they do! In June, the CIL celebrated our awesome staff with a festive and fun Staff Appreciation Day, as part of our monthly health and wellness activities! CIL staff enjoyed a continental breakfast with all the fixings, such as bagels, cream cheese, fruit, yogurt, nuts and muffins.
Everyone also enjoyed a delicious buffet lunch from Bolay (Gainesville Office) and a buffet bar from Chicken Salad Chick (Ocala Office). Several gifts of appreciation were distributed to staff throughout the day, and everyone had the opportunity to earn some extra vacation time through fun lotto games and trivia.
We appreciate each and every one of you so much, and could not accomplish any of our goals without your dedicated support!
ID: There are 3 graphics in total, with varying color schemes of purplce, blue, green, turquoise. and light blue. Each graphic has “Staff Appreciation Day 2024” written in white in the top center, 4 photos, and the CIL logo in the center of all 4 photos. The photo collage show staff enjoying a buffet lunch, interacting with each other, and participating in trivia games during the event.
WOW, where did the past few months go?? Can’t believe the dog days of summer have passed, and the school year is already here! We hope everyone has had a wonderful summer filled with lots of fun in the sun, but that you all continue to stay cool and hydrated in this heat.
Our CIL birthday celebrations continue and we’re playing catch up, so please join us in saying a big HAPPY BIRTHDAY to CIL staff members who celebrated birthdays back in May and June! We hope you all had fantastic birthdays filled with happiness, laughter and yummy cake!
BRANDON – May 6th KEN – May 16th COLETTE – June 2nd KEVIN – June 11th ALEX – June 20th DEBBIE – June 23rd CLAUDIA – June 27th
ID: Picture 1 is of Brandon sitting at a table in the Ocala Activity Room, with his birthday card and glazed lemon cookies off to the side. He is smiling and his left hand is on the table by a napkin with two glazed lemon cookies. The photo has a white border, with a turquoise gradient along the bottom; “Happy Birthday” is written in white script font and “Brandon” written underneath.
Picture 2 is of Kevin standing in the Ocala Kitchen, smiling and holding up his half-eaten pan of chocolate brownies. The photo has a white border, with a blue gradient along the bottom; “Happy Birthday” is written in white script font and “Kevin” written underneath.
Picture 3 is of Ken standing in front of a table that is in front of the TV monitor in the Gainesville Activity room. He is smiling and holding up a carrot cake cupcake. The table contains a colorful Happy Birthday gift bag, a small Happy Birthday banner, plates, napkins, carrot cake and red velvet cupcakes and a variety of berries. On the TV is an image of Ryan Gosling as Ken from the movie Barbie, singing, “I’m Just Ken”. The photo has a white border, with a purple gradient along the bottom; “Happy Birthday” is written in white script font and “Ken” written underneath.
Picture 4 is a group picture of (from left to right) Claudia wearing a green birthday hat, Colette wearing a pink birthday hat, and Alex, holding up a yellow envelope containing a card for Debbie, since she was not able to make the celebration. They are all smiling and standing in front of the large TV monitor showing colorful birthday balloons, and a Happy Birthday banner is hanging across the monitor. The photo has a white border, with a light blue gradient along the bottom; “Happy Birthday” is written in white script font and “Claudia + Colette + Alex” written underneath.
