Communication is one of the most powerful tools we have for building connections, fostering understanding, and creating more inclusive communities. For individuals interested in learning a new skill while helping bridge communication gaps, an upcoming American Sign Language (ASL) class offered through the Alachua County Library District provides a wonderful opportunity to get started.

Led by renowned ASL instructor Kenny Sanders, this FREE month-long introductory course is designed for beginners and will help participants develop foundational American Sign Language skills in a welcoming learning environment. Whether you are interested in communicating with Deaf friends, family members, coworkers, neighbors, or simply want to expand your understanding of accessible communication, this class offers a meaningful place to begin.

At the CIL, we recognize that accessibility extends beyond physical spaces. Communication access plays a critical role in ensuring that people with disabilities can fully participate in their communities, workplaces, schools, and social environments. Learning ASL is one way individuals can contribute to creating more inclusive and welcoming spaces for everyone.

We encourage community members, service providers, employers, educators, students, and anyone interested in disability inclusion to consider participating in this opportunity.

Event Details

Introduction to American Sign Language (ASL)
Instructor: Kenny Sanders
Date: June 13, 20, 27, and July 11
Location: Alachua County Library District

For complete details and registration information, please visit the Alachua County Library District event page: https://attend.aclib.us/event/15955372#branch

By learning ASL, we take an important step toward strengthening communication, expanding accessibility, and building a community where everyone has the opportunity to connect and belong.

Students from our High School High Tech (HSHT) program recently had the exciting opportunity to visit the University of Florida campus for a day focused on college and career exploration.

Students representing three high schools across Alachua, Levy, and Putnam counties came together to experience campus life firsthand while learning more about higher education opportunities and future career pathways.

Throughout the visit, students explored the campus, learned about college admissions, and gained insight into what life after high school can look like. For many students, the experience went far beyond a campus tour. It provided an opportunity to begin envisioning themselves in a college environment and to think more intentionally about their future goals and aspirations.

Programs like High School High Tech are designed to help students build confidence, develop leadership skills, and expand opportunities for future success. Experiences like this encourage students to connect what they are learning today with the possibilities available to them tomorrow.

We are incredibly proud of our students for showing up, engaging in the experience, and taking meaningful steps toward their future. Their curiosity, participation, and willingness to explore new opportunities continue to inspire us.

At the Center for Independent Living, we remain committed to empowering youth with disabilities through education, career exploration, self-advocacy, and opportunities that help build independence and confidence for the future.

Today, we honor and remember the brave servicemen and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country.

At the CIL, we also recognize the lasting impact military service can have on individuals, families, and communities, including those living with visible and invisible disabilities as a result of their service.

Memorial Day is a reminder of the courage, sacrifice, and resilience carried by so many. As we reflect today, we honor those we have lost, stand alongside veterans and individuals with disabilities in our community, and remain committed to building a world where every person is supported, valued, and empowered to live independently.

Please note: CIL offices will reopen tomorrow, May 26th during normal business hours.

As hurricane season approaches, now is the time to begin preparing for potential storms and emergencies. The Atlantic hurricane season officially runs from June 1 through November 30, while the eastern Pacific hurricane season begins May 15 and also continues through November 30.

Preparing early can make a significant difference in protecting yourself, your loved ones, and your independence during severe weather events. Waiting until a storm is approaching often leads to crowded stores, limited supplies, and added stress. Taking proactive steps now helps ensure you are ready if an emergency occurs.

Develop an Evacuation Plan

If you live in an area vulnerable to hurricane impacts, it is important to create an evacuation plan ahead of time. Identify where you would go if evacuation becomes necessary, whether that is staying with family or friends in a safer area or utilizing local shelter resources.

You do not necessarily need to travel far, but it is important to:

• Plan multiple evacuation routes
• Account for pets and service animals
• Arrange transportation if you do not have access to a vehicle
• Know your evacuation zone and local emergency procedures

Local officials may also provide transportation assistance during emergencies, so be sure to research available resources in advance.

Assemble a Disaster Supply Kit

Whether sheltering in place or evacuating, every household should have emergency supplies ready before hurricane season begins.

Recommended items include:

• Non-perishable food and water for at least three days
• Prescription medications and medical supplies
• Flashlights and extra batteries
• Battery-powered or hand-crank radios
• Portable chargers for cell phones
• Important documents stored safely
• Extra cash
• Pet supplies and food

Keep in mind that power outages and water service interruptions can last days or even weeks following a major storm.

Review Insurance Coverage and Document Belongings

Now is also a good time to contact your insurance provider for a policy review. Many homeowners and renters are unaware that standard insurance policies typically do not cover flood damage.

Flood insurance often requires a 30-day waiting period before coverage begins, making early preparation especially important.

Additionally, document your belongings by taking photos and recording serial numbers for electronics, appliances, and other valuables. Having this information readily available can help simplify the claims process after a disaster.

Create a Family Communication Plan

Communication can become difficult during emergencies, especially if internet or cell service is disrupted. Families should discuss and write down:

• Emergency contact numbers
• Meeting locations
• Out-of-town contacts
• Utility and medical provider information

Having a printed copy of important contacts can be critical if electronic devices lose power.

Strengthen Your Home

Preparing your home before hurricane season can help reduce damage during severe weather. Some recommended actions include:

• Trimming trees and removing loose debris
• Installing or checking storm shutters
• Securing garage doors
• Sealing exterior openings
• Purchasing plywood or protective panels ahead of time

Renters are encouraged to work with landlords to discuss storm preparation plans as well.

Preparation is one of the most important steps we can take to protect ourselves and our communities during hurricane season. The Center for Independent Living encourages everyone to begin planning now and to stay informed throughout the season.

For additional preparedness resources, visit:

• FEMA.gov
• Ready.gov
• FloodSmart.gov

Our recent Talent Show was a wonderful evening filled with creativity, connection, and unforgettable moments. Participants took the stage to share their unique talents, creating an atmosphere of encouragement, joy, and community support.

From musical performances to personal expressions of creativity, each participant brought something special to the event. We are incredibly proud of everyone who participated and grateful for the courage and confidence they demonstrated throughout the evening.

Events like these reflect the importance of creating inclusive spaces where individuals feel empowered to express themselves, connect with others, and celebrate their abilities.

We would also like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the staff, volunteers, families, and supporters who helped make the evening possible. Your encouragement and support continue to make a meaningful impact in our community.

Thank you to everyone who joined us for this memorable night. We look forward to creating many more opportunities to celebrate the talents and strengths within our community.

Join us for our FREE two-day Pathways to Success Camp at the Center for Independent Living of North Central Florida!

This interactive and hands-on camp is designed for teens and young adults with disabilities to build confidence, explore strengths, practice workplace skills, and learn real-life independent living skills in a fun and supportive environment.

What to expect as a camper:
✅ Explore strengths and interests
✅ Practice communication and teamwork
✅ Build job readiness and workplace skills
✅ Learn independent living skills
✅ Connect with mentors and peers
✅ Grow confidence for the future
✅ Fun camp activities

📅 Friday, June 12th & Monday, June 15th
⏰ 9:30 AM – 4:00 PM
📍 222 SW 36th Terrace, Gainesville, FL 32607

Scan the QR code to register for one or both days of camp. Space is limited – secure your spot today!

📧 Questions? Contact Emily Flagg at eflagg@cilncf.or

Whether you’re just getting started or already working, this is a great opportunity to learn new skills, meet new people, and prepare for your future!

Your future starts now. 💙

Our Youth Social & Leadership Group had an amazing time at our recent bowling outing 🎳

Participants came together for an evening full of laughter, friendly competition, and connection. From cheering each other on to celebrating strikes and even the gutter balls 😄, the night was all about building friendships, teamwork, confidence, and community in a fun and inclusive environment.

Programs like this help youth with disabilities develop social, leadership, and independent living skills while creating meaningful peer connections.

As we celebrate moments like these, we also want to remind our community that our The Amazing Give donation link remains open through midnight tonight, May 7.

Thanks to your incredible support, we’ve raised $10,050, reaching 84% of our $12,000 goal. With your help, we can cross the finish line by midnight.

Every donation helps support programs and opportunities like our Youth Social & Leadership Group.

To support CIL, donate here: https://www.theamazinggive.org/organizations/center-for-independent-living-of-north-central-florida

If you are an individual with a disability between the ages of 14–24 and would like to join the Youth Social & Leadership Group, please contact Mika Vuto at mvuto@cilncf.org.

Thank you for continuing to show up for our community, support independence, and help make programs like this possible. We are so grateful for each and every one of you 💙

On April 30, 2026, the Center for Independent Living of North Central Florida will join nonprofits across our region for The Amazing Give—a powerful, community-wide day of giving.

From 8 AM to 8 PM, individuals, families, and organizations come together to support causes that are making a real difference right here in North Central Florida. For CIL, this day is about one thing at its core: independence.

What It Means to Be a Champion of Independence

Every day, we work alongside people with disabilities to help them achieve their goals for independence. This can look different for every individual.

For some, it’s gaining access to transportation so they can attend medical appointments, go to work, or simply reconnect with their community.
For others, it’s receiving assistive equipment that makes their home safer and more accessible.
And for many, it’s building the skills, confidence, and support system needed to live life on their own terms.

Being a champion of independence means believing that everyone deserves the opportunity to live with dignity, choice, and connection—and taking action to make that possible.

The Impact of Your Support

Your support during The Amazing Give helps us provide essential services, including:

• Advocacy for individuals navigating systems and services
• Independent living skills training
• Peer support and community connection
• Access to resources, assistive technology, and durable medical equipment
• Transition services that support individuals in living independently

These services remove barriers and create opportunities for people with disabilities across our community.

A Community Effort

The Amazing Give is more than a fundraising event. It’s a reminder of what’s possible when a community comes together with a shared purpose.

Every donation—no matter the size—contributes to a larger impact. It helps ensure that individuals and families have access to the support they need, when they need it most.

Join Us on April 30

We invite you to be part of this day.

Mark your calendar for April 30, 2026, and consider making a gift to support independence in North Central Florida.

Together, we can continue building a community where everyone has the opportunity to live independently and thrive.

The CIL invites you to attend the Bradford County Emergency Preparedness Expo, a free community event focused on helping people with disabilities prepare for emergencies in our area.

This event brings together local organizations, agencies, and vendors who will share valuable resources and information on what to do before, during, and after an emergency. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn practical steps to stay safe, maintain independence, and feel more confident in emergency situations.

Event Details

Date: Saturday, April 25, 2026
Time: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Location:
Charley E. Johns Conference Center
1610 N Temple Ave
Starke, FL 32091

To ensure accessibility for all, ASL interpreters will be provided.

Whether you are planning ahead or just beginning to think about emergency preparedness, this expo is a valuable opportunity to connect with community resources and gain important knowledge that can make a difference when it matters most.

Learn More

For more information about this event, please contact:
Kevin Towles
📧 ktowles@cilncf.org
📞 (352) 368-3788

We look forward to seeing you there and working together to build a safer, more prepared community!

The Center for Independent Living of North Central Florida (CILNCF) extends our sincere thanks to everyone who participated in the 9th Annual Marion County Emergency Preparedness Expo.

This year’s event brought together community members, local organizations, and service providers with a shared goal: to ensure that individuals with disabilities have the knowledge, resources, and support needed to prepare for emergencies and maintain their independence.

From learning what steps to take before, during, and after an emergency to connecting directly with local agencies, attendees had the opportunity to engage with valuable information and build relationships that strengthen preparedness across Marion County.

Our Community Partners

We are deeply grateful to the organizations and vendors who dedicated their time and expertise to make this event possible:

• Center for Independent Living
• Florida Legal Services
• Endeavors
• HOPE Animal Assisted Crisis Response
• Florida Poison Information Center Jacksonville/USVI
• Community Legal Services of Mid-Florida
• Florida Department of Health
• Marion County Animal Services
• Lalngley Health Services
• Department of Business and Professional Regulation
• Heart of Florida Health Center Federally Qualified Health Center
• Marion County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management
• CAREWISE PHARMACY
• University of Florida Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (UF CARD)
• Ocala Engineering & Water Resources
• Marion Senior Services
• Empath Health / Hospice of Marion County
• Ocala Police Department
• SECO Energy
• Agency for Persons with Disabilities
• SUNTRAN
• Florida Visually Impaired and Blind Services
• Alzheimer’s Association
• Division of Blind Services
• The Salvation Army

Each organization played an important role in creating an informative and welcoming environment where attendees could ask questions, gather resources, and feel more prepared for the unexpected.

Thank You to Our Community

To everyone who attended, thank you for showing up, engaging with our partners, and taking meaningful steps toward preparedness. Emergency readiness is not something we do alone—it is built through community, collaboration, and access to the right information.

At CILNCF, we remain committed to empowering individuals with disabilities to live independently and confidently, no matter the circumstances.

We look forward to continuing this important work together and hope to see you at future events.