-1_TRANSPARENT_PNG.png)
Resource Centre for Independent Living
Core Pillars of Service
The Foundation of How We Approach the Work We Do!
PEER SUPPORT
Peer Support is all about people with disabilities coming together, sharing their stories, and learning from one another. It’s a core part of the Independent Living (IL) Philosophy, creating space for real connection, mutual support, and community-building.
A peer is someone who’s been through similar life experiences—someone who gets it. When peers share what they’ve learned, it helps others feel less alone, more confident, and better equipped to take charge of their own journey.
Through Peer Support, people can:
-
Feel less isolated and more connected
-
Build confidence and grow as leaders
-
Share ideas, challenges, and solutions with others who understand
-
Get support when facing new or tough situations
-
Find their voice as advocates in their own lives and communities
When programs are shaped by people with lived experience, they’re more relevant, more inclusive, and more effective. That’s why Peer Support isn’t just something we offer—it’s something we believe in deeply.
At its core, Peer Support is about community, trust, and lifting each other up. It helps create a more inclusive world—where everyone’s voice matters, and where people support one another in growing, advocating, and thriving together.
INFORMATION & NETWORKING
At the heart of what we do is a commitment to the Independent Living (IL) philosophy. We believe that everyone has the right to make informed choices, take risks, and live with independence and dignity. That’s why we share clear, up-to-date, and practical information with individuals, families, support networks, communities, and governments.
We know that knowledge is power. Whether it's navigating accessibility issues, understanding available services, or finding the right community supports, having the right information makes all the difference. We offer resources on local and provincial programs, financial services, disability awareness, and tools like the Parry Sound Accessibility Guide. By sharing this information, we help build stronger communities, encourage advocacy, and support people in making choices that matter to them.
.png)
SKILLS DEVELOPMENT
We believe everyone has the right to speak up for themselves, make their own choices, and take the kinds of risks that lead to personal growth. We're here to support that journey—by encouraging self-advocacy, respecting each person's decisions, and helping individuals build the confidence to lead their own lives.
Life skills like communication, problem-solving, and managing day-to-day challenges are all part of living independently. That’s why we offer learning opportunities focused on breaking down barriers and helping people understand their rights. We want everyone to have the tools they need to fully take part in their communities. Our programs include support with reading, writing, budgeting, and using technology. We also offer access to computers so people can build tech skills at their own pace. Each month, we run different workshops on a variety of topics—everyone is welcome, but space is limited, so be sure to sign up!
We’re here to help build stronger communities by making sure everyone has a chance to learn, grow, and be heard.
RESEARCH & COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
We believe that people with disabilities are the best experts on their own lives. Their experiences, voices, and leadership are essential in shaping services, programs, and systems that truly work—for everyone.
Real change happens when we come together. By building strong partnerships with community members, organizations, and advocates, we can identify what's missing, understand the barriers people face, and work together to create practical, inclusive solutions.
At the heart of what we do is a simple commitment: respond to real needs, uplift voices that often go unheard, and promote inclusion in everything we do.
We’re also guided by a few key principles:
-
Act quickly and thoughtfully when gaps or needs arise
-
Make sure our research is rooted in the values of inclusion and self-determination
-
Support community-led efforts to find better ways of doing things
Our board, staff, and partners are deeply engaged in this work—identifying barriers, advocating for equity, and pushing for long-term, meaningful change. Together, we're working toward a future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
Direct Funding is an innovative program enabling adults with physical disabilities to become employers of their own attendants.
Attendants assist with routine activities of daily living, such as dressing, grooming, and bathing.
As employers, participants are fully responsible for managing their own employees within budgets developed on an individual basis.