Services
"Living with disabilities can be more than a little challenging, but with the help of caring people and a little humor, you can still enjoy life."
Tonia, Mother
Core Services
Information & Referral
Promoting independence by providing information on a wide variety of disability-related topics (e.g.) - housing, transportation, social security, legislative issues, and making referrals to other agencies for services and community resources.
Individual Advocacy means working with people with disabilities to support themselves in safeguarding their civil rights. Through Systems Advocacy, DCIL staff work with others to ensure that choices, services and supports are in place in the communities where people with disabilities choose to live, work and play. An example of Systems Advocacy is being aware of and promoting changes in local, state and federal legislation that directly affect people with disabilities.
Peer Support
The Peer Support Program is designed to promote positive coping skills for people with disabilities, including individuals with newly acquired disabilities. The peer supporter and individual share the impact of their disabilities, and develop plans that enable that person to live more independently. DCIL offers training that prepares people with disabilities to become peer supporters.
Independent Living Skills Training
Training is provided in a one-to-one setting in areas of: meal planning, money management, benefits counseling, community integration, and other skills needed to increase independence in their homes and communities.
Transitional Services
Living my life as I choose.
DCIL believes that every North Dakotan, regardless of disability, deserves the opportunity to live a life of full inclusion. Transitional Services helps individuals navigate significant life transitions. DCIL facilitates this process by acting as the liaison between the individual and various agencies and services. Examples include:
- Relocating individuals from nursing homes or institutions into a community-based living arrangement
- Helping individuals at risk of a move into nursing homes or care institutions remain in the independent-living community
- Assisting young adults as they transition from high school into adulthood
Additional Services
Accessibility Assessments
Representative Payee Service
The Social Security Administration may require a representative payee to assist some beneficiaries in managing their SSI and/or SSDI benefits. DCIL may provide this service following the strict guidelines established to maintain consumer control and choices. Fees for this service are determined by the Social Security Administration.