Inspiring Independence
For nearly three decades, The Independent Living Center has been empowering individuals with disabilities to live life on their own terms.
Increasing Independence for All
The mission of The Independent Living Center is to increase the independence of people with disabilities. TILC is "consumer driven" — we believe the individual knows their needs better than anyone else and should be the responsible party in directing their own care and their own future.
TILC is governed by a board of directors made up of community members that either have a disability or special interest with disabilities. Dave Demery is the President of the Board of Directors.
30+
Years of Service
It started with a movement.
In the 1960s, disability rights activist Ed Roberts helped spark what would become the Independent Living Movement—an idea rooted in the belief that people with disabilities should have the same rights, choices, and control over their lives as anyone else. At a time when many individuals were institutionalized or excluded from everyday life, this movement challenged long-standing assumptions and demanded something better: access, opportunity, and dignity.
What began as a push for accessibility on college campuses soon grew into a nationwide effort to remove physical, social, and systemic barriers. But the Independent Living Movement was about more than access—it was about shifting power. It introduced a new philosophy: that people with disabilities are the experts in their own lives and should be the ones making decisions about their services, goals, and futures.
This philosophy is built on core principles like self-determination, peer support, equal access, and advocacy. It emphasizes the importance of community-based services over institutional care and promotes the idea that everyone deserves the opportunity to live independently in the setting of their choice.
Out of this movement came Independent Living Centers—community-based, non-residential organizations designed and led by people with disabilities, for people with disabilities. These centers provide essential services like advocacy, skills training, peer support, and resources, all grounded in the belief that independence looks different for everyone.
In 1994, that vision took shape here with the opening of our Center. Since then, we have remained committed to the values that started it all—empowering individuals, advocating for meaningful change, and building a more inclusive community where people with disabilities have the tools, support, and freedom to live independently and fully.
Guided by Experience & Compassion
TILC is headed by Executive Director Jeff Flowers, who is active in community and statewide advocacy. Jeff was instrumental in ensuring that Joplin schools were rebuilt with accessibility in mind, serving on the Joplin School Board from 2008 until 2015. He is the past chairperson for the Missouri Council for Independent Living where he continues to serve as a member.
Milestones
The Independent Living Movement takes shape as disability rights advocates like Ed Roberts challenge barriers and fight for equal access, independence, and inclusion in their communities.
The first Center for Independent Living is established in Berkeley, California, introducing a new model of peer support, advocacy, and self-determination—built by and for people with disabilities.
Amendments to the Rehabilitation Act establish federal funding for Independent Living Centers, helping expand services and support the growth of the movement nationwide.
The first four Centers for Independent Living open in Missouri, bringing the Independent Living philosophy and services to communities across the state.
Founded as a satellite office of the Springfield Center for Independent Living through the Rehabilitation Services Administration, our Center begins bringing independent living services to southwest Missouri.
Just one year later, we became a fully funded, independent Center dedicated to serving individuals with disabilities across the region—grounded in the core principles of the Independent Living Movement.
Executive Director Jeff Flowers joins the Joplin School Board, playing a key role in advocating for accessible school rebuilds and inclusive design following the 2011 tornado—ensuring all students have access to safe, equitable learning environments.
As the needs of our community expanded, so did our services—strengthening programs in advocacy, peer support, skills training, and community-based supports to reach more individuals each year.
Our team of dedicated professionals serves hundreds of individuals with disabilities—empowering people to live independently, make their own choices, and fully participate in their communities.
Title VI Notice
Civil Rights Compliance
The Independent Living Center complies with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which states that no person in the United States shall, on the ground of race, color, or national origin, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance.
Any person who believes that discrimination has occurred may file a written complaint with Sheila Campbell (2639 E. 34th Street, Joplin, MO 64804 or fax 417-659-8087) within 180 days from the date of the alleged incident.
Download Title VI Complaint Form