The Washington State Independent Living Council (WA SILC) is
seeking applicants to fill 5 vacancies beginning October 1, 2012.
WHAT IS WA SILC?
The Washington State Independent Living Council (WA SILC) is
an 11 member council appointed by the Governor. Terms are up to 3 years with a
maximum of 2 terms.
WHAT DO WE DO?
The primary purpose of WA SILC, together with the Washington
Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) and the Washington Department of
Services for the Blind (DSB), is to jointly develop and sign the State's Plan
for Independent Living (SPIL). Additionally, we monitor, review, and evaluate
the implementation of the SPIL.
The WA SILC works with our Centers for Independent Living
(CIL's) concerning different issues that affect citizens of Washington with
significant disabilities. We also coordinate activities with other state
councils and share information about issues that affect Washingtonians with
disabilities.
The WA SILC meets four times a year and also conducts public
forums at various locations throughout the state. All meetings and forums are
open to the public.
Finally, we provide periodic reports to the public and
Federal government that describe the activities of the WA SILC.
WHO ARE WE?
We believe and support the independent living philosophy of
consumer control, peer support, self-help, self-determination, equal access,
and individual and system advocacy in order to maximize the leadership,
empowerment, independence, and productivity of individuals with disabilities
and the integration and full inclusion of people with disabilities in the
mainstream of American society.
HOW TO APPLY FOR MEMBERSHIP?
The WA SILC tries to ensure statewide representation of
members who represent a broad range of individuals with disabilities from
diverse backgrounds. 51% of our membership must be people with disabilities.
Our membership consists of representatives from the State Independent Living
Centers, people living with disabilities, advocates, parents of children with
disabilities, community service providers, and the state and tribal Vocational
Rehabilitation programs.
We hope you will consider applying for membership on the WA
SILC if you have the demonstrated ability and experience to work on the WA SILC
responsibilities described above, are committed to the values and mission of
Independent Living, and are knowledgeable and experienced regarding legislative
and policy processes.
To apply, you must submit an online application to the
Governor’s office at: http://www.governor.wa.gov/boards/application/default.asp
If you need assistance or have questions, please email
Debbie Cook: debcook@u.washington.edu.
You may also call 800-624-4105 (voice) or 1-866-866-0162 (TTY).
The WA SILC was established under the authority of Title VII
Section 705 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 as amended, (P.L. 102-569), and
WA State Executive Order 93-04 as superseded by Executive Order 04-05.
