Windsor Independent Living Association, Inc.

Encouraging independence, Enhancing lives.

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WILA Mission

To assist people with developmental disabilities in their efforts to live full lives as integral, respected members of the community.

WILA is a not-for-profit organization that supports adults with developmental disabilities living in the community.

WILA was established in the town of Windsor in 1976 by parents, educators and community
leaders who recognized the need for support to continue into adulthood.

Adulthood means having a job and a home in community, having friends and family, making personal choices, gaining independence, and having an active role in the community. WILA helps individuals attain these achievements while enhancing their lives.

WILA originally began as a single group home serving five individuals, largely funded through
community support and grant funding. We now support over ** living in group homes apartments and condominiums.

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Residential Living

Two levels of residential support are available from WILA — round-the-clock support in Group Homes or drop-in assistance for apartment living in our Supported Living Options program.

Both settings foster increased levels of competence and self confidence. Residents participate as fully as possible in caring for their own home and personal needs. Instruction and group supervision foster a full range of community experiences:

• life skills • social interaction

• leisure • budgeting

• nutrition • safety

• decision-making • housing

• health maintenance

Personalized guidance and intervention are available in the Supported Living Options program to allow adults to live safely and independently in their own homes or apartments.

Community involvement is important. WILA provides encouragement and access to social and community events. WILA clients are active participants in town events, religious and civic clubs, fitness classes, and adult education.

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Employment Services

Individuals are assisted in joining the local workforce. WILA partners with many area businesses to find community jobs that are rewarding for each individual. Individual needs and skills, as well as the complexities of the job, determine the level of support WILA provides.

Paid employment provides many benefits:

• enhanced self-worth
• self-sufficiency
• a sense of accomplishment

• an opportunity to give back to the community

Employment opportunities and successes are enhanced through:

• career exploration & counseling

• job development, placement and training

• direct supervision

• transportation

WILA associates are welcomed by local businesses based on a solid record of competence and reliability.

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WILA believes that every person has a right to live in a home in the community as an active and accepted member of the community. Recognizing that life is ever changing, WILA provides help and support to people while they make their own choices and reach for their personal goals as they journey through life.

Three client testimonials

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Windsor Independent Living Association, Inc.

45 Maple Avenue • PO Box 908
Windsor, CT 06095

Tel: 860 688-2891 • Fax 860 688-6668
Email: wilainc@aol.com

WILA is licensed and funded by the State of Connecticut Department of Developmental Services