Independence Empowerment Center

Independence Empowerment Center (IEC) is a Center for Independent Living (CIL). As a CIL our philosophy centers on consumer control. But what exactly does that mean?

Consumer control is exactly what it says: the consumer is in control. They are in control of their lives and their choices. We do not judge or push. We simply present possibilities and help develop opportunities. Some people may need a guide to help lead the way or to point them in the right direction and we can do that. But we do not tell our consumers what to do or how to do it.

We can help people set goals - otherwise known as developing an Independent Living Plan - that will assist in keeping track of ideas they have. The plan can break a large goal into small goals. Once again, it is up to the consumer to complete those; it is not up to us.

When referring to the Consumer Directed Medicaid Waiver program, you’ll notice it follows the same logic. It, again, is called Consumer Directed for a reason. Consumers are in control of their lives. They hire, manage, and fire their own personal assistants. We do not tell them what to do. We offer management training and we can offer advice, but in the end, it is up to each consumer who they want working for them and how that person assists them.

Therefore, as you come into contact with our office, remember “consumer control.” If you are the consumer, you make the decisions. You take the lead. If you are a family member or community advocate, know we base everything we do around our consumer. We need them to tell us what they want. We all like to have control over our own lives. Let’s keep it that way.

from Fall 2006 Newsletter

by Gretchen Fox