About Kentucky SILC Statewide Independent Living Council
About Us
What is Ky SILC?
Who We Are
The Kentucky Statewide Independent Living Council (SILC) is a non-profit, non-governmental organization established in accordance with the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended. We are a diverse group of individuals with disabilities, advocates, and representatives from various organizations committed to promoting independent living and advancing the rights of Kentuckians with disabilities.
Goals
Our Vision
A Kentucky where all individuals with disabilities have the opportunity to live independently, participate fully in their communities, and enjoy equal rights and access to services and resources.
Purpose
Our Mission
The mission of Kentucky SILC is to empower all Kentuckians with disabilities to live independently, direct their own lives, and participate fully in their communities.
processes
What We Do
- Develop, monitor, and evaluate the State Plan for Independent Living (SPIL)
- Advocate for policies and legislation that support independent living and the rights of individuals with disabilities
- Collaborate with Centers for Independent Living (CILs), disability organizations, and state agencies to promote independent living services and programs
- Provide education and outreach to raise awareness about independent living and disability rights
- Promote the inclusion and full participation of individuals with disabilities in all aspects of society
Legacy
History of Kentucky SILC
Kentucky SILC was established in 1993 in response to the Rehabilitation Act Amendments of 1992, which required each state to create a Statewide Independent Living Council. Since then, we have been at the forefront of promoting independent living and advocating for the rights of Kentuckians with disabilities. Over the years, we have achieved significant milestones and made substantial progress in advancing the independent living movement in our state.The KY SILC became a 501(c)(3) nonprofit agency in February 2023, allowing the SILC more autonomy and the ability to hire our first full-time director.
Committee Information
Executive Committee
The executive committee is composed of the Chair, Vice Chair, Treasurer, SPIL Committee Chair, and one at-large member. The committee meets prior to all business meetings of the Statewide Independent Living Council and at other times as necessary. It acts as an advisor to the Chair and approves appointments to standing and special committees. It has general supervision over and conducts the affairs of the Statewide Independent Living Council between meetings. The executive committee reports at each meeting of the Statewide Independent Living Council on action taken between meetings.
Public Awareness Committee
This committee is charged with the development and oversight of all council publications, marketing materials and website content.
Nominating Committee
This committee presents a written slate of nominations for all SILC membership vacancies at least annually and any time there is a vacancy in the SILC membership. At the April meeting, a slate of officers is presented, including nominations from the floor, and a written ballot is conducted.
At the fall/winter meeting, the nominating committee presents a slate of officers. The floor opens for nominations then a ballot vote may be taken. The nominating committee is composed of at least four Statewide Independent Living Council members representing statewide geographic distribution.
SPIL Committee
Oversees the drafting of each SPIL, monitors and reviews the compliance of the SPIL, and reports on compliance of the SPIL.
Finance Committee
The Finance Committee maintains accurate and complete financial records of funding spent for SILC operations. Prepares a quarterly SILC financial report. Creates and maintains the SILC’s budget. Establishes and maintains proper financial controls for the SILC. Complies with federal, state, and other reporting requirements. Ensures that SILC reports and financial controls are regularly reviewed by an accountant.
Council Members and Staff
Kentucky SILC is led by a diverse group of council members, the majority of whom are individuals with disabilities. Our council members bring a wealth of experience, expertise, and passion to our work. They are appointed by the Governor and serve staggered terms to ensure continuity and representation.
Membership Composition
The Statewide Independent Living Council is composed of:
- No more than 16 individuals, of which at least 9 shall be individuals who have a disability;
- Representatives of all geographic areas of the state and who represent a broad range of disabilities from diverse backgrounds;
- At least one director of a center for independent living chosen by the directors of centers for independent living across the state;
- Representatives from the Kentucky Department of Aging and Independent Living and the Kentucky Office for Vocational Rehabilitation (ex-officio members)
- Representatives from other state agencies that provide services for individuals with disabilities.
Additional members may include:
- Other representatives from centers for Independent Living;
- Parents and guardians of individuals with disabilities;
- Advocates of and for individuals with disabilities;
- Representatives from private businesses;
- Representatives from organizations that provide services for individuals with disabilities; and
- Other appropriate individuals
Council Members
Our Council members are dedicated professionals who work tirelessly to support the mission and goals of Kentucky SILC. They bring a range of skills and expertise in areas such as advocacy, policy development, program management, and community outreach.
Chair
Grace Jeter
Treasurer
Michael Fein
Vice Chair
Leslie Bailey
Member-At-Large
Carla Bennett
Ex-Officio, SPIL Committee Chair
Helga Gilbert
Public Awareness Committee Chair
Darrell Mattingly
Nominating Committee Chair
Amy Dougherty
CIL Representative
Brenda Noble
Member
Bobby Begley
Member
Joe Cowan
Ex-Officio Member
Lala Williams
Member
Teresa Escue
Member
Tessa Wilkerson
Member
Katrina Ford
WHO ARE WE
Staff
Megan Coleman
Executive Director
megan@kysilc.org, 270-238-0789
Get Involved
Volunteer Opportunities
- Event Volunteer
- 1-2 hours/per month with increased time commitments leading up to events
- No application-just contact Megan Coleman if interested
- Outreach Volunteer
- Time commitment-2-4 hours per community event
- No application-just contact Megan Coleman if interested
We are looking for new council members.
If you would like to serve on the SILC, please review and complete the following documents:
Submit documents to:
Megan Coleman at megan@kysilc.org
OR
Kentucky SILC
120 North Mill Street, Suite 201
Lexington, KY 40507
Partnerships and Collaborations
Kentucky SILC works in close partnership with a wide range of organizations and stakeholders to achieve our mission. These include:
- Centers for Independent Living (CILs) in Kentucky
- Center for Accessible Living
- disAbility Resource Center
- Independence Place
- Kentucky Department for Aging and Independent Living (DAIL)
- Kentucky Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR)
- Commonwealth Council on Developmental Disabilities (CCDD)
- Kentucky Protection and Advocacy (P&A)
- Disability advocacy organizations and consumer groups
- Universities and research institutions
Through these partnerships and collaborations, we leverage resources, expertise, and collective action to create positive change and improve the lives of individuals with disabilities in Kentucky.