HISTORY

A group of 26 people with significant disabilities, committed to changing service options in Burlington County, incorporated as “Resources for Independent Living” (RIL) in 1993 and received their not-for-profit IRS status in 1994. Their collective dream was to create a center where people with disabilities would have a place meet socially, receive personal support and learn how to independently in the community.

Knowing that many of their needs could be met through the services of such an organization the founding members applied for federal funding to open a new Independent Living Center in New Jersey. In 1994, RIL was awarded a U.S. Department of Education grant in the amount of $149,000.

RIL has grown in scope of services offered as well as the number of clients served. The organization continues to serve people with disabilities, who live throughout Burlington County. Currently, there is an on-site computer lab and a recreational center. Consumers are provided opportunities to volunteer and participate in activities.

In 2005 RIL provided over 2,000 service hours and over 2,800 individual services to residents of Burlington County. Today’s clients are provided support and services in the following areas; independent living skills training, peer support, recreation, information and referral and advocacy. Based in Burlington City, RIL is a training and support facility staffed by five full time and six part-time employees. The annual operating budget exceeds $475,000 and sources of funding include support from Cornell University, New Jersey Department of Education, Rutgers University, Burlington County, Beverly City, Federal Department of Education, Centers for Medicaid and Medicare, Girl Scouts, and donations from the public.