Independent Living Services

Independent Living philosophy recognizes that persons with disabilities should have control over their lives, make decisions and choose options that allow them to live life to its fullest. MERIL is dedicated to helping persons with disabilities discover their strengths, identify options, set goals and receive services to assist them in becoming more independent.

Eligibility for services is based on the presence of a significant disability and the expressed desire by the person seeking services to work toward greater independence. Following eligibility determination, an Independent Living Mentor will serve as a resource from which to:

•  obtain information
•  receive training
•  assist in exploring available options
•  identify personal goals

The Five Core Services we provide:

•  Information and Referral: discovering personally identified needs and informing of available options and resources.
•  Independent Living Skills Training: facilitating career readiness and choice, developing interdependence and enhancing life skills development.
•  Advocacy: Systems Change and Individual- informing, empowering, supporting, educating and changing.
•  Peer Support and Counseling: creating opportunities for peer interaction and ensuring availability of formal and informal counseling.
•  Community Integration and Alternatives to Institutional Living: ensuring early discharge planning and providing options for community-based living.

For more information, please call:

St. Joseph Office
816.279.8558
Toll free: 800.MERIL4U
(800.637.4548)

Maryville Office
Toll free: 800.MERIL4U
(800.637.4548)