The Independent Living Center

06/22/2026

A little rain didn't keep us from a trip to the library for our first Literacy Monday!

Today, we visited the Joplin Public Library, where the Director was kind enough to provide a full tour and introduce us to the many resources and services available to the community. We also had the opportunity to help consumers sign up for their own library cards, opening the door to a wealth of information, entertainment, and learning opportunities.

Literacy Monday will take place on the fourth Monday of each month, and we're excited to add it to our monthly calendar.

06/21/2026

Happy Father’s Day to all the incredible dads, grandfathers, and father figures in our community.

Wishing you a day filled with relaxation, joy, and the appreciation you truly deserve!

06/19/2026

One of Our Favorite Trips of the Year!

Last week, our consumers enjoyed one of our favorite outings—a fishing trip to Roaring River State Park!

The day was filled with great fishing, beautiful views, and a picnic in one of Missouri's most scenic destinations. Everyone had a wonderful time enjoying the outdoors, spending time with friends, and making lasting memories.

A few of our anglers even caught their limit of trout and were able to take home some fresh fish for dinner!

At The Independent Living Center, we believe independence includes having opportunities to connect with others, explore new experiences, and enjoy the same recreational activities available to everyone in our community.

We're already looking forward to next year's trip!

06/19/2026

We're excited to share our July activities at The Independent Living Center, including our newly launched Aldi Wednesday.

Aldi Wednesday will take place on the third Wednesday of each month, giving consumers another opportunity to shop, socialize, and enjoy time with their peers in the community. Don't forget your shopping bags!

Please note that we will not have our Spiva Art Class in July due to our office being closed for an extended holiday weekend.

We encourage everyone to check out our July calendar and join us for the activities that interest you. We look forward to seeing you throughout the month.

For more information about any of our programs or events, call us at (417) 659-8086.

06/18/2026

WIN AN ALL-INCLUSIVE CRUISE PACKAGE VALUED AT UP TO $5,000. RAFFLE TICKETS NOW ON SALE!

The Independent Living Center is excited to announce our Cruise Raffle benefiting Smokin' for Support: A TILC BBQ Bash.

One lucky winner will receive an all-inclusive cruise package valued at up to $5,000 and will have the opportunity to choose their destination and customize their vacation experience.

Prices are:
• 1 Ticket – $20
• 6 Tickets – $100

The drawing will take place on September 19th during Smokin' for Support. You do not need to be present to win.

Tickets can be purchased by:
• Scanning the QR code on the flyer or ticket
• Calling TILC at (417) 659-8086
• Visiting our office at 2639 E. 34th Street in Joplin

Every ticket purchased helps support our mission of empowering people with disabilities to live independently and fully participate in their communities. Get yours and join us in making this year's Smokin' for Support a success!

06/17/2026

NOW HIRING CDS ATTENDANTS IN BARRY COUNTY!

Looking for meaningful work that makes a difference? As a nonprofit organization, The Independent Living Center is dedicated to helping people with disabilities maintain their independence and continue living in their own homes. We're currently seeking Consumer Directed Services (CDS) Attendants in Barry County that can help individuals with daily activities.

One of the unique benefits of the CDS program is that family members and friends qualify to become paid attendants. If you're already helping a loved one remain independent at home, you may be able to get paid for the care you're providing.

Whether you're looking for a rewarding job or know someone who could benefit from becoming a paid attendant, we'd love to talk with you.

Call us today at (417) 659-8086 to learn more.

The mission of The Independent Living Center is to increase the independence of people with disabilities.

06/16/2026

Today is the final day to RSVP if you need transportation to our Men's Health Day!

June is Men's Mental Health Awareness Month, and we're inviting the community to join us for Men's Health Day at The Independent Living Center on June 23rd from 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM.

This free event will feature discussions focused on health, wellness, and overcoming challenges. We'll hear from different speakers who will share their personal experiences of living with disability, overcoming obstacles, and becoming involved members of their communities.

We'll also be joined by a Physical Therapist from Freeman Neosho Rehab Services, who will discuss the importance of men's health, exercise, and the role physical therapy can play in maintaining overall wellness and quality of life.

Lunch will be provided, and limited transportation is available for consumers. Today is the final day to RSVP if you need transportation.

To reserve your spot, please contact Michelle Robertson or Daryl McLaughlin at 417-659-8086.

We look forward to a meaningful afternoon of conversation and connection.

06/10/2026

Join us at The Independent Living Center on the second and fourth Wednesday of each month for Workout Wednesday! This ongoing program provides a fun, supportive opportunity to stay active, improve overall wellness, and make new friends!

On the second Wednesday of each month, we're joined by an experienced instructor from the YMCA who leads participants through exercises that can be adapted to a variety of abilities and fitness levels. Whether you're looking to build strength, increase flexibility, or simply enjoy moving more, Workout Wednesday offers a welcoming environment where everyone can participate.

06/09/2026

We're proud to announce that The Independent Living Center has been recognized by the Brain Injury Association of Missouri as an affiliated TBI support program. This recognition reflects our commitment to providing meaningful peer support, resources, and opportunities for individuals living with the effects of a traumatic brain injury.

Our TBI Support Group takes place on the second Tuesday of each month.

For our participants, this group is a place to connect with others who understand the unique challenges of living with a brain injury, celebrate personal victories, and regain confidence.

The video we’re sharing highlights one of those moments. A regular participant led a pour painting class during one of our meetings—something she hadn’t done since her injury. It was a meaningful experience for her to step back into a familiar role, and equally meaningful for the group to learn from her and share in that experience together. Moments like these reflect the value of peer support and the opportunities that can emerge when people are encouraged, supported, and empowered. You can watch the video below.

For more information about our TBI Support Group and our ABI services, contact us The Independent Living Center - (417)659-8086

On January 13th, 2026, our TBI Support Group welcomed regular parti...

06/08/2026

At The Independent Living Center, we believe everyone deserves the opportunity to live independently and make their own choices. Our person-centered services are designed to help individuals remain safely in their homes while maintaining dignity, independence, and control over their daily lives.

We provide in-home personal care through both Agency and Consumer Directed Services, along with nursing supports such as medication setup and diabetic nail care. We also assist individuals who wish to transition from nursing facilities or other institutional settings back into the community, helping them secure housing, services, and supports needed for a successful return to independent living.

As part of the Independent Living philosophy, we empower individuals through peer support, advocacy, and opportunities for community participation. From social outings and group activities to encouragement from peers with lived experience, we help people build connections, increase confidence, and remain active members of their communities.

At TILC, we're not just providing services—we're helping people live independently, build meaningful connections, and thrive.

Keep an eye on our website and social media for upcoming peer support groups, community outings, and social activities!