ILO Insights
September 2023
Trained & Ready – ILO Welcomes New Families
As we transition from the warmth of summer into the colorful embrace of autumn, we reflect upon the completion of our Family Training and the exciting introduction of four new Self-Advocates and their Participating Families to the ILO experience.
Summer has been a season of transition and discovery for our ILO community, marked by the change of leadership and the addition of these independent individuals and their families. We have eagerly welcomed them into our fold, and their enthusiasm and unique perspectives have already added a vibrant dimension to our collective journey toward inclusive and integrated living opportunities.
The Family Training program, a crucial steppingstone in the ILO process, was completed successfully, thanks to the dedication and hard work of our staff and the expertise of our trainers.
During the training, we emphasized the values of mutual support, understanding, and collaboration. We witnessed how these principles came to life as our existing members generously shared their experiences and wisdom with our newcomers. This spirit of unity and mentorship truly embodies the essence of ILO, and it fills us with immense pride.
As the year ends, there will be numerous moments to connect, collaborate, and celebrate together. Be on the lookout for our upcoming events and gatherings, as they will provide us with chances to strengthen our bonds and further the goals of ILO.
Let us extend our warmest welcome to the newest members of our ILO family and express our heartfelt appreciation for the dedication and commitment of each and every one of you. Together, we can continue to create a world reflective of our values.
Thank you for supporting us through our leadership transition. As I prepare to enter my fourth month at ILO, it is easy to express my joy and comfort. I have received an overwhelming amount of goodwill from the many individuals who are responsible for building this community into a strong organization and I easily emote deep pride as we look to the future.
In service,
Tait Danielson
Executive Director
Priceless ILO Adventures
This photo brings so much joy! A special thank you to Sherrie and Shalawn for making ILO’s first OC Trip a success! To see the SAs enjoying the experience was priceless! Looking forward to more ILO adventures!
Ocean City, Bowling, Movie Night, Beat the Bomb, Dinner Out, Crafting, or just hangin’ ILO’s got it going on. ILO uses fundraising dollars for staff support for fun and engaging activities. This safety net ensures everyone stays safe and has a great time!
Please help us with our upcoming fundraiser at Give-A-Hoot Comedy Club in Rockville on Friday and Saturday night, October 20 and 21. A fun time for a great cause. Please join us and invite your friends and family. Open to everyone. Details below.
Meet ILO Amazing Community Builder and Life Coach – Michelle Harris
Michelle is an ILO Community Builder for the Germantown and Rockville PODs and also does some Life Coaching.
–> Learn more about Michelle
It’s TRUE! All ILO Fees Can Be Paid Using Self-Directed Funds
Your loved one can join ILO and be part of a Community POD where they have social connections through vibrant activities; in addition, access to the community builder who creates peer to peer relationships and a life coach who can help them grow in their independent living skills. All ILO Fees (training, assessment, community builder, life coaching & case management) can be paid with one’s self-directed budget. Learn more HERE.
Can We Assist YOU?
ILO is here to help YOUR family and SELF-ADVOCATE in every way possible.
- Overwhelmed and don’t know where to go for assistance?
- Lost your support (day programs, etc.), and need alternatives?
- Running out of ideas for dealing with social isolation?
ILO is here to help! Please reach out to us at: info@ilonow.org.
Join the ILO Community Group
Community Group Self-Advocates join us for lots of fun programs and activities in 2023 and meet other self-advocates living on their own.
Virtual Current Events
Bowling
*Non-participating ILO families must join the ILO Community Group and must sign a waiver before participation.
Go to https://www.ilonow.org/ilo-community-group/ for more info or to join.
We’ve earned our 2023 Gold Seal with @CandidDotOrg!
We are excited to share the work our nonprofit does through our #NonprofitProfile.
We Need Your Help Now!
Will You Help Support ILO?
The services that we provide to our self-advocates are largely funded by fundraising events, and by donations. Please consider a donation to help us continue providing support.