May is here, bringing warmer days, fresh opportunities, and continued momentum as we move further into the year. As spring continues, WILC is excited to keep building community, learning together, and supporting one another every step of the way. We’re looking forward to all that this month has in store and can’t wait to keep the energy going with

our amazing community.

BIANYS 2026 Annual Conference

Scholarship Award

We would like to congratulate Azzura’e Wilson on being awarded a scholarship to attend the Brain Injury Association of New York State’s 2026 Annual Conference!

This opportunity highlights her dedication and continued involvement within the brain injury community. We are proud to see Azzura’e represent WILC at this

impactful statewide conference!

More info!

Check Out Our Latest Blog!

Mental Health Awareness Month is a reminder that mental health is deeply connected to housing, employment, healthcare, and overall independence. In our latest blog, staff members share personal reflections on mental health, recovery, stigma, and the importance of community support.

From housing stability to peer connection and advocacy, the blog highlights why access to services and support matters so deeply for individuals navigating mental health challenges. Read more about how WILC continues to support dignity,

independence, and community care year-round.

Read the full blog!

Pathway to Power Advocacy Group at WILC

WILC is excited to launch the Pathway to Power Advocacy Group, hosted by Azzura’e Wilson. Starting May 14th, the group will meet every Thursday at 2:30 PM to help individuals build confidence, strengthen self-advocacy skills, and connect with a supportive peer community through shared stories and activities.

For more information, please contact awilson@wilc.org.

Special Education Webinar on Therapeutic & Emotional Support Programs

The Lower Hudson Special Education Task Force will host a Zoom webinar on May 27th at 6:00 PM focused on therapeutic and emotional support programs and services available in public schools. The session will explore how these programs support students with emotional and behavioral health needs and provide insight into the range of options offered across school districts.

The webinar is designed for parents, teachers, advocates, school psychologists, and other stakeholders interested in student mental health and educational

support services.

More info!

Michael's Monthly Fun Fact

This May is National Mobility Awareness Month. It is a nationwide campaign that promotes awareness, education, and support for people with disabilities, seniors, and veterans who want to live active, independent lives.

Organizations like NMEDA, or National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association, 21.7 million people in the US live with mobility challenges, 1 in 4 people with mobility disabilities are veterans, 12.2% of US adults have a mobility disability with serious difficulty walking or climbing stairs, and 18,000 new spinal cord injuries occur in the US every year.

People with these kinds of disabilities need to have access to the right resources and equipment to help them live their daily lives. This type of equipment could include Wheelchair-Accessible Vehicle Conversions, Hand Controls & Driving Aids, Wheelchair tie-downs and occupant restraint systems, and Transfer Seats & Swivel Seats to name a few.

Organizations like WILC can help with speaking with consumers who are physically disabled and can help to both advocate and communicate to ensure that they can get the right resources they need.

Help Make an Impact

With growing federal and state budget challenges putting vital disability services at risk, community support is more important than ever.

Every day, WILC stands alongside people with disabilities, providing guidance with housing, healthcare, benefits, and life transitions. Your generosity helps preserve access to these essential services and keeps independence, dignity, and choice at the forefront.

If you’re able, please consider making a gift today.

Donate here!

Share your experience with the Westchester Independent Living Center (WILC) by leaving a Google review. Your feedback helps us empower individuals with disabilities to lead self-directed lives through advocacy, training, and access to essential resources. Together, let's amplify our impact and support the journey towards independent living.