Statewide Independent Living
Council of Illinois

CIL Outreach Manual
II. Understanding Cultures and Needs

1. Know and Respect Cultural Differences

Gathering statistical information is only the first step to outreach. Taking time to know and respect cultural differences gives life to the information gathered during your research. Not all cultures understand or accept the Independent Living philosophy as it is perceived by Centers for Independent Living (CILs). Therefore, one can not assume the target group needs, wants, or can access the CIL’s current services. The most important goal is to collect information from unserved and underserved groups in a way that is open to understanding and respecting the cultural context of their needs.

We must learn:

• What are the needs?
• How do we demonstrate community support for those needs?
• How can CILs adjust their programs to meet those needs?

These questions are important because they demonstrate that the CIL is not just selling its own activities and services, but has a genuine interest in the needs of that community or cultural group.

The planning process must respect and incorporate the cultural language, traditions, beliefs and spiritual perspective of the target population. An understanding that the social and economic climate of the population is important, because ‘’disability’‘ may not be a primary concern.

You cannot stereotype cultures. You must have a knowledge of the community and their issues and priorities. It is important to know the leaders and key players to help provide effective outreach.

2. Know Your Communities:

a) Identify individuals in your neighborhoods or communities who are bilingual and bicultural to work with your CIL and help you through this process.

b) Use a reliable method to gather information to access that population, such as:

i) Conduct focus groups.
ii) Conduct interviews.
iii) Conduct mail or telephone surveys.
iv) Assess CIL information and referral data.

c) Develop a list of issues or information you need to know in order to serve your target population.

d) Conduct relevant outreach training for all staff and board utilizing representatives of unserved and underserved populations.

3. Build Partnerships:

a) Invest in the community by having CIL representatives participate in activities that are relevant to the targeted population, not just those that concern Independent Living.

b) Work with effective community based organizations that provide services to unserved and underserved populations to:

i) Understand their programs and services.
ii) Find ways to have CIL services compliment their services.

c) There should be representation on the CIL board and staff of qualified individuals from unserved or underserved populations and communities.

d) Recommend potential leaders with disability to serve on other organization’s boards and committees.

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