Consumer-Controlled: People with Disabilities Support Decisions About Them

Posted on 05/14/25 by Isabel in Independent Living

A key feature of a Center for Independent Living (CIL), like LEAP, is that we are consumer-controlled. What does consumer-controlled mean?

Consumer control means that individuals with disabilities are not merely recipients of our services. They play a vital role in managing and directing the programs and services that CILs provide. Members of the disability community are deeply involved in CILs, from daily operations to leading the organization towards success. Their lived experiences inform our decisions.

What Does "Consumer-Controlled" Look Like?

According to Title VII of the Rehabilitation Act of 1974, as amended, Centers for Independent Living must be consumer-controlled. This means that all Centers for Independent Living are required to meet specific guidelines to ensure that individuals with disabilities are in control.

The legal definition provided by the Act is as follows:

"CONSUMER CONTROL.—The term "consumer control" means, with respect to a center for independent living, that the center vests power and authority in individuals with disabilities, in terms of the management, staffing, decision-making, operation, and provisions of services, of the center. [29 U.S.C. 796a]"

In other words:

• At least 51% of all staff must identify as individuals with disabilities.
• More than 51% of decision-making roles, such as those held by directors, must be filled by individuals with disabilities.
• Over 51% of our Board of Directors must identify as individuals with significant disabilities.

Although this is a requirement for Centers for Independent Living, it is not uncommon to surpass these numbers.

According to a November 2023 fact sheet from the Administration on Community Living, two-thirds of the staff and 75% of decision-makers at Centers for Independent Living nationwide identify as individuals with disabilities.

LEAP in 2024: Surpassing the Standard

Over half of LEAP's Board of Directors and staff members identify as individuals with disabilities. They are the decision-makers, peer supporters, program creators, service providers, and advocates. New programming and efforts center around leaders with disabilities, like the Community Advocacy Group, run by Board member Scott Fedor and Community Engagement Specialist Elizabeth Brassell.

Respecting Privacy & Choice

Choosing to disclose a disability is always a voluntary and confidential decision. No medical documentation is required if you decide to disclose. Instead, Centers for Independent Living follow a self-identification process.

Consumer Controlled: Why It Matters

Being consumer-controlled ensures that individuals with disabilities are involved in following the "nothing about us, without us" approach to shaping our programs and services. It also provides representation, empowerment, inclusion, autonomy, and impactful leadership.