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INDEPENDENCE, INC.

INDEPENDENCE, INC.
Statement of Consumer Rights and Responsibilities

You have the right to:

• choose your own goals and timetables for their completion.
• change your mind about types and duration of services.
• be treated with dignity and respect.
• privacy and confidentiality.
• live as you choose in your own home without judgment or interference.
• make your own decisions and choose from available options.
• bring an advocate(s) to all meetings.
• copies of all Independent Living Plans and support materials.
• initiate a grievance procedure regarding staff or services at Independence, Inc.
  

You are responsible for: 

• meeting scheduled appointments and class times.
• notifying staff when you need to reschedule an appointment. 
• treating others at the center the same way you expect to be treated.
• the content of your Independent Living Plan.
• the timely completion of objectives and goals.
  

Consumer Grievance Procedure

In accordance with the Independence, Inc. Statement of Consumer Rights and Responsibilities, Consumers have the right to "initiate a grievance procedure regarding staff or services at Independence, Inc." In order to solve problems as efficiently as possible, please follow the steps listed below:

1. Attempt to resolve the grievance with the employee.
2. If the grievance is not resolved with the employee, go to the immediate supervisor.
3. If it is not resolved with the supervisor, complete a grievance form and file it with the Executive Director.
4. If the above listed actions have been taken and there is still no resolution to the problem, you may then request that the file regarding the grievance be forwarded to the board of directors.

Note: The Client Assistance Program (CAP) at 1-800-432-2326 is always available for advocacy during a grievance procedure. 

Bill of Rights and Declaration of Independence 
(for People with Disabilities)

Preamble:

We believe that all people should enjoy certain rights. Because people with disabilities have consistently been denied the right to fully participated in society as free and equal members, it is important to state and affirm these rights. All people should be able to enjoy these rights, regardless of race, creed, color, sex, religion, or disability.

1. The rights to live independent, active, and full lives.
2. The right to the equipment, assistance, and support services  necessary for full productivity, provided in a way that promotes dignity and independence.
3. The right to an adequate income or wage, substantial enough to  provide food, clothing, shelter, and other necessities of life.
4. The right to accessible, integrated, convenient and affordable housing.
5. The right to quality physical and mental health care.
6. The right to training and employment without prejudice or stereotype.
7. The right to accessible transportation and freedom of movement.
8. The right to bear or adopt and raise children and have a family.
9. The right to a free and appropriated public education.
10. The right to participate in and benefit from entertainment and recreation.
11. The right of equal access to and use of all businesses, facilities, and activities in the community.
12. The right to communicate freely with all fellow citizens and those who provide services.
13. The right to a barrier free environment.
14. The right to legal representation and full protection of all legal rights.
15. The right to determine one's own future and make one's own life  choices.
16. The right of full access to all voting processes.