Welcome to the Boston Center for Independent Living (BCIL)
BCIL is a 501(c)(3) organization that has provided services to people with disabilities since 1974, when it became the second independent living center in the country. The organization was created by people with disabilities seeking full integration into society. BCIL accomplishes this by empowering people of all ages with a wide range of disabilities with the practical skills and self-confidence to take control over their lives and become active members of the communities in which they live. At the same time, BCIL engages in advocacy and community organizing to promote access and change within society.
Our Mission Statement
The Boston Center for Independent Living is a frontline civil rights organization led by people with disabilities that advocates to eliminate discrimination, isolation and segregation by providing advocacy, information and referral, peer support, skills training, PCA services, and transitional services in order to enhance the independence of people with disabilities.
Our Antiracism Statement
The Boston Center for Independent Living commits to making all aspects of our work antiracist, not only because it is just but also because it is necessary to serve and represent our community of people with disabilities. We commit to purposefully identifying, discussing, and challenging issues of race and ethnicity to address the impact they have on our organization, our work, and our people. Moreover, we will add our voice and advocacy to similar antiracist efforts in our community.
If you suspect abuse or neglect of a person with disabilities, please contact the Disabled Persons Protection Commission hotline at 1-800-426-9009 or 1-888-822-0350 TTY (ages 18-59), the Executive Office of Elder Affairs at 1-800-922-2275 (ages 60+), the Department of Public Health 1-800-462-5540 (all Ages residing in Long Term Care Facilities), and the Department of Children and Families at 1-800-792-5200 (ages birth-17). The DPPC Sexual Assault Response Unit can be reached at 617-727-6465.
Upcoming Events
Monday, November 11, 2024
12:00am - 11:59pm
The Boston Center for Independent Living will be closed Monday, November 11th, in observance of the Veterans Day holiday. Read More
Housing Workshop - In-Person & by Zoom
Wednesday, November 20, 2024
10:00am - 12:00pm
Housing Workshop - In-Person & by Zoom Join3 us on the first and third Wednesday of every month to learn more about and how to apply for affordable housing options… Read More
Thursday, November 28, 2024
12:00am - 11:59pm
The Boston Center for Independent Living will be closed Thursday, November 28th, and Friday November 29th, in observance of the Thanksgiving holiday. Read More
Latest News
As Mass. tests its aging devices for voters with disabilities, advocates stress their critical role
Massachusetts must keep technology inside every precinct that ensures voters with disabilities, like people who are blind or low vision, can vote independently. Problems with the machines are rare, bu...Riders have some concerns about accessibility of new Green Line 'supercars'
Riders say the mockup of the new fleet is more accessible, but parts of the train are too difficult to navigate in a wheelchair.