Empower

Empower provides a variety of programs and services in an effort to promote inclusion. 

Board of Directors

Our Board of Directors is supported by four standing committees, which includes the Executive, Finance, Human Resources, and Awards and Governance Committees. Reporting to the Board Chairperson and the Executive Committee, our Executive Director oversees the overall operations of Empower throughout the year.

Membership

Empower membership is open to individuals who support the principles of Independent Living and the objectives of Empower, the Disability Resource Centre. If you have any issues with google forms please contact info@empowernl.ca

To become a member of Empower, please complete this form. Membership is free.

Partners

• The Department of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills Government of Newfoundland and Labrador
• The Department of Health and Community Services Government of Newfoundland and Labrador
• Department of Education Government of Newfoundland and Labrador
• Employment and Social Development Canada Government of Canada

Mission

Empower provides support, resources, and opportunity for persons with disabilities, to make informed choices about their lives.

Vision

Empower’s vision for Newfoundland Labrador is an inclusive community for all; a society that embraces diversity and the rights of all individuals to choice, self-determination, and independent living.

Core Values

• Individuals’ right to choice and self-determination
• Member controlled and full inclusion for persons with disability

Four Core Pillars of Independent Living Canada

To contribute to our vision of an inclusive and accessible society where people with disabilities are valued equally and participate fully, the Independent Living Centres across Canada offer four programs.

• Information and Networking: Information is the key to having choices, making decisions, and learning to take risks. The Information and Networking Pillar promotes the IL philosophy to members, their families, friends, support networks, community and governments by providing clear, accurate and up to date information that meets individual needs.
• Peer Support: The Peer Support Pillar is designed to provide opportunities for people with disabilities to share their knowledge and lived experiences. We recognize a peer as an individual who has had a similar or common experience and is willing to share the lessons they’ve learned. Peer Support also encourages individuals to develop leadership skills, and gives assistance to individuals in exercising their rights and responsibilities.
• Independent Living Skills Development: Communicating, negotiating, problem-solving and personal management are all important aspects of daily life. The IL Skills Development Pillar assists individuals to advocate on their own behalf, supports their choices, respects their decisions, and affords individuals opportunities to take risks.
• Research and Community Development: The Participatory Action Research model used in IL recognizes that persons with disabilities are the experts in determining what works them. Members validated information is key in developing programs and services that benefit everyone. Partnerships formed with community stakeholders support the realization of these goals. By working together, gaps in service can be determined and solutions can be created.