The Association of CSIL Employers (ACE) is composed of CSIL employers - people with disabilities who currently receive their personal supports through the Choices in Support for Independent Living (CSIL) program. The purpose of ACE is to create a common voice for the issues that affect CSIL employers. Under the ACE banner, we are able to share information, resources and peer support – and ultimately strengthen our collective.
The CSIL program was developed in 1994 through collaboration with government and people with disabilities. CSIL operates on a direct individualized funding model, which enables people with disabilities to hire their own personal support staff and manage their own personal care services. This is in contrast to those who have their home support services provided through an agency. As a result, CSIL employers are able to more fully participate in the community – from school to work to grocery shopping – and have more control over personal aspects of their lives.
There are currently over 700 people with disabilities in British Columbia receiving services under this successful program.
Roger recently spoke on behalf of ACE at the Provincial Leaders Forum on Disability in Vancouver. At the Forum, he was able to highlight the deficiencies of the program to all of the political parties. In particular, Roger brought to their attention the crisis that ACE members are facing, in light of the fact that they have not received a funding increase FOR 12 YEARS! CSIL employees are also denied any benefits under the current funding model.
Roger is currently acting as the interim chair for ACE.
If you would like to learn more about the Association of CSIL Employers please send us an e-mail at ACE@CSILBC.com
