DAWN Center for Independent Living

DAWN Center for Independent Living Welcome to the DAWN Center for Independent Living Page! Website: http://dawncil.org/
Twitter: https DAWN is a United Way Member Agency.

The goal of all CILs is to assure the full integration of people with disabilities into the mainstream of society to the greatest extent possible based on each person’s abilities and wishes. As a CIL, DAWN provides the core services which include Information and Referral, Peer Support, Independent Living Skills Instruction, and Advocacy. Access to information about resources and programs available to persons with disabilities is the cornerstone of the work done within this agency. Information and Referral is a vital service as well as the gateway to other services provided by DAWN, including Individual and Systems Advocacy, Peer Counseling/Support, and Independent Living Skills Instruction. In addition, each CIL identifies additional needs within its catchment area and implements or advocates for the implementation of programs to meet those needs. Independent Living is a philosophy which states that people with disabilities should have the same civil rights, choices, and control as do people without disabilities. DAWN Center for Independent Living has served Morris, Sussex, and Warren counties in New Jersey since 1996. DAWN Center for Independent Living promotes self-direction in order to create, expand, and implement equal-access opportunities by and for people with disabilities.

Meet D&M Auto Body , a returning DAWNcil partner who knows how to make work meaningful and fun!• They welcome interns wi...
10/16/2025

Meet D&M Auto Body , a returning DAWNcil partner who knows how to make work meaningful and fun!
• They welcome interns with flexibility, understanding the balance of work and family life
• They create a hands-on, upbeat environment where learning thrives
Thanks for being a workplace where interns feel supported and empowered! 🚗

Today is White Cane Awareness Day! 🦯We celebrate the independence and mobility of blind individuals who navigate the wor...
10/15/2025

Today is White Cane Awareness Day! 🦯
We celebrate the independence and mobility of blind individuals who navigate the world with confidence using a white cane or guide dog.
The white cane is more than a tool—it’s a symbol of freedom, safety, and equal access.

As we continue our celebration of inclusive employment, we’re proud to feature Ryan & Company —• A knowledgeable team ea...
10/14/2025

As we continue our celebration of inclusive employment, we’re proud to feature Ryan & Company —
• A knowledgeable team eager to mentor and share skills
• Deeply rooted in the Morristown community
• A family-owned business committed to creating inclusive opportunities
Thank you for fostering growth, connection, and inclusion in the trades! 🔧

Please note: Our offices will be closed today, October 13th in observance of Columbus Day.We’ll resume regular hours on ...
10/13/2025

Please note: Our offices will be closed today, October 13th in observance of Columbus Day.
We’ll resume regular hours on Tuesday. Thank you for your understanding!

In honor of NDEAM, today we spotlight Long Valley Brew Pub at Restaurant Village • Participated in DAWNcil's reverse jo...
10/12/2025

In honor of NDEAM, today we spotlight Long Valley Brew Pub at Restaurant Village

• Participated in DAWNcil's reverse job fair
• Retained a student as a permanent employee
• A strong advocate for future opportunities for students and aspiring restaurateurs with disabilities

Thank you for your commitment to inclusion and opportunity in the hospitality industry! 🍽️

As part of our National Disability Employment Awareness Month series, we're spotlighting employer partners who champion ...
10/10/2025

As part of our National Disability Employment Awareness Month series, we're spotlighting employer partners who champion inclusive and empowering opportunities.

Today, we proudly recognize Code Ninjas for their incredible contributions:
• Serving as inspiring guest speakers in our in-school sessions
• Motivating both students and staff alike
• Deeply aligned with our mission and values

Thank you, Code Ninjas, for being a powerful voice and a dedicated partner in our community! 💻

Throughout this month, we're highlighting our exceptional employer partners who exemplify inclusive employment. First up...
10/08/2025

Throughout this month, we're highlighting our exceptional employer partners who exemplify inclusive employment. First up: Friendship Center Inter generational Preschool —

• Commitment to creating a welcoming, inclusive workplace
• Returning DAWNcil partner
• Continued connection with a STEP-UP student

Due to the experience and opportunities provided to our student, she is now employed at another local daycare.

Thank you for going above and beyond! ✨

🎃🕺 Get ready to boogie with the ghouls and goblins! Join us for our Halloween Dance on October 24th, 6–9 PM at Church of...
10/07/2025

🎃🕺 Get ready to boogie with the ghouls and goblins! Join us for our Halloween Dance on October 24th, 6–9 PM at Church of the Saviour Parish Hall in Denville, NJ! Costumes encouraged (but not required)—just bring your spooky spirit and dancing shoes! 💃👻

🕸️ Register now: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1730711216839?aff=oddtdtcreator

🚗 Getting to Work: Transportation OptionsJoin us for our upcoming Enhanced Life Skills class to explore practical ways t...
10/05/2025

🚗 Getting to Work: Transportation Options

Join us for our upcoming Enhanced Life Skills class to explore practical ways to get to work and build your independence!

🗓️ Tuesday, October 21
⏰ Check-in: 5:45 PM | Class: 6:00–8:00 PM
📍 66 Ford Road, Upstairs Classroom, Denville, NJ 07834

Register here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1412357010839?aff=oddtdtcreator

Join our Caregiver Support Program this October 🌟📅 Oct 9 – The Innovative Process of Customized Employment with Margie W...
10/04/2025

Join our Caregiver Support Program this October 🌟

📅 Oct 9 – The Innovative Process of Customized Employment with Margie Webb (7:00–8:30 PM)
🔗 Register here:
https://dawncil-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/BvD2w7jDRiCvpmjAtZRrBw

📅 Oct 14 – Person-Centered Approach to Community Living with Natalie Trump & Melanie McGackin (6:30–8:00 PM)
🔗 Register here:
https://dawncil-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/FNk7PxBXSB2mdZPpUaPw8Q

📅 Oct 29 – Caregiver Recreation Dinner Out at La Cucina, Denville (6:30–8:30 PM)
🔗 Register here:
https://dawncil-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/fWyg8WgzRxiMrX81KvMeHA

Thank you to everyone who attended our STEP-UP Intern & Employer Recognition event last week! We’re incredibly proud of ...
10/03/2025

Thank you to everyone who attended our STEP-UP Intern & Employer Recognition event last week! We’re incredibly proud of our interns, who completed their placements with flying colors.

A special shoutout to our amazing employers for partnering with us to create these meaningful opportunities: Scribbles Preschool, The Learning Experience - Morristown (Morristown), Murray Hill Veterinary Associates, JCC Camp Deeny Riback, The BakeHouse, Ryan + Co. Plumbing (Morristown), West Orange Animal Hospital, Ocean State Job Lot (Sparta), Princeton Packaging, Atlantic Health Morristown Medical Center, Ad Magic, Code Ninjas, Long Valley Brew Pub at Restaurant Village, Sparta Library, and Morris Sussex Sports!

The STEP-UP program provides structured employment readiness services for students with disabilities, helping them successfully transition from high school to further education, training, or competitive integrated employment. Together, we’re building brighter futures - one internship at a time!

Connect with Disability Services Near You!Our Mobile Unit is making stops across Northern NJ this October to offer in-pe...
10/02/2025

Connect with Disability Services Near You!
Our Mobile Unit is making stops across Northern NJ this October to offer in-person support for independent living and disability services.

📍 Locations include Phillipsburg, Vernon, Hopatcong & Hackettstown
📆 October 7–29
💬 Services: Info & Referral, Application Help, Self-Advocacy, Skills Training & more!

Want to schedule a meeting?
📧 Contact Karyn at kburrafato@dawncil.org or 📞 (973) 625-1940 ext. 237
🚶 Walk-ups welcome!

Address

66 Ford Road, Ste 121
Denville, NJ
07834

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 5pm
Tuesday 9am - 5pm
Wednesday 9am - 5pm
Thursday 9am - 5pm
Friday 9am - 5pm

Telephone

+19736251940

Website

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when DAWN Center for Independent Living posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Contact The Practice

Send a message to DAWN Center for Independent Living:

Shortcuts

Share

Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn
Share on Pinterest Share on Reddit Share via Email
Share on WhatsApp Share on Instagram Share on Telegram

Our Story

The goal of all CILs is to assure the full integration of people with disabilities into the mainstream of society to the greatest extent possible based on each person’s abilities and wishes. As a CIL, DAWN provides the core services which include Information and Referral, Peer Support, Independent Living Skills Instruction, and Advocacy. Access to information about resources and programs available to persons with disabilities is the cornerstone of the work done within this agency. Information and Referral is a vital service as well as the gateway to other services provided by DAWN, including Individual and Systems Advocacy, Peer Counseling/Support, and Independent Living Skills Instruction. In addition, each CIL identifies additional needs within its catchment area and implements or advocates for the implementation of programs to meet those needs. Independent Living is a philosophy which states that people with disabilities should have the same civil rights, choices, and control as do people without disabilities. DAWN Center for Independent Living has served Morris, Sussex, and Warren counties in New Jersey since 1996. DAWN Center for Independent Living promotes self-direction in order to create, expand, and implement equal-access opportunities by and for people with disabilities. DAWN is a United Way Member Agency.