SMILES Center for Independent Living

11/01/2025

This week, we celebrated 35 years of serving Region 9! We were inspired by our guest speaker, Sunshine Suzy, who told a remarkable story of perseverance and determination.

10/31/2025

Today we celebrate creativity, community, and a little spooky fun! Whether you're dressing up, handing out treats, or enjoying a cozy night in, we hope your day is filled with joy and connection.

10/30/2025

We look forward to you joining us in November! Please call Anna at 507-345-7139 or email ajohnson@smilescil.org to register.

10/29/2025

Veterans Build – Now Accepting Applications! 🏠

Habitat for Humanity of South Central Minnesota is excited to announce that we’re accepting homeownership applications exclusively for veterans for our upcoming Veterans Build home in Eagle Lake!

If you or someone you know has served our country and is interested in the opportunity to build and purchase a safe, affordable home, we’d love to hear from you.

Email holly.schoettler@habitatscmn.org
or abby.vanbeek@habitatscmn.org

Call us at 507-388-2081 for more information or to receive an application.

Let’s work together to build a home for a hero. ❤️💙

10/20/2025

Today is the last day to sign up! Don't miss out on joining us at our 35th Anniversary.

Event Details
• Date: October 28
• Time: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
• Location: Kato Ballroom, Mankato
• Guest speaker: Sunshine Suzy, Live Music by Sohmer & Dale, Food, Drink and Fun

Whether you are a longtime supporter, a new consumer, or a member of our extended network, your presence will make this celebration truly special.

To help us plan a memorable evening, please RSVP today with payment of $20 per guest.

Register easily at www.pinwheel.us/register/index/SMILES35YEAR

We Look Forward to Seeing You!

Thank you for being part of the SMILES story. We can’t wait to celebrate with you!

10/15/2025

An upcoming discussion scheduled for Saturday, October 25 in Fairmont, MN you might want to check out:

10/10/2025

GMBWA and SMILES Center for Independent Living had an advocacy awareness walk this evening. We were hoping to engage the city councilors and city staff in a conversation about the challenges people who walk and bike experience on our city streets. We had quite the crew of walkers and we shared our personal experiences of traveling around the Riverfront Drive and the Stoltzman area. Very eye opening. Unfortunately none of the councilors or city staff were able to attend. We all had a great time and learned a lot from each other.

10/02/2025

We couldn’t be more grateful!
These bikes will now become part of our adaptive bike program, helping more individuals enjoy the freedom and joy of cycling. Community collaboration at its finest! Thank you!

Thanks Key City Bike for a great partnership in our community!

Tonight, SMILES Center for Independent Living picked up 2 bikes they requested grant funds from GMBWA so they could get these 2 bikes.

A kind person did not have a use for them anymore so they donated them to Key City Bike. (Thank You!).

Because KatoBikeFallFest was a huge success only because of our sponsors, volunteers, and participants…GMBWA was able to grant the $$ needed so SMILES could have 2 more bikes on their adaptive bike program.

10/02/2025

October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month!
This month, we celebrate the contributions of workers with disabilities and reaffirm our commitment to creating inclusive workplaces where everyone can thrive.

Learn more about inclusive hiring practices, advocate for accessibility in your workplace, and support organizations that empower people with disabilities.

09/29/2025

Join us for Recreation and Peer Mentoring Support Groups in October!!!

09/23/2025

🌿 Honoring Native Americans with Disabilities on Native American Day 🌿