SD Statewide Independent Living Council - SILC

01/08/2026

Join us next Monday, January 12th at the Watertown Police Department, for an informational meeting on Shared Living. Learn how Shared Living can support you and your loved one with disabilities holistically, relationally, and financially.

This informational session is free and does not require a sign up. Come join us!

01/07/2026

Recent changes to eligibility with ABLE accounts - now requires an "Eligible Individual" to have a qualifying disability that started prior to age 46

ABLEnow accounts are available to eligible individuals nationwide. Not sure if you're eligible? Learn more here.

01/06/2026

The Statewide Independent Living Council would appreciate your feedback - seeking input to be utilized with developing the next 3 year state plan!

Take this survey powered by surveymonkey.com. Create your own surveys for free.

01/06/2026

Self-advocates, are you looking for an opportunity to build your leadership skills? Check out this opportunity to attend the Self-Advocate Retreat 2026 in Pierre in 2026 - apply today! Space is limited.

Please contact Jessica Lamb at 605-773-6369 or jessica.lamb@state.sd.us with questions.

Link to the application: https://forms.gle/nVtgVyyUnSJLKAjXA

01/06/2026

The Council will be holding their Winter Quarterly Meeting on January 7, 2026 from 1:00 - 5:00 PM, CST - virtually.

For agenda and other meeting related documents, please visit:
https://boardsandcommissions.sd.gov/Meetings.aspx?BoardID=28

To listen to the livestream of the event courtesy of SDPB, please click here: https://www.sdpb.org/sdnetwork/5

If you would like to give public comment, please email Jessica Lamb at jessica.lamb@state.sd.us for meeting information.

12/29/2025

https://www.dakotanewsnow.com/2025/12/17/brookings-pd-launches-blue-envelope-program/

The Brookings Police Department has announced the launch of the new Blue Envelope Program in partnership with Disability Awareness Training.

12/29/2025

12/25/2025

Happy Holidays!

12/24/2025

Accessible housing is essential for thriving communities. As South Dakota expands rural housing, we must ensure homes and buildings are designed for everyone—including individuals with disabilities, who are vital community members and future employees.

Accessibility isn’t just about compliance; it’s about inclusion, workforce strength, and economic growth. People with disabilities represent a hidden market - potential employee base and consumer market for goods and services. When you consider your potential market size/customer base, you must factor in family members, caregivers, and others which is a powerful incentive for businesses and communities to prioritize universal design.

Zero-step entrances, wider doorways, and adaptable layouts make housing practical and welcoming for all. Let’s pair affordability with accessibility by offering incentives, partnering with advocacy groups, and educating developers. When we build for everyone, we build stronger communities.

A coordinated statewide effort is underway to generate and share innovative ideas for new housing across the state.

12/10/2025

The SILC needs your input - complete the survey -
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/SILC_Community_Survey_2026

12/05/2025

Let’s Talk Work events - are half-day conferences designed specifically for high school students who have a disability focusing on employment.

Mark your calendar -
Spring 2026 Let’s Talk Work Dates:
February 25, 2026 – Mitchell
April 1, 2026 – Ft. Pierre
April 9, 2026 – Aberdeen
April 14, 2026 – Sioux Falls
April 15, 2026 – Box Elder

To learn more about these events or other events, i.e., Transition IEP workshops, Transition Summer Institute, Transition Round Ups go to the Transition Services Liaison Project's website @

Transition Services Liaison Project Mission: Transition Services Liaison Project (TSLP) is committed to the pursuit and application of ideas, strategies, and networks that will prepare students with disabilities to be life ready. Overview Transition services are a coordinated set of activities desig...