Northern Nevada Center for Independent Living

04/10/2026

Agency Spotlight: Equisol Adaptive Horsemanship

This month, we’re highlighting a local nonprofit using the power of horses to support people with disabilities and special needs.

Equisol offers adaptive horsemanship and equine-assisted services designed to improve physical, emotional, and social well-being. Their programs serve people with a wide range of needs—including autism, developmental disabilities, traumatic brain injuries, and more—while also supporting veterans, first responders, and people living with dementia.

Through hands-on experiences with horses, participants build confidence, connection, and life skills in a supportive, welcoming environment.

👉 Learn more: https://www.equisolhorsemanship.org/

Equisol offers horsemanship lessons, yoga on horseback and health and wellness coaching, geared toward improving your quality of life.

04/09/2026

Sofia goes behind the scenes with Truckee Meadows Fire Protection District Chief Eric Olsen, and even gets a close-up look at a fire truck!

He also shares simple, life-saving fire safety tips:
-Have two ways out of your home
-Stay low when evacuating to avoid smoke
-Choose a meeting place outside
-Check smoke alarms regularly
-Never leave cooking unattended
-Never use water on grease fires
-Keep space heaters and candles safe

Big thanks to Chief Olsen and his team for helping keep our community informed.

https://youtu.be/yN7Lk7KEBr0

Funded by U.S. Department of Education, Grant Number H421E230026.

In this episode, Sofia goes behind the scenes with Truckee Meadows Fire Protection District Fire Chief Eric Olsen, ncluding a close-up look at a fire truck.H...

04/09/2026

Happy Deaf History Month! Deaf leaders have helped shape education, advocacy and opportunity across generations.

From Laurent Clerc’s role in establishing Deaf education in the United States to I. King Jordan’s historic leadership at Gallaudet University, these leaders paved the way for greater access, representation and inclusion.

This Deaf History Month, we recognize the lasting impact of Deaf leaders who continue to inspire progress and expand opportunities for people with disabilities.

Explore NDI's financial resources for the Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing community at https://www.nationaldisabilityinstitute.org/financial-resilience-center/deaf-resources/.

Image description: Graphic titled “Deaf Leaders Who Shaped History” featuring four individuals: Laurent Clerc, Helen Keller, Andrew Foster and I. King Jordan. Each person’s name, lifespan and a short description of their contributions appear above their portrait. Clerc is described as a pioneer of Deaf education in the United States. Keller is described as an author, educator and disability rights advocate who was Deaf and blind. Foster is described as the father of Deaf education in Africa, establishing more than 30 schools. Jordan is described as the first Deaf president of Gallaudet University. The NDI logo appears in the top right corner.

04/08/2026

💪 Movement looks different for everyone. And that’s okay.

If you’re living with limited mobility, staying active might feel challenging. But even small amounts of movement can make a big difference for your health, mood, and independence.

A recent guide from AARP shares simple ways to get started:
✔ Start slow and build a routine that works for you
✔ Focus on strength, flexibility, and balance
✔ Use supports like chairs, assistive devices, or adaptive equipment
✔ Find activities you enjoy. Even a few minutes at a time counts

With the right environment and tools, people with disabilities can stay active, connected, and in control of their health.

👉 Check out the full guide:
https://www.aarp.org/health/healthy-living/smart-guide-fitness-limited-mobility/

Great ways to get moving, even when it’s challenging

04/07/2026

Scams are on the rise, but knowing what to look for can make all the difference.

The City of Reno, in partnership with AARP, is hosting their 2nd Annual Scam Jam Fraud Prevention Event on Thursday, April 9 at 1:00 pm. This event is designed to help seniors and community members recognize common scam tactics, stay safe, and protect their financial future.

If you’ve ever gotten a suspicious call, text, or email, this is a great opportunity to learn how to spot red flags and avoid becoming a target.

👉 Learn more: https://www.reno.gov/Home/Components/Calendar/Event/32520/530

Knowledge is one of the best tools we have to stay safe.

04/07/2026

Looking for connection, support, and shared experience?

NNCIL’s Blind & Low Vision User Group is a great space to connect with others, share ideas, and learn from people who understand what you’re going through. Whether you’re new to vision loss or have been navigating it for years, you’re welcome.

Peer groups like this are all about building community, talking through challenges, sharing resources, and supporting each other in living independently.

Join us and be part of the conversation:
https://nncil.org/mc-events/blind-low-vision-user-group-at-nncil-2/

Questions? Mark@NNCIL.org

04/06/2026

“Getting a diagnosis doesn’t change who you are, it explains who you are.”
— Joy of Autism

A diagnosis isn’t a label that limits you. It’s a tool for understanding, support, and self-advocacy. It can open doors to resources, community, and a clearer path forward.

At NNCIL, we’re here to support people with disabilities in building the lives they want, with the right tools, connections, and opportunities.

04/03/2026

🎬 Sometimes learning looks like a movie.

The Nevada TRIP “Theater” is packed with short, engaging videos on topics that matter, like employment, education, self-advocacy, and life after high school.

It’s a great way for youth with disabilities (and the people who support them) to explore real-world topics in a way that’s easy to understand and actually interesting.

Because sometimes, seeing and hearing real experiences makes everything click.

👉 Check it out here: nevadatrip.nv.gov/theater

At NNCIL, we’re all about helping people access the tools and information they need to live independently. And this is one more great resource to explore.

04/02/2026

Looking for connection, support, and practical tools for living with vision loss? Join us in Carson City!

Our Blind Peer Support Group & Independent Living Information session is a welcoming space to share experiences, learn from others, and explore resources that make everyday life more accessible.

We meet monthly on the first Tuesday (April 7) from 11:00 AM–1:00 PM at the Carson City Senior Center, 911 Beverly Dr.

We’ll talk about:
✔️ Helpful smartphone technology
✔️ Tools and resources for low vision
✔️ Services that support independent living
✔️ Real-life tips from people who get it

Whether you’re new to vision loss or just want to stay connected and informed, this group is for you.

Come as you are. There’s a place for you here. 💙

Questions? Mark@NNCIL.org.

04/01/2026

What to Know About Social Security and Taxes

Did you know that Social Security benefits can sometimes be taxable? It depends on your overall income and filing status. For example, if your combined income is above certain thresholds, up to 50%–85% of your benefits may be subject to federal taxes.

The good news is that many people don’t pay federal taxes on their Social Security benefits, and the rules vary depending on income and where you live.

Understanding how taxes interact with Social Security can help you plan ahead and avoid surprises during tax season.

👉 Learn more in this helpful guide from AARP:
https://www.aarp.org/social-security/things-to-know-about-taxes/

Your overall income primarily determines whether you owe taxes on your benefits and how much

03/31/2026

Sofia visits CandleScience Candle Making Supply to see how they’re creating opportunities for youth with disabilities.

https://youtu.be/sWRM8FKImWI?si=yVitaaH1M4Qlt709

Corey Metoyer, Director of Operations, shares how their internships and jobs teach important skills like order picking, giving young people a chance to grow, learn, and be included.

She also meets three amazing young people doing internships with Candle Science:
-Millie – smart and loves soccer
-Chase – enjoys picking orders and shares how he uses Uber
-Manny – talented in cleaning, making food, and more

Candle Science is a family‑owned candle‑and‑craft‑supply company that provides waxes, fragrance oils, wicks, jars, and other materials — everything candlemakers need — while supporting inclusive employment opportunities. Learn more: https://www.candlescience.com

Visit https://nncil.org/getting-a-job/ for more information on starting your job hunt.

About the show: Young actress Sofia Sanchez explores Nevada, highlighting inspiring stories of people with disabilities living their best lives, while also sharing expert insights on independent living, accessibility, budgeting, nutrition, and more!

We’re Hittin’ the Road with Nevada TRIP! This powerful tool is helping students with disabilities, their parents, and educators navigate the process from elementary to middle to high school and beyond to adult life and independence. Learn more at https://nevadatrip.nv.gov/

Funded by U.S. Department of Education, Grant Number H421E230026.

Sofia visits Candle Science to see how they’re creating opportunities for youth with disabilities.Corey Metoyer, Director of Operations, shares how their int...

03/30/2026