Coalition for Independent Living Options, Inc.

03/31/2026

🎨 Virtual Support Opportunity 🎨

CILO is excited to share a space for connection, creativity, and support.

Join our Creative Expressions Support Group, a virtual group for adults (18+) who are experiencing a medical issue or disability and are looking for community and a creative way to cope.

🗓 Dates: April 6, 8, 13, and 15
⏰ Time: 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM
💻 Location: Virtual

This group is a safe and supportive space to express yourself, connect with others, and explore creativity as a tool for healing and independence.

📩 Have questions? Contact Krys at krys@cilo.org

Opportunities like this help build connection, confidence, and meaningful support—key parts of independent living.

03/30/2026

PSLPD is excited to announce Port St. Lucie's first-ever Autism Awareness & Community Resource Event!

Join us for a free, family-friendly morning designed to connect families with essential safety tools, services, and local partners dedicated to supporting individuals on the autism spectrum.

Hosted by the Port St. Lucie Police Department and the City of Port St. Lucie, this event features:

• Community resource info • Touch-a-truck display • K-9 bloodhound meet & greet • Sensory-friendly art stations • Guest speakers from Project Lifesaver, AngelSense, and Safe Kids Treasure Coast—covering wandering prevention, water safety, and critical safety measures

📅 Saturday, April 18 ⏰ 9 a.m. to noon 📍 Community Center, 2195 SE Airoso Blvd.

With over 30 vendors on-site, you'll find information on wearable GPS trackers, water safety programs, and other resources tailored for families with loved ones on the spectrum. Plus, connect directly with experts and community partners ready to help.

Our team will also be gathering your insights and hosting focus groups to better understand the needs of our autism community—helping us shape future programs that make a difference.

Let's come together to build a safer, more inclusive Port St. Lucie.

See you there!

03/30/2026

Marty (Martin County Transit) is Now Free to Ride🚌

NOW
MARTY MOVES YOU FARE FREE
Marty Riders are also eligible for Guaranteed Ride Home
MCTransit.org

03/29/2026

🎉 SUMMER CAREER CAMP IS BACK!! 🎉
NO REGISTRATION FEES! Want to LEARN HOW TO GET AND KEEP A JOB? Starting June 1st, join us for FREE with a scholarship through our new partner, Palm Beach County Youth Services (income guidelines apply) OR attend with CILO’s new Self-Pay option. See flyer for details!
Questions? camp@cilo.org

03/25/2026

🌟 Youth Opportunity in Palm Beach County 🌟
The Youth Summit of Palm Beach County is happening Saturday, March 28th, from 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM at Palm Beach Lakes High School.

This free event is open to middle and high school students and includes:
• Interactive workshops
• Music, games, and prizes
• Lunch provided
• 10 community service hours
• Parent workshop opportunities
• Raffles and gift card incentives

This is a great opportunity for youth to build skills, connect with resources, and start thinking about their next steps in a supportive environment.

To register:
📱 Text YOUTHSUMMIT2026 to 888-687-0035
🌐 Visit pbcyouthsummit.org

03/25/2026

💙 Breaking Barriers in Inclusive Fitness 💙

Did you know that Adidas is launching one of the first performance running shoes designed specifically for athletes with Down syndrome?

This powerful innovation was created with direct input from athletes in the Down syndrome community, including Chris Nikic, the first person with Down syndrome to complete an Ironman triathlon.

Why does this matter?
Many individuals with Down syndrome experience unique foot shapes, which can make traditional running shoes uncomfortable or even painful.
This new design focuses on:
✨ Better fit and comfort
✨ Easier entry and adjustability
✨ Support for real movement and independence

This is what true inclusion looks like: listening, collaborating, and creating solutions that support people in living active, empowered lives.

Read More Here: https://footwearmagazine.com/adidas-running-shoe-down-syndrome-athletes/

Adidas unveils the first running shoe made for athletes with Down Syndrome, redefining inclusive sportswear. After three years…

03/24/2026

🌟 Empowering Youth with LEAP! 🌟

Our Learning and Educational Advocacy Program (LEAP) is here to support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, along with their families, in achieving their goals! LEAP offers personalized advocacy, skill-building, and training programs tailored to help you succeed in education, career, and independent living.

LEAP Services Include:
✔️ Disability Screening and Evaluation Information
✔️ Free Advocacy for IEP and 504 Meetings
✔️ Assistance with Food Stamps & Medicaid Applications
✔️ SSI Income Guidance
✔️ Career, Social, and Independent Living Skills Development
✔️ Youth Leadership Skills and College Preparation
✔️ Counseling and Therapy Services (When Available)..and so much more!

Who We Support: Individuals with intellectual disabilities, cerebral palsy, autism, spina bifida, Down syndrome, Phelan-McDermid syndrome, Prader-Willi syndrome, and more!

If you're looking for support, guidance, or resources, reach out today to see how LEAP can help! 💪✨