Learn more about our many services and programs by selecting from these topics:
CIL of Northwest Florida (CILNWF) is the Gulf Coast Regional Demonstration and Recycle/Reuse Center for the Florida Alliance for Assistive Services and Technology Program (FAAST).
We respond to requests for information and will put individuals in contact with other agencies, organizations, or companies that can provide them with needed information on AT products, devices, services, funding sources, or other related disability topics.
To better assist the people we serve, in addition to our programs and services, we have access to an updated database of information related to disabilities and available resources. This program is essential to our organization, it provides people with the assistance necessary to make informed decisions with assistive technology.
Our ReUse Center provides the following services:
Consumers may bring in their devices to be repaired and returned to them, or may donate devices to be refurbished to be repaired as needed and then offered for sale, loan, or given away to other consumers in need.
Open ended loans are typically long term with the device placed with a consumer on a permanent basis but done via loan rather than ownership transferring to the client. Consumers can keep a borrowed device for as long as required to meet a particular need.
Devices are posted on AT list through the FAAST Classified Ads and AT and many devices at no cost to the consumer. Some devices are local pick up, others will ship. Depends on size and ability to ship. Consumers may use the contact information provided in the listing to obtain the device.
Gulf Coast Regional Demonstration Center and FAAST State have AT in all areas to better serve you.
Florida Telecommunications Relay, Inc. (FTRI) is offering a variety of specialized phones FREE to qualified applicants. Eligibility is open to Florida residents who are Deaf, hard of hearing, deaf/blind, or speech impaired.
FTRI specialized telephone equipment is available at no cost. You must also provide proof of residency with one of the following:
To pick up your FREE phone, bring one of the documents listed above to the following address:
CIL of Northwest Florida ([email protected]) 21 South Tarragona Street, Suite 101, Pensacola, FL 32502
To receive specialized telephone equipment, you must provide proof of eligibility. For more information contact: Karen Teamer, Independent Living and FTRI Program Specialist at the CIL of Northwest Florida at 850-595-5566. If you have other communication needs: Sorenson VRS: 850-208-3106 or Relay: 711.
Call for a presentation about the Florida Telecommunications Relay, Inc. (FTRI) free specialized telephone distribution program and related services for qualified Florida citizens. After most presentations someone will be available to distribute and provide training on the specialized telephone. Information about the Florida Relay service will also be disseminated during this presentation.
For more information contact: Karen Teamer, CIL of Northwest Florida at 850-595-5566 or Email: [email protected]. If you have other communication needs: Sorenson VRS: 850-208-3106 or Relay: 711.
Peer counselors use their own stories in helping others develop hope and improve their lives of adults and youth with disabilities and their parents or legal guardians. Peer support can be provided in person, by phone or virtual meetings.
Peer Mentors with disabilities serve as role models to and provide moral support and creative solutions for issues of life. Our support group gives you the opportunity to get the support you need by attending by Zoom or you can come in person at 21 South Tarragona Street, Suite 101, Pensacola, 32502. If you have any questions, please contact Danny Broxson at 850-595-5566, ext. 233 or email at [email protected]
Facilitate the transition of individuals with significant disabilities from nursing homes and other institutions to home and community-based residences, with the requisite supports and services.
Provide assistance to individuals with significant disabilities who are at risk of entering institutions so that the individuals remain in the community, and
Facilitate the transition of youth who are individuals with significant disabilities who are eligible for individualized education programs under Section 614(d) of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (20 U.S.C. 14149d), and who have completed their secondary education or otherwise left school, to post-secondary life.
If you are interested in the Youth Transition to Employment Program, please complete this interest form
CIL of Northwest Florida, Inc. conducts ongoing youth training opportunities. Youth who are interested in refining skills for the workplace should contact us for more information.
Areas of focus include how to search for jobs, how to present yourself, creating a resume, communication skills, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and work accommodations, post-secondary options and accommodations, disability disclosure, and professional behavior.
Sessions may be arranged throughout the year. Participants may choose to attend virtually or in person.
We would love to have you participate! Please contact Danny Broxson at 850-595-5566, extension 233, or email us!
When you go to Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) please ask for a referral to our office.
If you are interested in the Youth Transition to Employment Program, please complete an interest form.
Communication Services: Sign Language Interpreter referral service and video relay service is available in the office for local calls.
Assistive Technology (AT) Services: AT activities provided by Gulf Coast Regional Demonstration and Reuse Center include device loans, device demonstrations, device reutilization, device trainings, information and assistance, and a statewide financing program.
