United impact: IMPACT CIL
Located at 2735 East Broadway in Alton, Ill., IMPACT CIL is a non-profit, self-help advocacy organization founded in September 1985, primarily by people with disabilities.
IMPACT CIL emphasizes peer counseling relationships—the heart of our service delivery—where individuals with similar disabilities share information, experiences, and support for living independently.
Serving six Illinois counties—Madison, Macoupin, Jersey, Bond, Calhoun, and Greene—IMPACT CIL is a central hub for the disability community. Individuals requesting services determine for themselves what services they will receive. Our staff and board members also serve as advocates, promoting an open, accessible, and inclusive community for all.
Independent living philosophy
At IMPACT CIL, everything we do is grounded in the Independent Living Philosophy—the belief that people with disabilities are the best experts on their own needs, deserve equal opportunity to make their own choices, and should have control over their lives.
We believe that independence is not defined by the absence of support, but by the freedom to choose how one lives, works, and participates in the community. This philosophy guides every service we provide and empowers individuals to take charge of their lives, exercise their rights, and pursue their goals with confidence and dignity.
Our mission
Our mission is to assist people of all ages and all types of disabilities in achieving their full human potential. We advocate for a society free from both physical and attitudinal barriers so that everyone can fully participate in community life.
We envision a world where all people live independently in the place of their choice—free from barriers, discrimination, prejudice, and segregation. Only then can we make our own decisions and be accepted as equal members of society.
At the center: Our consumers
At the center of everything we do are our consumers—individuals with disabilities seeking the tools, resources, and support to live independently and achieve their goals. IMPACT CIL works side by side with each consumer to identify their needs, connect them with vital services, and empower them to become strong self-advocates. Every person’s journey is unique, and we are committed to meeting each individual where they are, helping them gain the confidence and skills to take the next step toward independence.
Our five core services
IMPACT CIL provides five core independent living services:
- Advocacy — Both individual and systemic advocacy are key to our work. Individual advocacy helps people access community services and develop self-advocacy skills, while systemic advocacy addresses barriers that prevent full community participation.
- Information and Referral — We respond to questions and help individuals locate appropriate community resources. This is often the first step in connecting people to IMPACT’s services and encouraging community engagement.
- Peer Counseling — One-on-one and group peer support sessions focus on advocacy, problem-solving, and self-help strategies that lead to independent living success.
- Independent Living Skills Training — We equip people with disabilities with the skills needed to manage their lives and live more independently.
- Transition Services — We assist individuals moving from institutions to community living and help those at risk of entering nursing homes. IMPACT also supports students ages 14–21 through five pre-employment transition services.
Our partnership with United Way
IMPACT CIL has proudly been a United Way Agency since 1986. United Way funding helps us expand outreach and services in rural communities.
“United Way’s partnership has been a tremendous resource for expanding our capacity in all areas of our organization, including staff and board training in fund development, strategic planning, succession planning, diversity, and inclusion.” — Cathy Contarino, executive director
Every dollar IMPACT CIL receives through United Way makes a difference—enriching lives and empowering individuals with disabilities across our region to access the supports they need to live full, independent lives.
Your donation to United Way helps local nonprofit agencies like IMPACT CIL provide critical support to those who need it most.
Give today at helpingpeople.org/2025-Campaign.
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[Editor’s note: This is one of 20 United Way funded partner agencies being featured by the Illinois Business Journal through Thanksgiving as a part of its 2025 Giving Guide. The purpose of this third annual IBJ Spotlight is to encourage readers to consider supporting these agencies as a part of their holiday and year-end giving. The 2025 Giving Guide is sponsored by the Illinois Business Journal in partnership with United Way of Greater St. Louis.]
