A recent federal proposal affects the stability and predictability of funding that supports LIFTT and other CILs nationwide. File Photo/Diversifylens
Every day, Living Independently for Today & Tomorrow (LIFTT) works to help individuals with disabilities and older adults live independently, participate fully in their communities, and make their own choices about their lives.
These services, including peer support, independent living skills training, information and referral, advocacy, transition services, and accessible transportation, are made possible through a combination of dedicated staff, community partnerships, and public funding.
Recently, the federal government proposed changes to the regulations that govern how many federal grants are administered. Although these proposals primarily address grant administration, they could affect the stability and predictability of funding that supports community organizations providing essential services across the country.
Because these proposals are still part of an ongoing federal process, it is important for community members to stay informed and understand how public policy decisions can influence the services available in their communities.
Why This Matters
Centers for Independent Living such as LIFTT exist because communities recognize that people with disabilities have the right to live independently and participate fully in society.
When Centers have stable funding and clear administrative processes, they can focus their time and resources where they belong: serving people. When funding becomes uncertain or administrative requirements become more complex, organizations may have to devote additional time and resources to compliance, reducing the capacity available for direct services.
These are important considerations for anyone who values independence, accessibility, and strong community-based services.
Sharing Your Story
Public officials benefit from hearing directly from the people they serve. Personal experiences help policymakers understand the real-world impact that community programs have on individuals and families.
If LIFTT has made a positive difference in your life or the life of someone you know, you may wish to share your experience with your elected officials. Your perspective can help them better understand the importance of maintaining strong community-based Independent Living services.
Every story is unique. Whether your experience involves transportation, peer support, advocacy, transition services, or simply having someone to call for guidance, your voice contributes to a broader understanding of why these services matter.
Sample Letter
The following is offered as a starting point for individuals who wish to communicate with their elected officials. Please feel free to personalize it with your own experiences.
Dear Senator/Representative,
I am a resident of Montana and would like to share why Independent Living services are important to me and my community.
Organizations such as Living Independently for Today & Tomorrow (LIFTT) provide valuable services that help people with disabilities and older adults remain active, independent, and engaged in their communities.
These services promote independence, improve quality of life, and help individuals access employment, healthcare, education, transportation, and community activities.
As public policy decisions are considered, I encourage continued attention to the importance of stable support for community-based Independent Living services. Programs that help people live independently strengthen families, communities, and Montana as a whole.
Thank you for your service and for taking the time to consider the experiences of people in our community.
Sincerely,
Your Name
Click Here for contact information for Montana’s Congressional Delegation
Our Commitment
At LIFTT, we remain committed to our mission of promoting independence, inclusion, and equal opportunity for all people with disabilities.
We encourage everyone to stay informed, learn about issues affecting the disability community, and participate in the civic process in ways that reflect their own experiences and perspectives. An informed and engaged community helps ensure that the voices of people with disabilities continue to be heard and respected. If you have questions about the issues or about getting involved, give LIFTT a call at (406) 259-5181 or send us a message on our contact page.
About Living Independently for Today & Tomorrow (LIFTT): LIFTT is a Montana 501(c)3 corporation organized as a Center for Independent Living (CIL). With team members based in Billings and Glendive, LIFTT provides people with disabilites and aging indivduals with programs, services, resources and advocacy that help empower them to break down the physical, bureaucratic, and cultural barriers that prevent them from being fully independent participants in their lives and communities throughout 18 counties in southeastern and south-central Montana: Big Horn, Carbon, Carter, Custer, Dawson, Fallon, Garfield, Golden Valley, McCone, Musselshell, Powder River, Prairie, Richland, Rosebud, Stillwater, Treasure, Wibaux, and Yellowstone. For more information, please visit liftt.org
Our Vision: Empowering aging individuals and people with disabilities to LIFTT themselves above the barriers of life.
Our Mission: Living Independently for Today and Tomorrow’s (LIFTT’s) mission as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit Center for Independent Living serving Southeastern Montana is to empower aging individuals and people with disabilities to live independently through education, support, and opportunities.
