The Blue Water Center for Independent Living (BWCIL) was founded in 1987 by a group of concerned citizens and organizations, with the intent of providing services for people with disabilities, their families and the community. The BWCIL is a private non-profit, 501(c) 3 organization. The five counties of the “Thumb” served by the BWCIL are Huron,

Lapeer, Sanilac, St. Clair and Tuscola. It is a membership driven organization comprised of a Board of Directors, Executive Director, Staff and Volunteers.

Services provided by the BWCIL include, but are not limited to: advocacy, information, referral, independent living skills and peer support. Some of the components of these services are housing assistance, benefits assistance, counseling, youth services, substance abuse counseling and education, and employment skills development. Services are provided on an individual basis as well as in a group setting. Funding for the BWCIL is a mix of local, state and federal grants, contracts, fee for service work, and fundraising.

The BWCIL also offers services to local businesses to assess the accessibility of buildings and services.

According to the 2000 US Census report, there are 67,613 people with disabilities over the age of 5, living in the Thumb. This equates to approximately 20 % of the population in the five counties

Disabilities continue to occur. Even with the vast amount of research and development of cures, vaccines, and treatment by the medical community, disabilities continue to be a part of life. Disabilities do not discriminate in that they are in every economic level, race, religion or country. Either by birth, accident, age or illness, people become disabled.

The BWCIL, like all other service providers, is being asked to do “more for less”. The majority of local, state, and federal funding sources require “Match Money” in order to access dollars. The financial state of Michigan and the federal government has resulted in the reduction of awards to non-profits. To help offset some of the reductions, the BWCIL has two upcoming fundraising events: Margaritaville on May 31st and The Dome Reunion on July 12th. Please contact the Administrative Office in Port Huron at (810) 987-9337 for information on the events.

If you, a family member, or a friend have a disability, please contact the BWCIL at (810) 987-9337 for more information about activities and services

 

Chamber Events

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Education Committee Meeting
Date: No meeting this month
Where:
When:

Public Affairs Committee Meeting
Date: June 4
Where: Lansing - Legislative Day
When: 8:00 a.m.- 4:00 a.m.

Executive Board Meeting
Date: June 5
Where: Eastern Mi Bank
When: 3:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Ambassadors Committee Meeting
Date: June 10
Where: Maritime Center
When: Noon

Fun-Raising Committee Meeting
Date: June 12
Where: The Chamber Office
When: 3:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

BbR Meeting High Fivers
Date: June 2, 16
Where: Casey's Pizza & Subs
When: Noon

Shameless Networkers
Date: June 3, 10, 17, 24
Where: Colonial House & Banquet Center
When: 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Blue Water Connections
Date: June 5
Where: Garfields Resturant
When: 8:309 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.

After Hours Wine & Cheese
Date: No meeting this month
Where:
When:

Finance Committee Meeting
Date: June 10
Where: Chamber Office
When: 8:30 a.m.

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