The Boston Center for Independent Living (BCIL) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that has provided services to people with disabilities since 1974, when it became the second independent living center in the country. The organization was created by people with disabilities seeking full integration into society. BCIL accomplishes this by empowering people of all ages with a wide range of disabilities with the practical skills and self-confidence to take control over their lives and become active members of the communities in which they live. At the same time, BCIL engages in advocacy and community organizing to promote access and change within society.   

 Our mission statement states:  The Boston Center for Independent Living is a frontline civil rights organization led by people with disabilities that advocates to eliminate discrimination, isolation and segregation by providing advocacy, information and referral, peer support, skills training, PCA services, and transitional services to enhance the independence of people with disabilities. 

 Currently, we are seeking donations for our silent auction at our 27th annual BCIL Marie Feltin Award Ceremony on Friday, April 28, 2023, at The Westin Copley Place Hotel. This event honors individuals and institutions who exemplify the pioneering spirit of the late Dr. Marie Feltin, a tireless advocate for disabled and chronically ill patients. Marie was a founder of Boston’s Community Medical Group, East Boston Health Center’s Home Care Program and the Urban Medical Group, neighborhood healthcare services that focused on encouraging patients to become actively involved in their care as a critical means to bettering their health. Marie was always available for her patients and was a modern-day pioneer in providing medical care to society’s most neglected and vulnerable populations. 

The ceremony is held in support of BCIL, and as a tribute to Marie’s legacy which epitomizes BCIL’s mission of empowering individuals with disabilities to take control of their lives and live independently. BCIL promotes the CIVIL RIGHTS of all people with disabilities and our ENERGIZED ADVOCACY and SERVICES support and help create EQUAL ACCESS to healthcare, affordable housing, accessible transportation, and ADA compliance for thousands of Greater Boston residents each year, leading many to jobs, an education, and SELF-SUFFICIENCY for themselves and their families. You can find more information about Marie and the event at our website https://bostoncil.org/events/marie-feltin/.  

Donation recognition will be in event materials, BCIL website, social media and at the event both at the auction table and electronically during the presentation.  

On behalf of our board of trustees, staff, volunteers, and consumers we serve, thank you for your consideration to support our event.