Phone number301-277-2839      Email.  info@innow.org

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Independence Now

We advocate and embody independence and equality for all people with disabilities.

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We are the Center for Independent Living proudly serving Montgomery and Prince George's County, Maryland.

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MARYLAND YOUTH LEADERSHIP FORUM
Group photo of Independence Now staff outdoors.

We are a Center for Independent Living

Our vision is that people with disabilities live independent and
fully inclusive lives and are recognized by society as equal.

Independence Now is a nonprofit organization designed, governed and staffed by people with disabilities.

We are part of a nationwide network of Centers for Independent Living, and serve as a resource and advocacy center that promotes independent living and equal access for people of all ages with all types of disabilities residing in Montgomery and Prince George’s Counties.

Independence Now values serving a diverse population while educating and collaborating within and beyond the disability community.

Independence Now is an inclusive, affirming, safe space.

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Our Commitment

Our Independent Living Core Services

Contact us about our services and programs to see firsthand
our commitment to freedom, power, and Independence Now!

Information & Referral


Ask questions, learn about resources, and where to go for what you need.

Individual & System Advocacy

Getting what you want and need, and making the community better for people with disabilities.

Peer
Support


Tear down barriers and reach personal goals with a peer by your side.

Independent Living Skills Training

Gaining skills to live and work independently.

Youth &
Nursing Facility Transition

Support for youth transitioning to adult life and post-secondary education, or moving from an institution back to the community.

Upcoming Events

Featured Event

logo for Maryland Youth Leadership Forum. Stick figure in a wheelchair holding up a capitol building.

Applications are now open for the 2025 Maryland Youth Leadership Forum. June 26 to June 28 at Towson University.

Learn more about #MDYLF25

Coming Up

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What Our Consumers Say

Consumers share how they've gained greater independence in their everyday life

For the first time in years, I feel like I am living life and not just existing. I am so appreciative of the relationship that I have with Independence Now, especially their assistance and support in my life.
GailIndependence Now Consumer
Gail
“Independence Now motivated me to do well in college, work, and social life.”
MontelMDYLF Delegate and Independence Now Consumer
Montel
"Maryland Youth Leadership Forum impacted me by showing me how to live independently and showing that I am a leader for my rights."
NoahMaryland Youth Leadership Forum Delegate
Noah
"It felt like opening the door to freedom."
IsaiahIndependence Now Consumer and
Maryland Youth Leadership Forum Alumnus
Isaiah
"I feel empowered by the help I've received and want to pay it forward."
KaylaIndependence Now Consumer
Kayla
"I'm grateful to have Independence Now in my corner helping and encouraging me to achieve my goals."
Roger G.Independence Now Consumer
Photo of Roger G.
"I moved into my own home in December 2017 and it has been a tremendous blessing, especially financially. I just love Independence Now."
TaraIndependence Now Consumer
Photo of independence now consumer Tara S.
Most places you work with look at your limitations, but Independence Now helps you look at your goals and possibilities and helps you achieve them.  
JaniceIndependence Now Consumer
Janice
"Independence Now is a life line for persons like myself when life knocks you down they help you back up in restoring your Independence."
Michelle LindsayIndependence Now Consumer and Certified Nursing Assistant
Michelle Lindsay is a Black woman with curly brown hair. She smiles and wears large dark glasses.
"Since I got with Independence Now, I moved out of the home, got my own apartment—furniture and everything—and started working with an aide, a doctor that comes to my home, and got social security."
AbenaIndependence Now Consumer
Abena
"My Independent Living Specialist helped me by giving me the information I needed...and other resources that have helped me become more independent in my community."
Ben SternfeldIndepenence Now Consumer
Ben Sternfeld

Our Stories

Read the latest news and stories about Independence Now and our Consumers

A group of Independence Now staff and consumers and staff pose together smiling inside the MGM Theater in front of a “Marlon Wayans Wild Child Tour” poster. Several attendees use wheelchairs. The venue is bright and spacious with visible signage and lighting.

Empowered by Laughter: An Unforgettable Night with Marlon Wayans

April 15, 2025

Independence Now consumers had an unforgettable night at the Marlon Wayans: Wild Child Tour. The MGM Theater was incredibly accessible, and the staff went above and beyond to ensure everyone felt welcomed and comfortable. Beyond the laughs, Marlon’s show carried a powerful message. He opened up about his journey supporting his transgender daughter with honesty,

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Shannon Minnick takes a selfie in a dimly lit movie theater. Behind her, two people sit in theater seats, bundled in winter coats, eating popcorn and snacks as they enjoy the film.

Lighting Your Path Support Group Hits the Big Screen!

April 14, 2025

Independence Now’s Lighting Your Path support group recently took a fun trip to the Hyattsville Regal Royal theater to catch the film The Friend. What a time we had! We were lucky enough to have the whole theater to ourselves, which made the experience feel extra special. Regal provided accessible headsets so our visually impaired consumers

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A group of people seated around tables in a classroom, listening to a speaker presenting “Job Interview Tips” on a projector screen. The room has teal walls, a wood floor, and a colorful poster about independence on the back wall.

Building Pathways to Employment: Highlights from Independence Now’s Employment 101 Workshop

April 14, 2025

Independence Now hosted an Employment 101 workshop in our office on April 10th. Job search techniques along with interviewing and networking skills were shared during the session led by Diane Palmer, Executive Director. Zion Parker, Vocational Technical Specialist, from the Department of Rehabilitation Services (DORS) described job search resources and programs that her organization offers.

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Make a Referral

Whether for yourself or someone you love, our staff are ready to talk about the services we offer and how we might work together to accomplish Independent Living goals.

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Our Partners

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