Building Independence Through ISLs: A Path to Community Living

October 10, 2025

For many individuals with developmental disabilities, the dream of living independently in the community is both exciting and empowering. With the right support in place, this dream becomes possible through Individualized Supported Living (ISL) programs.

What is an ISL?

Individualized Supported Living (ISL) is a residential option designed for individuals with developmental disabilities, allowing them to live in their own home—often with one or more roommates—while receiving tailored support based on their unique needs. Unlike traditional institutional or group settings, ISLs focus on personalized care, independence, and choice, empowering individuals to lead fulfilling lives within their communities. Supports in an ISL may include:

  • Assistance with cooking, cleaning, and daily routines
  • Help with budgeting, paying bills, and managing finances
  • Transportation to work, school, appointments, or social activities
  • Support with personal care, health management, and safety needs
  • Encouragement and guidance in building friendships and community connections

Why ISLs Matter

The goal of an ISL is simple: to empower individuals to live as independently as possible, while still having access to the support they need to thrive. Independence – Individuals learn new life skills and make their own choices.

ISLs foster:

  • Independence – Encouraging self-determination and choice in daily life
  • Personalized support – Tailoring services to meet each person’s unique needs and goals
  • Community inclusion – Supporting active participation in neighborhoods and local activities
  • Meaningful relationships – Helping individuals build and maintain friendships and social connections
  • A sense of home – Creating a safe, comfortable environment that truly feels like home

The Journey to Independence

For many families, the thought of a loved one moving into an Individualized Supported Living (ISL) can feel overwhelming at first. It’s a big step, but often, it becomes a milestone filled with pride, growth, and joy. In an ISL, individuals begin to build the life they choose, gaining confidence as they cook their own meals, decorate their living space, and make everyday decisions that reflect their interests and goals. At the same time, parents and caregivers gain peace of mind knowing their loved one is not only safe and supported but truly thriving in a home of their own.

Success in Action

Across the country, Individualized Supported Living (ISL) programs are helping individuals with developmental disabilities achieve goals once thought out of reach.

A young adult might move into their own home and learn to grocery shop, navigate public transportation, or host friends for a game night. These seemingly everyday experiences, often taken for granted, become powerful milestones when they represent real, self-directed independence.

Every success story, big or small, reflects the transformative impact of ISL: building confidence, creating opportunity, and opening doors to a more fulfilling life.

Individualized Supported Living (ISL) is more than just a place to live—it’s about freedom, choice, and belonging. By offering personalized support, ISLs empower individuals with developmental disabilities to live meaningful, self-directed lives—in homes they choose, surrounded by communities they’re a part of. Everyone deserves the opportunity to call a place their own, to make their own decisions, and to feel the pride that comes with true independence.

ISLs make that possible.

 

Authored by:

Kelley Sikes, Director of Counterpoint

Posted in Community Living