Who We Are
Southeast Alaska Independent Living (SAIL) is a consumer-run, consumer-controlled agency in the truest sense of the meaning: our philosophy is that people with disabilities are their own best advocates and serve as the best example to their peers as models of success. To that end, 51% of all staff, decision-makers and board of directors are individuals with disabilities. Our mission at SAIL is to inspire independence for everyone. We not only advocate for and encourage independence for people with disabilities we also do so for our senior citizens. We are fortunate to have the support of such a fantastic community as we strive to reach our goal of independence for all!

History
Center for Independent Living were first established across the country in the early 1970s, and were defined much as they are today as consumer-controlled, Community based, cross-disability, nonresidential, private, nonprofit agencies. SAIL was officially incorporated as a non-profit organization in 1992. SAIL was born with four staff members serving 30 consumers and a budget of $230K. Since then, the agency has grown to over 20 employees, serving over 900consumers a year, with an annual budget of over 1.5 million dollars.

Services
SAIL’s core services are Advocacy, Information and Referral, Independent Living Skills Training, Peer Support and De-Institutionalization. In addition to these services, SAIL offers programs that support independent living including benefits counseling, home modifications, assistive devices, emergency financial assistance, a loan library, peer support groups, recreation and community inclusion activities, and Deaf services including the sign language interpreter referral program.

One of our most visible community programs is the Outdoor Recreation and Community Access (ORCA) program. ORCA’s main goal is to enhance independent living skills by exposing consumers of all ages and abilities to what they are capable of out in the community. We take part in kayaking, skiing, long distance travel and hiking activities, as well as attending community functions such as plays, concerts and symphonies. Our ORCA program has been recognized nationally for innovative practices.

SAIL works hard to provide the best possible services to all consumers. This is reflective in the numerous long standing consumers who are involved with SAIL. SAIL consistently receives positive feedback from consumers and family members throughout Juneau and around Southeast. We are proud of our positive reputation and work diligently to keep it up at all times.

How You Can Help
SAIL could not do what we do without the continual help of community members like you. We are a small organization with a big mission!

Volunteer Opportunities
SAIL is regularly in need of volunteers. There is an opportunity for everyone depending on your interest and skills. Do you like to ski, hike or kayak? Do you have a special skill that you would be willing to teach? ORCA is always in need of volunteers to help out with recreation activities. In fact - we could not function without the help of volunteers! Additionally, we often need volunteers for admin type duties and for our special fund raising events. Have you ever been curious what the Only Fools Run at Midnight event is all about, but running at midnight with a costume on is just not your thing? Then we have a job for you! If you’re interested in learning more about volunteer opportunities at SAIL, please let us know by checking out our website and sending us an email – or give us a call any time. Thank you in advance for your time and talent and making our community a better place for all.

Donor Opportunities
If you are interested in making a financial (or other) donation to SAIL, you can do so through the Juneau Community Foundation, our web site, through the mail, or in person by stopping by the SAIL office. We are extremely appreciative of each donation we receive, and we could not do what we do without the help of such a giving community. we want to ensure you that we will honor your contribution with integrity and honor your requests as to where and how you would like your donation spent.

Your donation will help to improve the lives of seniors and people with disabilities in Juneau. We cannot thank you enough for any contribution you choose to make.

For more information check out our website: www.sailinc.org, or email info@sailinc.org or give us a call at 907-586-4920.