Storey Lane Independent Living

History of Storey Lane Independent Living (SLIL)

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Storey Lane Independent Living (SLIL) traces its origins back to 1979, when it was founded by the Sisters of Notre Dame under the name Association For Independent Living (AFIL). The organization was established as a nonprofit (501c3) with a foundational belief in promoting independent living for all adults, regardless of their abilities.

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Early Years and Growth: Initially, AFIL began with a modest start, accommodating three residents in two adjacent apartments located in Dallas. The mission was clear from the outset: to empower adults with the skills necessary for independent living. This included comprehensive training in essential areas such as employment, financial planning, time management, household responsibilities like cooking and cleaning, and fostering social skills.

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As AFIL grew, it expanded its facilities to better serve its residents. In the early years, two buildings were constructed to provide enhanced living and training environments. One building featured eight dormitory rooms, training facilities, family rooms, and dual kitchens. The second building consisted of ten one-bedroom, efficiency-type apartments. These facilities enabled residents to progress through different stages of independence, reflecting AFIL's commitment to individual growth and autonomy.

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Community Development: By 1987, AFIL had garnered strong support from families and guardians of its residents. With their involvement and leadership, an adjacent property was purchased. A 15-unit condominium building was constructed and pre-sold to existing residents, marking the inception of SLIL.  This new community fostered an atmosphere where interaction between residents from different housing setups—training facilities, apartments, and condos—was encouraged. This community-oriented approach not only supported individual development but also created a cohesive social environment.

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The growth continued into 1992 with the construction and pre-sale of a second 15-unit condo building. Throughout these expansions, SLIL maintained a focus on providing on-site supervisors who offered essential support such as monitoring, training, and transportation assistance.

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Transition and Evolution: Over the years, SLIL evolved both in structure and leadership. While the direct involvement of the Sisters of Notre Dame has lessened over time—now limited to referrals—their foundational values and design principles remain integral to SLIL's operations. The organization prides itself on not just being a program, but a supportive community that facilitates the transition of its residents into contributing members of the larger community.

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Today, SLIL stands as a unique entity in the Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) area, recognized for its community culture that empowers individuals with disabilities to achieve greater independence and integration into society. The organization's motto, "taking the 'dis' out of disability," reflects its ongoing commitment to challenging stereotypes and promoting inclusivity.

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In summary, from its humble beginnings with the Sisters of Notre Dame to its current status as Storey Lane Independent Living, the organization has grown exponentially, guided by a steadfast commitment to empowering individuals with disabilities through comprehensive support and a nurturing community environment.