Announcing Aliza Barzilay, our new Executive Director
The Board of Directors of the Westside Center for Independent Living is pleased to announce the selection of Aliza Barzilay as Executive Director following the recent death of Mary Ann Jones, the former Executive Director.
In announcing this unanimous decision on behalf of the Board, Barbara Gordon, President, stated that,” We were so pleased that Ms. Barzilay accepted our offer of this position since she is totally familiar with the workings of the agency and can step into this position, without a pause, even though there are very big shoes to fill.”
Ms. Barzilay, asked for her thoughts, responded “I have been fortunate to work alongside some of the strongest leaders in the disability community over the last 20 years and will ensure that WCIL continues to be a major force in advocacy and service to the community. While I have seen some significant changes over the years with the passage of the ADA, and the Olmstead Decision, we are a long way from full compliance and have more to do in the areas of housing, employment, personal care and transportation to ensure equal access. The Independent Living Movement philosophy is as relevant today as it was when it began in the 70’s and I look forward to working with all of my colleagues and WCIL’s community partners in making further advances.”
Founded 31 years ago in west LA, the Westside Center for Independent Living is a non-residential center dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for people with all kinds of disabilities. The goal of the peer-led programs and services is the elimination of economic, social, attitudinal, and environmental barriers.
Today, with a $2 million budget, WCIL serves more than 1400 people with disabilities annually. Considered an outstanding nonprofit by members of the community, WCIL has introduced award-winning programs including: The Peer Support and Employment Project in both English and Spanish, Living Independently in Los Angeles (LILA) in partnership with UCLA Center for Neighborhood Knowledge, and DIAL which assists people with disabilities to transition from hospital or skilled nursing facilities to living in the community on their own.
The Westside Center for Independent Living is located at 12901 Venice Boulevard, L.A. 90066.
