OUR MISSION
OUR VISION
Annual Holiday Gala & Dance
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About Independent Living Nova Scotia
Independent Living Nova Scotia (ILNS) supports Nova Scotians with disabilities through programs and services that promote Independent Living (IL), enabling individuals to live the way they want, stay in control of decisions that affect them, break through barriers that are in the way and develop their skills.
Upcoming Events & Activities!
Donate
Every donation helps create opportunities for people with disabilities to live with greater independence, confidence, and inclusion. Thank you for contributing to our services and workshops!
Programs & Services
Our programs and services reflect the Independent Living philosophy—supporting choice, dignity, and self-determination. We work alongside individuals to provide the tools, resources, and connections needed to live the life they choose.
Resources
Explore helpful resources, guides, and information designed to support people with disabilities, families, caregivers, and service providers. Find the tools you need to make informed decisions and access available supports.
A Message from our Executive Director
Carrie Ernst
Executive Director
Today, on the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, we pause to reflect on the work still ahead of us—and to honour the strength, wisdom, and leadership of persons with disabilities across Nova Scotia.
At ILNS, we see every day that disability is not a limitation. It is a powerful part of human diversity. What creates barriers are systems, structures, and attitudes that have not yet caught up to the vision of a fully inclusive province.
This year, our team has witnessed incredible resilience, advocacy, and collaboration—from people choosing new paths for independent living, to families navigating change with courage, to community partners committed to building something better. We have also seen the ongoing challenges many continue to face: barriers to accessible housing, meaningful supports, digital inclusion, and true choice and autonomy.
These realities motivate us every single day.
We are proud to stand alongside the disability community as allies, partners, and learners. Our commitment is to continue breaking down barriers, expanding person-directed supports, growing accessible housing options, and advancing the Remedy work toward a system that recognizes dignity, inclusion, and the right to make decisions about one’s own life.
Today is not just a day of recognition—it is a call to action.
A call to listen.
A call to invest in accessibility.
A call to centre lived experience.
A call to build communities where everyone belongs.
To all persons with disabilities: your voice leads our work, your rights guide our mission, and your contributions strengthen our province.
On behalf of everyone at ILNS, thank you for your leadership and for trusting us to walk alongside you. We remain deeply committed to creating a Nova Scotia where independence, inclusion, and community living are possible for all.
Together, we are building a future without barriers.