APRIL Logo with the words, "The United Voice of Independent Living in Rural America."

 September 2026: A message from the Executive Director's Desk

I hope this letter finds you well as we move into the Fall Season and (fingers, toes and arms crossed) some cooler weather!!  This summer has been brutally hot for most of us and I, for one, could not be more OVER IT!

With the 2026 APRIL Conference FAST approaching in just under 5 weeks, I am reaching out to you with a huge favor to ask.  I am asking you to please complete this very brief questionnaire, mainly about the upcoming APRIL Conference in Niagara Falls, NY. 

SURVEY LINK: https://form.jotform.com/262546376259064

Link to Full September 2026 Letter from the Executive Director's Desk

 

Elissa-on-Spotify

From Elissa Ellis, Executive Director:

I recently had the honor of being invited to do a Podcast with Jeremy Maxand, Executive Director of LINC in Boise, ID.  It was an amazing experience and so much fun!!  If you haven’t had an opportunity to check out his Podcast – please do.  It will not disappoint!! 

Here is the link to the Podcast episode ‘The Rural Disability Movement with Elissa Ellis’

https://open.spotify.com/episode/3ESy7p9ITECGfq9ZuQiJAu?si=rxXXPyC1TXSJi0IbuHR6fw

 

Background image of Niagara Falls. APRIL logo is overlaid at the top. Text underneath the logo says "2026 APRIL Conference. Niagara Falls, NY. October 23-25, 2026".

Save the Date for the 2026 APRIL Conference

October 23 - 25, 2026

Niagara Falls, New York

 

 

APRIL 2026 Priorities Survey 

 

APRIL 2026 Priorities Feedback Survey. "2026 Priorities Survey". APRIL logo in middle of the graphic. Text on lefthand side with an arrow to the right says "Provide and Ideas and Feedback", pointing to a QR code that will lead to the survey link.

 

APRIL wants to hear from you!  Please complete the survey using the link below to help drive APRIL 2026 Priorities and help us serve and support you better!!  

Later this year, when 2026 Conference Registrations open, we will draw a winner for a free APRIL Conference Registration from the survey submissions!!  Be sure to include your name and email.  

2026 Feedback and Ideas:  

https://form.jotform.com/260157119283052

 

 

 Welcome to the Association of Programs for Rural Independent Living

(APRIL)

  APRIL Who We Are:

 The Association of Programs for Rural Independent Living (APRIL) is a national grassroots, nonprofit membership organization consisting of over 260 members from centers for independent living, their satellites and branch offices, statewide independent living councils, other organizations and individuals concerned with the independent living issues of people with disabilities living in rural America.  

 Our Mission:

The Association of Programs for Rural Independent Living (APRIL), a national disability-led organization, advances the equity of people with disabilities in rural communities through advocacy, collaboration, shared experience, leadership development, education, and training.

 Our Vision: 

To equip APRIL members to build inclusive communities where every person with a disability thrives.

 APRIL Statement on Diversity:

The Association of Programs for Rural Independent Living (APRIL) is a membership organization dedicated to advancing the rights of people with disabilities living in rural America.  We strive to cultivate a culture of inclusivity throughout our organization which reflects that of our membership.  We believe that diversity is an asset to be valued and respected.  APRIL recognizes the uniqueness of each individual and uplifts the characteristics and intersectionality of characteristics within the human experience.

 Some Highlights of Our Work: 

APRIL Peer Support

 Advocacy 

Nursing Home Transition

Youth

 

 

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