History
In 1975, the Coalition for Barrier Free Living (CBFL) was established by people with disabilities for the sole purpose of advocating for equal rights and opportunities. Downtown curb cuts and the development of an accessible transportation system were two of the major advocacy projects CBFL fought for and won.
In 1978, CBFL opened the Houston Center for Independent Living (HCIL) – its first consumer-controlled service project, and the first CIL in Texas.
In 1998, CBFL expanded independent services in Texas by opening the Brazoria County Center for Independent Living (BCCIL) in Angleton, Texas.
In 2004, the Fort Bend Center for Independent Living (FBCIL) opened its doors in Sugar Land, Texas. Fort Bend County is one of the fastest growing counties in the U.S.
Executive Directors
Sandra Bookman
Chamane Barrow
Frankie Watson
Employment Tenure 4/1/2014 - Present
Board of Directors
Michael Garrett, Chairman of the Board
My name is Michael Garrett. I was born in Fort Worth, Texas. I have lived in Houston for over 45 years. I am currently retired …
Darrell Simmons, Vice-Chairman of the Board
My name is Darrell K. Simmons. I have more than 20 years of experience working with for-profit and not-for-profit organizations. I am considered a subject …
Chris Noble, Secretary of the Board
My name is Chris Noble. I was born Syracuse, New York, raised in St. Louis, Missouri and have lived in Houston, Texas since 1969. I …
Susan Silverman, Board Member
My name is Susan Silverman. I am a rare bird. I am a native Houstonian, born and raised, educated in Houston, Texas. I am currently …
Gilbert Paul, Board Member
My name is Gilbert Paul, I was born in New Gulf, Texas and raised in West Columbia, Texas. I am a retired heavy equipment operator …
Susan Lindsey, Board Member
My name is Susan Lindsey. I currently serve as the Regional Director for the Gulf Coast Region Five for the Texas Work Commission- Vocational Rehabilitation …
Raul Tello, Board Member
My name is Raul Tello. I was born in Monterrey, Mexico. I have lived in Houston for over 30 years. I am currently retired and …
Libby Davis, Board Member
My name is Libby Davis, I was born in Tulsa, Oklahoma and raised in Ada, Oklahoma. I am a retired ‘purchasing specialist’ for the Texas …
Patricia Jefferson, Board Member
Patricia A. Jefferson is a native Houstonian and a proud product of the Houston public schools and the 5th Ward community. Following graduation, with honors, …
Corporate Staff
John Weber
Maria Orozco
Diann McMillan
Charles Williamson
Toni Poston
Ana Urena
