NCIL Announces Organizational Restructuring to Strengthen Membership Mobilization and Advocacy Impact
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 8, 2025
Washington, DC — The National Council on Independent Living (NCIL) announced today a key organizational restructuring designed to strengthen its national advocacy capacity and deepen member engagement. As part of this effort, NCIL is transitioning from its Membership Coordinator position to a newly restructured role: Membership Mobilization and Engagement Coordinator.
This new position marks a major step in NCIL’s ongoing commitment to transforming membership from administrative maintenance into active, coordinated mobilization. The move reflects NCIL’s strategic vision to elevate grassroots power and strengthen the collective voice of people with disabilities in shaping national policy.
“Our strength has always been in our members, the individuals, Centers for Independent Living, and Statewide Independent Living Councils that make up our movement,” said Theo Braddy, Executive Director of NCIL. “This restructuring ensures we’re not just maintaining relationships but activating them. It’s about empowering our members to drive change and advancing NCIL’s mission at every level.”
Why This Change Matters
For decades, NCIL has served as the national voice of the Independent Living movement. The disability policy landscape is evolving rapidly, and NCIL must be equipped to organize, communicate, and act at that same pace.
Led by Jessica Podesva, Director of Advocacy & Policy, the new Membership Mobilization and Engagement Coordinator will:
- Lead grassroots organizing tied directly to NCIL’s policy priorities.
- Coordinate rapid-response campaigns on national and state issues.
- Build relationships with underrepresented member communities.
- Provide training, tools, and communication support to strengthen local advocacy efforts.
“This is about building power, not just inside Washington, but in every community across the country,” Braddy added. “Our members are the movement, and NCIL is evolving to meet them where they are.”
Commitment to Members and Staff
This restructuring is organizational in nature, not performance-based. NCIL is handling the transition with care, transparency, and deep appreciation for the dedication of staff of Denise Law, who has served in this role over the years. NCIL owes Denise a great deal of gratitude.
Next Steps
Recruitment for the new position will begin shortly. NCIL will share updates with its membership, partners, and the public as the process moves forward.
About the National Council on Independent Living (NCIL)
Founded in 1982, NCIL is the longest-running national cross-disability, grassroots organization run by and for people with disabilities. NCIL advances independent living and disability rights through advocacy, leadership development, and cross-sector collaboration.
Media Contact:
Theo Braddy, Executive Director
National Council on Independent Living
Email: Theo@ncil.org
Phone: 717.395.8050
Website: https://ncil.org
