CILT Awards

CILT is privileged to recognize disabled leaders, artists, writers, and youth for their outstanding contributions in promoting and embodying the principles of independent living philosophy. CILT Awards are handed out on an annual basis, typically following the AGM event, with all submissions evaluated by CILT’s Board of Directors.

CILT Founders’ Award

The Founders’ Award was established on CILT’s 10th Anniversary in 1995 to recognize the significant contribution of individuals who both exemplify and have advanced IL philosophy in the spirit of its founders.

For more about the Founders’ Award and past winners, visit: Founders’ Award

Nominations are not open to the public as nominees are recommended by the CILT Board of Directors.

Helen Henderson Literary Award

Head-and-shoulders portrait of a smiling Helen Henderson with short light-brown hair, wearing a dark turtleneck and brown jacket against a plain light background

The Helen Henderson Literary Award was established in 2016 and is granted annually to a writer who has published an exceptional piece of writing that raises social awareness of a disability issue or barrier.

For more about the Helen Henderson Literary Award and past winners, visit: Helen Henderson Literary Award

Submissions are now open. Please visit the Helen Henderson Literary Award Call-Out for more information on how to apply. The deadline for this award is September 1, 2026.

Vic Willi Award for Youth

Vic Willi wearing glasses and a green striped sweater seated at a desk in an office, looking toward the camera.

The Vic Willi Award for Youth was established in 2022 and is granted to a young disabled person who is showing leadership in disability activism and disability rights.

For more about the Vic Willi Award for Youth and past winners, visit: Vic Willi Award for Youth

Submissions are now open. Please visit the Vic Willi Award for Youth Call-Out for more information on how to apply. The deadline for this award is September 1, 2026.

Sandra Carpenter Award for Artists

Sandra Carpenter seated in front of bookshelves, holding a Founders Award plaque bearing her name. She is wearing glasses and a white turtleneck sweater and is smiling toward the camera.

The Sandra Carpenter Award for Artists was established on CILT’s 40^th anniversary in 2025 and is granted annually by the CILT Board of Directors to an artist with a disability whose artistic achievement demonstrates creativity, originality, and a commitment to the values of independent living.

For more information on the Sandra Carpenter Award for Artists and past winners, visit: Sandra Carpenter Award for Artists