About Independence Alliance

We strive to empower people with disabilities to lead independent and inclusive lives in the community

Independence Alliance is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization providing services for people with permanent disabilities in Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky.

Independence Alliance was founded in 1977 by people with disabilities who wanted to provide a support system to help people with physical, sensory, cognitive, and/or psychological disabilities reach their greatest potential and independence. Independence Alliance is the oldest independent living center in Ohio and is governed, managed and staffed by a majority of professionals with disabilities who have an insight into the issues experienced by people with disabilities.

Through five core services we empower people with disabilities to live productive, rewarding lives with pride and dignity.

What is Independent Living

Centers for Independent Living were created by U.S. Congress in Title VII of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. A CIL is a non-residential, not-for-profit, community-based, consumer controlled, cross-disability agency providing core services.

Our Vision

Independence Alliance is a recognized leader of quality and innovative services that promote independent living for people with disabilities.

Our Values

Compassion, Empowerment, Financial Sustainability, Inclusion, Independent Living, Philosophy, and Innovation

Leadership

2026 Board of Directors

Based on the Independent Living Philosophy, Independence Alliance is governed, managed and staffed by a majority of professionals with disabilities, giving personal insight into the experiences of people with disabilities.

  • Neil Kelly, President
  • Rick Taylor, Vice President
  • Gena Stonefield, Secretary
  • Alen Amini, Treasurer
  • Elizabeth Abel
  • Clair Boyle
  • Kevin Flynn
  • Robert Harris
  • Betsy Mann
  • Bonita Moore
  • Carolyn O’Bryant
  • Brooke Schweitzer
  • David Siders
  • Meredith Whitehead

Executive Director: Rob Festenstein

The Independence Alliance Team

  • Rob Fesenstein
    Rob Fesenstein
    Executive Director Direct Phone: (513) 338-5100
  • Suzanne Hopkins
    Suzanne Hopkins
    Director of Ohio Programs Direct Phone: (513) 338-5109
  • Peggy Tucker
    Peggy Tucker
    Director of Kentucky Programs Direct Phone: (513) 338-5106
  • Debbie Moorehous
    Debbie Moorehous
    Director of Advancement Direct Phone: (513) 338-5110
  • Kyle Dixon
    Kyle Dixon
    Director of Finance Direct Phone: (513) 338-5102
  • Dee Henry
    Dee Henry
    Disability Rights & Advocacy Specialist Direct Phone: (513) 241-8046
  • Jenise Brassell
    Jenise Brassell
    IL Skills Specialist Direct Phone: (513) 246-0319
  • Dawn Engel
    Dawn Engel
    Youth Transition Specialist Direct Phone: (513) 338-5108
  • Stephanie Johnson
    Stephanie Johnson
    Ohio Housing Coordinator Direct Phone: (513) 338-5103
  • Mike Moroski
    Mike Moroski
    Support Services Specialist Direct Phone: (513) 268-6633
  • Amanda Hardcorn
    Amanda Hardcorn
    Kentucky Housing Coordinator and Independent Living Specialist Direct Phone: (513) 338-5105
  • Lisa Beane
    Lisa Beane
    Kentucky Housing Coordinator Direct Phone: (513) 338-5104
  • Chris Potoka
    Chris Potoka
    Director of Art Programming Direct Phone: (513) 338-5101
  • Sharyn Israel
    Sharyn Israel
    Core Services Specialist Direct Phone: (513) 338-5107
Art Beyond Boundaries Gallery: Jymi Bolden, Anthony Jenkins

Phone: (513) 421-8726

Upcoming Event

Disability Q*Munnity

April 14, 2026 @ 6:00 pm

Via Zoom and at Treehouse Cincinnati

Peer-support and advocacy group for 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals with disabilities.

View all events