Southern Minnesota Independent Living Enterprises and Services, also known as SMILES, is a nonprofit, nonresidential center for independent living that offers a range of services that assist individuals with disabilities. Established in 1988, the center is funded by public contributions and the United Way, as well as government, community, and private and public foundation grants. As a certified center for independent living, SMILES serves the residents of Blue Earth, Brown, Faribault, LeSueur, Martin, Nicollet, Sibley, Waseca and Watonwan counties in Minnesota. It provides a variety of peer counseling, information and referral, independent living skills training and advocacy services. The center also offers programs related to recreational activities, community services, transition, and assistive technology and environmental access. SMILES is located in Mankato, Minn.