News

The Airports Council International World (ACI) has put out a new edition of its Airports & Persons with Disabilities Handbook. The handbook has new policies designed to help travelers with disabilities. These policies will affect travel technology and facilities. While some American international airports are members of ACI, all airports in America are bound by federal standards of accessibility. However, International watchdog agencies are still concerned as accessibility remains a concern for travelers outside of America.

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In 1968, Congress took its first steps to make sure there was access to federal buildings for people with disabilities. The Architectural Barriers Act (ABA) stated that any buildings that were built or altered with federal dollars must be accessible. The ABA allowed buildings that predate it to remain as they were. This was the first disability law in the United States. It paved the way for the Rehabilitation Act and Americans with Disabilities Act that would further expand disability rights. Things that make buildings more accessible are ramps, accessible parking, elevators, and other features. Post offices, national parks, and Veterans Affairs facilities fall under the ABA. The ABA even covers nongovernmental facilities, such as certain schools, transit systems, and public housing that received federal funding.

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This is very detailed report discussing programs serving three categories of people with disabilities: physical disabilities, intellectual and developmental disabilities, and mental illness.  Under each category, it lists different nationality known programs for each particular group.  At the end of the report, it discusses shared  features of programs that support all three categories.  it's jammed packed full of very interesting information.

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This is an excellent podcast about the home health care crisis.  It explains in-in-depth how the crisis will soon be affecting everybody in one way or another.  it discusses economic and political factors that  created this crisis and what will happen if things don't change.

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Landmark laws and advancements in technology are often credited as helping people with disabilities succeed. While this is true, things such as community planning, low-tech devices, and common sense adaptations also play a critical part in helping people live safely and independently.  This article discusses 10 ways to support self-sufficiency and inclusion.

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Whether it’s Loaves and Fishes, Optimist Club, donating blood, or something else, most people enjoy giving to others.  Volunteering or being active in the community often makes people feel good about themselves.  For many people with disabilities, it often seems impossible to give back to the community.  Barriers such as transportation, communication, or just simply physically being able to do the task at hand often prevent our ability to volunteer.

Growing up, my mom was always involved in something it seems.  Whether it was teaching Sunday school, serving on church council, or being the President of the ARC, she was and continues to be involved in something.  My sister followed her example by volunteering at the hospital in high school and now she volunteers with a spinal cord injury group in the Madison area.  Due to my physical limitations, I had to find different ways that I could give back and be involved in the community.

Although I probably didn’t realize it, I started giving back when I was really young.  Beginning in elementary school, almost every year I would make a presentation to my class about why I was the way I was.  Obviously, for the first few years, it was pretty basic and didn’t go into much detail about what actually happened during my birth, but, as we got older, I went into more detail.  My message always was that I’m just like all of you except my muscles don’t work like they’re supposed to.  It helped my classmates understand and feel comfortable with my circumstances.  In high school, I also presented to a couple of speech classes about the different communication methods I used.

In college, I occasionally was invited to speak to education classes about living with a disability.  The students in these classes were going to be teachers and were interested in how teachers accommodated me.   I still occasionally speak to classes at UW-Oshkosh.  It’s a little nerve-racking because these students are really listening to what I’m saying and may someday use something I talked about in their own classroom.  It’s also very rewarding to me because future teachers are learning from me!

I was fortunate to have an incredible opportunity for a few years while I was in college to be a volunteer columnist for my hometown newspaper.  What started out as a failed job shadow tour (because, at the time, the newspaper layout room wasn’t accessible), turned into an incredible experience.  Every other week, I wrote a column about living with a disability.  I wrote about all different topics.  It was very well received by the community and the exposure was great.

Like as everybody says, the Internet has opened up a whole new world.  As I’ve explained in a previous entry, I’ve been a part of many online disability support groups for many years.  First, it was egroups; as the web advanced, groups emerged on social media sites.  These groups not only allow people to share valuable information with one another, it also allows people to share experiences and develop relationships with those with similar circumstances.  I’ve been able to connect with many parents of younger children who have cerebral palsy.  I’ve shared my experiences, answered questions, and offered advice on various topics.  By doing that, I feel like I’m “giving back” in some small way.  It’s really a great feeling.

Recently, I have been able to get involved with some disability advocacy councils.  Last year, I was appointed to the Wisconsin Independent Living Council.  The Council runs the eight Independent Living Centers across the state.  While I’m still learning the ropes, being a member makes me feel like I’m contributing.  I’ve applied to a couple more boards and councils, and I hope to get more involved in disability advocacy efforts soon. 

While I may not be able to “give to the common good” in a traditional way, I find other ways to contribute to society.  I truly believe every single person on Earth, regardless of his/her circumstances, has something to give.  Sometimes, a person’s gifts and talents may not be blatantly obvious, but if we take time to dig deep enough, I believe you’ll find a special talent in everyone! 

***The views expressed here are strictly those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of InControl Wisconsin, the Network or any of our sponsors.

Meet Jeff.  This classic rock loving man always tries to keep a positive attitude regardless of what life throws at him.  He loves having choice of what he wants in life and he enjoys connecting with others who have the same outlook.  We’re so lucky to have as a member of the Network! 

How are you involved with self-determination? Why did you join the SD Network?

Jeff has cerebral palsy and uses a motorized scooter to get around; he also speech impediment, but that doesn’t stop him from leading a great life.  He joined the Network because he wanted to help people and be there for them.

 Tell us some good news - what's the most exciting thing happening for you (or in Wisconsin) in terms self-determination?

Jeff really likes the fact that he can choose what he wants for his care.  He has been an IRIS participant for about eight years; being able to have choice means a lot to him.

 What tip or resource would you like to share with people who want to be more self-determined?

 Jeff wants to encourages people to always keep a positive attitude no matter what life throws at them.  He explains that it makes him feel really good when people ask him for help, and because he keeps a positive attitude, people connect with him.  He says, “it’s a great feeling.”

 What message would you like to share with the members of the SD Network?

Jeff loves being a member of the Network.  He likes that people are friendly and they are there for you.  He also explains that the Network has good resources.  “You guys do excellent work,” he says.

 What are some of your hobbies?

Jeff enjoys meeting new people and being outside when it is nice.  He also loves listening to music—especially classic rock from the 70s and 80s.

***We love hearing the views and opinions of Network members. We need to mention that the views and opinions expressed on this site are those of the person who is sharing them. They do not necessarily reflect InControl Wisconsin or any of our supporters and funders.

Health departments and community clinics report that local funding has been inadequate for some time. As state and county governments have resisted raising taxes and increasing funds for public health needs and community clinics, grants from local organizations and foundations have helped fill the breach, but private philanthropy only goes so far. Changes to Medicaid payment, along with proposed eligibility changes and fears of funding cutbacks, are causing grave concerns among community health leaders.

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A recent survey by the Survival Coalition reveals major transportation issues for older adults and people with disabilities in Wisconsin.  People who took the survey report that lack of transportation options impact things such as employment, where they live, getting to medical appointments, staying connected to family, and participating in the community.  Many reported that they struggle to find transportation and they can't get where they need to go a lot of the time.

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