A neat story written by Ellen Seidman. We need more people in the world like this!

Everyone Should Treat People With Disability Like This Starbucks Staffer Did

By Ellen Seidman

Accommodating people with disability isn't that hard; it's partly about putting in effort but mostly, it's about having the right attitude, as this story shows.

When Aaron Seldomridge first visited a Starbucks in Ephrata, Pennsylvania, he was with his mom, Janiece. Aaron has autism and Janiece asked barista Anisa Dujnic if they had a picture menu. Yes, they did. Anisa and Janiece helped Aaron to point to an image of an iced grande chai and repeat the words. A few weeks later, Aaron went to the counter with his mom and placed his order without the menu. And then, he started putting in his request -- and paying for it -- on his own.

Because Aaron was in an environment in which he felt encouraged and comfortable, he was confident enough to go it alone. "It's great steps for him to take as a person," Anisa said.

Really, it didn't take much, just a little attention. Some customer customization--no more than goes into making, say, a mocha frap.

Stories like this make you wonder why accommodating kids and adults with disabilities seems like such a big deal to some people. Yes, on the surface this is just about serving a drink, which doesn't take a whole lot of effort.

But at its heart, as special needs parents like me know, this isn't "just" about a barista going the extra mile. It's about a mindset: The readiness to give extra assistance to someone who needs it. The openness to working with the person with disability or a parent to figure out what can help. The willingness to find another way. The patience for letting things take their course. And the pure humanity of celebrating another person's success.

I'd say this story is the exception, not the rule, in terms of attitudes toward welcoming people with disabilities. I know this firsthand from experiences with my son, Max, who has cerebral palsy -- most recently,the program coordinator who flat out refused to accommodate him. Even within the Starbucks world, with its typically welcoming atmosphere, it boils down to individual mindsets (despite what the law might say); at one Starbucks in Brighton, NY, a woman with a brain injury who has a service dogsaid she taped an employeetelling her that she could not come in with her dog.

Welcoming and accommodating kids and adults with disability should be a natural, organic part of society.

It's so simple.

It's no biggie.

If only....

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XzbrjvhsxDg

Source: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/ellen-seidman/everyone-should-treat-peo_b_5754600.html

A great opinion editorial in theOshkosh Northwesternwritten by Pam DeLap and Ginger Beuk about how the disability community has a voice in the state proposal. They make several great points in this piece.

Survey gives disabled voice in state proposal

By Pam DeLap and Ginger Beuk

As disability advocates in the Oshkosh community, we share the same goals most of our community shares. We want to see everyone, including people with disabilities have the same chance to make choices about their lives, educational opportunities, where and with whom they live, and what kind of job opportunities they have, just as any other community member would have.

That is not happening right now for too many Wisconsin residents with disabilities who rely on Medicaid funded long term supports. Although these programs were supposed to allow people to stay in their homes and work in the community, that is not happening for many across the state.

These individuals are experiencing very little choice in their homes. A recent People First Wisconsin survey found that nearly one-fifth of respondents said they aren't' allowed in parts of the home they live in, and 21 percent said they can't even make simple choices like what to have for dinner and when to go to bed.

Currently Wisconsin spends nearly $3 on facility based pre-vocational training for every $1 they put into integrated community employment at real wages. The average wage in a facility is only $2.40 an hour, compared with nearly $9 an hour in the community.

Every person should be able to choose where they work, what type of work they want to do, have an opportunity to be included in their community, but the choices are so limited for an individual with disabilities. If you have a passion or an interest in working with computers, animals or even want to start your own business, the supports and pre-vocational training are just not in place at this time for those more inclusive choices; many feel the only choice available to them is a facility based workshop earning less than minimum wage.

Now there is a real opportunity for change in Wisconsin.

On July 30th, Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) announced a5-year-planthat requires the state providers of home and community based services funded through Medicaid to offer additional supports in inclusive community settings to include more choices for individuals with disabilities. This plan also helps make sure that Medicaid funds are used more equally to expand choices for all people who rely on supports.

We in the disability community are hopeful this plan will lead to more supported transitional choices for our sons and daughters coming out of school, more autonomy in our own homes, and more options so that we can choose and keep jobs of our choice that can lead to less reliance on public funds.

Far too long, society's expectation of people with disabilities has been one of dependence: a life in poverty, reliant on public supports, and less capable than others. Our vision is a life of contribution to the community, increased independence and demonstrating success.

Public supports should go toward that same vision, not stop people with disabilities from reaching their dreams. We are hopeful that the state's new transition plan will lead to that vision becoming a reality for our sons and daughters, friends and family and for all people with disabilities in Wisconsin who use long term supports by investing in more programs that will support a more integrated and inclusive future.

For more information on how you can contribute your story and input on the plan, go towww.takeastandontheplan.organd fill out the on-line tool to share with Wisconsin Department of Health Services.

Pam DeLap and Ginger Beuk are advocates for the rights of the disabled.

Source: http://www.thenorthwestern.com/story/opinion/readers/2014/08/29/disabled-survey-wisconsin-rights/14796601/

Scholarships are nowavailable for students age 14-21 to attend the SD Conference November10th-12th, 2014 with a parent.

The scholarships include:

*Registration for the student with a disability (must have an IEP) and oneparent. ($25.00 registration fee required)

*Pre-conference Session for both

*Lodging on Monday and Tuesday night in a double room at the Kalahari Resort

*Most meals are covered by the conference (Starting with a reception onMonday evening through lunch on Wednesday.)

*Additional attendees must pay registration fee. (Use regular registrationform)

The 2014 Self Determination Conferencewill beheld November 10-12, 2014, at the Kalahari Resort in Wisconsin Dells. This willbe the seventh year of the conference and the theme is, Mission Possible:

Discovering the Potential in our Communities.

Applications for scholarships are still available to individuals with
disabilities experiencing financial hardships can apply for a scholarshipto theconference. Learn more about the conference in this yearsbrochure.

Dont miss out on this opportunity to learn, connect, and make a change! EarlyBird registrationends Aug. 29.
The deadline to request a scholarship is Sept. 30, or until there are no longerfunds available. The deadline to register for the conference is Thursday, Oct. 15.

Connect|Share|Learn|http://sdnetworkwi.org/

We Want to Hear From You!

Do you have a question, a news story, an idea, an event, or information you think others would benefit from? Post it on the Self-Determination Network and share it with over 200 people. There's a wealth of experience, knowledge and skills represented by the members of the Self-Determination Network.

It Only Takes "Five"

Take five minutes to check out what's happening on the SD Network:

• Join the Conversation: There has been a lot of buzz lately about the new handicapped symbol. Have you seen it? What are your thoughts? Is it too disability specific?

• Posting: Stefaine posted a great job opening for a Community Bridge Builder for Living Our Visions, Inc. (LOV-Dane) Check it out!

• Watch: Watch a video from last years Self-Determination Conference.Registerfor this years conference today!

• Let Your Voice Be Heard: The DHS has produced a plan that will change the way long term supports through Medicaid will be delivered. Let your voice be heard

• Share: Share your story about self-determination. Have you advocated for yourself or others to gain independence? Have you defied odds or proven naysayers wrong? Our stories provide opportunities to inspire and learn from each other. Share your story with us.

• Learn: Read about the Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) Act that could potentially improve life for thousands of people with disabilities.

• Post news or start a discussion: It's easy to do and a great way to share information and network with others!

Were hoping Coffee Breaks will return in October or November. What topics would you like to have on the Self-Determination Network Coffee Breaks? Answer ourOne-Minute Poll now!

New Members

Stop by to welcomeournewest members

• Shebelieves in equal rights for all peopleand is passionate about serving her community.

Do you know someone who should join the SD Network? Spread the word andinvitefriends, families and other interested folks!

Upcoming Events

Here's a sample ofupcoming eventslisted on the SD Network:

• Think College Wisconsin: Expanding College Opportunities for Students with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities: October 17^th,8:30am to 4pm, Cardinal Stretch University, Milwaukee WI
• Wisconsin Self-Determination Conference: November 10^thto 12^th, Kalahari Resort, Wisconsin Dells WI
• Across The Lifespan: Bringing the Best Together: November 13^thto 14^th, Glacier Canyon Lodge and Convention Center, Wisconsin Dells WI

Post your eventon the SDS Network and it can be included in future Network News emails to members! Questions? Suggestions? ContactStacy Ellingen.

The Self-Determination Network is powered byIn Control Wisconsinand supported financially by ourmembersandSponsors. We couldn't keep this Network going with you! Find out how you can help support the Network.

Community Bridge Builder

Do you

• Approach the world with curiosity, enthusiasm, empathy and fun?
• Love to bring people together to create inclusive community?
• Dig deep to understand a challenge and think outside the box to solve it?
• Enjoy both supporting others behind the scenes and shining in the spotlight yourself?
• Have superb communication skills?

LOV-Dane is looking for a person who answers yes to these questions! This position will support individuals with a variety of disabilities as they explore their gifts and dreams, set manageable goals, and build the skills and connections to achieve them.

The right candidate will believe in and delight in our members; be a good listener, teacher, and salesperson; have experience breaking long-term goals into manageable pieces; be highly organized and self directed; enjoy being creative with a team; anticipate and address challenges with patience and empathy; be flexible; have the ability to respond to diverse needs and styles.

The Bridge Builder will

• Build relationships with project members (individuals with disabilities), their families and close supporters
• Support project members as they find their own voices and motivations and make clear personal choices
• Work with project members not for them by teaching the skills needed to fade assistance as individuals become more independent
• Facilitate authentic relationships between members and others

• Actively seek out community connections (clubs, churches, service groups, employment) with and for project members and help build relationships between LOV-Dane and other community organizations
• Help project members design and maintain organizational systems that will increase their independence at home, work, or the community

This position is full time, annual pay is $27,000-$31,000 (based on experience) and benefits are included. A drivers license and vehicle with car insurance are essential for frequent travel around Madison and Dane County.

Living Our Visions, Inc. (LOV-Dane) is a grassroots organization of individuals with disabilities and their families or other community members. LOV is committed to building fulfilling, community-centered lives for all citizens. LOV is not an agency or program but an organization in which members and others can mobilize their strengths and gifts to enrich the lives of people with disabilities and strengthen the civic life of the community as a whole. By focusing on the assets of people with disabilities, LOV is committed to altering the perception that the primary role of people with disabilities is as clients and receivers.

Learn more about us at: www.lovdane.org

Please submit a cover letter, resume and responses to the following questions by noon (12pm) on Wednesday, August 20, 2014 to employment@lovdane.org

1. How are you involved in your community? What have been the most rewarding parts of your involvement?

2. What experiences have you had supporting people with disabilities? What draws you to this life path?

3. Several of the members of this project are reluctant to try new things and meet new people. How would you help them move forward?

4. Describe your experiences teaching someone a new skill and supporting him or her to become more independent.

5. Creative use of technology is a critical part of becoming independent for many of the people you will be working with. Describe your experience/comfort with utilizing technological tools such as smartphones, tables and web-based tools.

6. This job requires a lot of self-direction and flexibility. What experience have you had working independently and balancing multiple priorities and projects?

Take A Stand On the Plan campaign helps people submit comments on Wisconsin Home and Community Based Services Transition Plan

The Department of Health Services (DHS) has produced a plan that will significantly change the way in which long term supports through Medicaid waivers (including Family Care, IRIS, legacy waivers and the Childrens Long Term Support Waiver) will be delivered to participants.A copy of the plan can be found here:http://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/LTCare/StateFedReqs/waiver.htm

There are only have 30 days to submit public comments on the DHS Wisconsin Transition Plan that will require the states providers of home and community based services funded through Medicaid to offer supports in inclusive community settings that allow people with disabilities to have more choices about where and how they work and live. Comments are dueSeptember 2nd, 2014.

The Board for People with Disabilities, People First Wisconsin, and Disability Rights Wisconsin have created a website and tool to help self-advocates, families and providers submit public comments to the Department of Health Services. Go to:

www.takeastandontheplan.organd click on take action and use this online tool to submit comments

Paper copies of the online tool and help filling it out are available upon request. Contact John Shaw at608-266-7707.

DHS must hear from people with disabilities, families and advocates that believe people with disabilities need more choice in their lives and should be a part of our communities. Without your input, these changes may not be strong enough to make lives better!

A great article in theMarshfield News Heraldabout The Social Security Administration's "The Faces and Facts of Disability." I think it's awesome that a small newspaper to do an article like this.

Facts about Social Security Disability

The Social Security Administration recently launched "The Faces and Facts of Disability," an education and awareness initiative to help educate the public about Social Security disability insurance and dispel common misconceptions. Social Security disability insurance is coverage that workers earn by paying Social Security taxes on their earnings. Nearly 9 million disabled workers receive disability insurance. These 9 million individuals make up a diverse group of individuals with mental impairments, sensory disabilities, and physical disabilities.

Definition of disability

The Social Security Act defines disability very strictly. Eligibility rules differ from those of private plans. Social Security does not provide temporary or partial disability benefits, like workers compensation or veterans' benefits do. One of the qualifications that Social Security looks at to see if an individual is disabled under Social Security's Act is if he or she cannot work due to a severe medical condition that has lasted or is expected to last at least one year or result in death. The individual's medical condition must prevent them from doing work that they have done in the past, and it must prevent them from adjusting to other work.

Disability is unpredictable

Disability is unpredictable and could happen to anyone at any age. Tragically, every day thousands of young people are seriously injured. Many individuals hear about disability but they don't think it will happen to them. One in four 20 year olds insured for disability benefits become disabled before reaching retirement age. Social Security disability insurance provides a critical source of financial support to these people.

Social Security Disability payments

The average monthly disability benefit paid by Social Security to beneficiaries at the beginning of 2014 was $1,146. Even with this disability payment one in five beneficiaries live in poverty and most are low income. More than 49 percent of all disabled beneficiaries receive less than $1,000 per month.

Community resources

Disability Benefit Specialists at the Aging and Disability Resource Center of Central Wisconsin work with individual's ages 18-59 years old with physical, mental, and developmental disabilities. They can provide accurate information on public and private benefits and programs; help determine which benefits and programs you may be entitled to, and assistance with filling out applications. Some of the programs a Disability Benefit Specialist can help with are Medicaid, Social Security Disability Income (SSDI), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Medicare, Prescription Drug Assistance, and Insurance Issues. They can also provide referrals, assistance, and support on other matters including disability rights.

To contact a Disability Benefit Specialist, call the Aging &Disability Resource Center of Central Wisconsin at 888-486-9545. The ADRC-CW serves Langlade, Lincoln, Marathon and Wood counties.

Source: Social Security. The Faces and Facts of Disability.http://www.socialsecurity.gov/disabilityfacts/materials.html#a0=5

Contributed by Michelle McDougal, disability benefit specialist with Aging & Disability and Resource Center of Central Wisconsin.

Source:http://www.marshfieldnewsherald.com/story/life/2014/07/26/facts-soc...

A great article by Michelle Diament from Disability Scoop about the Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) Act.

Congress Weighing Tax-Free Disability Savings Accounts

By Michelle Diament

July 24, 2014

A long-stagnant bill that would establish a new way for people with disabilities to save money without jeopardizing their government benefits is starting to make its way through Congress.

The legislation known as the Achieving a Better Life Experience, or ABLE, Act would allow people with disabilities to create special accounts where they could save up to $100,000 without risking eligibility for benefits like Social Security. Whats more, under the plan, individuals would not lose Medicaid coverage no matter how much money is deposited in the proposed accounts.

A U.S. Senate hearing Wednesday marked the first step in Congress for the bill which has been under consideration since 2006.

Under the proposal, individuals with disabilities would be able to create ABLE accounts at any financial institution. Modeled after the popular 529 college savings plans, funds deposited in ABLE accounts could be used to pay for education, health care, transportation, housing and other expenses. Interest earned on savings within the accounts would be tax-free.

In testimony before the Senate panel, Sara Wolff, 31, who has Down syndrome, said that passing the ABLE Act would change her life. Under current law, Wolff and many others with disabilities cannot have more than $2,000 at any given time without forfeiting government benefits. As a result, Wolff said she works two jobs but is careful not to earn more than $700 a month even though shes capable of far more.

Just because I have Down syndrome, that shouldnt hold me back from achieving my full potential in life. I can work a full-time job, be a productive member of society and pay taxes but because of these outdated laws placed on individuals with disabilities, people like me are held back in life, said the Moscow, Pa. resident who has amassed more than 250,000 signatures on an onlinepetitioncalling on Congress to pass the bill.

With widespread support from lawmakers in both political parties and the disability community, backers say they expect the ABLE Act to be fast-tracked and hope to have a bill on President Barack Obamas desk by the end of September.

This is really the most popular piece of legislation in Congress right now, said Sara Weir, vice president of advocacy at the National Down Syndrome Society, who indicated the bill has 366 co-sponsors in the U.S. House of Representatives and 74 in the Senate.

Next up, the House Ways and Means Committee is expected to consider the ABLE Act before sending it for a vote in the full House and Senate.

Weir said advocates are already in talks with financial institutions who are eager to begin offering the new accounts should the ABLE Act become law.

No other bill in Congress has this level of bipartisan, bicameral support, said Sen. Bob Casey, D-Pa., the legislations leadsponsor. We want all 535 members of Congress behind this important legislation, and we need to build on our momentum in order to get the bill passed when we return from the August recess.

Source:http://www.disabilityscoop.com/2014/07/24/congress-weighing-savings/19545/

Interesting blog on commerce.gov about the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). I find the facts and figures very interesting--particularly the age statistics.

Census Bureau Releases Disability Facts and Figures in Recognition of ADA Anniversary

Self-Determination Network News: July 2014

Connect|Share|Learn|http://sdnetworkwi.org/

New Network Manager

We would like to thank Deb Wisniewski for all her years of hard work and dedication to theSelf-Determination Networkand theEmployment Network. We really appreciate all the time you have spent getting these networks going. We cant thank you enough!

As of June 1^st, Stacy Ellingen took over as the network manager. She comes with knowledge about what services, resources, etc there are available for people with disabilities. Shes hoping to be able to use her experiences to help others. Shes looking forward to getting to know our members!

It Only Takes "Five"

Take five minutes to check out what's happening on the SD Network:

• Join the Conversation: Deb posted an interesting discussion about person-centered planning and personalization. Shes wondering if these concepts are failing people within our long-term care systems. What do you think?

• Share your ideas: We posted some of the ideas and resources shared during our last Coffee Break with Kat Savyannah of the hOur TimeBanks. We discussed the benefits of TimeBanks and how people can get involved.

• Get Involved: The 2014 Self-Determination Conference is quickly approaching. Be sure to register today!

• We need your help: Check out this announcement from Wisconsin Employment First about how your voice can be heard!

• Post news or start a discussion: It's easy to do and a great way to share information and network with others!

Monthly Coffee Breaks will return in September. When should we hold Coffee Breaks? Answer ourOne-Minute Poll now!

New Members

Stop by to welcomeour newest members.

• She's an advisor of the People First Door County Group and also theexecutive director of a corporate guardian agency that promotes self-determination
• Sheworks with older adults and people with disabilities
• Sheworks with people with disabilities
• Shes a registered nurse and also aparent to children who have special needs
• Shes aProgram Directorat Lutheran Social Services
• Shes an advocate andworks with In Control Wisconsin
• Shes a volunteer with theWisconsin ADA Partnership
• She hasconnections with In Control Wisconsin
• Shes involvedin Wisconsin Partners in Policymaking
• Shes a parent to a child who has special needs andstaff at Family Voices of WI
• Shes the Executive Director of the Fox Valley Sibling Support Network and aparent to a childwho has special needs
• Shesupports individuals with disabilities
• Hes activelyinvolved in implementing/developing supports for individuals with developmental disabilities
• Shes aCommunity Network Specialist at TMG-IRIS
• Shes a self advocate for the WI-LEND Program anda student intern for Think College
• Shes ablack belt in tae kwon do and karate
• Shes agrandmother to two granddaughters who have special needs
• Sheworked in Human Services for 22 years
• Shes an IRIS Consultant anda board member of the Wausau area TimeBank
• Shes thehOur Community TimeBank Coordinator
• She has been doingperson centered planning for 17 years
• Shes a very passionateperson who continues to work toward inclusion for all individuals
• Shes a retired administrative professional who isinvolved in the hOur Community TimeBank
• Sheworks with people with disabilities
• Sheowns a graphic design business
• Shes the founder of Einstein Productions andan advocate for individuals with different abilities
• Shes adisability advocate
• Sheworks with adults who have developmental disabilities
• Sheworks with older adults and people with disabilities
• She hasworked with people with disabilities for the past 12 years
• Shes thestate coordinator for the Disability Benefit Specialist program
• Hes anEmployment Specialist with a CRF
• Shes aparent to a daughter who has special needs

Do you know someone who should join the SD Network? Spread the word and invite friends, families and other interested folks!

Upcoming Events

Here's a sample ofupcoming eventslisted on the SD Network:

• everyBODY Plays! An Adaptive Sports and Recreation Expo: July 26^th, 9am to 3pm, Nathan Hale High School, West Allis WI
• Think College Wisconsin: Expanding College Opportunities for Students with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities: October 17^th, 8:30am to 4pm, Cardinal Stretch University, Milwaukee WI
• Across The Lifespan: Bringing the Best Together: November 13^thto 14^th, Glacier Canyon Lodge and Convention Center, Wisconsin Dells WI

Post your eventon the SDS Network and it can be included in future Network News emails to members! Questions? Suggestions? Contact Stacy Ellingen aticwstacy@gmail.com.

The Self-Determination Network is powered by In Control Wisconsin and supported financially by ourmembersandSponsors. We couldn't keep this Network going with you! Find out how you can help support the Network.