Self-Determination Network News: September 2020
September 2020
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Hurry! Time is Running Out! Register Today!
Registration for the 2020 Self-Determination Conference closes on October 1st. We look forward to seeing you at one of the biggest events for people with disabilities and the people who support them. The 2020 Self-Determination Conference will be held virtually October 26th-28th. Learn how to live more independently, participate more in your community, and direct your public funds efficiently. Registration is free! Register now!
Diehard Award Nominations
Do you know someone who goes above and beyond to improve the lives of individuals with disabilities? A Diehard is an individual who has made a significant contribution to the advocacy work here in Wisconsin. They are someone who is committed to integration and self-determination. Nominate someone for the Diehard Award to be presented at this year’s conference. Nominations are due September 15th.
Input Needed on Wisconsin's Long-Term Transportation Plan
Many people with disabilities, older adults, low income workers, and people who do not have access to a vehicle or choose not to drive cannot get where they need to go on their schedule. Survival Coalition’s Transportation survey identified many barriers that limit and impact people’s ability to live where they want, pursue job opportunities, get medical care, take care of routine business, be involved in their communities, and stay connected with family and friends.
The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (DOT) is seeking public comments as it shapes its long-term transportation plan—Connect 2050. This plan is a 30-year blueprint for how Wisconsin will invest to create the transportation system of the future. We encourage you to share how your transportation options and challenges affect your life and the changes you would like to see!
Check Out The Latest Videos!
The Self-Determination Channel is a YouTube channel by and for people with developmental or intellectual disabilities. Unlike other channels, the Self-Determination Channel stands stand out from other channels on YouTube because self-advocates host the videos, and decide and create the content. Videos are posted a couple times a month on a variety of topics self-advocates care about such as technology, employment, caregivers, independent living, and advocacy.
Check out the newest videos on the channel:
- Carol Anne Says, "Nobody is going to tell me what to do"
- DO YOU KNOW: You have the right to take risks!!
We encourage you to subscribe to the Channel (you can do by clicking the red Subscribe button on any of the video pages).
The Self-Determination Network includes some very talented members and we want to help you to get to know each other a little better. Member Spotlight is a great way for us to get to know each other better.
In September, we're shining the spotlight on Jane. When this fun-loving grandma isn't busy spoiling her grandchildren, she's busy working to provide various supports to assist people with disabilities. Stop this month's Member Spotlight to get to know Jane.
Who should we shine the spotlight on next?
"Privacy is one of the few things that’s hard to modify. It’s something that we, as people with disabilities, have to try to figure out how to persevere on an individual basis."
In this month's entry, Stacy talks about the lack of privacy people with disabilities often have. Have we found this to be true?
Take five minutes to check out what's happening on the Self-Determination Network:
- Person-Centered Planning: The Person-Centered Planning and Practice (PCP) Project final report is now available. This report documents the effort to address long-term services and supports that are predicated on a person’s needs, preferences, goals, and desires. Learn what the recommendations are.
- Technology Accessibility: In today's world, in one way or another, technology is part of our daily lives. Find out what one technology company is doing to ensure accessibility in their products as well as their workplace.
- Face Mask Clarification: Thanks to COVID-19,face coverings have become part of our daily lives. This Frequently Asked Question sheet clarifies some confusion about the mandate. Take a look.
- Outbreaks in Institutions: It's well-known that COVID-19 spreads quickly in congregate settings. Nursing homes are required to report cases to the government; however, despite outbreaks, institutions aren't. Learn about why advocates are trying to get this changed.
- Assistive Technology Grant Opportunity: There's a new assistive technology grant available to state programs. Applications are due September 15th.
- Watch: Watch this neat story about a man from Wisconsin not letting his limitations stop him from doing the things he loves.
- Outside Dining Areas Create Barriers: As the pandemic continues, many restaurants are creating outdoor eating areas so people can socially distance and eat outside. This is a popular option for many; however, these areas often create barriers for people with disabilities. Read about some of the issues.
- Virtual Accommodations: When the world shutdown in March and almost everything went virtual, it opened up new doors for many people with disabilities. Find out what many are wondering about when the pandemic is over.
- Silver Linings: As devastating as this pandemic has been, more and more silver linings are being found. Learn how some nurses who have disabilities are finally getting hired.
- Pandemic Guidance for People with Disabilities: As we all know, this pandemic has been hard on people with disabilities. Learn about some evolving guidance on safe care and support of people with disabilities.
- Voting Resources: The November Presidential election is quickly approaching. Check out these great voting resources from Wisconsin Disability Vote Coalition.
- Concerns over the Census: After making adjustments earlier this year due to the pandemic, the US Census Bureau was expected to collect responses through the end of October. However, it was recently announced that they would stop at the end of September. Find out why this worries disability advocates.
Here's a sample of upcoming events listed on the Self-Determination Network:
- AbilityMKE Now: September 10th, 6:30p.m. to 7:30p.m., Online
- The World Of Ability Podcast: September 12th, 2p.m. to 3p.m., Online
- CitizenFest: September 14th to September 19th, Online
- ADA Audio Conference Session: Moving The Needle On Disability Employment: September 15th, 1p.m. to 2:30p.m., Online
- ADA Legal Series Session: Criminal Justice And The ADA: September 16th, 1p.m. to 2:30p.m., Online
- Virtual Summit Series: Governor's Task Force On Caregiving Overview: September 16th, 1p.m. to 2:30p.m., Online
- “Health Care Transition: Transition Stories About Challenges Faced By Generation Z”: September 17th, 12p.m. to 1p.m., Online
- Virtual Summit Series: Employer Perspectives And Changes During COVID-19: September 23rd, 1p.m. to 2:30p.m., Online
- AbilityFestUSA: October 26th to November 1st, Sheraton Hotel, Brookefield WI
Post your event on the Self-Determination Network and it can be included in future Network News emails to members! Questions? Suggestions? Contact Stacy Ellingen.
The Self-Determination Network is powered by InControl Wisconsin and supported financially by our members and Sponsors. We couldn't keep this Network going with you! Find out how you can help support the Network.
