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October 3, 2013

BadgerCare? Obamacare? Federal Shutdown? Oh My!

There's been a lot happening over the last couple weeks. First Wisconsin announced that 92,000 people would be taken off BadgerCare. Then the Health Insurance Marketplaces (through the Affordable Care Act - "Obamacare") opened up for enrollment. This happened at the same time that our US elected officials decided to "shutdown" the federal government. It's not surprising if you feel confused about how this all affects you. The SDS Network has added some resources and started a discussion to help you learn about what might help you, as well as how this is all affecting you. Please take some time to check these out and participate - Members are the best source of support for each other.

It Only Takes "Five"

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

• Join the Conversation: With everything that's happening at once - Obamacare, BadgerCare, and the federal shutdown - how are you being affected?

• Check Out New Resources: We've posted some resources about Health Insurance and some about the shutdown of the federal government. Please add whatever has helped you.

• Share your ideas: Julie is wondering about what questions you ask when hiring a support person or provider agency. Tell her what you think!

• Stay Up-to-Date: Disability Rights Wisconsin (DRW) appoints a new director, DanIdzikowski. Find out who he is and how you can contact him.

• Tell Your Story: BPDD is sponsoring the Take Your Legislator to Work Campaign. Find out how you can get involved.

Support the Network with "Five":

• We rely on contributions to keep the SDS Network in business. If you are finding it valuable to be a member,consider making a donation of five dollars or more, orbecoming a sponsor. For more information, contactDeb Wisniewski.

Join Us for a Coffee Break

Open Forum: October 16, 2013

The SDS Network Coffee Break this month will be an Open Forum. What questions do you have about self-directing your supports? How do you help other people self-direct? What are the biggest challenges for you or the people you support? We can also talk about BadgerCare, Obamacare, etc.... What do you want to talk about?

Join us and share your questions, as well as your ideas and experiences.There is no registration fee to participate, but you do need to be a Network member and RSVPs are welcome!

Welcome New Members

Stop by to welcome our newest members.

• She's an IRIS Outreach Specialist who adores her mom.
• She wants to help my family and other families to succeed with the freedoms that SDS provides.
  
• Sheis the Wisconsin Statewide Parent Educator Initiative at CESA #4.
  
• He's an educator who works with students who have disabilities.
• She's abig advocate of people taking charge of their own lives.
• She's an IRIS consultant.
• Sheworks at United Cerebral Palsy of Greater Dane County asan Assessment and Planning Coordinator.
• This person is interested in self-employment.
• She's a support brokerwho works with people all over Wisconsin.

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

Upcoming Events

Here's a sample of upcoming events listed on the SDS Network:

• SDS Network Coffee Break: Open Forum, Oct. 16. Online Chat.
• Health Care Reform: What You Need to Know, Oct. 9. Online webinar - register now!
• Wisconsin Self-Determination Conference, Oct. 29-31., Wisconsin Dells, WI. - register now!
• And many more!

Post your event on the SDS Network and it can be included in future Network News emails to members! Questions? Contact Deb Wisniewski at scgwis@gmail.com

Thanks to the sponsors of the SDS Network!