Self-Determination Network News: September 2022
Self-Determination Network News:
September 2022
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Have you registered for the 2022 Self-Determination Conference yet? It will be held October 17-19 at the Kalahari Resort in Wisconsin Dells. Join us for one of the largest events for people with disabilities and people who support them. There is an option to attend virtually as well. Registration closes September 30. Register now!
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.
This month, we shined the spotlight on Hannah. When this very determined lady isn’t working or volunteering in her community, you may find her doing a wide array of hobbies. Check out this month's Member Spotlight to get to know Hannah.
Who should we shine the spotlight on next?
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:
We encourage you to subscribe to the Channel (you can do so by clicking the red Subscribe button on any of the video pages).
Take five minutes to check out what's happening on the Self-Determination Network:
- Adult Changing Tables: Most people don't think twice about the ability to use a public restroom, but, for some people with different abilities, using the restroom requires accommodations that aren't readily available in most public places. Read about how one county in Wisconsin is purposing that adult changing stations be installed in county faculties with the highest foot traffic.
- Outdoor Accessibility: More people started visiting their local and state parks at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, but who has access to those outdoor spaces? Listen to this interview to learn about what's being done to make outdoor spaces more accessible.
- Marriage Equality: For many people with disabilities, marriage is a tricky topic. Those who receive Social Security benefits often have to make the tough decision to not get legally married because they would lose their benefits they rely on. Read about how disability advocates continue to talk with legislators in hopes to make changes happen.
- Battle Continues over Rideshare Accessibility: Disability advocates continue to advocate for wheelchair accessible vehicles to be available in ride share companies such as Uber and Lyft. Learn why companies are arguing they're not required to follow the Americans with Disabilities Act.
- Increase in Representation: A new study found that representation among adults who have Autism and development disabilities is growing. Find out where the increase is being seen.
- Supplemental Security Income Benefits Fall Short: Because of a quirk in the calendar, people receiving Supplemental Security Income will receive two payments in September, but none in October. The average monthly benefit is $624 per month, but many people feel it isn't enough. Read about why many people feel it isn't enough.
- Ruling Brings Sigh of Relief: Wisconsin voters with disabilities recently breathed a sigh of relief when a US District Judge said that voters with disabilities can receive assistance returning their ballot despite a state Supreme Court ruling. Learn what the judge based the ruling on.
- New Guidance for Voters: After a federal judge ruled that people with disabilities could receive assistance returning their ballot, the Wisconsin Elections Commission issued guidance about how people can assist. Find out what it says.
- iPad Loan Program: WisTech, Wisconsin's Assistive Technology Act Program, reminds everyone that we have iPads (including a mini and an iTouch) available for short-term loans for 30 days. Learn more about this program.
- 2022 ADA Transition Plan: WisDOT has published the 2022 Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Transition Plan. There is a public comment period open through Friday, September 30. Your feedback is very important, and we encourage you to take the time to participate in this opportunity.
- Transportation Survey: The National Aging and Transportation Center wants to hear about challenges and promising practices in providing accessible transportation to older adults and people with disabilities. Take their survey by September 28th.
- Call for Presenters: Applications are now being accepted to present at the 2023 Circles of Life Conference. Applications due October 28th.
- Home Care Industry: Home-based care will account for the majority of an estimated 1.2 million new jobs in the direct care workforce sector from now until 2030. Find out what a new report suggests the industry will need to do in order to keep up with the growth.
- Direct Care Worker Report: A report was recently released that provides a snapshot was the direct care workforce. Take a few minutes to look at it.
- Wisconsin Voters Relieved, but Not the Case Elsewhere: While Wisconsin voters with disabilities continue to breathe a sigh of relief after a federal judge ruled that the Voting Rights Act, which allows for voter assistance, trumps state law, voters in other states continue to fight over ballot assistance. Read about how laws in other states have made it difficult or impossible for some voters with disabilities to vote.
Here's a sample of upcoming events listed on the Self-Determination Network:
- Webinar: ADA Enforcement And Steps You Can Take Before You File An ADA Complaint: September 20th, 1p.m. to 2:30p.m., Online
- Webinar: The Voices Of People With Disabilities And Older Adults - Strengthening Advocacy In The HCBS Settings Rule: September 23rd, 1p.m. to 2:30p.m., Online
- Webinar: Building A Successful Document Accessibility Program: Strategies, Methods, And Workplans For Inclusive Programs: September 28th, 12p.m. to 1p.m., Online
- Webinar: Accessible Amusement Rides: October 6th, 1:30p.m. to 3p.m., Online
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.
