Self-Determination Network News: November 2015

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2015 Self-Determination Conference

We really enjoyed seeing so many of our members at this years Self-Determination Conference. Wed love to hear what you thought of it. Weve started a discussion about it, so you can share your experience, comments, and ideas. Lets keep the conversation going!

We want to congratulate this year's Diehard Award winners who were recognized at the conference.These individuals received a Diehard Award for going above and beyond in supporting the lives of people with disabilities. Many of the winners are members of our Network. Please help us congratulate and thank these members for their outstanding advocacy efforts:

• Jane Jushka is involved various advocacy groups and serves as a mentor for People First.
• Ginger Beuk was very active in getting an accessible playground built in her community and is also very involved in many advocacy groups.
• Marie Massart helped start a People First group in her community.
• Julie Burish is a parent advocate who has been very involved in Save IRIS.
• Jason Endres is very active in various advocacy groups such as Save IRIS and is the president of People First Wisconsin.
• Nancy Gapinski is another parent advocate who has been very involved in Save IRIS.
• Marion Holmberg is yet another parent advocate who has been very involved in Save IRIS.
• Erin Miller is a strong self-advocate and is involved in Save IRIS.

Changes to Wisconsin Long-Term Care: Whats Next?

On November 18th, theCommittee on Aging and Long-Term Care held an Informational hearing on Medicaid Managed Care -Family Care-IRIS 2.0. Linksto the video recording of itandthePowerPoints that were used can be found on our Resource page.

In addition,in late October, InControlWisconsin released itscomments on the newLong-Term Care plan for Wisconsin. We encourage you take a few minutes to read these over and add your commentsas well.

It Only Takes "Five"

Take five minutes to check out what's happening on the Self-Determination Network:

• Input Needed: Angie is looking for direct support professionals to complete an online survey. Could you help her? Or do you know someone that could help her?
• Get Involved: Marie posted about her involvement in People First Wisconsin and what it has done for her. Shes encouraging others to contact her to learn how to become involved.
• Benefits Remain Unchanged: This is an interesting article about how Social Security benefits will remain the same in 2016.
• Call for Student Artists: VSA Wisconsin is looking for student artists (ages 5-21) with disabilities. Submissions due by February 15^th, 2016.
• Neat New App: This is a great article a new app that locates the nearest handicapped parking spots.
• Call for Proposals: Proposals are now being accepted for the 2016 Multiple Perspectives Conference. Proposals are due January 18^th, 2016.
• Post news or start a discussion: It's easy to do and a great way to share information and network with others!

Stacys Journal

For November, Stacy shares about her experience attending the Self-Determination Conference with us. We encourage you to ask her questions and/or share your experiences as well.

New Members

Stop by to welcomeour newest members:

• Hes the President of People First Wisconsin.
• She wants to keep updated about current issues, so she can advocate for herself.
• This SDS coordinator wants to share information and resources.
• This parent and advocate is a member of Save IRIS.
• He learned about the Network at the Self-Determination Conference.
• She wants to learn more about the healthcare industry.
• She works with people with disabilities and wants to become a better advocate.
• This advocate learned about the Network from her friend.

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

Upcoming Events

Here's a sample ofupcoming eventslisted on the Self-Determination Network:

• Across the Lifespan Conference: December 3^rd to 4^th, Chula Vista Resort, Wisconsin Dells WI
• Wisconsin Transition Conference: February 18^th to 19^th, Kalahari Resort, Wisconsin Dells WI

Post your eventon 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 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.