Self-Determination Network News:

November 2017

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Let's keep the conversation going! Over 950 people attended the 10th annual Self-Determination Conference earlier this month.  It was great to see so many of you there. There were a ton of great sessions and events this year. What was your favorite part? What were some things that you learned? Do you have a funny story from the conference? Did something really inspire you?  What suggestions do you have for next year?

Share your comments, questions, and ideas in this discussion!  

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

David Pinno

Sue Urban

Deb Wisniewski 

Abigail Tessmann

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

• Watch:  Watch this excellent short video done by The Arc designed to speak directly to people with developmental disabilities about supported decision-making and getting help making decision.
• Caregiver Act:  A bill that would address the needs of family caregivers is gaining support. Learn how this act would help families.
• Unique Fashion Line:   More and more fashion designers are designing clothes for people with disabilities.  Find out which popular designer recently launched an adaptive clothing line.
• Accessible Airport Kiosks:  One airline has incorporated new technology into their self-service kiosks to ensure they are accessible to all travelers. Read about these new kiosks.
• States Tighten Leash on Service Animals:  A growing number of states are enacting laws designed to keep people from passing off their pets as service animals. Learn what states are doing.
• Smart Home Products Increase Independence:  Smart home products are often marketed for their convenience, but the technology also can help people with disabilities become more independent.  Read about how thousands of technology products have opened up a world of possibilities for people with disabilities.
• Building Full Lives Grant:The Wisconsin Board for People with Developmental Disabilities in partnership with In Control Wisconsin is offering a great opportunity for organizations Interested in supporting individuals with disabilities to Build FULL LIVES in the community.  Applications due November 17th.
• Interesting Court Case:  This in an interesting case about glass-front vending machines not being accessible.  Find out why the Supreme Court declined to review the case.
• Successful Aging:  As people age, they may experience new and chronic health conditions that make it difficult to participate in activities at home, at work, and in the community.   A study showed that there are four  areas that people felt were important for successful aging with a physical disability. Learn what the areas are.
• ABLE Account Annual Contribution Limit:   It was recently announced that  the total annual contribution limit to an ABLE account will increase in 2018.   Find out how much it will increase.
• Polling Place Accessibility: A new report found that less than 20% of polling places were fully accessible during the 2016 election.  Read about what's being done to try to correct it.
• Hunting Bill:  The State Assembly passed a bill that would allow people with disabilities to hunt from a car with a lift.  Read about the bill.

 Stacy’s Journal

When most people hear the word “segregation,” they automatically assume it’s a negative thing. However, at times, that’s not the case. It’s human nature for people to associate with others like them. In this month's entry, Stacy discusses how, as a person with a physical disability, she often struggles to fit in within the disability community.  Have you had similar feelings?  We encourage you to share your thoughts and experiences as well.

 Upcoming Events                                    

Here's a sample of upcoming events listed on the Self-Determination Network:

• Webinar: Interdisciplinary Care Teams For Older Adults: December 7th, 11a.m. to 12:30p.m., Online
• WisconsinSibs: Journey Forward : February 17th, 8:30a.m. to 1p.m., Easterseals, Waukesha, 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.