Self-Determination Network News: August 2018
August 2018
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Hurry! Early Bird Registration Ends Soon!
Register today for the 2018 Self-Determination Conference! The annual conference works to empower people with disabilities in Wisconsin to have more control over their lives. More than 600 people each year participate in the conference to learn more about self-determination and Self-Directed Supports so they can live independently, be members of their communities, and use public funds efficiently. The conference participants include people with disabilities and their family members, direct care providers, and professionals from Wisconsin’s disability community. Conference Scholarships will be available until September 7, 2018 or until funds run out. There are a limited number of scholarships available and they are determined on a first come, first serve basis. Early bird registration ends August 30th!
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.
For August, we shine the spotlight on dedicated mother, Lisa. She's a firm believer in self-determination as she has witnessed it do amazing things for her daughter. Stop by this month's Member Spotlight to get to know Lisa.
"We’re in the twenty-first century. Shouldn’t people know to treat a person who happens to have a disability like any other person? Unfortunately, that’s not the case. Although, it has significantly improved over the years, the general population still isn’t comfortable with people with disabilities."
In this month's entry, Stacy discusses how while the acceptance of people with disabilities has greatly improved, there is still a lot of work that needs to be done! We encourage you to share your thoughts and experiences as well.
Take five minutes to check out what's happening on the Self-Determination Network:
- SPARKS Grants: Applications for the 2018-19 SPARKS Grants are now available. These grants help to organize grassroots groups to make changes in the community that will have a positive impact on the lives of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Learn more and apply today!
- 2018-19 Partners in Policymaking: Partners in Policymaking is a six-session advocacy and systems change training program for people living with developmental disabilities, their siblings, and parents of children with disabilities ages birth to 21. Applications for the 2018-19 Policymaking class are due September 1st.
- Straw Bans: States and cities are being pressed by environmentalists to eliminate plastic straws, but strong objections from disability advocates and others have delayed or stopped some proposed bans. Learn why many people with disabilities are opposed to eliminating plastic straws.
- Caregiver Shortages Affecting Housing Prices: It's well known that the caregiver shortage is nationwide, but read about how now some people are saying that the high housing costs are making it more difficult to find caregivers.
- Voter Registration: Advocacy groups are working to educate people with disabilities about the multiple accommodations available to assist with voting. Read about some of the available accommodations.
- Children's Long-Term Support Forums: The Department of Health Services is holding multiple forums across the state about updates for Children's Long-Term Support. Learn about the latest updates in the CLTS Waiver Program.
- Segregation Comments Cause Alarms: Remarks from a top official at the federal agency responsible for community living leaves lawmakers looking for answers. Find out what was said.
- National Park Accessibility: The National Park Service recently announced that nine parks have received more than $10 million to improve accessibility. Read about what the funding will be used for.
- Transportation Survey: The National Center for Mobility Management (NCMM) is seeking input from state and local stakeholders to inform the future of transportation coordination.
- Modernizing Home Care: The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has suggested changes to its payment system to improve access to remote patient care services and update the payment model. Read about what the changes will do.
- Technology Helps Travelers with Disabilities to an Extent: While some airlines have mandatory training on how to assist people with disabilities, the advances in technology have made it easier for people with disabilities to travel; however, transportation systems still need some improvements. Learn about ways things could be improved.
Here's a sample of upcoming events listed on the Self-Determination Network:
- Ability Fest: October 14th, 7:30a.m. to 4p.m., Camelot Golf Course, Lomira WI
- 2018 Self-Determination Conference: October 29th-31st, Kalahari Resort, Wisconsin Dells 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.
