Connect|Share|Learn|http://sdnetworkwi.org/

Network Guidelines

Were really glad youre a member of the Self Determination Network. We really encourage you to share your thoughts, resources, ideas, and questions with us, and the rest of our community. To ensure this community continues to run as smoothly and effectively as possible, we have developed some simple guidelines. We encourage you to take a minute to read them over. You can view them by clickinghere.

It Only Takes "Five"

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

• Join the Conversation: In todays world, ableism is likely one of the last things on peoples minds. It certainly does exist though. This piece brings up many points. What are your thoughts on Ableism? What are some things we can do as a society to bring awareness to this issue?

• Be Inspired: Read this inspiring story about how a Starbucks employee went the extra mile to help a customer become more independent.

• Watch: This is a great video from the Minnesota Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities about inclusion.

• Conference Scholarships: Family scholarships are available for the Self-Determination Conference. Application deadline is September 30^th. Find out how to apply today!

• Share:Share your story about self-determination. Have you advocated for yourself or others to gain independence? Have you defied odds or proven naysayers wrong? Our stories provide opportunities to inspire and learn from each other. Share your story with us.

• Read: Read about how two disability advocates are making sure that the disability community has a voice in the state proposal.

• Post news or start a discussion: It's easy to do and a great way to share information and network with others!

We are in the process of reevaluating and possibly revamping how Coffee Breaks are done. Were hoping to start them up again soon. If you have thoughts or ideas regarding Coffee Breaks, please contactStacy Ellingen. We certainly welcome any input.

New Members

Stop by to welcomeournewest members

• Shesa momwho is looking for things that could help her daughter

• She was recently named2014 Winneshiek County Fair Queen

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:

• Disability Rights Wisconsin Listening Session: September 19^th, 4:30pm to 6:30pm,Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Center, Milwaukee WI

• Wisconsin FACETS College Panel: September 24^th, 6:00pm to 8:00pm, Wisconsin FACETS, Milwaukee WI

• Madison Nonprofit Day Conference: October 2^nd, Monona Terrace and Convention Center, Madison WI

• Think College Wisconsin: Expanding College Opportunities for Students with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities: October 17^th, 8:30am to 4pm, Cardinal Stretch University, Milwaukee WI

• Wisconsin Self-Determination Conference: November 10^thto 12^th, Kalahari Resort, Wisconsin Dells WI

• Across The Lifespan: Bringing the Best Together: November 13^thto 14^th, Glacier Canyon Lodge and Convention Center, Wisconsin Dells WI

• The Survival Coalition Disability Advocacy Day: March 17^th, Monona Terrace and Convention Center, Madison WI

Post your eventon the Self-Determination Network and it can be included in future Network News emails to members! Questions? Suggestions? ContactStacy 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.

Connect|Share|Learn|http://sdnetworkwi.org/

We Want to Hear From You!

Do you have a question, a news story, an idea, an event, or information you think others would benefit from? Post it on the Self-Determination Network and share it with over 200 people. There's a wealth of experience, knowledge and skills represented by the members of the Self-Determination Network.

It Only Takes "Five"

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

• Join the Conversation: There has been a lot of buzz lately about the new handicapped symbol. Have you seen it? What are your thoughts? Is it too disability specific?

• Posting: Stefaine posted a great job opening for a Community Bridge Builder for Living Our Visions, Inc. (LOV-Dane) Check it out!

• Watch: Watch a video from last years Self-Determination Conference.Registerfor this years conference today!

• Let Your Voice Be Heard: The DHS has produced a plan that will change the way long term supports through Medicaid will be delivered. Let your voice be heard

• Share: Share your story about self-determination. Have you advocated for yourself or others to gain independence? Have you defied odds or proven naysayers wrong? Our stories provide opportunities to inspire and learn from each other. Share your story with us.

• Learn: Read about the Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) Act that could potentially improve life for thousands of people with disabilities.

• Post news or start a discussion: It's easy to do and a great way to share information and network with others!

Were hoping Coffee Breaks will return in October or November. What topics would you like to have on the Self-Determination Network Coffee Breaks? Answer ourOne-Minute Poll now!

New Members

Stop by to welcomeournewest members

• Shebelieves in equal rights for all peopleand is passionate about serving her community.

Do you know someone who should join the SD Network? Spread the word andinvitefriends, families and other interested folks!

Upcoming Events

Here's a sample ofupcoming eventslisted on the SD Network:

• Think College Wisconsin: Expanding College Opportunities for Students with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities: October 17^th,8:30am to 4pm, Cardinal Stretch University, Milwaukee WI
• Wisconsin Self-Determination Conference: November 10^thto 12^th, Kalahari Resort, Wisconsin Dells WI
• Across The Lifespan: Bringing the Best Together: November 13^thto 14^th, Glacier Canyon Lodge and Convention Center, Wisconsin Dells WI

Post your eventon the SDS Network and it can be included in future Network News emails to members! Questions? Suggestions? ContactStacy Ellingen.

The Self-Determination Network is powered byIn Control Wisconsinand supported financially by ourmembersandSponsors. We couldn't keep this Network going with you! Find out how you can help support the Network.

Self-Determination Network News: July 2014

Connect|Share|Learn|http://sdnetworkwi.org/

New Network Manager

We would like to thank Deb Wisniewski for all her years of hard work and dedication to theSelf-Determination Networkand theEmployment Network. We really appreciate all the time you have spent getting these networks going. We cant thank you enough!

As of June 1^st, Stacy Ellingen took over as the network manager. She comes with knowledge about what services, resources, etc there are available for people with disabilities. Shes hoping to be able to use her experiences to help others. Shes looking forward to getting to know our members!

It Only Takes "Five"

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

• Join the Conversation: Deb posted an interesting discussion about person-centered planning and personalization. Shes wondering if these concepts are failing people within our long-term care systems. What do you think?

• Share your ideas: We posted some of the ideas and resources shared during our last Coffee Break with Kat Savyannah of the hOur TimeBanks. We discussed the benefits of TimeBanks and how people can get involved.

• Get Involved: The 2014 Self-Determination Conference is quickly approaching. Be sure to register today!

• We need your help: Check out this announcement from Wisconsin Employment First about how your voice can be heard!

• Post news or start a discussion: It's easy to do and a great way to share information and network with others!

Monthly Coffee Breaks will return in September. When should we hold Coffee Breaks? Answer ourOne-Minute Poll now!

New Members

Stop by to welcomeour newest members.

• She's an advisor of the People First Door County Group and also theexecutive director of a corporate guardian agency that promotes self-determination
• Sheworks with older adults and people with disabilities
• Sheworks with people with disabilities
• Shes a registered nurse and also aparent to children who have special needs
• Shes aProgram Directorat Lutheran Social Services
• Shes an advocate andworks with In Control Wisconsin
• Shes a volunteer with theWisconsin ADA Partnership
• She hasconnections with In Control Wisconsin
• Shes involvedin Wisconsin Partners in Policymaking
• Shes a parent to a child who has special needs andstaff at Family Voices of WI
• Shes the Executive Director of the Fox Valley Sibling Support Network and aparent to a childwho has special needs
• Shesupports individuals with disabilities
• Hes activelyinvolved in implementing/developing supports for individuals with developmental disabilities
• Shes aCommunity Network Specialist at TMG-IRIS
• Shes a self advocate for the WI-LEND Program anda student intern for Think College
• Shes ablack belt in tae kwon do and karate
• Shes agrandmother to two granddaughters who have special needs
• Sheworked in Human Services for 22 years
• Shes an IRIS Consultant anda board member of the Wausau area TimeBank
• Shes thehOur Community TimeBank Coordinator
• She has been doingperson centered planning for 17 years
• Shes a very passionateperson who continues to work toward inclusion for all individuals
• Shes a retired administrative professional who isinvolved in the hOur Community TimeBank
• Sheworks with people with disabilities
• Sheowns a graphic design business
• Shes the founder of Einstein Productions andan advocate for individuals with different abilities
• Shes adisability advocate
• Sheworks with adults who have developmental disabilities
• Sheworks with older adults and people with disabilities
• She hasworked with people with disabilities for the past 12 years
• Shes thestate coordinator for the Disability Benefit Specialist program
• Hes anEmployment Specialist with a CRF
• Shes aparent to a daughter who has special needs

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

Upcoming Events

Here's a sample ofupcoming eventslisted on the SD Network:

• everyBODY Plays! An Adaptive Sports and Recreation Expo: July 26^th, 9am to 3pm, Nathan Hale High School, West Allis WI
• Think College Wisconsin: Expanding College Opportunities for Students with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities: October 17^th, 8:30am to 4pm, Cardinal Stretch University, Milwaukee WI
• Across The Lifespan: Bringing the Best Together: November 13^thto 14^th, Glacier Canyon Lodge and Convention Center, Wisconsin Dells WI

Post your eventon the SDS Network and it can be included in future Network News emails to members! Questions? Suggestions? Contact Stacy Ellingen aticwstacy@gmail.com.

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.

In Control Wisconsin (ICW) is interested in contracting with a Network CommunityManagerto work collaboratively with the ICW Technology Workgroup to facilitate the development and growth of two vibrant online communities that are dedicated to the self-determination of elders and people who have disabilities in Wisconsin. These two communities are theSelf-Determination Networkand theEmployment Network.

The NetworkCommunityManagershould be someone who:

• Supports the values of the Networks;
• Believes in and supports the engagement of Network members as the primary strategy for building active online communities;
• Is familiar with the systems that affect the lives of people with disabilities;
• Is a self-starter willing to take the lead and to work collaboratively with a team of key partners; and
• Enjoys working with technology and embraces the potential of social media.

We hope to identify our new Community Manager by mid-April. If interested in being considered for this contract, please email your resume toonlinenetworks@incontrolwisconsin.orgas soon as possible.

For more information, please see thisdocument. You may alsosubmit questions toonlinenetworks@incontrolwisconsin.org.

Connect | Share | Learn |http://sdnetworkwi.org/

December 16, 2013

Welcome to the Self-Determination Network!

In 2010, we began an online community called the SDS Network. It was named after a series of face-to-face meetings about self-directed supports in Wisconsin (initially funded through Wisconsin's Medicaid Infrastructure Grant). This new online community was seen as a way to share information about self-directed supports (SDS) between those meetings.

From the beginning, we hoped the online community would grow. In fact, the connections, ideas, questions and resources shared over the last three years have been much broader and deeper than we could have guessed. So in keeping with how this online community continues to evolve, we are now re-naming and celebrating the (re-)creation of the Self-Determination Network!

If you've been a member of the SDS Network,you don't need to do anything else to be a part of the SD Network - your profile will automatically continue (although you may want to re-decorate your profile page if you had previously individualized it. We were unable to keep the personal touches you may have added.) You may want to change the address you use to access Network It can now be found at sdnetworkwi.org,although the old address will still take you there for a while.

If you aren't already a member of the Self-Determination Network, please consider joining. There is no registration fee to join. Just click here and follow the directions. We'd love to have you join the conversation!

It Only Takes "Five"

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

• Join the Conversation: Lynn wants to know what self-determination looks like for older adults. He'd like to hear stories and examples of how people are experiencing self-determination beyond just hiring their own support workers.

• Share your ideas: We posted some of the ideas and resources shared during our last Coffee Break, with Chris Patterson of Night Owl, about how to stay safe and independent in your own home by using technology, especially something called Remote Monitoring.

• Get Involved: Give back to your community by getting involved with World Book Night 2014. Deb shares information about this great opportunity.

• Learn about Resources:Check out these two new Resources - the Wisconsin Housing Search website and a new Healthcare Toolkit.

Join Us for a Coffee Break

When should we hold Coffee Breaks? Answer our One-Minute Poll now!

Living in Your Own Home: December 18, 2013, 8:30-9:00 CST

Are you thinking about moving into your own home but aren't sure where to start? Maybe you already have your own place and have some ideas to share with Network members about what helped get there. Or you just want to hear about the possible options to explore for the person you support. Join special guest, Howard Mandeville, from Movin' Out, as we talk about a home of your own.

The Network Coffee Breaks give us an opportunity to participate in a live chat online about a topic related to self-determination. It's not a presentation, but an opportunity for all participating members to share ideas, questions and resources. It's easy to participate and all are welcome to join the conversation.

There is no cost to participate in the Coffee Break. RSVPs are encouraged but not required.

Welcome New Members

Stop by to welcome our newest members.

• She's aCommunity Living Specialistfor the Community Connections program
  
• He's a boardmember withIn Control Wisconsin
• He co-developedSound Response and Night Owl
• He's the director of Movin' Out and ourspecial guest on the next Network Coffee Break
• She'sa parent and an IC with IRIS

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

Upcoming Events

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

• SD Network Coffee Break: Living in Your Own Home, Dec. 18th, Online Chat
• SD Network Coffee Break: Topic to be decided, Jan. 15th, Online Chat
• Save the Date! Wisconsin Disability Advocacy Day, March 19th, Madison
• 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

Connect | Share | Learn |http://sdsnetworkwi.org/

November 7, 2013

We Need to Hear Your Ideas!

Each month or so, the SDS Network holds a Coffee Break. We need to know what topics we should schedule. Is there a particular person you'd like us to invite as a special guest? Respond to the discussion forum with your ideas, questions, etc., or respond to a short surveyto tell us what you think.

Coffee Breaks are informal, livediscussions (chats) on the Network, open to all members. It is not a presentation.They are usually scheduled on the third Wednesday of the month, from 8:30-9:00 am (dates/times may vary - check the schedule).

Each Coffee Break has a different theme -participants will be asked to share their thoughts, questions, ideas and challenges on the subject. You are also welcome to ask questions or share information about anything that relates to SDS and self-determination..

It Only Takes "Five"

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

• Join the Conversation: Senator Schumer from New York is proposing that the Justice Dept. provide tracking devices for individuals with autism or other developmental disabilities in case they go missing. Is that a good idea? Or does it infringe on their personal rights? What do you think?

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

• Get Involved: The US Senate is reconsidering ratification of the UN Disability Rights Treaty (it was defeated in December 2012). Find out more about the Treaty and how you can share you opinion with your senators.

• Learn about Resources:Howard Mandeville and Movin' Out recently won the Bridge-Builder Award from the Isthmus in Madison. Learn more about this fabulous resource.

Join Us for a Coffee Break

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!

Using Technology to Stay Safe & Independent: November 20, 2013, 8:30-9:00 CST

Technology can be a valuable tool when you are trying to live independently but have family & friends who are concerned about your safety. But you may not be aware of what options are available or how to access them. This is your opportunity to ask about what options are available, how to pay for them, how they work, etc.

If you already use technology to be independent, join the Coffee Break to share your story - how has technology helped you stay safe and independent in your own home.

Join our special guest, Chris Patterson from Night Owl Support Systems as we talk about technology.

Living in Your Own Home: December 18, 2013, 8:30-9:00 CST

Are you thinking about moving into your own home but aren't sure where to start? Maybe you already have your own place and have some ideas to share with Network members about what helped get there. Or you just want to hear about the possible options to explore for the person you support. Join special guest, Howard Mandeville, from Movin' Out, as we talk about a home of your own.

Welcome New Members

Stop by to welcome our newest members.

• She's an the director of IBA Resourcesin the Wausau area.
• He works with Night Owland will be our special guest for the Nov. 20th Coffee Break.
• She'sa parent and special ed teacher, with questions about Family Care.

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:

• Coffee Break: Using Technology to Stay Safe & Independent, Nov 20th, Online Chat
• SDS Network Coffee Break: Living in Your Own Home, Dec18th. Online Chat.
• 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!

Connect | Share | Learn |http://sdsnetworkwi.org/

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!

Connect | Share | Learn |http://sdsnetworkwi.org/

July 16, 2013

Show Your Pride!

Come celebrate Wisconsin's first Disability Pride Festival!Join us in Madison on July 27th to share our talents, skills, arts, energy, and pride in being who we are. This event builds on a long tradition of disability pride celebrations around the world. Our theme for this year is Forward to possibility.

Learn more about this exciting, upcoming event!

It Only Takes "Five"

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

• Advance Your Advocacy:Apply for Partners in Policymaking.Self-advocates and family members of a person with a developmental disability (DD) who want to improve their leadership skills are encouraged to apply.

• Member Spotlight: Meet Carrie Bublitz-Cardarella, a passionate and energetic advocate and friend, as well as one of the people who worked to make Elven Stedpossible. Also find out about an update for a member previously in the Spotlight, Kate Parizek, who was recently honored with an award for her community work.

• Make a Difference:If you are passionate about making a change that will improve the lives of people with disabilities in your community, apply for a SPARKS grant from the Wisconsin Board for People with Developmental Disabilities (BPDD).

• Job Opening: Disability Rights Wisconsin (DRW) is now accepting applications for Executive Director. Deadline: July 23, 2013.

• Tell Your Story: BPDD is sponsoring a public awareness campaign, called Better Together. The goal is to raise awareness about the many important roles that individuals with disabilities play in our lives and communities.

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

Many people don't realize that they can use Self-Directed Supports (SDS) regardless of whether they use Family Care or IRIS for their supports. Join us at one or both of these upcoming Coffee Breaksto share your ideas and questions, to get more connected, andto learn how these two programs enable people to use SDS,. Remember that Network Coffee Breaks are not presentations - they areinformal, livediscussions (chats) on the Network, open to all members.

SDS and Family Care, July 24, 2013:

Do you use Family Care for your supports? How do you self-direct within Family Care? What questions do you have about how Family Care can support your efforts to be self-directed? Join our special guest, Cathy Derezinski, from Community Cares of Central Wisconsin (a Family Care Managed Care Organization).

SDS and IRIS, August 21, 2013:

Do you self-direct your supports through IRIS? Or are you wondering how IRIS can work for you or someone you care about? Maybe you're just not sure what IRIS is. Join our special guest for this Coffee Break,Brenda Bauer, from The Management Group (the IRIS Consultant Agency).

Welcome New Members

Stop by to welcome our newest member.

• She's an IRIS consultant, amom, daughter, sister, wife and friend.
• She'd like to see things that work come to her community.
• She's thethecoordinator for the grassroots group ActionNet.
  
• She's the Assistant Director at Options for Independent Livingin Northeast Wisconsin.
• She's a parent fromNew Glarus, WI.
• Her work currently focuses on transition and employment, school inclusion and teacher preparation.
• She's got a "sassy" mom and will be our guest at the Network Coffee Break in August.
• She has a son who uses SDS.
  
  
  

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: SDS and Family Care, July 24.Online
• Disability Pride Festival, July 27. Madison, WI
• SDS Network Coffee Break: SDS and IRIS, August 21. Online
• Wisconsin Self-Determination Conference, Oct. 29-31., Wisconsin Dells, WI.
• 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!