SD Network

News

The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) recently released updated guidance requiring federal agencies to improve their digital accessibility for people with disabilities. Nearly half of the most popular federal government websites are not fully accessible, which prevents access to critical services and information for millions of Americans.

The changes outlined in the guidance memo include:
  • Testing electronic content for accessibility before publishing and including disabled people during the digital design and testing user group process.
  • Establishing digital accessibility programs and policies by designating a program manager to define and oversee digital accessibility processes, reporting, tracking, and resolving problems.
  • Purchasing accessible products and services.
  • Regularly scanning web content to assess whether accessibility requirements are met and prioritizing remediation.
  • Cultivating a positive culture of digital accessibility, such as by offering training and education to employees on a regular basis.
The new guidance establishes the required leadership, goals, and a renewed focus to improve digital accessibility across the federal government.

Learn more by reading the policy guidance from OMB or the White House announcement. Email ofcio@omb.eop.gov with any questions.
Posted in: default | 0 comments

Starting January 1st, people with disabilities are able to save more money in ABLE accounts which are accounts that allow them to save without jeopardizing their government benefits. The Internal Revenue Service increased the federal gift tax exclusion from $18,000. The new limit is up from $1,000 last year. 

Read more

The nearly five million direct care workers who support older adults and people with disabilities are the largest workforce in the U.S. But despite high demand, many are paid little more than minimum wage. A longstanding workforce shortage means people with disabilities who depend on those workers are left without the support they need.

Watch clip

Posted in: default | 0 comments

Become a part of the youth that lead us! This week-long forum is for high school students with disabilities who want to learn more about leadership, self-advocacy skills, and career awareness. Do you want to:

  • Meet other students your age from around the state who are in similar situations?
  • Increase your leadership skills so you can set and reach your goals?
  • Become a leader in your school and community?

 

Please apply – you’ll have the time of your life! 25 students with disabilities will be chosen from around the state. We are looking for:

  • Students who show leadership potential by being active in their school and community
  • Students who have a disability (physical, learning, intellectual, emotional, sensory)
  • Wisconsin residents
  • Students who are currently sophomores, juniors or seniors

What is self-advocacy? In the 1800s, people with disabilities didn't have the opportunity to advocate for themselves. They were placed in institutions or hospitals and were not seen by the world. Big changes came in the 1960s when the civil rights movement started. The Americans Civil Rights Act of 1964 made it illegal to treat people unfairly because of their disability. The Americans with Disabilities Act later required to public services, communication, education, transportation, and other things. To be the best self-advocate is to know what to want and how to receive what you want. This column lists several points to help you advocate.

Read more

Posted in: default | 0 comments

Member Spotlight: Brett


By SD Network, 2023-12-22

1000000136.jpgMeet Brett. This fun-loving guy is determined to make the best of life regardless of the circumstances. He is determined to make an impact on as many lives as possible. He is working to change the long-term care functional screen to make it easier for people. We are so fortunate to have him as a member of the Network!

 What's your story?  Tell us a little bit about yourself.

Brett shares that he was born three months premature weighing 1 lb 15 oz. Due to this, he has cerebral palsy, but he doesn’t let it stop him. “I am always determined to make it impact in as many lives as I possibly can,” he says. 

How are you involved with self-determination? Why did you join the SD Network?

Brett shows self-determination by not giving up. “I keep fighting every single day of my life. My life may not be perfect, but somebody always has it worse,” he tells us. He joined the Network to make a difference. 

Tell us some good news - what's the most exciting thing happening for you (or in Wisconsin) in terms of self-determination?

Brett is working with legislators and stand functional screen for long-term care. “This isn’t going to happen overnight, but I’m not going to stop until it is changed,” he says.

What are some of your hobbies?

Brett enjoys watching TV and playing video games. He also loves spending time with his family and friends.

***We love hearing the views and opinions of Network members. We need to mention that the views and opinions expressed on this site are those of the person who is sharing them. They do not necessarily reflect InControl Wisconsin or any of our supporters and funders.

 

ACL is announcing an opportunity for the public to comment on the data collection requirements for the ACL Evidence-Based Falls Prevention Program Information Collection.

This notice solicits comments on the proposed extension of this data collection.
Grantee agencies through this program represent a variety of organization types, including state agencies, area agencies on aging, universities, nonprofit organizations, and tribes. The respondents for this data collection are grantee staff, local staff, and program participants.


The proposed data collection tools include: 
  • Program Information Cover Sheet
  • Attendance Log
  • Participant Information Form
  • Post Session Survey
Comments on the collection of information must be submitted electronically by 11:59 PM ET or postmarked by February 12, 2024.

Submit electronic comments on the collection of information and any questions to Donna.Bethge@acl.hhs.gov. Submit written comments on the collection of information to Administration for Community Living, Washington, DC 20201, Attention: Donna Bethge.
Posted in: default | 0 comments

Everyone loves to travel every once in awhile. People travel to places for a variety of reasons. Traveling is generally fun and exciting, but it also can be stressful. This is especially true for many people who have disabilities. There are several things that people with disabilities have to think about when traveling. Market Watch put together a great guide of tips for people with disabilities.

View guide

Posted in: default | 0 comments
   / 221