News
You are invited to participate in a five-minute, seven question, online survey. The purpose of the survey is to obtain the thoughts and opinions of individuals with disabilities related to ability-based outdoor activity. Your responses will remain confidential, and will only be reported in summary, combined with the responses from others across the country. Feel free to forward this email to friends, colleagues, etc.
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To make sure you are entered in the drawing for the gift card, please complete your survey byMidnight, January 15, 2016.
Click here now to complete this five minute survey:http://GreatLakesADA-abilityproject.questionpro.com
Questions regarding this survey should be directed to: Research@AbilityProject.org
Press Release: Announcing the National Aging and Disability Transportation Center
By SD Network, 2016-01-05
This is an interesting press release about a group of disability organizations have formed a National Aging and Disability Transportation Center. It explains what it will provide and how it will be funded. It also gives some helpful links.
A cooperative agreement of Easter Seals, the National Association of Area Agencies on Aging, and the U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Transit Administration FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - Dec. 15, 2015 CONTACT:
National Aging and Disability Center will Promote Availability and Accessibility of Transportation for Seniors, People with Disabilities and Caregivers Washington, D.C.- Easter Sealsand theNational Association of Area Agencies on Aging(n4a) are pleased to announce the launch [on Oct. 1, 2015] of the National Aging and Disability Transportation Center (NADTC), a new national technical assistance center funded by the Federal Transit Administration (FTA). Building on more than 20 years' experience of these two national leaders in accessible transportation, the NADTC will promote the availability and accessibility of transportation options for seniors, people with disabilities, caregivers and communities throughout the U.S. The new Center will work to support the delivery of more effective, efficient, high-quality and coordinated specialized services that maximize federal investments. NADTC will provide technical assistance, information, and referral; develop and field training; implement an interactive communication and outreach strategy; and offer grant funding to support communities in assessing their needs and developing innovative transportation solutions. To ensure that the Center's work responds to the needs of our target audiences, we will engage consumers and other stakeholders as partners, offering opportunities to provide feedback and guidance. "FTA is committed to improving quality of life for seniors and individuals with disabilities by making public transportation an easy and efficient way for them to access jobs, schools, and services," said FTA Acting Administrator Therese McMillan, "The National Aging and Disability Transportation Center (NADTC) wil help aging and disability networks leverage funding from FTA and others to improve access to community supports and services." "The lack of access to viable transportation options is a major reason why many older adults can no longer live with dignity and independence in their homes and communities," said n4a Chief Executive Officer Sandy Markwood. She went on to note, "It's exciting to know that through its work to improve the mobility options of seniors and others, NADTC will also be in a position to improve the quality of life of so many Americans." "Innovations in transportation and technology are making it possible for people with disabilities and older adults to live more independently and remain in their homes longer," said Randall L. Rutta, President & Chief Executive Officer of Easter Seals, Inc. "Through the NADTC, Easter Seals and n4a will be able to share information on creative ways to improve transportation services and involve in the transportation decision-making process the individuals most affected by it." To find out more about the NADTC, request technical assistance, or to sign up for the Center's e-News, send an email tocontact@nadtc.orgor call(866) 528-6278. ### The National Association of Area Agencies on Aging (n4a) is a 501c(3) membership association representing America's national network of 623 Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) and providing a voice in the nation's capital for the 256 Title VI Native American aging programs. The mission of n4a is to build the capacity of its members so they can better help older adults and people with disabilities live with dignity and choices in their homes and communities for as long as possible. Visitwww.n4a.orgfor more information. Easter Seals is the leading non-profit provider of services for individuals with autism, developmental disabilities, physical disabilities, and other special needs. For nearly 100 years, we have been offering help, hope, and answers to children and adults living with disabilities, and to the families who love them. Through therapy, training, education, and support services, Easter Seals creates life-changing solutions so that people with disabilities can live, learn, work, and play. To learn more about Easter Seals and services in communities nationwide, visitwww.easterseals.com. |
National Aging and Disability Transportation Center 1425 K Street N.W. Suite 200 Washington, D.C. 20005 Telephone:(866) 528-6278TTY:(202) 347-7385 Email:contact@nadtc.org The National Aging and Disability Transportation Center is funded through a cooperative agreement of Easter Seals, the National Association of Area Agencies on Aging, and the U.S Department of Transportation, Federal Transit Administration, with guidance from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Community Living. ***We thankthe Great Lakes ADA Center (www.adagreatlakes.org) for this information. |
Thanks to Disability Rights Wisconsinfor providing us with the following information:
On Friday, December 18 several members of the Assembly Aging and Long-Term Care Committee issued a letter to the Department of Health Services outlining their suggestions for the redesign of the Family Care and IRIS systems that support individuals with disabilities and older adults. Family Care/IRIS 2.0 is scheduled to go live after January 2017.
The letter suggests various performance measures and other quality indicators for the Department of Health Services to consider. The letter was issued following a November 18 informational hearing in which committee members heard from various national and state-level experts.
You can read the full letter here:DHS Letter on FamilyCare-IRIS.
Here is a summary of the letters main points:
Family Care/IRIS 2.0 should include quality and performance benchmarks to guarantee an adequate provider network.
Contracts should specify establishment of advisory committees and an active feedback loop for consumers that includes information on their quality of life.
Contracts must emphasize reducing costly institutional placements and emphasizing home and community-based settings for people.
Payments and financial incentives must be aligned with program goals. The state must regularly review quality benchmarks.
Options counseling should be independent and provided at no cost. Ombudsman services must continue to be available to resolve complaints.
The Department must ask questions to ensure Integrated Health Agencies understand how to fully implement self-direction and person-centered planning.
Wisconsin should establish benchmarks related to increasing the number of people employed in competitive integrated jobs.
The state should establish specific requirements of readiness before an Integrated Health Agency can do business in Wisconsin.
Open enrollment periods should be flexible when people have a significant change in their care or providers.
The state should take an active role in ensuring Integrated Health Agencies understand expectations and ensure that services are delivered.
What is Your Role?
If you would like to make sure that what is important to you is included in the new Family Care/IRIS 2.0 system consider the following steps:
1. Read the letter from legislators and decide which main points are important to you.
2. Take the time to thank the legislators who signed onto this letter.
3. Share a link to the letter with your own legislator and write a message about the points in the letter that are most important to you. Tell them how this impacts your life.
4. Ask your legislator to contact the Department of Health Services on your behalf to inquire about how their Family Care/IRIS 2.0 plan will address certain points.
You can find legislator contact information by entering your address here (Find My Legislators):http://legis.wisconsin.gov/
Self-Determination Network News:December 2015
Connect|Share|Learn|http://sdnetworkwi.org/
2016 Aging Empowerment Conference:
Living a Self-Determined Life
The 2016 Aging Empowerment Conference: Living a Self-Determined Life focuses on exploring ways to advance self-determination as the foundation for providing support while empowering older people to retain control of their lives. This is the 3rd annual conference and is hosted by InControl Wisconsin and other sponsors. The 2016 Conference will be June 7th-8th at the Wilderness Resort in Wisconsin Dells. Presentation proposals are now being accepted.
Click hereto learn more information and to fill out the application. Proposals are due January 15th.
Changes to Wisconsin Long-Term Care:
Whats Next?
In December, the Department of Health Services (DHS) must submit its quarterly report to the Joint Finance Committee as required by the budget, and tell how it has engaged with stakeholders on Long-Term Care changes. This is another opportunity to engage with policy-makers and let them know you are watching and concerned about the future of Wisconsins Long-Term Care system.
The Wisconsin Board for Developmental Disabilities has sharedfour action stepsthat you can take in December. Remember, by continuing to let your voice be heard, youre showing policy-makers that you care about the future of Long-Term Care in Wisconsin!
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 December, we shine the Spotlight on Jason Endres. As the former president of People First Wisconsin and also a person who directs his own supports, he full-heartedly that everyone should have the right to live their life as they choose. His tremendous advocacy efforts are widely recognized across the state. Stop by this monthsMember Spotlightand get to know Jason!
Who should we shine the Spotlight on next?
Take five minutes to check out what's happening on the Self-Determination Network:
- Watch: The Wisconsin Board for People with Developmental Disabilities put together a great video that highlights moments from this years Self-Determination Conference.
- Program Summary: Here is the summary of the plan for the Childrens Community Options Program for 2016.
- Protect Access to Specialized Equipment: Significant decreases to availability of customized and essential medical equipment that people with disabilities depend on could be coming in 2016. Find out how you can let your legislators know how this change would affect you or someone you care about.
- Improving Transportation: This is an interesting blog about improving transportation for people with disabilities.
- Community Technical Assistance Grant: The Wisconsin Board for People with Developmental Disabilities is offering a grant for organizations interested in supporting people with disabilities to build full lives in the community. Applications due December 28th.
- ABLE Account Rules Relaxed: This is an interesting about how the IRS has eased up on rules for ABLE accounts.
- Post news or start a discussion: It's easy to do and a great way to share information and network with others!
Stacys Journal
This month, Stacy discusses how theholiday season can often bring on added stress for people with disabilities. We encourage you to ask her questions and/or share your experiences as well.
New Members
Stop by to welcomeournewest members:
- Thisparentwants to learn more about employment.
- Thissupervisoris interested in self-determination.
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:
- Wisconsin Transition Conference: February 18th to 19th, 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? 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.
RESOURCE: DOJ & DOT issue Joint ADA Technical Assistance on Requirements To Provide Curb Ramps
By SD Network, 2015-12-04
***Thanks to the Great Lakes ADA Center (www.adagreatlakes.org) for providing us with this information.
The U.S. Department of Justices Civil Rights Division (DOJ) and the U.S. Department of Transportations Federal Highway Administration (DOT) issued joint technical assistanceon Tuesday, December 1, 2015entitled http://www.ada.gov/doj-fhwa-ta-supplement-2015.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Questions and Answers: Supplement to the 2013 DOJ/DOT Joint Technical Assistance on the Title II of the Americans With Disabilities Act Requirements To Provide Curb Ramps when Streets, Roads, or Highways are Altered through Resurfacing." This supplemental document responds to frequently asked questions that the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) has received since the 2013 technical assistance document was published.
Please note:The document is not a standalone document and should be read in conjunction with thehttp://www.ada.gov/doj-fhwa-ta.htm" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">2013 DOJ/DOT Joint Technical Assistance.
This is an interesting article in Disability Scoop written by Michelle Diament about how the IRS has eased up on rules for ABLE accounts (accounts that will allow people with disabilities to save money without jeopardizing their government benefits). She explains how plans were laid out as to how accounts would operate, but advocates fought back saying the proposed regulations would be too restricting. The IRS is going to release new regulations that are less strict.
IRS Relaxes Rules For New ABLE Accounts
By Michelle Diament
The Internal Revenue Service is easing up on rules for new accounts that will allow people with disabilities to save money without jeopardizing their government benefits.
Earlier this year, the IRSlaid out plansfor how accounts established under the Achieving a Better Life Experience, or ABLE, Act would operate. But the agency received significant pushback from disability advocates and state officials alike who said the proposed federal requirements would be overly burdensome.
Now, the IRS is backing off. In anotice, the agency said it plans to issue final regulations with less stringent reporting requirements.
Specifically, individuals opening ABLE accounts will not need to submit medical documentation, but will have to certify under penalty of perjury that they have a qualifying diagnosis, the IRS guidance said.
Whats more, the agency indicated that ABLE programs will not be required to request taxpayer identification numbers from contributors to ABLE accounts except in limited circumstances and program administrators will not have to categorize what money in the accounts is used for.
We are very pleased with the interim guidance issued by the IRS, which will make it easier for state administrators to establish and administer ABLE programs in an expedient and efficient manner, said Heather Sachs, vice president of advocacy and public policy at the National Down Syndrome Society.
Despite federalpassageof the ABLE Act last year, each state must establish regulations of their own in order to make the accounts available.
So far, 34 states have approved such legislation, according to the National Down Syndrome Society. However, these states are still working out the details for administering their programs, a process contingent on the IRS rules.
Nebraska State Treasurer Don Stenberg, who was critical of the IRS initial proposal, said the agencys updated approach is welcome and will allow his state to make accounts available as planned next summer.
In particular, I am very pleased that the IRS will no longer require states to obtain information about expenditures by plan participants and that states will no longer be required to seek and receive medical information about ABLE plan participants, Stenberg said. Had those requirements remained in place, the cost of the ABLE program would have increased substantially.
ABLE accounts are expected to start becoming available to consumers next year, but the exact timetable will vary by state.
With the new accounts, people with disabilities will be able to accrue up to $100,000 without losing access to Social Security and other government benefits. Medicaid coverage will remain intact no matter how much money is saved in an individuals ABLE account.
Modeled after 529 college savings plans, funds in the accounts can be used to pay for education, health care, transportation, housing and other expenses. Interest earned on savings in the accounts will be tax-free.
Individuals with disabilities that originated before age 26 will be eligible for the new accounts.
Source: https://www.disabilityscoop.com/2015/11/30/irs-relaxes-able-accounts/21598/
Apply for a Building FULL Lives in the Community Technical Assistance Grant
By SD Network, 2015-12-04
BPDD is Offering a Great Opportunity for Organizations Interested in Supporting Individuals with Disabilities to Build FULL LIVES in the Community.
Is your organization committed to building FULL LIVES in the community by providing services and supports that are individualized, full of choices, and built around the dreams and aspirations of the individuals?
Are you invested in establishing services that support individuals FULL LIVES by flexibly combining customized employment with individualized community integrated activities?
If yes, than you should apply for a BPDD Building FULL LIVES in the Community Technical Assistance Grant!
Grant recipients will receive:
- Extensive on site and remote technical assistance/coaching for one year including:
- One 3-day on-site visit from a consultant/subject matter expert ** focused on establishing a braided service model that includes customized employment and integrated community support.
- Practical information about:
- Programmatic structure and service coordination for braiding services
- Establishing braided program services/rates and meaningful, community-based day services
- Using Customized Employment strategies and tools to increase integrated employment outcomes for job seekers with I/DD
- Group training, face-to-face meetings, modeling/field work with staff for service implementation (e.g. on-site assistance to profile a specific job seeker, job develop/negotiate with businesses, on-the-job accommodations, meet with community partners).
- A $2,000 incentive payment to support the implementation of the initial phase of your organizations action/transformation plan.
It is easy to apply. Just go to thisProgram Pagedownload and complete the short application. Two organizations will be selected to receive the grant. Deadline to apply is Monday, December 28th.
If you have any questions contact Ann Sievert at ann.sievert@wisconsin.gov or608-267-9897.
** TransCen, Inc WorkLinks program is a San Francisco-based employment program that has been extremely successful at developing and replicating a model that supports individuals to have Full Lives by combining customized employment with individualized community
***We thank the Wisconsin Board for People with Developmental Disabilities for providing us with this information.
Meet Jason Endres. As the former president of People First Wisconsin and also a person who directs his own supports, Jason full-heartedly that everyone should have the right to live their life as they choose. He is involved in various advocacy groups and a very strong advocate for people with disabilities in Wisconsin. We are so fortunate to have a member of the Network!
How are you involved with self-directed supports and self-determination? Why did you join the SD Network?
My wife and I are both on IRIS and self-directing our supports. We also have a friend that we are power of attorney for and help with his IRIS plan. I believe everyone has the right to live there life as they see fit. No one should tell anyone how they should live there life. I joined the SD Network to see what it was about and help in any way that I can.
Tell us some good news - what's the most exciting thing happening for you (or in Wisconsin) in terms self-determination or Self-Directed Supports?
As everyone knows, Wisconsin is going through a major change in terms of how long-term care is provided to people. I have been in a couple of meetings with the Department of Health Services (DHS), and I have been very involved with my representatives at the capital letting them know what I would like to see in the new plan. I cant say Im excited about this because IRIS and Family Care were great programs; sure, there needed to be change, but I dont believe they should get rid what is working.
What tip or resource would you like to share with people who want to direct their own supports, or who would want to be more self-determined?
Now that I am now the past president of People First Wisconsin, I look back on what we, as self-advocacy group, have done in the past two years on the topic of Self-determination. I encourage others to join the People First Wisconsin Facebook page and also check out the People First Wisconsin website.
What message would you like to share with the members of the SD Network?
I encourage everyone on the SD Network to find their voice and tell your story. Everyone has a story and if we tell it to enough people, we might just be listened too.
What's your dream vacation?
My dream vacation would be going to Sydney, Australia. I dont know why; I just want go there. In the meantime, I love going to see my nieces and nephews in Fort Wayne, Indiana and in Birmingham, Alabama.
***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.