This is a very informative blog explaning how the Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) accounts are intended to work.  ABLE accounts, which are tax-advantaged accounts for people with  disabilities, are expected  to be available in most states within the next year or two.  The  blog talks about  the following points:

• Accouts are an extention of the 529 Tax code
• Eligibility 
• Maximum amounts and benefits
• Accounts have to be for qualified expenses, but it has a broad definition
• ABLE accounts can work in  addition to or instead of a Special Needs Trust

Read blog at:  http://www.huffingtonpost.com/roxana-maddahi/able-accounts-a-new-way-t_b_9350086.html

For people with disabilities, traveling anywhere often presents multiple challenges.  Whether it's down the street or across the world, transportation often becomes an issue for many.  From avoiding  sidewalk curbs to planning vacations, there are many things to keep in mind when traveling.

Here is a list of 10 things to know before traveling.  It has a lot of links to valuable resources.

A first-of-its-kind residential community for people with developmental or intellectual disabilities is getting ready to open this Spring.  Located in Florida, Noah's Landing will be operated by staff, volunteers, and parents.

The community will offer things such as supportive services,vocational opportunities, and much more.  Rent and expenses  will be subsidized making it affordable for  people with disabilities.  Many people are excited about this as it's thought of as an alternative to a group home.

Learn more: https://www.disabilityscoop.com/2016/02/16/once-disability-community/21909/

The Department of Health Services released their draft concept paper for Family Care/IRIS 2.0 today. There are two chances to testify on the paper on March 7th.  DHS will accept written testimony about the concept paper through 5 p.m., on March 7th.

Now accepting proposals for presenters for the 2016 Self-Determination Conference, November 8-10.  Are you using self-directed supports in an interesting way? Do you want to share your story at the SD Conference? 

We’re looking for new and innovative ideas that help you and others live successfully in the community. Share ideas about transportation, employment, community living, housing and more. Take a look at our special sessions on life hacks! Do you have some life hacks you want to share? Share these ideas with over 500 advocates this November! Proposal deadline is April 8. 

Download the 2016 Presentation Proposal Form  

***Thanks to the Wisconsin Board for People with Developmental Disabilities for sharing this information with us.

The Wisconsin Dept. of Health Services sent out a news release today with some details about the proposed redesign of the long-term care system. The news release is in advance of the concept paper scheduled to be released the first week of March. The release includes information about Choice for Members and Quality Measures.

DHS has scheduled two public hearings that will be held March 7, shortly after the concept paper for the redesigned system is released. They will accept written comments until March 7th.  

Here's an opportunity to share your thoughts and opinions with the Independent Living Council of Wisconsin as they develop their next state plan.

www.surveymonkey.com/r/M9HSWNZ

Volunteer for Disability Advocacy Day!

Tuesday March 15, 2016

Disability Advocacy is successful because of the many volunteers that give of their time and expertise.

Volunteers are needed for the following duties:

Help at Monona Terrace with set up and registration: help needed between8 am-12pm(20 people needed)

• Put materials on tables
• Check participants in when they arrive
• Hand out t-shirts or lunches

Assistance at the Capitol: help needed between 12-3 (30-35 people needed)

• Guide participant to their appointments
• Assist individual who may be lost
• Assist in the debriefing rooms

Table/Visit facilitators:10am- 2:30 pm(70 people needed)

• Facilitate discussion as tables to coordinate a smooth visit
• Stay with your table members (district constituents) and escort them to the visits and help facilitate the conversations with their legislators.
  (note there may be more than one facilitator for each group and you may facilitate both the Senate and Assembly visits)
  * Every effort will be made to keep you in your own district but we cannot guarantee this.

** Facilitators are not able to volunteer to other duties between10am and 2:30 pmas you will be busy with your group

If you are interested in helping please use this link to sign up

http://www.signupgenius.com/go/30e0b48aeaf22aafa7-2016

or contact Todd or Fil for assistance:

Todd Costello:(608) 242-8335orcostellot@clanet.org

Fil Clissa:(608)698-0333orsurvivalcoalitionwi@gmail.com