News
WISCONSIN BOARD FOR PEOPLE WITH DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES: Partners in Policymaking Applications are Open
By SD Network, 2023-08-03
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Wisconsin Partners in Policymaking is a six‐session advocacy and systems change training program that develops future leaders across the state who are able to work with legislators and communities on policies and initiatives that will support the full participation and inclusion of people with developmental disabilities in all aspects of life. Applications are due October 2nd 2023. Who can apply? Individuals who are highly motivated to create more inclusive communities AND are:
We are seeking cultural and geographic diversity within the guidelines above. The selection of participants is made by a team of parents, self‐advocates, and professionals.
If you have questions, please contact Jenny Neugart at jennifer.neugart@wisconsin.gov or (608) 266‐7707. |
MADISON MAGAZINE: Wisconsin's Caregiver Crisis: What happens when no one shows up?
By SD Network, 2023-08-03
As the national caregiver crisis continues, people who it affects the most weigh in on what they're facing, why caregivers are quitting, and what could be done to help solve the problem. This article in the Madison Magazine explains the brutal reality for so many families in Wisconsin.
WISCONSIN DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH SERVICE: Need someone to talk to? Call UpliftWI
By SD Network, 2023-08-02
Need someone to talk to? Call UpliftWI
New phone service offers peer support statewide
The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) announces a new phone line is now available allowing all Wisconsinites to share their successes and challenges with a peer who will listen and offer support. Built by Mental Health America of Wisconsin under a grant from DHS for people experiencing mental health and substance use concerns, UpliftWI can be reached at 534-202-5438 daily from noon to midnight, with 24/7 operation expected by the end of the year. This non-emergency service is free and confidential.
“We’re pleased to partner with Mental Health America of Wisconsin on this expansion of peer services in Wisconsin,” said DHS Deputy Secretary Deb Standridge. “The peer-to-peer support offered by UpliftWI is a proven way to help people get the help they need and stay healthy. This service is going to improve lives by providing preventive care for people experiencing stress or other challenges in their lives.”
View the entire news release.
Finding your seat on airplane is challenging for anyone, but for people who have visual impairments, it's usually impossible to find their seat independently. United Airlines is working to change that by installing Braille signage to the interior of their planes.
THE CENTER SQUARE: Wisconsin Democrats pitch accommodations for adults with disabilities
By SD Network, 2023-07-26
For many families in Wisconsin, it's nearly impossible to leave the house for an extended length of time because of the lack of accessible adult changing stations in public places. A new program would change that. The plan would install adult changing stations in all public buildings and offer a tax credit to businesses that do the same.
THE WHITE HOUSE: FACT SHEET: Biden-Harris Administration Works to Make it Easier for People with Disabilities to Access Public Services Online
By SD Network, 2023-07-26
Ahead of the 33rd anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Acts, the Biden-Harris Administration announced a new proposal that would improve online access to state and local services for people who have various limitations. It will establish accessibility standards for state and local governments webs and mobile apps.
THE CENTURY FOUNDATION: Why Creating Accessible Transportation Helps the Economy
By SD Network, 2023-07-22
On July 11, Vice President Kamala Harris and Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg held a roundtable with disability advocates and leaders to celebrate the thirty-third anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The topic of discussion: accessible transportation. Unfortunately, thirty-three years after the ADA was made law, we still do not have fully accessible transportation, limiting the one in four American adults who are disabled from fully moving from place to place.
CNBC.COM: Less than 5% of U.S. housing supply is accessible to older, disabled Americans. These changes may help
By SD Network, 2023-07-22
Despite 26% of the US population having a disability, less than 5% of housing is accessible and less than 1% is wheelchair accessible. Leaders on both sides of the political aisle agree the shortage of adequate housing is a problem. Several ideas emerged at a recent hearing, but it remains to be seen if any of the proposals will move forward.