New Horizons Un-Limited Inc. New Horizons Un-Limited Inc.
Illinois Department of Public Aid will begin administering the Health Benefits for Workers with Disabilities Program (HBWD) January 1, 2002. The program will allow workers with disabilities to purchase Medicaid if they do not have access to any other health insurance coverage. Initially, the program will only be available to those workers with disabilities who receive Social Security Disability Insurance benefits and whose incomes do not exceed 200% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). To learn more about eligibility criteria, call the SSI Coalition at (312) 223-9600 (Voice) or (800) 427-0766 (TTY).
State of Illinois has recently implemented the Prevention of Unnecessary Institutionalization Act Grant and Loan Program, which offers eligible persons age 60 or over and persons with disabilities grants or loans for dwelling modifications or assistive technology devices that can assist an individual live more independently in a community-based setting of their choice. This program was implemented in response to individuals' preferences to stay close to families and friends and in their own communities, rather than in long term care facilities. For more information, contact the Illinois Department of Human Services.
Badger Association of the Blind is offering 22 classes for people with vision loss. Classes such as Dinner with Diane, Helpful Hints and Write Right can assist individuals increase skills in the kitchen or simply offer tips that can be used throughout their homes to improve daily living. Additional classes can help build computer and typing skills while others, such as Ball Room Dancing, Holiday Cheer and Sing-A-Long can provide a night of fun and enjoyment. Each class will cost just $5.00 and participants will receive a $5.00 gift certificate towards a purchase in the association's Outlook Shop as well as a $3.00 "fare ticket" for transportation to and from the classes and events. For more information, call (414) 615-0115.
Wisconsin Coalition for Advocacy, the protection and advocacy system for Wisconsin residents with disabilities, has announced a new advocacy program. "The Return to Work Advocacy Project is a program dedicated to protecting the rights and advocating for beneficiaries of Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and / or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). This program offers free confidential assistance for beneficiaries throughout Wisconsin who are interested in learning more about returning to work." The program will offer a wide range of services that will support an individual in returning to the workforce while also protecting and advocating for their employment-related rights. To learn more about this program, call (414) 342-8700 or (800) 708-3034.
Independence First has recently obtained a number of copies of Understanding Medicaid Home and Community Services: A Primer, published by the United States Department of Health and Human Services. To obtain a copy of your own, contact Lee Schulz at (414) 291-7520.
Up Side of Downs has developed The Family Grant to assist families in obtaining medical care, therapies, and beneficial activities that a family deems necessary for their child with Down syndrome. Grants will be awarded on the basis of availability of funds, and of the participation and support of the family in the Up Side of Downs. Grants of up to $600 will be available for medical expenses not covered by insurance to include medical bills, speech therapy, occupational therapy, and physical therapy. Grants of up to $300 will be available for other activities for children with Down syndrome. Applications are due October 15, 2001. For more information, call (216) 464-6678.
The Cuyahoga County Board of Mental Retardation & Developmental Disabilities is presenting a workshop series "Preparing for the Future". The workshop's purpose is to make parents aware of the necessity to plan for their child's lifelong supplemental needs, early on and throughout their lives. This 12-hour workshop can be attended on either four evening, three- hour sessions or two Saturday, seven-hour sessions. Workshops are scheduled for the following time slots: Thursday evenings, September 6, 13, 20, 27 from 6-9 p.m. at the Maple Heights Adult Training Center, 14775 Broadway Avenue; all day Saturdays, September 29 and October 6 from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. at Lakeside Administration Building, 1275 Lakeside Avenue; or Tuesday evenings, October 9, 16, 23, 30 from 6-9 p.m. at the Parma Developmental Center, 6149 W 130 Street. For more information, call (216) 736-2717.
Joe's Run, which will benefit United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) of Southeastern Wisconsin, will take place Sunday September 29, 2001 at 9:00 a.m. at Charles Hart Park in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin. Participants may run, walk, in-line skate, or roll in their wheelchairs. For registration information, call UCP at (414) 329-4500.
Wisconsin Medicaid Purchase Plan (MAPP) offers workers with disabilities an option to buy into their existing Medicaid Plan upon exceeding earned income limitations due to gainful employment. Such a plan offers greater coverage at a lower premium compared to private insurance plans. According to a study headed by Michelle Martini, Wisconsin's plan has many limitations that are still preventing many working people with disabilities to experience the benefit of lower-premium Medicaid coverage. Ms. Martini is calling for advocates to support the reform of MAPP to lower restrictions and therefore eliminate barriers to efficient health care coverage. If you would like to become involved in this advocacy effort, e-mail Michelle Martini at mmart102806@aol.com. To learn more about Medicaid Buy-in visit the SSI Coalition online.
Wisconsin Technology Initiative is underway with eight Wisconsin Centers for Independent Living, Agrability, The Wisconsin Coalition for Advocacy and EBTIDE, Inc. all of whom are advocating for the inclusion of an assistive technology program in Wisconsin's bi-annual budget. As it is written now, the budget includes $400,000 for technology programs, an amount that barely meets minimum program requirements throughout the state. The initiative is calling for a $400,000 increase to bring the budget up to $800,000. If you are interested in this issue, please contact Governor Scott McCallum with a letter urging him to accept the proposed budget. Please write the Governor at Office of the Governor, 115 East State Capitol, Madison, WI 53702. For more information about this initiative, you can also contact Cindi Pichler or Lee Schulz of Independence First at (414) 291-7520.
MOBILE has compiled many helpful resources in their library that offer information on disability law, accessible product information, current news on physical and mental disorders, accessibility guidelines, and much more. The resources can be borrowed and are offered in many different formats. The library is free to use by anyone interested in learning more about the issues that affect people with disabilities. Call (614) 443-5936 (Voice) or (614) 443-5957 (TTY) for library hours.
Columbus Metropolitan Area Community Action Organization (CMACAO) has created a summer cooling program to benefit the elderly and individuals with respiratory disorders. The program will not only pay for electric use but also offers a limited number of air conditioners. To learn if you are eligible, call (614) 340-4327.
United Methodist Church of Whitefish Bay has announced a new class, "Introduction to Computers," for individuals with disabilities. The classes, which are $30 for a six-week session from August 1 through September 5, 2001, will be offered on Wednesday evenings from 5:45 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. Classes are intended to provide educational development, social stimulation, and personal growth experiences. Due to the limitations of the volunteer staff, at this time individuals with a degree of profound or severe developmental disability are not eligible. Prior to enrollment, students will have an opportunity to discuss their individual needs with the instructor. If you would like to learn more about this opportunity, please call (414) 964-2424.
The Challenge Project, along with New Horizons Un-Limited and Independence First, sponsored two sails on the S/V Denis Sullivan, the traditionally rigged tall ship built on the shores of Lake Michigan, on Sunday July 22, 2001 for individuals with disabilities. Individuals of all ability levels, who were encouraged to participate in the sailing of the vessel, hoisted the sails and were harnessed to the rigging as the Denis Sullivan set out for its first three hour sail. The Challenge Project, headed by Curt Winans, has a mission to build a fully accessible tall ship for use by individuals with disabilities for day sails and extended trips. The two sails provided individuals with the opportunity to assess the accessibility issues that need to be taken into account while building a ship. Participants, crew and volunteers were further encouraged to complete a survey, which provided individuals the opportunity to express their needs and explain how they might be accommodated in the building of The Challenge.
University of Wisconsin - Whitewater will be offering a summer Authentic Voices Camp for individuals aged 12 to 18 years. The camp, which will take place July 8 - 13, 2001, has been designed to make campers more profiecient with Augmentative Alternative Communication devices, and to provide a means for campers to socialize with other teens with similar experiences. The camp will provide personal assistants if needed. The cost of the camp is $500, although scholarships are available. For more information, call (262) 472-3165.
O'Donnell Park, located on Milwaukee's lake front, may, in the future, provide individuals with disabilities pleasure for their senses. The park, in need of a facelift, would incorporate an audible sculpture, a topographic map, wheelchair accessible walkways, and Braille imprinted handrails. The design will allow individuals with visual and hearing impairments, as well as those in wheelchairs, experience the gardens in a way that is unique to their strongest senses. While construction plans have not yet been approved, they could be incorporated into the 2003 budget.
Working: Ten Years and Counting is a multi-disciplinary project developed by Independence First of Milwaukee, Wisconsin that documents, on film and in oral histories, the challenges and successes that people with disabilities encounter every day at work. Gallery exhibition and public presentations are planned to educate visitors about the impact of the ADA. This project tracks the history since 1990 as Americans with Disabilities have found job accommodations, protection and needed changes in the workplace that have allowed people to work and helped others who were already working.
Denis Sullivan, the three-masted schooner, has come home to the shores of Milwaukee and will serve as host for two sails on "Schooner Discovery Day," Sunday July 22, 2001 for individuals with disabilities. The sail is being sponsored by a number of Milwaukee organizations including New Horizons Un-Limited, Independence First and the Challenge Project. Participants will have the opportunity to sail along Lake Michigan enjoying the views and the company of people with varying abilities. There will also be an opportunity on shore to experiment with various adaptive devices, including those that will assist in the use of computer and Internet technologies. If you would like more information about Schooner Discovery Day, please e-mail horizons@new-horizons.org.
EBTIDE Homebuyer Grant Program offers individuals with disabilities or families with a disabled family member an opportunity to purchase their own home. The program grants eligible individuals or families $7500 to be used towards down payment, closing costs, or home modifications. The grant becomes forgivable as long as the home is not sold within five years of purchase. To be eligible for this program, family income must not exceed 60% of the county median income. To learn more about this opportunity call (888) 838-9021.
Independence First is interested in developing a "telephone tree" throughout the Milwaukee area. A "telephone tree" will serve as a means to share important legislative or other issues affecting individuals with disabilities. Staff from Independence First will call three or four people to make them aware of important issues and those people contacted by Independence First will in turn call three or four people sharing the information who will in turn call an additional number of people. Independence First feels that this is the most effective way to spread news of issues that can help people make informed choices. If you are interested in participating in this communication effort, contact Independence First at (414) 291-7520.
Independence First is now offering classes that will enhance individuals' life skills. Classes will discuss "methods of standing up for our rights in the community, and learning what our rights and responsibilities are." The class will also discuss money and time management, personal boundaries and much more. In addition to life skills classes, they are also offering Job Club, which will discuss such topics as interview presentation skills, resume writing, and employment rights, among others. For more information about either of these opportunities, call (414) 291-7520.
United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) of Southeastern Wisconsin will be offering a free Homeownership Workshop for individuals with disabilities on Monday, June 18, 2001 from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. Joe Gavic from Independence First will be the speaker. The workshop will be held at UCP, which is located at 7519 West Oklahoma Avenue, Milwaukee, WI. If you are interested in attending, you can register with Martha Chambers at UCP by calling (414) 329-4500 ext. 264.
United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) of Southeastern Wisconsin offers computer and Internet training classes for adults and teenagers with disabilities. Classes are offered for beginners as well as for those interested in improving their skills. Adaptive technology is available. Classes are scheduled to begin June 11, 2001. Early registration is encouraged. For more information, call (414) 329-4500.
ARC Milwaukee will be offering Self Advocacy Training sessions to adults with developmental disabilities beginning this summer. Training will include self-defense tips, relationship and friendship building, and improving self-esteem, assertiveness and decision making skills. If you are interested in attending, call (414) 774-6255 immediately, as space is limited.
Independence First of Milwaukee, Wisconsin has created a Housing Advocacy Team whose focus is to "expand opportunities for persons with disabilities to integrated, accessible and affordable housing." The team is still looking for individuals interested in advocating for increased housing options for individuals with disabilities. Meetings are held the third Tuesday of each month from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. For more information, call either Brian Peters or Karen Avery at (414) 291-7520
National Alliance for the Mentally Ill (NAMI) has recently formed Deaf Wisconsin, an "advocacy and support group of parents, family members, and friends of those who are deaf or hard of hearing with mental illnesses." The purpose is to provide resources for effective advocacy to fight for additional research, treatment, and rehabilitative services. If you are interested in joining this effort call (262) 724-4244 or e-mail NAMIDeaf@aol.com.
Green Bay Packers Corporation has established a lottery system for fans requiring seats to accommodate wheelchairs. Only 28 wheelchair and companion seats are available per game. You may enter the lottery when the Packer pre-season and regular season schedule has been announced. To enter the lottery, send a letter to the Packer ticket office including your name, address and daytime phone number, the games you are interested in attending along with your Mastercard or Visa number. You can also contact the ticket office directly, by calling (920) 496-5719. Send letters of request to: Ticket Lottery, Packers Ticket Office. P.O. Box 10628, Green Bay, WI 54307.
University of Wisconsin - Whitewater will be offering a summer Authentic Voices Camp for individuals aged 12 to 18 years. The camp, which will take place July 8 - 13, 2001, has been designed to make campers more profiecient with Augmentative Alternative Communication devices, and to provide a means for campers to socialize with other teens with similar experiences. The camp will provide personal assistants if needed. The cost of the camp is $500, although scholarships are available. For more information, call (262) 472-3165.
Independence First offers an equipment trial program at their Assistive Technology Center. They offer a wide variety of assistive technology devices and design ideas for trial and display, including computer equipment, kitchen and bathroom devices, ramps and lifts and many more. To find out more about this program, call Independence First at (414) 291-7520.
Badger Association of the Blind offers programs/services for individuals with visual impairments so that they may discover a more independent lifestyle, while at the same time enhance their quality of life. Such services include readers/visitors that will not only assist in reading such items as mail, magazines and newspapers, but also strive to build a solid relationship. They also offer shopping and driving services. To find out how you can benefit from these services or to learn more about these volunteer opportunities, call (414) 615-0103.
Wisconsin Division of Vocational Rehabilitation has recently been granted $500,000 in supplemental funding. This funding will also draw approximately $1.9 million in federal matching funds. The additional funds have helped the DVR remove 800 names from the Category One (those with the most significant disabilities) waiting list, by providing them with employment services. With these individuals now receiving services, the DVR can reopen its Category One waiting list, which was closed in August of 2000. The Department of Workforce Development is currently reviewing additional recommendations on how to improve DVR services.
La Crosse Tribune published an article on "Family Care working in La Crosse County." Dec. 18, 2000. This article reported that most of the people needing services from human services in LaCrosse County, Wisconsin will be covered under the pilot project and community care organization as of Jan.1. This article also reports that more people are getting services and many people are no longer on waiting lists. One reason the pilot program is continuing is that the state increased the reimbursement rate to La Crosse County. This article states that Thompson is asking for an additional $42 million in the 2001-03 state budget to fund the five state projects and add Kenosha as a sixth project. This covers only 30% of the state's population. Will the state Legislature say it is too expensive? If you live in La Crosse County, Wisconsin, are a disabled adult with long-term needs, a medicaid recipient and wish to apply for services such as home care, independent living care, medical supplies and equipment, physical therapy, speech therapy or transportation, call the La Crosse County's Aging and Disability Resource Center at (608) 785-5700.
Wisconsin Technical College System (WTCS) Board is offering students, newly enrolled at a Wisconsin Technical College, an opportunity to apply for a $1000 TOP Grant. This grant can be applied towards tuition and fee costs during the first two years of enrollment in a WTCS program. For eligibility criteria, visit the Student Information website.
Independence First is now offering individuals of Milwaukee, Waukesha, Washington, and Ozaukee Counties the opportunity to participate in the Pathways to Independence project. The project has been designed so to provide greater access to the workforce by eliminating barriers faced by those individuals with disabilities that wish to work. Independence First will now offer "team based vocational options and related services" that are aimed at employment barrier removal. The services available include benefits counseling, assessment and planning for barrier removal, career exploration, job development and placement, rehabilitation technology, and continued support. This program is available to individuals with physical disabilities between the ages of 16 and 64 that are eligible for DVR services, Social Security Disability Insurance or Supplemental Security Income, and who also live within the four county service area. For more information call Kathleen Meisner at (414) 291-7520.
Milwaukee County Federated Library System has twelve library branches located throughout Milwaukee County offer information and materials designed to better serve individuals with physical, developmental and learning disabilities. Such items include: large print books, Braille books, audio books, e-books, closed-caption, signed and audio-described videotapes, assistive technology devices (including screen magnifiers, adaptive keyboards and mice), informative children's books, as well as a variety of materials that will better inform individuals of disabilities. To find a library branch near you call (414) 286-3000.
Price is Right Shoppe and Community Center offers clothing, furniture, and personal and household items for free to individuals with a Mental Illness. In order to take advantage of this offer, either a Case Manager, a doctor, or a Social Worker must refer individuals to the shop for each visit. The shop is located at 9668 West Watertown Plank Road, Milwaukee, WI 53226. For more information call (414) 257-7364.
Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is offering free tax assistance to individuals with disabilities throughout the Milwaukee area. The assistance is offered beginning January 29, 2001 and continues through April 15, 2001. For more information, contact Mark Laing at (414) 297-1373.
|
Home / Disability News / NHU Quarterly Newsletter |
| Share Your Knowledge! / NHU Community Discussion Board / E-mail Us | |
| About NHU / Announcements and Features / Contribute / What's New? / Site Plan |