2009 Power Lunch
Director's Corner
The Ten Principles of Independent Living
2009 U.S. Bank Golf Tournament
Computer Recycling Program
Accommodating Learning Disabilities With Software
Recreation News
Transition Corner
Fred Knueppel - Our Priceless Volunteer
New Hires & Promotions
What I Wish Everyone Knew About People With Disabilities
Ten... Nine... Eight...
Can’t Get Out? Have It Delivered!
Disability Rights Wisconsin Launches Family Ombudsman Program
IndependenceFirst Needs Your Vote
People Can’t Wait – A Milwaukee Coalition of Disability Advocates
Providing Mobility with Dignity to Those in Need
MMDI:  Access Moving Forward
A Festival of Firsts, Independent Living in Action

2009 POWER LUNCH welcomes Amy Roloff from "Little People, Big World"
By Carol Voss, PR and Marketing Director

This year’s 2009 IndependenceFirst POWER LUNCH will feature as our guest speaker, Amy Roloff who is on TLC’s reality series "Little People, Big World." Mrs. Roloff will share her successes and challenges as a little person who has overcome obstacles and perceptions in the workplace and community. The popular television program (on TLC) is entering its 5th season. The show featured Milwaukee in the second season when the Little People of America national conference was held in our city.

Every year IndependenceFirst hosts a popular speaker who has personal experience with a disability in order to encourage attendees to "tap into the power of people with disabilities" as a workforce, market force and group that contributes to the diversity of the community. Last year’s keynote speaker, former MLB Pitcher Jim Abbott (who was born with one hand), spoke to 750 community and business leaders and other fans that were in attendance. The event continues to be one of the most popular luncheons in Metro Milwaukee.

The POWER LUNCH will be held at the Midwest Airlines Center on June 16th and reservations are available now – $50 for individual and $1000 for corporate tables. Make your reservations early for this extremely popular event!
Call 414-226-8304 V/Relay or email POWERLUNCH@independencefirst.org.


Director's Corner
By Lee Schulz, Executive Director

IndependenceFirst has been in our new offices located at 540 S. 1st Street for a little over five months. This new location is about 5 blocks east of our former home. Our staff, Board and volunteers did a spectacular job of moving us and getting Independence has been in our new offices located at 540 S. 1st Street for a little over five months. This new location is about 5 blocks east of our former home. Our staff, Board and volunteers did a spectacular job of moving us and getting us fully functioning in less than two work days. Of course, there have been a few surprises and we appreciate everyone’s patience with any minor inconveniences. We truly believe that our new offices are a model of accessibility where our staff is able to better serve everyone. And we are honored to have received three prestigious awards: the 2009 MANDI Award in State Farm’s Building Blocks Award program in the Large Project category, 1st Place in the Wisconsin Chapter of the American Society of Interior Design Awards category of Office Space Over 25,000 square feet and second place in the Business Journal's Real Estate Best Renovation Office Category. IndependenceFirst held two open houses of our facility. If you were unable to attend, please do not be shy about requesting a tour of our office – you can call Carol Voss, Director of PR/Marketing at 414-226-8305 V/Relay.

I encourage everyone to take an active interest in all current and future discussions related to local, state and national budgets and the Federal stimulus package. Deficit reduction will include expenditures for many services to persons with disabilities, including but not limited to Medicaid, long-term care, accessible transportation, housing and funding for community based organizations (CBOs) such as the State’s eight Independent Living Centers. Issues to watch will be changes to eligibility for service and/or specific services that are offered. Be sure to let your political representatives know your feelings about pending legislation.

Best wishes for a wonderful spring in Wisconsin!

Lee Schulz
Executive Director


IndependenceFirst has been in our new offices located at 540 S. 1st Street for a little over five months. This new location is about 5 blocks east of our former home. Our staff, Board and volunteers did a spectacular job of moving us and getting Independence has been in our new offices located at 540 S. 1st Street for a little over five months. This new location is about 5 blocks east of our former home. Our staff, Board and volunteers did a spectacular job of moving us and getting us fully functioning in less than two work days. Of course, there have been a few surprises and we appreciate everyone’s patience with any minor inconveniences. We truly believe that our new offices are a model of accessibility where our staff is able to better serve everyone. And we are honored to have received three prestigious awards: the 2009 MANDI Award in State Farm’s Building Blocks Award program in the Large Project category, 1st Place in the Wisconsin Chapter of the American Society of Interior Design Awards category of Office Space Over 25,000 square feet and second place in the Business Journal's Real Estate Best Renovation Office Category. IndependenceFirst held two open houses of our facility. If you were unable to attend, please do not be shy about requesting a tour of our office – you can call Carol Voss, Director of PR/Marketing at 414-226-8305 V/Relay.

I encourage everyone to take an active interest in all current and future discussions related to local, state and national budgets and the Federal stimulus package. Deficit reduction will include expenditures for many services to persons with disabilities, including but not limited to Medicaid, long-term care, accessible transportation, housing and funding for community based organizations (CBOs) such as the State’s eight Independent Living Centers. Issues to watch will be changes to eligibility for service and/or specific services that are offered. Be sure to let your political representatives know your feelings about pending legislation.

Best wishes for a wonderful spring in Wisconsin!

Lee Schulz
Executive Director


The Ten Principles of Independent Living
Developed by the Statewide Independent Living Council of Illinois

1. Civil Rights
Equal rights and opportunities for all; no segregation by disability type or stereotype.

2. Consumerism
A person ("consumer" or "customer") using or buying a service or product decides what is best for him/herself.

3. De-institutionalization
No person should be institutionalized (formally by a building, program, or family) on the basis of a disability.

4. De-medicalization Individuals with disabilities are not "sick," as prescribed by the assumptions of the medical model.

5. Self-help
People learn and grow from discussing their needs, concerns, and issues with people who have had similar experiences; "professionals" are not the source of help provided.

6. Advocacy
Systemic, systematic, long-term, and community-wide change activities are needed to ensure that people with disabilities benefit from all that society has to offer.

7. Barrier-removal
In order for civil rights, consumerism, de-institutionalization, de-medicalization, and self-help to occur, architectural, communication and attitudinal barriers must be removed.

8. Consumer control
The organizations best suited to support and assist individuals with disabilities are governed, managed, staffed and operated by individuals with disabilities.

9. Peer role models
Leadership for independent living and disability rights is primarily vested in individuals with disabilities (not parents, service providers or other representatives).


2009 U.S. Bank Championship Golf Tournament Info
By Barbara White, Executive Administrative Assistant

IndependenceFirst will once again be participating in the U.S. Bank Championship Golf Tournament ticket sales program. The Tournament will run from July 15th through Independencewill once again be participating in the U.S. Bank Championship Golf Tournament ticket sales program. The Tournament will run from July 15th through July 19th at the Brown Deer Park Golf Course. Tickets are $20 each and can be used for any one day of the event. If you are interested in purchasing tickets, please contact Barbara White at 414-291-7520 V/TTY or email bwhite@independencefirst.org. Tickets will be on sale from April 1st through June 16th and the event promises to be as exciting as ever. So get your tickets early to secure a spot on the course!

IndependenceFirst’s Computer Recycling Program: The Power of a PC for Everyone
By Tom Uyehara, Information Technology Director

How do you use your home computer? Pay bills, read news, job hunt, bank and invest online, read email, instant message, organize digital pictures – the list goes on and on. We take for granted the convenience and time savings that a computer offers. IndependenceFirst believes that in order to keep pace with the modern world and the seemingly limitless amount of information on the internet, a home computer should be available to everyone. Understanding the need and the costs involved, we created a program to provide a free PC to people with disabilities who otherwise could not afford a computer. This program is available in Milwaukee, Ozaukee, Washington and Waukesha counties. The Computer Recycling Program has provided nearly 400 free PCs to individuals with disabilities since its inception in 2001. In fact, the popularity of our program has created a How do you use your home computer? Pay bills, read news, job hunt, bank and invest online, read email, instant message, organize digital pictures – the list goes on and on. We take for granted the convenience and time savings that a computer offers. Independence believes that in order to keep pace with the modern world and the seemingly limitless amount of information on the internet, a home computer should be available to everyone. Understanding the need and the costs involved, we created a program to provide a free PC to people with disabilities who otherwise could not afford a computer. This program is available in Milwaukee, Ozaukee, Washington and Waukesha counties. The Computer Recycling Program has provided nearly 400 free PCs to individuals with disabilities since its inception in 2001. In fact, the popularity of our program has created a 6 – 12 month waiting period for a PC.

The Computer Recycling Program benefits from a committed staff of volunteers and receives computers and related IT generously donated by individuals and corporations. After the computers are cleaned and refurbished, software – including word processing and spyware - is installed. Consumers receive their computer and are instructed how to set up and use the programs installed on their computer. Additional training courses are also available in our new computer lab. The Computer Recycling Program provides a valuable resource to local high schools and technical schools as students volunteer their time learning hardware and software skills and gain valuable practical experience.
Everyone wins!

If you know of a person with a disability who is in need of a PC or you would like to donate a PC, please contact the Computer Recycling Program at 414-226-8141 V/TTY or email: pcdonations@independencefirst.org.

Accommodating Learning Disabilities With Software
By Cindi Pichler, Assistive Technology Lead Coordinator

The Try-A-Gadget Center has several software options that were designed to address the needs of individuals with learning disabilities who are experiencing difficulty with reading. While these are not the ONLY options available, they are a sampling of the types of software that can be used to make reading less stressfull.

Kurzweil 3000 is a reading, study skill, and writing program, also called a "Scan and Read" program. The software can access virtually any information, whether it is printed (a scanner is used to bring text into the computer), electronic, or on the Web. Study skill tools include highlighting, text circle tools, annotations, bookmarks, voice notes and extract in order to create outlines, study guides, The Try-A-Gadget Center has several software options that were designed to address the needs of individuals with learning disabilities who are experiencing difficulty with reading. While these are not the ONLY options available, they are a sampling of the types of software that can be used to make reading less stressfull.Kurzweil 3000 is a reading, study skill, and writing program, also called a "Scan and Read" program. The software can access virtually any information, whether it is printed (a scanner is used to bring text into the computer), electronic, or on the Web. Study skill tools include highlighting, text circle tools, annotations, bookmarks, voice notes and extract in order to create outlines, study guides, or word lists. This program can also download audio text to MP3 players for studying on the go.

WYNN is a similar product, and is also considered a "Scan and Read" program. Its four color-coded, rotating toolbars create a simple and intuitive way to access this software. The toolbars emphasize file management, visual and auditory presentation of text, traditional study tools, writing aids, and Internet use. A Web module highlights text directly on a Web page and extracts the text into a WYNN document. This product also downloads files to an MP3 player.

Individuals who do not want study aids, but simply want to have text read aloud, can explore NaturalReader. This easy to use software can convert any written text such as MS Word, Webpage, PDF files, and email into spoken words. NaturalReader can also convert any written text into audio files such as MP3 or WAV for your CD player or iPod. Simply highlight the desired text, and click on the "Read" or "MP3" button.

The fourth option is Key to Access, a flash based device for individuals who may be using multiple computers, such as in a computer lab. Key to Access features 10 software tools: Scan and Read Pro, Talking Word Processor, Premier Predictor Pro, PDF Equalizer, PDF Magic Pro, Text-To-Audio, E-Text Reader, Universal Reader Plus, Ultimate Talking Dictionary, and Talking Calculator. The software is loaded into a 2 GB Flash USB Drive that also contains a Digital Voice Recorder and MP3 player.
If you would like more information on any of these products, or an opportunity to compare them for yourself, contact Cindi Pichler at 414-226-8385 V/Relay or email cpichler@independencefirst.org to schedule an appointment.


Recreation News
By Kathy Mohar, Wheelchair Sports and Adaptive Recreation Coordinator

Attention Wheelchair Ice Hockey Fans and Players!

The dates have changed for our ice hockey season from those previously printed in the winter schedule. The new dates are:  Wednesdays  May 20, 27 and June 3

We play at the Pettit National Ice Center, 500 South 84th Street. The cost for participating is $40/season or $5 each session you attend.  Don’t forget that helmets are required! There are new helmets for sale this year for $25 each. Let Kathy Mohar know if you are interested in purchasing one. There will be a very limited number of helmets provided at the program for people to borrow. If you have questions give Kathy a call at 414-226-8375 V/Relay. See you on the ice!

Recreation Resource Lists Available

Have you ever wondered what recreational opportunities you may be missing out on? Or what is available in your community? We have listings
of these resources. If you would like a list, please call 414-226-8375 V/Relay.

Resource Lists include:

• Local YMCA’s - what their program offerings are specific to people with disabilities, such as where to go for adaptive aquatics and fitness.
• Local Community Centers and some of the programs they offer for people with disabilities.
• Area Park and Recreation Departments' contact information and the programming offered specifically for people with disabilities.
• Other area agencies and programs that offer opportunities specifically for people with disabilities.

Reeve Foundation Grant Supports Sports Opportunities For People Who Use Power Wheelchairs

We are very excited to announce that IndependenceFirst was awarded a Quality of Life grant from the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation and a co-operative agreement with the Centers for Disease Control. The grant will provide funding for a project called POWER UP! Team Sports for Youth and Adults with Disabilities Who Use Power Wheelchairs. Look for new and exciting opportunities if you are someone who uses a power wheelchair! Our program efforts will include: wheelchair ice hockey, wheelchair power hockey, power soccer and wheelchair street hockey. The award of this grant will allow IndependenceFirst the opportunity to improve your quality of life! If you don’t already receive the sports schedule of events, please contact us at 414-226-8375 V/Relay to be added to the mailing list. The schedule will provide the times, dates and locations of all our terrific programs.

Summer is Right Around the Corner

Summer is a busy time for everyone, so mark your calendars to participate in these events:
• Wheelchair Sports Demonstrations
(various times / dates – check your Summerfest schedules)
• Youth and Adult Wheelchair Tennis
Monday evenings 6:30-7:30 pm starting June 8
• Youth and Adult Wheelchair Street Hockey
Tuesday evenings 6:30-7:30 pm starting June 23rd
• Youth Wheelchair Softball
Wednesday evenings 6:30-7:30 pm starting June 10th
• Youth and Adult Beep Baseball
Wednesday evenings 6:30-7:30 pm starting June 10th
• Youth Recreational Wheelchair Basketball
Thursday evenings 6:30-7:30 pm starting June 11th

Journey of Hope Returns

Our big annual summer event hosting the Journey of Hope Cycling Team will be Sunday, July 26th. This event will include a picnic lunch and many opportunities to try sports like wheelchair basketball, wheelchair tennis, wheelchair softball and goal ball. Hosting the Journey of Hope is an honor and enjoyable experience for everyone. Many of our participants look forward to their visit and have a blast listening to the riders describe their experiences while biking across the country!

If you don’t already receive the sports schedule of events, please contact Kathy Mohar at 414-226-8375 V/Relay or email kmohar@independencefirst.org to be added to the mailing list. The schedule will provide the times, dates and locations of all of our programs.

Transition Corner
By Julie Alexander, Independent Living Services Lead Coordinator

Shirley is an individual who had a stroke and was in a nursing home during her recovery and rehabilitation. She did not like living in a nursing home and she wanted to move back home. She did not want to lose her apartment. She asked IndependenceFirst to assist her with this transition. The Nursing Home Transition Program and the Personal Assistance Services Program (PAS) worked together to make this transition happen.

IndependenceFirst met with Shirley and her family. Shirley’s son decided to move back to Wisconsin to stay with his mother and provide assistance as needed. He wanted to support his mother as she moved home.

Shirley interviewed Personal Care Workers after her PAS assessment and found people she would like to work with. Shirley made the big move home. She had outpatient therapy set up so that she could continue her rehabilitation. She became stronger as a result of this therapy and no longer uses a wheelchair. She is so happy to be home with family and friends.

If you are interested in IndependenceFirst’s Nursing Home Transition Program contact Julie Alexander at Shirley is an individual who had a stroke and was in a nursing home during her recovery and rehabilitation. She did not like living in a nursing home and she wanted to move back home. She did not want to lose her apartment. She asked Independence to assist her with this transition. The Nursing Home Transition Program and the Personal Assistance Services Program (PAS) worked together to make this transition happen.Independence met with Shirley and her family. Shirley’s son decided to move back to Wisconsin to stay with his mother and provide assistance as needed. He wanted to support his mother as she moved home.Shirley interviewed Personal Care Workers after her PAS assessment and found people she would like to work with. Shirley made the big move home. She had outpatient therapy set up so that she could continue her rehabilitation. She became stronger as a result of this therapy and no longer uses a wheelchair. She is so happy to be home with family and friends.If you are interested in Independence Nursing Home Transition Program contact Julie Alexander at 414-226-8378 V/Relay or email jalexander@independencefirst.org

Fred Knueppel – Our Priceless Volunteer Receives More Recognition
By Pattie Cox, Public Relations and Marketing Coordinator

In our Summer 2008 issue, we told you about Fred Knueppel’s accomplishment in being given one of The MetLife Foundation’s Older Volunteers Enrich America Award, a prestigious recognition with the award being presented at a gala in Washington, D.C. Fred also received our Community Champion award for older volunteers at our annual recognition banquet in May.

The great news is that the awards just keep coming for this very special man. Fred has been awarded the "Inspire by Example Adult Volunteer Award" presented by the Volunteer Center of Greater Milwaukee. It highlights Fred’s tireless energy and dedication that he shows by working in our Computer Recycling Program.

Now, Fred was selected by the Milwaukee Brewer’s as their "Hometown Hero" for the month of April! Fred threw out the First pitch during the First inning on April 14th at Miller Park. Fred’s photo and name will be featured on the Brewer’s website during the season.

We couldn’t ask for more from our volunteers. You keep us going strong and we know you get back as much as you give. For more information about volunteering, please acall In our Summer 2008 issue, we told you about Fred Knueppel’s accomplishment in being given one of The MetLife Foundation’s Older Volunteers Enrich America Award, a prestigious recognition with the award being presented at a gala in Washington, D.C. Fred also received our Community Champion award for older volunteers at our annual recognition banquet in May.The great news is that the awards just keep coming for this very special man. Fred has been awarded the "Inspire by Example Adult Volunteer Award" presented by the Volunteer Center of Greater Milwaukee. It highlights Fred’s tireless energy and dedication that he shows by working in our Computer Recycling Program. Now, Fred was selected by the Milwaukee Brewer’s as their "Hometown Hero" for the month of April! Fred threw out the pitch during the inning on April 14th at Miller Park. Fred’s photo and name will be featured on the Brewer’s website during the season.We couldn’t ask for more from our volunteers. You keep us going strong and we know you get back as much as you give. For more information about volunteering, please acall Char Zarnoth at 414-226-8114 V/Relay or email czarnoth@independencefirst.org

Why Volunteer?
(Reprinted from VolunteerMatch.com )

Part of being a great volunteer is loving what you're doing. Find something that you're passionate about or something that inspires you, and then find a need in your community. There are dozens of reasons why you should volunteer–you just need to find the one that feels right.

Part of being a great volunteer is loving what you're doing. Find something that you're passionate about or something that inspires you, and then find a need in your community. There are dozens of reasons why you should volunteer–you just need to find the one that feels right.

20 Great Reasons to Volunteer
• Help others
• Make a difference
• Find purpose
• Enjoy a meaningful conversation
• Connect with your community
• Feel involved
• Contribute to a cause that you care about
• Use your skills in a productive way
• Develop new skills
• Meet new people
• Explore new areas of interest
• Meet good people
• Impress your mom
• Impress yourself
• Expand your horizons
• Get out of the house
• Make lifelong friendships
• Strengthen your resume
• Feel better about yourself
• (Your favorite reason here)

People volunteer for a variety of reasons. Some are motivated by altruistic values. Some seek social justice. Others see service as a way to enable a democratic political system. Whatever your reason, we believe volunteering can transform you and the world around you.  For more information about volunteering, please call
Char Zarnoth at 414-226-8114  V/Relay or email czarnoth@independencefirst.org

New Hires and Promotions

Pattie Cox You may not guess it from my picture, but my position as Fund Development and Public Relations/Marketing Coordinator is my first job since graduating from Lakeland College in December! I had spent many years in the hotel and travel industry, but my life changed in the spring of 1994 when my husband unexpectedly joined the world of people with disabilities after undergoing an amputation. This event refocused our mentoring and advocacy efforts to center on serving people with disabilities. When I decided to return to school, I wanted to major in something that would be meaningful to me, and I graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Nonprofit Organization Management. I interned in the Public Relations Department at IndependenceFirst and was lucky enough to be offered a permanent position in January.

Dottie Hughes  Hi, my name is Dottie Hughes. I am so excited to be here at IndependenceFirst as the newest member of the RN Care Coordinator team. I have been with IndependenceFirst for the past 6 years as a PCW, which I really loved. However, I had the opportunity to reactivate my RN license, after taking time off to care for my family, and was fortunate enough to be able to stay with IndependenceFirst when I went looking for a new job. My nursing experience has been varied but I have found that I am happiest when I am able to offer help to those who need it most. I am the proud parent of three wonderful children; they helped keep me centered and looking at the world with a positive attitude. I am looking forward to working with you and for you.

Catie Porth  Hi, my name is Catie Porth and I am the Network Administration Assistant in the Information Technology (IT) Department here at IndependenceFirst. For the last five years, I have sold Real Estate, but I have also been a computer instructor. In my job I will assist with maintaining, updating and ensuring network stability as well as working with website design and administration. I am looking forward to working with Tom Uyehara and Joel Hoedel and tapping into the knowledge they have about IT.

Krystal Hince I am excited to be a new RN Coordinator here at IndependenceFirst. I recently graduated from Alverno College with my Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing and have experience in many different areas in healthcare, from working in a nursing home as a CNA to Nurse Intern at Froedtert Hospital in the Trauma Unit. I was a Personal Care Worker for IndependenceFirst for well over four years before becoming a Care Coordinator. I love working for IndependenceFirst and what the company stands for. I take a lot of pride in the work I do and look forward to growing along with the organization. Outside of work I am active in sports, rescue organizations for animals, and I also volunteer with other organizations. I thank everyone for all the help and welcoming words I have received and am looking forward to working with all of you.

Tom Olin  I am the new Staff Photographer and Archivist at IndependenceFirst. I have had a long interest in photography and documenting the disability rights movement in the United States – in fact I have been chronicling our progress since 1983 and have shot almost one-half million photos of the disability rights movement. I am looking forward to working here so I can further my passion for communicating the impact that people with disabilities have upon our communities.

Chrissy Wieseler  I joined IndependenceFirst in February as a Benefits Specialist. I graduated from Alverno College in May of 2008 with a B.A. in Philosophy/Art Therapy. Previous to that I worked in the activity department of a long term care facility. In my new role, I will provide information as to the effects that employment may have on the benefits that people with disabilities receive through Social Security. I am excited to work directly with consumers and have the opportunity to serve as an advocate for people with disabilities.

Promotions
IndependenceFirst congratulates the following people on their recent promotions:

Jean Ann Lipscomb
from Receptionist to PAS Consumer Records Secretary

Stella Rodriguez
from PCW HR Assistant to PCW HR Generalist

Wendy Huot
from Accounting Manager to Director of Finance

Tracy Thomas
from Assistant Controller to Controller

Robert Plate
from Senior Accountant to Assistant Controller

What I Wish Everyone Knew About People With Disabilities
By Michael Hineberg, Independent Living Services Coordinator

• I am not a super hero because I have a disability.
• I am not a victim.
• I am not special because I have a disability.
• I want to be seen and treated as an equal.
• I am not broken; therefore I do not need to be fixed.
• Having a disability is part of who I am, but it is not all that I am.
• I have the right to ask for help or deny someone's offer to help me.
• I have the right to try, fail and try again.
• I do not want a handout.
• I want to make a meaningful contribution to the world.
• I have a voice.
• I have the right to make choices in my life.
• I have a drive to be independent and it is essential to my identity.
• I am more like you, than different from you.
• Anyone can acquire a disability in a heartbeat.

Ten… Nine… Eight…
By Leslie Myers, DART Program Manager

While about one million people gathered in Times Square to watch the famous New Year's Eve Ball descend the flagpole atop One Times Square, a 22 year old man with cerebral palsy sat cold and alone on his special transit bus in Brooklyn. Ed Wynn Rivera attends a daily program in SoHo run by FEGS, a social services provider, and travels back and forth from his East Harlem home by bus. It was Linda Hockaday’s job as bus matron to get the passengers off the bus and account for each one. Hockaday did not do her job on New Years Eve; she was late for church and made the decision to leave Rivera on the bus, where he would spend 17 frigid hours strapped to his seat behind the bus driver. Temperatures dropped to 15 degrees during the night and once Rivera was found, he was hospitalized for hypothermia. Hockaday was fired and jailed on January 2nd, charged with two counts of felony reckless endangerment, which carries up to seven years in jail. The bus driver, Walter Gibbs, has not been charged with a crime, yet investigators have found out the he has been arrested 28 times, inacluding on numerous drug charges, grand larceny and also for assaulting a police officer.

Gibbs and Hockaday were both employed by Outstanding Transport.

This story is not unique, but one that is repeated time after time in communities across the country. Hockaday is just a symbol of a distressed system of disability services, which all too often disregard the safety of those in their charge. While Outstanding Transport is not standing behind Hockaday, they are defending Gibbs. But should Gibbs have been hired in the first place? Do providers, whether providers of transportation, day programming, personal care, education, employment, etc., have a responsibility in ensuring that their employees are not abusing, exploiting, neglecting or abandoning those people they are hired to serve? And what responsibility do they have to face the consequences for the actions of their employees? The NCIL Task Force on Violence and Abuse applauds New York for its aggressive prosecution of Hockaday, but also encourages advocates to speak up and insist that New York also hold Outstanding Transportation and FEGS accountable for their inactions.

If you are interested in finding out more about curbing abuse against people with disabilities or getting help, please contact Leslie Myers, DART Program Manager at lmyers@independencefirst.org or 414-226-8381 V/Relay.

Can’t Get Out? Have It Delivered!
By Jill Potkay, Former Independent Living Services Intern

Special to Breaking Away

Sometimes due to bad weather, I am not always able to go to the grocery store as I would like to do. In such situations I have asked people to buy certain things for me while they’re out, or to take me to the store if they can. Unfortunately people aren’t always available when I need to go shopping. The last time I needed to go shopping, and I couldn’t go myself, I decided I’d try Peapod (an on-line grocery store that delivers to your home) which I have seen on TV and around my neighborhood.

I entered peapod.com on the web browser and found a cyber grocery store! I took a long time looking at all the items available to see if it had the ones I wanted. I found it had a big selection of many products that were priced comparable to those of many grocery stores. When I finished I had to sign up. Signing up and shopping took a long time, but the next time will be much faster since Peapod keeps all your information, including your grocery list! In the end I saved a good amount of money on my total bill between sales and promotions, even though there was a small delivery fee. I was able to choose the delivery date and the relative time at which my groceries would be delivered. The groceries came the next day in perfect condition, and were dropped off inside my home.

Although I still enjoy going to the store to make my own selections, it is nice to have such a convenient option as shopping at Peapod in my own home.

Peapod is not necessarily geared towards people with disabilities. Delivery people are only required to drop groceries off at the front door, but many of them will bring your packages into your home for you upon request. If you are ever in a situation where getting to the store might be difficult, you may want to consider using peapod.com or another home delivery service.

Other services can be found at www.schwans.com (more than just ice cream)
and www.netgrocer.com.

Disability Rights Wisconsin Launches Family Ombudsman ProgramDisability Rights Wisconsin Launches Family Ombudsman ProgramDisability Rights Wisconsin Launches Family Ombudsman ProgramDisability Rights Wisconsin Launches Family Ombudsman ProgramDisability Rights Wisconsin Launches Family Ombudsman ProgramDisability Rights Wisconsin Launches Family Ombudsman Program
From Disability Rights Wisconsin

• Do you need help in understanding your Family Care or Partnership services
or benefits?
• Are you satisfied with your care plan or services?
• Are you receiving services that meet your needs and support your goals?
• Do you have questions regarding your cost share?

Disability Rights Wisconsin’s Family Care Ombudsman Program is now available. It can provide assistance regarding eligibility, services or other Family Care and Family Care Partnership concerns. The Wisconsin Board on Aging and Long Term Care (BOALTC) will continue to provide ombudsman services to Family Care and Partnership enrollees and potential enrollees age 60 and over.

Disability Rights Wisconsin (DRW) now joins BOALTC in providing state-funded Ombudsman services to Family Care enrollees and potential enrollees. DRW provides services to people with disabilities age 18-59. An Ombudsman (OM-budz-man) is an advocate. If you are applying for or receiving Family Care or Family Care Partnership, you are eligible for DRW’s Ombudsman services. The ombudsman can assist you whether you are living in your own home, a supported apartment or another residential setting. If you are applying for or already enrolled in the Family Care or Partnership Programs and have a question or concern, call the Helpline at one of the toll-free numbers at the end of this article.

The Family Care Ombudsman Program offers many services, including:

• Investigating complaints
• Resolving and mediating issues
• Providing information and education on consumer rights
• Assisting in negotiating care plans
• Appealing denials of services or changes in services that you don’t agree with
• Working with enforcement and regulatory agencies

The Family Care Ombudsman Program has staff in DRW’s Madison, Milwaukee and Rice Lake offices and is available to advocate for Family Care and Family Care Partnership participants in any Wisconsin Family Care county. It can help Family Care and Family Care Partnership enrollees or potential enrollees, their guardians and families with issues such as:

• Development of a Care Plan that supports your goals
• Reduction in Services
• Employment
• Living Arrangement
• Young Adults Moving from School to Adulthood and enrolling in Family Care
or Partnership

If you are age 18-59, are applying for or are enrolled in Family Care or Family Care Partnership and have a question or concern, you can contact the Family Care Ombudsman Program at the Disability Rights Wisconsin office nearest to you.

Madison
608-267-0214
Toll-free: 800-928-8778*

Milwaukee
414-773-4646
Toll-free: 800-708-3034*

Rice Lake
715-736-1232
Toll-free: 877-338-3724*

TTY for all offices: 888-758-6049


* For people with disabilities and their families.

Disability Rights Wisconsin provides reasonable accommodations upon request. Language translation services are available.

Disability Rights Wisconsin is a private non-profit organization. Founded in 1977, it was designated by the Governor to ensure the rights of all state citizens with disabilities through individual advocacy and systems change. DRW is part of a national system of federally-mandated independent disability agencies. It serves people of all ages, including people with developmental disabilities, people with mental illness, people with physical or sensory disabilities, and people with traumatic brain injury. DRW respects the cultural values and personal choices of those seeking our services.

For more information about Family Care or other disability advocacy issues, please visit the website at:  www.disabilityrightswi.org

If you are 60 or over, are applying for or are enrolled in Family Care or Family Care Partnership and have a question or concern, you can contact the Ombudsman Program at the:
Wisconsin Board on Aging
and Long Term Care
1402 Pankratz Street, Suite 111
Madison, WI 53704-4001
1-800-815-0015 V/Relay
boaltc@ltc.state.wi.us.

There are BOALTC ombudsmen located throughout the state.

Family Care and Partnership give you several choices for help if you have a concern about your service plan. You can visit the DHS web site for a listing of options: www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/ltcare/

IndependenceFirst Needs Your Vote!

Independence Needs Your Vote!Independence Needs Your Vote!Independence Needs Your Vote!Independence Needs Your Vote!Independence Needs Your Vote!Independence Needs Your Vote!Independence Needs Your Vote!Independence Needs Your Vote!Independence Needs Your Vote!Independence Needs Your Vote!Independence Needs Your Vote!Independence Needs Your Vote!Independence Needs Your Vote!Independence Needs Your Vote!Independence Needs Your Vote!Independence Needs Your Vote!Independence Needs Your Vote!Independence Needs Your Vote!Independence Needs Your Vote!Independence Needs Your Vote!Independence Needs Your Vote!Independence Needs Your Vote!Independence Needs Your Vote!Independence Needs Your Vote!Independence Needs Your Vote!Independence Needs Your Vote!Independence Needs Your Vote!As a non-profit organization that provides resources for people with disabilities, we are excited about the "get out the message" possibilities that social media provides. In order to improve our social media presence, we have entered a national contest to win a $25,000 makeover from Communi-cause. Thanks to you we are one of the top three agencies!

In order to make it to the winning spot, we need your help! Just go to www.communicause.com to vote for us. It only takes about 30 seconds of your time to vote and make a difference. You can also go to our web site at www.independencefirst.org and follow the link to vote.

If you are on Facebook, MySpace, Twitter, LinkedIn, Blogspot or any other social networking site, please post, tweet, blog and bulletin this message and forward to all of your friends and family. Every single vote matters, so pass this along. And thanks!

People Can’t Wait – A Milwaukee Coalition of Disability Advocates
By Melinda Kiltz, MSW, MPA, Coalition Chair. Special to Breaking Away

The People Can’t Wait — Milwaukee Coalition was initiated many years ago in response to a lack of awareness of disability rights, funding, and service issues in the Milwaukee community. Today, the Coalition consists of 30+ agencies, including IndependenceFirst, direct care providers, individuals with disabilities, and family members. Perhaps the greatest success of People Can’t Wait has been our ability to coordinate efforts as a group to develop strong relationships with elected officials and other key decision makers, providers, and the general public. We provide a unified voice for individuals with disabilities, service providers, families, and other stakeholders while working to educate the public about the disability community which we represent. Our ability to influence public policy decisions has been instrumental for the Coalition to effect positive change in the lives of citizens with disabilities in Milwaukee County.

The Coalition has been very successful in sharing information in a timely manner, allowing for people to mobilize and take action regarding disability issues at the City, County, and State government levels. A few of the issues that we have recently addressed include: FamilyCare expansion in Milwaukee County, paratransit services, adequate funding for support services, voter outreach and education, safe and affordable housing, and self-advocacy training for individuals with disabilities.

If you are interested in learning more about the People Can’t Wait—Milwaukee Coalition, please contact Melinda Kiltz, Coalition Chair, at ARC Milwaukee 414-774-6255 V/Relay.

The People Can’t Wait — Milwaukee Coalition was initiated many years ago in response to a lack of awareness of disability rights, funding, and service issues in the Milwaukee community. Today, the Coalition consists of 30+ agencies, including Independence, direct care providers, individuals with disabilities, and family members. Perhaps the greatest success of People Can’t Wait has been our ability to coordinate efforts as a group to develop strong relationships with elected officials and other key decision makers, providers, and the general public. We provide a unified voice for individuals with disabilities, service providers, families, and other stakeholders while working to educate the public about the disability community which we represent. Our ability to influence public policy decisions has been instrumental for the Coalition to effect positive change in the lives of citizens with disabilities in Milwaukee County. The Coalition has been very successful in sharing information in a timely manner, allowing for people to mobilize and take action regarding disability issues at the City, County, and State government levels. A few of the issues that we have recently addressed include: FamilyCare expansion in Milwaukee County, paratransit services, adequate funding for support services, voter outreach and education, safe and affordable housing, and self-advocacy training for individuals with disabilities.If you are interested in learning more about the People Can’t Wait—Milwaukee Coalition, please contact Melinda Kiltz, Coalition Chair, at ARC Milwaukee 414-774-6255 V/Relay.

Providing Mobility with Dignity to Those in Need

The Wheelchair Recycling Program (WRP) refurbishes and provides low cost wheelchairs and other medical equipment to those in need. For the consumer with a variety of durable medical equipment needs, those who have a lack of insurance or back up equipment, the WRP is there to help.

WRP is pleased to have partnerships with Badger State Industries, IndependenceFirst, Milwaukee County, WisTech Assistive Technology Program, and WAMES.

If you need low-cost mobility equipment, WRP carries:

Manual and Power Wheelchairs
Walkers, Canes and Crutches
Bath Benches, Raised Toilet Seats, Grab Bars, and other bath equipment
Hospital Beds, Pediatric Equipment, and more…

MMDI: Access Moving Forward
By Leslie Myers, DART Program Manager

The Metro-Milwaukee DART Initiative: A Community Collaborative Effort Serving Survivors with Disabilities from Crisis to Healing (MMDI: ACCESS) was created to improve the response to survivors with disabilities who have experienced domestic and sexual violence and/or abuse. MMDI: ACCESS is made up of four community programs: IndependenceFirst; Sojourner Family Peace Center; Milwaukee County Disability Services Division; and the City of Milwaukee Office on Violence Prevention.

Between September and December 2008, MMDI: ACCESS conducted a needs assessment to determine what areas of change would be the focus over the next two years of the grant. MMDI: ACCESS used a variety of methodologies during the needs assessment including interviews, surveys, focus groups and a community dialogue giving us the opportunity to talk with 215 people.

MMDI: ACCESS also held eight focus groups at various locations and in those groups met with 40 individuals with disabilities. Two additional focus groups were held for survivors with disabilities. allowing us to meet with 17 survivors. Through this assessment five key findings emerged:

1. There is a lack of consistent policies and procedures.
2. There is a lack of awareness about the four partner agencies and their programs and services.
3. There are barriers at each of the four partner agencies that impact people with disabilities who have been hurt by violence/abuse.
4. There is a need for staff training and cross training on the basic topics of violence and abuse, disabilities and accommodations, as well as training on agency policy
and procedures.
5. There is a need to fully integrate the 15 core values of MMDI:ACCESS into the four partner agencies’ cultures and practices.

MMDI: ACCESS would like to thank everyone who participated in this needs assessment, including survivors with disabilities, community agencies, the members of the Milwaukee Commission on Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault, managers and staff at each of the four partner agencies and the leaders of each of the four partner agencies who supported our efforts.

MMDI: ACCESS is using the results of this needs assessment as a compass to guide us as we move forward. In February, MMDI: ACCESS invited the Office on Violence Against Women (OVW) and Vera Institute of Justice to Milwaukee to assist us with the strategic planning process. MMDI: ACCESS is looking forward to moving into the implementation phase of this grant. Watch for updates on our progress in future issues of Breaking Away.

The Metro-Milwaukee DART Initiative: A Community Collaborative Effort Serving Survivors with Disabilities from Crisis to Healing (MMDI: ACCESS) was created to improve the response to survivors with disabilities who have experienced domestic and sexual violence and/or abuse. MMDI: ACCESS is made up of four community programs: Independence; Sojourner Family Peace Center; Milwaukee County Disability Services Division; and the City of Milwaukee Office on Violence Prevention. Between September and December 2008, MMDI: ACCESS conducted a needs assessment to determine what areas of change would be the focus over the next two years of the grant. MMDI: ACCESS used a variety of methodologies during the needs assessment including interviews, surveys, focus groups and a community dialogue giving us the opportunity to talk with 215 people. MMDI: ACCESS also held eight focus groups at various locations and in those groups met with 40 individuals with disabilities. Two additional focus groups were held for survivors with disabilities. allowing us to meet with 17 survivors.

Through this assessment five key findings emerged:
1. There is a lack of consistent policies and procedures.
2. There is a lack of awareness about the four partner agencies and their programs and services.
3. There are barriers at each of the four partner agencies that impact people with disabilities who have been hurt by violence/abuse.
4. There is a need for staff training and cross training on the basic topics of violence and abuse, disabilities and accommodations, as well as training on agency policy and procedures.
5. There is a need to fully integrate the 15 core values of MMDI:ACCESS into the four partner agencies’ cultures and practices.

MMDI: ACCESS would like to thank everyone who participated in this needs assessment, including survivors with disabilities, community agencies, the members of the Milwaukee Commission on Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault, managers and staff at each of the four partner agencies and the leaders of each of the four partner agencies who supported our efforts.MMDI: ACCESS is using the results of this needs assessment as a compass to guide us as we move forward. In February, MMDI: ACCESS invited the Office on Violence Against Women (OVW) and Vera Institute of Justice to Milwaukee to assist us with the strategic planning process. MMDI: ACCESS is looking forward to moving into the implementation phase of this grant. Watch for updates on our progress in future issues of Breaking Away.

A Festival of Firsts; Independent Living in Action
By Cathy Steffke, Advocacy Specialist, Disability Rights Wisconsin

Toward the end of my job with an organization called Alternatives Unlimited, I had just started as manager at a new apartment program. Two people from the community moved in. Every residence had a week long vacation chosen by the people living there. A vote was taken and it was decided that this vacation was going to be "down the Cape" if you are speaking Massachusian.

The other two residents were coming from one of the large institutions and were deemed to be so impaired that they were released at the bitter end. Of course, the institution sent all of these terrible reports about them. They were "spitters," "hitters" and "biters." You have to find a way to justify the years of wretched treatment of "those" people when, as staff, you systematically stripped their humanity from them and made a darned good living doing it.

The vacation was only a few days after they arrived at their new home. In the few days they were there they were thrilled and amazed. They had their first taste of freedom. After an explanation of what a vacation was and they saw some past vacation pictures, they agreed to go on vacation too. The institution staff was horrified. It was bad enough that these violence-prone people were walking our streets but now this, a vacation? Were we letting the inmates run the asylum? (Yes we were.) They could not be held responsible for whatever havoc was raised against the poor unsuspecting residents of Cape Cod. It's funny how well behaved people can be when you take your foot off their neck and invite them to live freely.
Off we went, 6 of us, me, the four guys and another staff person who had a peg leg and enjoyed dressing up like a pirate. We tried to dissuade him from this practice because it didn’t align too well with the philosophy of normalization. It was slightly alright for an ocean vacation as long as he didn’t overdo it. The vacation was fabulous. First beach for them, first pirate for me, first beer in a beach chair at sunset, making friends with local folks and their pets, first trip to a restaurant, first try at pinball; let’s just say it was a festival of firsts.

At one point I did have to come down on the pirate because I found him strolling the beach with two of the guys, pant leg rolled up, a bandana on his head and his shirt tied at the midriff in a knot. Oh, and there was a hoop earring as I remember. I’m pretty sure he liked the attention this brought him. I, on the other hand, did not. That was the worst thing that happened over the weeklong vacation. Nobody was bitten, beaten or otherwise hurt. We managed to keep enough sunscreen on everyone to prevent serious sunburns.

We had a little extra money at the end of the week and bought 2 lobsters and some steamers, enough for everyone to get a taste. We kept the lobsters in a cooler on the porch and the guys were just fascinated. What strange little animals. Around dinner time we started to prep the meal. One of the men filled the lobster pot with water and another filled a pot partway for the clams. The stove went on, the water started to boil, and the lobsters were brought in. One of the men realized what was about to happen and started to melt down. Another one of the men caught on and started to lose it. The pirate and I freaked out. Long story short… those violent inmates from a Massachusetts institution implemented the first lobster catch and release program on Cape Cod. They did like the steamers though. Anytime you dip something in melted butter it’s bound to taste good.