Wisconsin Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Project

The AODA Project Coordinator provides FREE outreach and education to AODA treatment providers/peer support recovery groups about the needs of the Deaf, Deaf-Blind and Hard of Hearing population in Wisconsin and how to better serve them. The Project Coordinator also conducts outreach and education to this targeted population to encourage their participation in AODA treatment. Depending on the circumstances, the Project Coordinator can also assist in obtaining sign language interpreters, use of assistive listening devices or printed materials produced in large print for individuals with low vision.

The mission of the project is to increase access to culturally- sensitive, language-appropriate and accessible AODA treatment/recovery services for persons who are Deaf, Deaf-Blind and Hard of Hearing.

Goals

  • To increase the understanding and sensitivity of AODA treatment providers /peer support recovery groups on working with this population.
  • Educating about, and making available, assistive listening devices (ALDs) to AODA treatment providers/peer support recovery groups - as well as persons who are hard of hearing.
  • Educating the Deaf, Deaf-Blind and Hard of Hearing population about Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse.
  • Increasing accessing to treatment and recovery support group for this population by facilitating access to effective communication.

Program Availability
This is a statewide project. The Project Coordinator can provide assistance anywhere in Wisconsin. The statewide network of Independent Living Centers (ILCs) assists by housing assistive listening devices for loan in their region and making available a meeting room equipped with a room loop. Contact the Project Coordinator first and she will refer persons to their local ILC as appropriate.

Contact Information
Staff Name: Denise Johnson
Title: Project Coordinator AODA Services for Deaf, Deaf-Blind & Hard of Hearing
Phone: 414-291-7520 (V/Relay), 414-226-8319 (V/TTY)
E-mail: Denise Johnson

Q&A

Does the project provide AODA counseling services to people who are Deaf, Deaf-Blind or Hard of Hearing?
No. The Project Coordinator does not provide any direct counseling; however, she can assist in locating an AODA treatment provider for a Deaf, Deaf-Blind or Hard of Hearing individual in need of these services.

Does the project pay for a sign language interpreter for a person who is in treatment?
It depends on the circumstances. If, under the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act, it is the responsibility of an AODA treatment provider to provide interpreting services as part of treatment, the project will not pay for an interpreter. However, for some small providers, or for AA/NA/Smart Recovery support groups (where there are no funds), the project may provide funding for an interpreter. Contact the Project Coordinator for more information.

Does the project provide assistive listening devices for a person who is in treatment?
Yes, we have equipment available for persons to borrow and use for these purposes.

Who is this program for?

  • AODA Treatment Providers
  • Peer Support/Recovery Groups (i.e. AA, NA, Smart Recovery)
  • Persons who are Deaf, Deaf-Blind and Hard of Hearing and in need of AODA services

Type of Assistance/Information

  • Education on the unique culture and needs of persons who are Deaf, Deaf-Blind, Hard of Hearing
  • Education on assistive listening devices
  • Education on how to work with an interpreter
  • Education on AODA
  • Assistance facilitating AODA treatment services