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CBS 58 Visits Independence First on International Day of Persons with Disabilities

On the morning of December 3rd, Independence First was proud to welcome CBS 58’s Amanda Becker and photographer Tim D’Agostino for a special visit in celebration of International Day of Persons with Disabilities.

Amanda and Tim joined us live on the CBS 58 Morning News, where they spoke with several members of our staff and toured our building to explore how accessibility and inclusion come to life every day at Independence First.

A Conversation in the Lobby

A man operating a large TV camera is shooting towards a young woman with purple pants in the lobby at Independence First.
A man operating a large TV camera is shooting towards a young woman with purple pants in the lobby at Independence First.

The morning began in our front lobby, where CEO Marci Boucher introduced viewers to Independence First and shared an overview of our mission to support people with disabilities in living independently. Marci also highlighted some of the first things visitors notice when they walk through our doors including automatic entryways, accessible counters, and clear signage. They are all small features that make a big difference in ensuring everyone feels welcome.

Showcasing Personal Assistance Services

A man in jeans and a grey sweatshirt holds a large TV camera. In front of him is a young woman with red hair. She's in the midst of a TV interview.
A man in jeans and a grey sweatshirt holds a large TV camera. In front of him is a young woman with red hair. She's in the midst of a TV interview.

Next, Sam Hudson, our Director of Personal Assistance Services, guided the crew through our Assistive Technology Office. Sam spoke about the vital role our personal caregivers play in helping people remain independent in their homes, emphasizing how assistive technology and caregiving go hand in hand in empowering consumers to live life on their own terms.

Exploring the Mobility Equipment Room


A young woman interviews a man with a black shirt for a TV report. They are both standing over a power wheelchair.
A young woman interviews a man with a black shirt for a TV report. They are both standing over a power wheelchair.

From there, Assistive Technology Specialist Tim Kiley led the team into our storage area — home to dozens of mobility devices. Some of these devices are used for demonstrations and training, while others are donated and made available for consumers to borrow or, in some cases, take home free of charge. It’s one of the many ways we help bridge the gap between need and access.

A Stop in the “BAT Cave”
A reporter interviews an Independence First staff member inside the Bathroom Assistive Technology room.

A reporter interviews an Independence First staff member inside the Bathroom Assistive Technology room.

The tour continued with Community Outreach Specialist Lorna Barthel, who showed Amanda and Tim our beloved BAT Cave — short for Bathroom Assistive Technology. (Get it?) This space demonstrates a variety of accessible bathroom setups and devices that can make all the difference in maintaining independence at home. As Lorna explained, loss of bathroom access is often one of the first challenges that leads people to consider nursing home care. Our team works to make sure that doesn’t have to be the case.

 

Accessibility in the Kitchen
A young woman with purple pants addresses a camera. Beside her is a woman using a wheelchair. They are standing in the kitchen at Independence First.

A young woman with purple pants addresses a camera. Beside her is a woman using a wheelchair. They are standing in the kitchen at Independence First.

 

Finally, Staff Member Andrea Gonzalez offered a tour of our accessible kitchen. Using a wheelchair herself, Andrea demonstrated the side-swing oven door, lowered countertops, and stovetop designed for easy reach. The kitchen showcases how thoughtful design allows everyone to cook, clean, and enjoy daily life safely and comfortably.

Sharing Our Mission with the Community

Throughout the morning, Amanda and Tim did live interview segments to introduce viewers to the resources, technology, and programs available at Independence First. Their visit helped highlight the many ways accessibility is evolving and how our team continues to champion inclusion across the Greater Milwaukee area.

Click here to see CBS 58's coverage of Independence First for International Day of Persons with Disablities.

Thank you to Amanda Becker, Tim D’Agostino, and the entire CBS 58 team for helping shine a light on the work happening here every day and for sharing our mission with the wider community.