Independent living skills

Independent living skills are learned.
We train for success.

We offer more than 40 workshops and programs for education, skills training, socialization, and fun!

Independent Living Skills training classes and workshops include topics such as money management, home and time management, communication skills, how to build self-esteem, how to set goals and make good decisions, dealing with conflict and anger, stress management, assertiveness, computer training, just to name a few. Individuals set their goals and training assists them to be successful in achieving them.

All of our other Independent Living Skills Workshops can also be conducted for youth.

Learn more about our exciting programs.

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Adaptive E-Gaming

This program brings people with and without disabilities together to play video games!

Aging in Place

There are alternatives to living in a nursing home. Our experts can provide options and show you equipment that will help you stay in your home.

Assistive Technology

There are many adaptive types of equipment that help people with disabilities live, work, communicate, and enjoy life.

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Benefits Counseling

We help people with disabilities understand benefits and reach their employment goals.

Equipment Exchange

Independence First accepts donations of gently used adaptive equipment for re-utilization (as our storage space allows).

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Information & Referral

If we don’t have a program or resource we know who does. Call our knowledgeable experts.

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Peer Support

Contact Gerald Hay 414-226-8135

All-terrain outdoor wheelchair in front of a trailer

Recreational Mobility

People with disabilities can join in the fun biking and hiking. We have duet bikes, hand trikes, and an all-terrain wheelchair. Find out how you can take one out on loan!

Outline of the state of Wisconsin with sign language inside of the border. The signs are A O D A.

Substance Abuse/Mental Health

Are you a SUD service provider? We can help! We’re increasing access to SUD treatment/recovery for people who are Deaf, Deaf-Blind or Hard of Hearing.

Woman Using Oxygen and A Wheelchair Sitting In Her Living Room

Transition Services

Many people prefer to live in the community in their own homes, instead of nursing homes and other institutions. We can help.

WisLoan/Teleworks

WisLoan + Telework are statewide alternative loan programs that allow Wisconsin residents with disabilities to finance assistive technology, home modifications, or equipment needed to become self-employed or work from home.

Workshops & Classes

We offer more than forty workshops and classes throughout the year. Sign up and join us.

Youth Programming

Youth with disabilities learn self-advocacy, and connect with the community and other youth with disabilities in meaningful ways.

Advocate.

People with disabilities want the same things as those without disabilities – employment, inclusion, access to businesses, healthy independent living, transportation, education, a vote, housing. Staff provide individual and systemic advocacy to facilitate policy changes in the community. With individuals, our goal is to teach them how to advocate for themselves.

Want to learn more about issues or team up with others working on advocacy issues?

Contact: Brian Peters
Community Access & Policy Specialist
Email Brian Peters
414-937-5912 VP/Relay

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Disability Rights

Do you know your rights and responsibilities related to your disability or access? Think you have been discriminated against or have an access complaint? We can help!

People with disabilities have rights but they also have responsibilities to self-advocate, provide and participate in their own decision-making. Issues related to access, legal, employment, landlord/tenant, fair housing, voting, medical access and more can be confusing.Our staff are experts on the ADA, transportation, long-term care and fair housing among other access and disability rights issues.

Other Disability Rights Resources

Call us with your questions – if we can’t help we know who can!

Contact: Brian Peters
414-937-5912 VP/Relay

Independent living skills