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Independent Living Services Independence First has more than forty programs and workshops that are often necessary to help a person live independently in the community. We also have programs and workshops that are fun, creative, and educational.
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Young people with disabilities develop the skills they need to live independently, set their goals, and take steps to reach them, with the help of our workshops and classes. Youth with disabilities learn self-advocacy, and connect with the community and other youth with disabilities in meaningful ways.
If you have any questions about our youth programming, email Gerald Hay or call 414-226-8135 V/Relay
SPARK Leadership Camp (Speaking up, Promoting change, Advocating rights, Raising voices, Kindling confidence) is a week-long summer program for high school students with disabilities in the Milwaukee area. This interactive camp focuses on building confidence, leadership, and advocacy skills while empowering participants to use their voices to create change.
Participants will enjoy a mix of learning and fun through activities such as songwriting and music production, games and raffles, ComedySportz, and calming experiences like Zen gardens. The camp provides opportunities to make new friends, learn about healthy and safe relationships, develop valuable advocacy skills, and be heard in a supportive, inclusive environment.
SPARK Leadership Camp takes place June 22–June 26, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (ending at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, June 26) at Independence First, 540 South 1st Street, Milwaukee, WI 53204. Seats are limited and interested students must apply.
Contact Kristin Stern at 414-226-8332 or email YLS@independencefirst.org.
Highlights sexuality education for youth and adults with disabilities ages 11 and up. Includes issues of sexuality, sexual decision making and negotiation, STDs, HIV, pregnancy and condom use.
Learn about boundaries and personal space, healthy versus unhealthy relationships, dating topics, and abuse prevention.
A peer support group for girls with disabilities of any kind. The ages for this group are from 8 to 21 years.
Boys discuss what it means to be a man, relationships and dating from a male perspective, friendship, conflict resolution, and dealing with family and stress.
We have a variety of summer workshops that teach different skills such as basic money management, advocacy, and computer skills for daily living. We also have art and cooking classes. Our summer workshops allow people with disabilities to learn something new, develop stronger social skills, and meet new people.