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AbleRoad eb site and Mobile App AbleRoad, a Web site and mobile app for finding and rating accessible places – restaurants, shops, hotels, medical practices and many other venues – launches today! It’s a perfect mobile service for people with disabilities and their friends, family members, and caregivers.

You can access AbleRoad at the Web site or by using the iPhone and iPad apps. An Android App will be released next month. They are all free, and you can start posting reviews today.

Here are the links to get started:

• AbleRoad.com

• Download the iPhone or iPad app via iTunes
• Two-minute video tutorial on Facebook that shows how to use the app and website

Please share this announcement with everyone you know. Liking AbleRoad on Facebook or sharing the Facebook video are other ways to help spread the word. AbleRoad has the potential to do some great things for people and businesses all over the country.

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Telling Your Story: Latest App for People with Disabilities from Partners in Policymaking

"Telling Your Story" is a tool that persons with disabilities, family members, and other advocates can use to compose and practice the personal story they'll present to elected public officials or other policymakers at all levels of government when seeking policy changes or increasing awareness about disability issues. The app guides users through the steps, from introducing yourself to identifying the specific issue to the best methods for presenting a compelling personal story. After entering the text of their story, an audio recording feature allows the user to rehearse their story. Users can also select and preview a photo they may wish to include.

Link to the app in the iTunes store:

http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/telling-your-story/id541403749

View features of the "Telling Your Story" app here: http://www.partnersinpolicymaking.com/myc-app/index.html                   top

Parent and Educator Guide for Assistive Technology (AT) (pdf)

UCP/Detroit Program QuickRamps for Kids - YouTube Video

QuickRamps for Kids is a UCP/Detroit program that has provided over 100 free portable ramps to families across Metropolitan Detroit. Daniel Elkus the creator of the YouTube video has raised over $3500 to provide 15 ramps to families.

In an effort to continue the work, Daniel produced a mini documentary to create awareness and gain additional funding to support the QuickRamps program. Now after many months of hard work the video is finally complete.

For more information visit quickrampsforkids.org

Attached you will find a Q&A on the referral process and a client referral form. Please duplicate the referral form as necessary. Referrals can be faxed to Roy Richardson at (734) 264-0726 or Theo Wilkinson at (810) 632-0597. Referrals may also be e-mailed to projectfreedom@comcast.net. After the referral is received, you will be notified of the status of the referral. 

2012 Americans with Disabilities (ADA) Tool Kit

The DBTAC - Network of ADA Centers has announced the release of the 2012 Americans with Disabilities (ADA) Anniversary Tool Kit. Together with its Affiliate Networks and Partners, the network has accomplished significant results toward voluntary ADA compliance. The Tool Kit captures the collective achievements and offers informative materials designed to help you plan and publicize your ADA activities during the ADA Anniversary and throughout the year. The Tool Kit includes:

• Overview of the Americans with Disabilities Act and the ADA Amendments Act of 2008

• ADA - Findings, Purpose, and History

• ADA from a Civil Rights Perspective

• ADA Resources and Publications

• ADA and Olmstead Resources

• ADA Amendments Act of 2008 (ADAAA) Summary and Resources

• Statistics You Can Use

• Tips on Writing a News Release

• Sample Proclamation: ADA Anniversary

The 2012 ADA Anniversary Tool Kit can be downloaded at http://adaanniversary.org.            Top

AT Xchange is a new Michigan-based Web site where people can buy, sell or give away assistive technology

Do you have a used AT item in storage that could really help someone who has a disability? It could be anything from a wheelchair, stair lift, Braille reader, or reacher! If so, just post a classified ad AT Xchange.org. Include a digital photo. ATXchange is open to vendors who have used equipment for sale also. And don’t worry about cost, ATXchange is a free service!

Maybe you or someone you know is looking for AT? Check out ATXchange.org! If you can’t find what you are looking for, you can post it as an item wanted and receive an email message telling you if and when someone posts the item you are looking for. You may find the AT you are seeking for a bargain price – even for free!

iPad Apps for People with Autism

Link to Occupational Therapy Blog and List of iPad apps for children with autism.

CBS Sixty Minutes program discussing iPad apps for childen and adults with autism

Contents include Apps for: Social Goals, Communication, Behavior, Relaxation and Structure, Sensory Issues, Functional Issues, Productivity, Organization and
Academics

Here you will find the best environment on the Internet for children living with various autism challenges.

Zac Browser is a totally free software package. It is the first Internet browser developed specifically for children living with variants of autism spectrum disorders (ASD), Asperger syndrome, Rett syndrome, childhood disintegrative disorder, PDD not otherwise specified and PDD-NOS, also called atypical autism.

Zac Browser was designed to offer a pleasant, rewarding and secure experience. Children sing, play and discover the best that the Internet has to offer with only a few clicks of the mouse.

Zac Browser is software that allows your child to access games (a lot of games) activities (based on diverse interests) along with videos (that allow a stimulating experience and encourages children to talk). All games, activities and videos are specifically chosen for their positive effect on children suffering from autism. Click here: www.zacbrowser.com

Web sites for Accessible Living

• www.UniversalDesign.com - Design tips, products, information and resources that demonstrate universal design and assist visitors in enhancing the built environment - whether it is a business or home.

• www.concretechange.org - this site is dedicated to making all homes "visitable."

• www.easylivinghome.org - EasyLiving Home® is a proven, successful program conceived and developed cooperatively by organizations representing the building industry, government and accessibility advocates. This program represents the most successful attempt to date to promote change in construction practices without adversely affecting either the builder or the new home buyer. We are changing the way people think by increasing convenience, safety and inclusion.

A Brand New Day for Accessible, Affordable Health Insurance and an Enhanced Commitment to Community Living.

from HealthCare.gov

As of September 23, 2010, most health plans cannot limit or deny benefits or deny coverage outright for a child younger than19 simply because the child has a "preexisting condition." In 2014, the Act will prohibit insurance companies from denying coverage or charging more to any person based on their medical history. Click here to download the list of Greater Choices and Enhanced Protections for American with Disabilities (pdf)

Autism Collaborative Center ( ACC) Comprehensive and Individualized Family and Community Services

The Autism Collaborative Center provides accessible, high quality assessment, intervention and referral services across the lifespan to enable persons with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) to achieve their maximum potential. Their approach is based on hope and a vision that all persons with ASD can lead fulfilling lives as independently as possible within their communities.

The programs are individualized and services are built around the needs of each family. ACC is a "one stop shop" that can provide you with the information and support services you need to achieve the best possible outcomes for your family. See brochure. (pdf)

Contact information:

Autism Collaborative Center

Eastern Michigan University

1055 Cornell Street

Fletcher School Building

Ypsilanti, Michigan 48197

Phone: 734.485.2890

Fax: 734.485.2892

E-mail: autismcenter@emich.edu

Web site: www.emich.edu/acc

Michigan Department of Education Standards for Extended School Year Services in Michigan

From michigan.gov

The need for extended school year (ESY) services must be considered for every student with a disability at each Individualized Education Program (IEP) Team meeting. ESY services must be provided if the IEP Team determines that such services are necessary for the provision of a free appropriate public education (FAPE) to the student. The need for ESY must be determined individually and may not be provided or denied based upon category of disability or program assignment.

Approved Standards for Extended School Year Services in Michigan pdf

Guidance for Extended School Year Services in Michigan pdf

(Updated August 2010)

The Michigan Alliance for Families, a program of The Arc Michigan, has an extensive and comprehensive Web site of education and disability resources. The Web site can be found at www.michiganallianceforfamilies.org. In addition, The Alliance lists local Arc chapters as resources for local supports.

We hope this Web site will be useful in your work at the local level serving people with disabilities and their families. If you have suggestions for improvement, please email to info@michiganallianceforfamilies.org.

U.S. Department of Education Issues '15 Principles,' Stops Short on Restraint, Seclusion

TASH released the following press release (pdf) to the media regarding the Department of Education's resource announced by the Secretary on restraint and seclusion use in schools. If you have a network with which to share, please do so!

The most important thing is to emphasize to parents, students preparing for the teaching profession, administrators and university faculty that this resource is available and provides excellent direction on evidence-based practices that can eliminate Restraint and Seclusion use.                                       Top 

Parent Friendly Tool Available On State Performance Plan # 8

The Michigan Department of Education, Office of Special Education and Early Intervention Services has made the following information available to parents whose children receive special education and related services. The information is about meaningful parent involvement, which is reflected in Indicator # 8 of the State Performance Plan (SPP). The SPP indicators are part of federal special education accountability.

The following three informational pieces are available:

• PowerPoint, "Parent Involvement in Michigan Schools, What is Meaningful Parent Involvement?" (ppt)

• SAMPLE survey for parents of preschool children (children ages 3-5)

• SAMPLE survey for parents of school age children (students ages 6-21)                           top

If you know of families who do not have Internet access and want to see a print copy of their local district's IDEA public report, please let them know that they can call the Center for Educational Networking (CEN) at 1 (800) 593-9146 to request a copy. (posted 7/06/07)

Information Underload: Florida's Flawed Special-Ed Voucher Program   Students with disabilities have long had the right, under the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act(IDEA), to attend private schools at public expense if the public schools in their community are unable to provide them with appropriate special educational services. But less than 1 percent of students with disabilities have such private placements, in part because these placements can be costly, complicated, and time-consuming to obtain under the existing law.

Florida's popular McKay Scholarships for Students with Disabilities Program seeks to tilt the balance in these students’ favor. The program provides parents with an alternative to expensive legal proceedings and complicated bureaucracy—a voucher that they can use at a public or private school of their choice. Florida's legislature approved the program in 1999 and named it after a then-state senator, John McKay, who is also the father of a special-needs child. (posted 6/29/07)                                    top

Parents Don't Need Lawyer In Ed Cases  by Mark Sherman, The Associated Press - Washington - Parents need not hire a lawyer to sue public school districts over their children's special education needs, the Supreme Court ruled Monday, overturning the 6th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruling. (Case number Winkelman v. Parma City School District, 05-983)

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Supported Self-Employment 101

This handbook is intended to provide direction for organizations that embrace Supported Self-Employment. It is hoped this will shape greater self-determined opportunities for people with disabilities across Michigan.

Employment for People with Disabilities Especially Those with ASD in the New/Digital Age Policy Changes? 

"Expanding Employment and Career Options for Individuals on the Autism Spectrum in 21st Century Digital Median and Communications Technology",

A Policy Paper, by Allen I Bergman, High Impact Mission-based Consulting & Training, September 30, 2010.

Click here to download pdf file.

ODEP Releases Integrated Employment Toolkit

The Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP) has developed an Integrated Employment Toolkit to provide information to individuals, community employment agencies, policymakers and others pursuing integrated employment for youth and adults with disabilities. The Toolkit includes information and documents to facilitate the movement of states, organizations and youth and adults to integrated employment as their primary option for employment.

The Toolkit offers a collection of resources, reports, papers, policies, fact sheets, case studies, and discussion guides from a variety of sources to accommodate the full range of users and increase capacity and understanding about the value and potential of integrated employment. It is organized by different audiences or perspectives and within each audience, there are commonly asked questions to guide the user to the appropriate materials.

The Toolkit is available online at www.dol.gov/odep/ietoolkit/

Campaign for Disability Employment’s Outreach Toolkit

The Campaign for Disability Employment, a new effort of the American Association of People with Disabilities, National Business and Disability Council, Special Olympics and the US business Leadership Network, has launched a web-based initiative know as "What Can You Do?" to promote employment of people with disabilities.

The new Web site has a public service announcement, videos and other information about employment issues. There are tabs for information aimed at the people and youth with disabilities, employers, family and educators.

What can YOU do to share the message that at work, it’s what people CAN do that matters? Use the Campaign for Disability Employment’s Outreach Toolkit to promote positive employment outcomes for people with disabilities in your business and community!

All of the Campaign for Disability Employment’s outreach tools are available either for order or download. For example, the "I Can" PSA Discussion Guides, complete with the "I Can" PSA DVD, as well as all ten of the full-size posters in the "What can YOU do?" Poster Series are available for order, free of charge. Other tools, including the "I Can" PSA and web and print ads, can be downloaded at the links below and in the Outreach Toolkit Quick Links to the right of this page. A DVD that includes the "I Can" and "Yo Puedo" PSAs is available by request by e-mailing info@whatcanyoudocampaign.org . Alternative format materials may be requested via e-mail as well.

Businesses and organizations that engage in outreach activities in support of the CDE and "What can YOU do?" initiative are encouraged to let us know about their effort. Tell us what YOU are doing to advance the employment of people with disabilities at info@whatcanyoudocampaign.org.

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Money to Lend!

The Michigan Loan Funds are programs of United Cerebral Palsy of Michigan, which works in partnership with Option 1 Credit Union to provide loans. It is funded through public and private donations, and started with grants from the United States Department of Education's Rehabilitation Services Administration.

The Michigan Assistive Technology Loan Fund (MATLF) supports the purchase of needed technology through low interest rates and loan guarantees. View the MATLF brochure.

The mission of the Michigan Employment Loan Fund (MELF) is to reduce or eliminate barriers to employment through low-interest loans. Financial loans can be used to buy equipment for self-employment or to work for an employer from home or a telework center. View the MELF brochure.

Michigan Loan Funds
c/o United Cerebral Palsy of Michigan
4970 Northwind Dr, Suite 102
East Lansing, MI 48823
800.828.2714

Here is a video presentation about Kevin Webb and the business he started. The project was funded by the Department of Labor and allows people with disabilities to start their own businesses. The video was created by Virginia Commonwealth University.

Shaping Tomorrow’s Workforce: Including Talents of Young People with Disabilities - Youth with disabilities bring fresh, new perspectives that enrich strategies for meeting business challenges and achieving success.  (Posted 12/1/08)                            top

Training Resource Network Disability Update - October 2008 Edition

In this issue:

• Study: Supported Employment 3 Times More Cost-Effective than Sheltered Work

• Percent of Unemployed People with Disabilities Looking for Work: 2005 Data released

• DePaul Study: workers with Disabilities Perform Well

• Key ADA Employment Changes for 2009

• Free Our People YouTube video, Free Our People

• Online Training: Job Coaching; Orientation to Working with People with Disabilities; The Disability Industrial Complex: Ending the Segregation of People with Disabilities

Go to: www.trninc.com/update/TRN_Update.html to view. (posted 10/31/08)

DTE Energy Payment Assistance Programs - Having trouble managing your bills? DTE Energy, along with government and private agencies, offers programs that help keep you warm in the winter.

Important - Contact DTE Energy at 800.477.4747 before your energy service is subject to shut off. If you are eligible for financial assistance, contact a social service agency prior to entering into a payment agreement because many agencies will not provide assistance if shut off is avoided. Notify us of your efforts to obtain payment assistance.

• Case Management - DTE has a team of specialists available to help low-income customers reduce their unpaid balances by providing a personal payment plan, agency referrals and follow-up. To enroll, call 800.545.8046 if you meet these requirements: Unpaid balance greater than $750; No illegal usage; Household income at aor below 200 percent of Federal income eligibility guidelines.

• Shut Off Protection Plan (SPP) - available to all residential customers regardless of income, and provides year-round protection from shut off. Call 800.477.4747. Requirements: Monthly budget plan that spreads out your future bills in 12 equal payments, plus equal monthly payments on your remaining balance.

• Credit Counseling - DTE works with GreenPath, a non-profit consumer credit counseling service, which helps you develop a budget to manage your money. For more information, call 888.235.1003.

• Winter Protection Plan (WPP) - The plan protects seniors and low-income customers from service shut off due to non-payment between Nov. 1 and March 31. During this period, customers must pay a budget amount that consists of a portion of their estimated annual bill plus regular payments on any past-due bills. For more information call, 800.477.4747

Other Available Programs:

• Home Heating Credit (HHC) E-Filing Eligible customers my receive funds from the State of Michigan Treasury Department to apply toward their heating bills.

• Low-Income Weatherization - Contact your local Community Action Agency or United Way at 211.

• The Heat and Warmth Fund (THAW) - United Way 211 - cell phone users: 800.552.1183 or 800.866.8429

• State Emergency Relief Program (SER) - available year-round to assist low-income households that have a shut-off notice. Call 800.292.5650

• Medical Emergencies - Shut off of an account due to non-payment may be postponed up to 21 days due to a medical emergency. Call 800.477.4747 

• Shut-Off Protection: Active duty in the Military - Call 800.477.4747

• Double-Notice Protection Plan - This plan is helpful when an unexpected event, such as an extended vacation or a long hospital stay, may keep you from paying your bill on time.

• Affordable Rental Housing - Customers may use the free Michigan Housing Locator.

• Low Income Home Interest Loans - for more information or to see if you qualify, contact the Michigan State Housing Development Authority at www.michigan.gov/mshda and click on the Home Improvement link, or call 517.373.8017

See attached brochure (pdf) for more information and phone numbers for DTE and other energy assistance programs. (Posted 1/05/09)                         top

Emergency Preparedness for People with Complex Communication Needs

Disasters (natural or man-induced) and the humanitarian emergencies that arise thereafter are in the news almost daily. When there are no warnings or they are late, absent or unheeded, casualties can be enormous.

People with disabilities/activity limitations are particularly vulnerable. Often, there needs are not considered. Community-based entities need to plan and prepare in advance so the needs of all citizens are considered.

The Augmentative and Alternative Communications - Rehabilitation Engineering Research Centers (AAC-RERC) web site (www.aac-rerc.com) and click on Disaster Prep) has resources for people with limited speech, emergency personnel and augmentative and alternative communications advocates. For example, a checklist for people with limited speech is available as a PDF file at the web site and here.

The AAC community has a key role to play in ensuring that people with limited speech have access to communication during an emergency or disaster. While each situation is different and not everything can be anticipated, planning and preparations ALWAYS result in better outcomes.

The AAC community needs to help people with complex communication needs (CCN) and their families prepare AND we need to increase the awareness among policy makers and first responders (firemen, policemen, ambulance drivers, etc). AAC Advocates need to spread the word about disaster preparedness and the needs of people with CCN at the local, regional and national and international level. (posted 9/05/08)

A Brand New Day for Accessible, Affordable Health Insurance and an Enhanced Commitment to Community Living.

from HealthCare.gov

As of September 23, 2010, most health plans cannot limit or deny benefits or deny coverage outright for a child younger than19 simply because the child has a "preexisting condition." In 2014, the Act will prohibit insurance companies from denying coverage or charging more to any person based on their medical history. Click here to download the list of Greater Choices and Enhanced Protections for American with Disabilities (pdf)

Dental Services:

Locate dental services in your area:  The Michigan Oral Health Program Directory produced by the Michigan Department of Community Health's (DCH) Division of Family and Community Health lists local oral health programs available, types of coverage and services provided. For more information, go to: http://www.michigan.gov/oralhealth.

Healthy Kids Dental, a public-private partnership between the State of Michigan and Delta Dental Plan of Michigan is a dental benefits program for Medicaid beneficiaries under the age of 21. It is available in 61 counties and covers basic dental health benefits such as X-rays, cleanings, cavity fillings, root canals, tooth extractions and dentures. For more information or call 1 (800) 482-8915. Additional information is available at: www.deltadentalmi.com

For dental services in your area contact Michigan Department of Human Services office at (888) 988-6300 or go to: http://www.michigan.gov/mdch/

MI Child - MIChild is a health insurance program. It is for uninsured children of Michigan's working families. MIChild services are provided by many HMOs and other health care plans throughout Michigan.

Healthy Kids - Health and dental care for pregnant women & Children age 18 and under, administered by the Michigan Department of Human services (DHS)

Call 888.988.6300 or (TTY) 888.263.5897 for more information.

Opportunities for Michiganians who have lost their healthcare coverage - Although the findings in a report just released by Families USA, a national nonprofit, nonpartisan organization, are particularly grim, there are some new opportunities for Michiganians who have lost their healthcare coverage or do not have access to healthcare coverage:

• Adult Benefits Waiver – An ambulatory program for low income persons without children. Applications can be submitted to the Department of Human Services (Customer Help - 1(800) 642-3195);
• MIChild - the reauthorization of federal funding for the continuation of the MIChild program was approved in February (Information on the program 1 (888) 988-6300 or at www.michigan.gov/mdch/1,1607,7-132-2943_4845_4931---,00.html);
• Resources are also available on the Department of Community Health’s new Web site Help Finding Health Care at www.michigan.gov/mdch/0,1607,7-132-2943_52115---,00.html.

AARP Launches New On-line Resources to Answer Health Reform Questions

Free Health Care Coverage Booklet  The Michigan Family-to-Family Health Information and Education Center (F2FHIEC) has produced a 20-page booklet) called "Free and Low Cost Health Care Coverage Available to Michigan Adults, Children, Pregnant Women and Families". This booklet provides information on numerous free and low cost health care coverage programs available in Michigan.

It can be viewed by clicking on the following link: http://bridges4kids.org/f2f/mdch.ins.booklet.pdf

If you are interested in ordering free copies, go to :
http://www.bridges4kids.org/f2f/cshcsorders.pdf

If you would like to learn more about F2FHIEC visit our website at: www.bridges4kids.org/f2f (posted 8/17/07)

AARP Rx Snapshop Resource for Managing Your Medications

Older adults take more medicines than any other age group. Rx Snapshot is an easy way you can help family members, friends, and neighbors manage their medications safely and effectively. Rx Snapshot is a simple and easy way to record medications on a special form. It also provides tips and ideas on encouraging effective communication among patients, doctors, and pharmacists. Click here to download the medication record form.(pdf)

World Medical Relief's Prescription Program Available in Southeastern Michigan

Do you need help with prescription drugs?

Safe: State-licensed pharmacy

Affordable:  $8.30 per Rx

Convenient: Mailed directly to your home.

You may qualify if you:

Are 18 years of age or older.

Earn $21,780 or less per year if you are an individual; $29,420 for a couple. (Add $300 for each additional dependent.

Are not currently enrolled in Medicaid.

You may still qualify if you have a discount prescription card or a are a senior on Medicare Part D.

World Medical Relief, Inc.

11745 Rosa Parks Blvd, Detroit, MI 48206

Phone: (313) 866-5333    Fax: (313) 866-5588

E-mail: info@worldmedicalrelief.org 

Web site: www.worldmedicalrelief.org -  Click for Flyer  (pdf file)

Don't Become a Victim of Mortgage Scams - message from HUD

The Arc Michigan's Position on Housing

The Arc Michigan board of directors has adopted the Howell Group's housing position paper as its position on housing for persons with developmental disabilities. The document (rtf) calls for non-segregated inclusive community housing options. (posted 8/08/08)

Links to entities who have examined the issue of capping or block granting Medicaid:

• AARP (Public Policy Institute) (pdf)

• National Senior Citizen Law Center (NSCLC) (pdf)

• Kaiser Commission (Kaiser Family Foundation) (pdf)

Kaiser Examines Recession-Driven Record Medicaid Enrollment and Assesses Medicaid Spending Growth

The Kaiser Family Foundation's Commission on Medicaid and the Uninsured has released several new papers that examine Medicaid enrollment and spending during the recent recession, including Medicaid Enrollment: June 2010 Data Snapshot, Medicaid Spending Growth Over The Last Decade and the Great Recession, 2000 to 2009, and a fact sheet highlighting key findings from both documents.

The analyses show Medicaid enrollment rose above 50 million people nationally for the first time in 2010, reflecting the program's counter-cyclical role of helping people who become uninsured when the economy falters, with many turning to Medicaid after losing jobs and employer-based health insurance. Without access to Medicaid coverage, millions more people who suffered economic hardship likely would have joined the ranks of America's now 50 million uninsured.

The recession-driven enrollment growth in recent years drove program spending to increase faster than national health spending overall, but on a per enrollee basis the growth in Medicaid spending has remained lower than the rise in private insurance premiums and overall national health expenditures. The recession-driven increase in Medicaid enrollment has been the primary cause of the increase in overall Medicaid spending.

The new papers and other Foundation resources on Medicaid can be found here. For more information contact Chris Lee at clee@kff.org or (202) 347-5270.

The Kaiser Family Foundation is a non-profit private operating foundation, based in Menlo Park, California, dedicated to producing and communicating the best possible analysis and information on health issues.

Taking the Long View: Investing in Medicaid Home and Community-Based Services Is Cost-Effective   Research Report March 2009

The current fiscal crisis is causing most states to make deep budget cuts. In this climate, many state policymakers are targeting Medicaid home and community-based services (HCBS) because they are optional Medicaid benefits. However, this approach may be shortsighted. Recent evidence indicates that expanding HCBS can be cost-effective in the long run when combined with efforts that reduce reliance on nursing home care. Moreover, states that shift their mode of service delivery away from institutional services and toward HCBS can serve more beneficiaries with available dollars. With declining revenues, states should take the opportunity to focus on longer-term and more cost-effective reform options for their long-term care (LTC) systems, such as promoting HCBS over institutional care. Doing so has the dual benefit of not only slowing the growth in Medicaid LTC spending but also improving consumer choices. Click to read the report (8 pages, PDF) 

Robert L. Mollica, National Academy for State Health Policy

Enid Kassner, AARP Public Policy Institute

Lina Walker, AARP Public Policy Institute

Ari N. Houser, AARP Public Policy Institute

Pub ID: I26

Home Help Services in Workplace Michigan's Medicaid State Plan has been revised to allow Home Help Services  in the workplace effective December1, 2007. The Adult Services Manual policy change states:

"Home Help Services (HHS) may now be provided for the specific purpose of enabling the client to be employed. The current assessment process for personal care services remains unchanged. A separate assessment for the workplace is not required. The hours approved may be used either in the home or the workplace. Additional hours are not available as a result of employment. The client determines where services are to be provided, whether in the home or the workplace." (2/29/08)

Expanding The “Registry” Concept: Creating Access To Care For Consumers & Employment For Care Workers

As part of the January 2008 Monthly Aging and Disability Resource Center Technical Assistance Exchange call, Dorie Seavey and Hollis Turnham presented the idea of worker registries. Supporting materials offer an overview of the concept and state examples (including the Michigan Quality Community Care Council). Also included is a two-page hand out that lists worker registry websites and offers and example of the database potential functionalities.

• Presentation (593K, 25 pages)

• Registry Examples Word (71K, 3 pages)

• Registry Examples (193K, 3 pages) (posted 1/11/08)

Need Help Paying For Medicine? The Partnership for Prescription Assistance (PPA) is a one-stop resource to apply to get your medicines free or nearly free if you do not have prescription drug coverage. The Web site is sponsored by major drug manufacturers, which all have programs that cover medicines for free or at low cost to people who qualify. Each program is unique and working people, people without jobs, seniors, student, families and single people may all qualify.

To find out if you qualify, go to www.pparxmi.org or call 1 (888)477-2669. The toll-free number has operators who speak several different languages. If you go to the Web site, you can provide information once and then print out an application for each medicine you need.

For more information about the citizenship documentation requirement, go to: Medicaid Eligibility and Proof of Citizenship

Read Letter from CMS to State Medicaid Director

The Kaiser Family Foundation's Commission on Medicaid and the Uninsured (KCMU) has released a Fact Sheet and Report examining New York's experience with requiring citizenship documentation from their Medicaid applicants.

Medicaid Hurdle for Immigrants May Hurt Others - New requirement that Medicare beneficiaries prove U.S. citizenship may hurt citizens who cannot produce records. NY Times, April 16, 2006

CMS Announces Medicare Premiums, Deductibles for 2009

The standard Medicare Part B monthly premium will be $96.40 in 2009, the same as the Part B premium for 2008. This is the first year since 2000 that there was no increase in the standard premium over the prior year.

The 2009 Part B premium of $96.40 is the same as the amount projected in the 2008 Medicare Trustees Report issued in March. This monthly premium paid by beneficiaries enrolled in Medicare Part B covers a portion of the cost of physicians’ services, outpatient hospital services, certain home health services, durable medical equipment, and other items.

By law, the standard premium is set to cover approximately one-fourth of the average cost of Part B services incurred by beneficiaries aged 65 and over. The remaining Part B costs are financed by Federal general revenues. The income to the program from premiums and general revenues are paid into the Part B account of the Supplementary Medical Insurance trust fund, and Part B expenditures are drawn from this account.

Normally, the Part B premium increases at the same rate as average Part B expenditures from year to year. A number of factors explain why the premium can be kept level for 2009.

Growth is expected in 2009 for most areas of the Medicare Part B program, including growth in the cost and use of physician and outpatient hospital care, home health services, physician-administered drugs, ambulatory surgical center services, durable medical equipment, independent lab and physician’s office lab services, as well as growth in the Medicare Advantage program. In most years, this would result in the need for an increase in the Part B premium and general revenue financing.

To view this Fact Sheet in its entirety go to:  http://www.cms.hhs.gov/apps/media/fact_sheets.asp

Increase Access for Medicare Part D Coverage to Low-Income Medicare Beneficiaries

Medicare Part D Appeals Manual

The Medicare Rights Center has created a free, comprehensive, easy-to-understand Medicare Part D appeals manual for advocates who help people with Medicare get the drugs they need.

This 25-page manual offers a complete overview of the entire appeals process, real-life case examples from our Client Services department, a glossary of important Part D appeals terms, a sample appeals protocol for advocates, and links to important resources and documents. All in the consumer-friendly language you have come to expect from the Medicare Rights Center. (posted 2/15/2008)

Need Help Paying For Medicine? The Partnership for Prescription Assistance (PPA) is a one-stop resource to apply to get your medicines free or nearly free if you do not have prescription drug coverage. The Web site is sponsored by major drug manufacturers, which all have programs that cover medicines for free or at low cost to people who qualify. Each program is unique and working people, people without jobs, seniors, student, families and single people may all qualify.

To find out if you qualify, go to www.pparxmi.org or call 1 (888) 477-2669. The toll-free number has operators who speak several different languages. If you go to the Web site, you can provide information once and then print out an application for each medicine you need.

The Learning Disabilities Association of Michigan's Healthy Children Project issue of the Healthy Children's Project's Monthly e-News.

To subscribe send blank email to:

healthychildrenproject-subscribe@yahoogroups.com

Perspectives - Serving the Nation's DD Community for 30 Years -  U.S. Senate Passes 2008 Budget Resolution, rejecting many of the steep cuts to domestic programs such as Medicare and Medicaid. Click HERE to read the May 2007 issue  (Vol 13, No. 5) (posted 6/8/07)

Perspectives, published by the National Association of State Directors of Developmental Disability Services, covers national/state and local policy and program news concerning individuals with developmental disabilities. Perspectives is available by subscription at:  www.nasddds.org/Publications/index.shtml

The Riot! Self-Advocate Leadership Network E-Newsletter - past issues 

Training Resource Network Disability Update  www.trninc.com

Michigan Alliance for Families' Workshops and Webinars for Parents, Caregivers, and Educators -  Michigan Alliance for Families' upcoming workshops can be viewed at: www.michiganallianceforfamilies.org/upcoming-events/

To view Michigan Alliance for Families upcoming and archived Webinars, go to: www.michiganallianceforfamilies.org/webinar/

The Minnesota Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities offers their newest online resource, "Parallels in Time, Part 2", which is packed with hundreds of photos, videos and documents associated with the important societal and legislative milestones from 1950 through 2005. Sections include A Place to Call Home, Definitions and Perspectives on Disability, A Place to Learn, Real Work and more.

"Partners in Living" - a free self-study course created to help people with developmental disabilities, their family and friends explore four important elements that, together, can help them create a meaningful life: Self-Determination, Family Support, Community Living and Assistive Technology. 

"Partners in Time" Is the history of people with developmental disabilities.

Other study courses include "Partners in Education", "Making Your Case", and "Partners in Employment" 

For more information go to www.partnersinpolicymaking.com/online.html

Training Resource Network Disability Update - October 2008 Edition

In this issue:

• Study: Supported Employment 3 Times More Cost-Effective than Sheltered Work

• Percent of Unemployed People with Disabilities Looking for Work: 2005 Data released

• DePaul Study: workers with Disabilities Perform Well

• Key ADA Employment Changes for 2009

• Free Our People YouTube video, Free Our People

• Online Training: Job Coaching; Orientation to Working with People with Disabilities; The Disability Industrial Compex:Ending the Segregation of People with Disabilities

Go to: www.trninc.com/update/TRN_Update.html to view. (posted 10/31/08)

National Campaign To Challenge Disability Stereotypes, Promote Inclusion

From Disability Scoop

Spearheaded by a group of 20 teenagers, a national campaign is kicking off this month designed to reshape youth perceptions of inclusion and ideas about what’s “normal.”

The “I am Norm” campaign is centered on online videos, social networking and a series of advertising buys slated for next year, which organizers say they hope will spark conversation about inclusion of people with disabilities and what it really means to be normal.

So far, “I am Norm” is starting to generate buzz. A compilation video posted on YouTube in mid-November has been viewed over 3,000 times. And Cara Liebowitz, 18, one of the teens behind “I am Norm,” says she’s garnered attention from her peers who see the campaign button pinned to her motorized scooter.

A new yahoo group has just been created to be open exclusively for adolescents and teens on the autism spectrum, offering an opportunity for autistic adolescents and teens to interact in a supportive, autistic-friendly internet environment. It is sponsored by the Autistic Self-Advocacy Network, an international non-profit organization run by and for autistic adults and youth, working to advance neurodiversity, disability rights and autistic culture.

Group Rules:

1. To join you must be on the autism spectrum (self-diagnosed individuals are welcome) and at least 13 years of age.

2. Be respectful of your fellow list members.
3. Do not repost messages outside of the list.
4. If you have a question, feel free to ask.
5. Do not engage in personal attacks against other list members.

The list will be closely moderated by adults from the Autistic Self Advocacy Network to ensure that all list content remains legal, age-appropriate, free of spam and solicitation, and in compliance with the group rules.

To join the group, visit http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ASANTeens , click the "Join this group" button, and follow the instructions.

For more information, contact list moderator Dora Raymaker at dora@aaspireproject.org (posted 10/30/08)

State Representative Harvey Santana's Family Resource Guide

Navigating the new changes connected with the Family Independence Program’s 48-month limit can be challenging. Here’s an important guide (pdf) to help families with useful information about special hardship exceptions to the cuts on cash assistance:

As of Oct. 1, 2011, families can continue cash assistance beyond the 48-month time limit if:

• Recipient has a disability;

• Recipient is the caretaker of a spouse or child with disabilities;

• Adult in household is age 65 or older and is not eligible for Social Security benefits or receives a low level of benefits; or

• Domestic violence is a factor, where law enforcement has been involved, which will be reviewed every 90 days.

The Department of Human Services (DHS) has also announced several plans to help lessen the impact on families when it comes to lost benefits:

• Rent assistance and job training programs to those losing benefits;

• New job navigator program with local partners, that will connect those seeking employment with trained volunteers who will assist participants in securing a job;

DHS has asked that if constituents have questions regarding their cash assistance status or assistance securing resources that they call: 1-855-763-3677 (Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.).

The Evolution of Disability Rights Litigation (and some stories)

by David Ferleger, Esq.

The Minnesota Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities

• The Arc of Disability Rights Litigation (Video)

• In the Supreme Court: The Right to Treatment (Article) (Video: Part 1 and Part 2)

• Why I Do What I Do (Video)

• In the Supreme Court: Civil Commitment and the Least Restrictive Principle (Video)

• In the Supreme Court (or Heading There): Two Undecided Questions on Community Services (Article) (Video)

• Use of Human Services Restraint: Reduce, Replace or Relinquish? (Article) (Video)

• In the Supreme Court: The Constitutional Right to Community Services (Article) (Video)

• Employment for People with Disabilities (Video)

Telling Your Story: Latest App for People with Disabilities from Partners in Policymaking

"Telling Your Story" is a tool that persons with disabilities, family members, and other advocates can use to compose and practice the personal story they'll present to elected public officials or other policymakers at all levels of government when seeking policy changes or increasing awareness about disability issues. The app guides users through the steps, from introducing yourself to identifying the specific issue to the best methods for presenting a compelling personal story. After entering the text of their story, an audio recording feature allows the user to rehearse their story. Users can also select and preview a photo they may wish to include.

Link to the app in the iTunes store:

http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/telling-your-story/id541403749

View features of the "Telling Your Story" app here: http://www.partnersinpolicymaking.com/myc-app/index.html

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"It's Our Story" Video Interviews from Disability Leaders

“It's Our Story" is a national initiative to make disability history public and accessible; we've collected over 1,000 video interviews from disability leaders across the country. Now, we're making this critical aspect of American history public, accessible and interactive. Visit us at http://www.itsourstory.org”

Some Alternatives to Simulation Exercises

A staple of 'Awareness Days' is the simulation exercise: Put a nondisabled person in a wheelchair. Tie on a blindfold. But these tactics are often criticized as sending the wrong message. What are the alternatives? Chapman University's Art Blaser has a few suggestions.

We are not inspirational nor are we "special". We are PROUD PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES

Read Bob Kafka's response to the new handle, "special needs" people, a description used by the Republican Vice-Presidential candidate. Mr. Kafka continues... "Our struggle for equality must continue beyond the election regardless of who gets elected. Families of, advocates for and those of us with disabilities can and will make a difference. Not by being "special" but by advocating for our equal place in our communities." (posted 10/30/08)

Hiring and Managing Personal Assistants

This manual was developed by The Arc Michigan to promote self-determination through meaningful consumer direction and control. It is provided for information only and does not constitute legal, medical, planning or tax advice. For individualized help with your situation, consult with your allies, supports coordinator, or professional providers.

Improving Income for Direct Care Workers -  Earn, Keep, Save, MORE is PHI Michigan’s new initiative to improve the income of all direct-care workers serving Michigan residents using long-term care supports and services. The initiative focuses on the federal earned income tax credit (EITC) and the new Michigan earned income tax credit (EITC) beginning in the 2008 tax season.

For tax year 2008, a working family may be entitled to as much as $4,824 for the federal EITC and as much as $482 in state EITC. In tax years 2009 and beyond, the Michigan EITC will be 20% of the family’s federal EITC refund.

PHI Michigan will work intensively with Michigan’s existing regional and state tax assistance coalitions (www.michiganeic.org) and the broad long-term care community to insure that all money belonging to the LTC workforce is claimed.

For more information about the Earn, Keep, Save MORE initiative, please contact Tameshia at 517-372-8310 or tbridges@phinational.org. (revised August 22, 2008)

Low-Income Workers Can't Meet Basic Needs  Even as Michigan’s minimum wage increased to $7.15 an hour in July 2007, many workers still will find it difficult to stretch their earnings to cover the basic needs of their families.

A new study by the Michigan League for Human Services finds that in order to meet the basic requirements of their families, lower-income workers must have help in the form of housing subsidies, food assistance, day care or tax relief. Click HERE to read the August 2007 release. (From Michigan League for Human Services - WWW.MILHS.ORG)

“Economic Self-Sufficiency in Michigan: A Benchmark for Ensuring Family Well-Being,’’ estimates the costs of seven major household expenses: housing, food, child care, health care, transportation, personal and household items, and taxes. “This is what it really takes to live, and it underscores the importance of programs such as day-care assistance,’’ said Ann Marston, president and CEO of the Michigan League for Human Services. “Lots of  folks are not able to find jobs paying self-sufficient wages.”

Click HERE to order copies of "Economic Self-Sufficiency in Michigan" at $5.00 each (6 or more, $4.00 each) plus shipping & handling. (Contact: Sharon Parks or Ann Marston - (517) 487-5436) (posted 8/03/07)

Estimated Michigan population data through 2005 from the official 2000 census data

Service Animal Booklets Available
from Great Lakes ADA Center

The Southwest ADA Center has published a new resource titled "Service Animals and Emotional Support Animals - Where are they allowed and under what conditions". It is available on their website in both English and Spanish:
http://www.dlrp.org/html/ (English) (pdf)
http://www.dlrp.org/html/publications/ (Spanish) (pdf)

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To find out more go to DHS Pub-50, Michigan Combined Application Project.

Go direct deposit is the best way to get your Social Security and other federal benefit payments. Direct deposit offers:

• One less thing to worry about because it is the safest way for you to receive your money
• An easier and more convenient way to access your money
• More control over your money and your time because it is predictable and dependable

Sign up for the Direct Express^® Debit MasterCard^® – a prepaid debit card that offers another safe and convenient alternative to paper checks for Social Security and SSI payments.

For more information click on image or go to: http://www.godirect.org/index.cfm

Working households urged to file for credits, deductions - “Money Back in Michigan” details seven ways to put more in your pocket

The 2009 edition of Money Back in Michigan by the Michigan League for Human Services, encourages households to take advantage of seven federal and state tax credits and deductions. The packet also encourages tax-filers to use free tax preparation services and skip expensive “rapid refund” centers.

New this year is the Michigan Earned Income Tax Credit, aimed at helping low-income working families. Other credits are the federal Earned Income Tax Credit, the federal Child Tax Credit, the federal Child and Dependent Care Credit, the state Child Deduction, the state Home Heating Tax Credit and the state Homestead Property Tax Credit.

The Money Back in Michigan packet also encourages tax-filers to use IRS-trained volunteers for help in filing taxes or to file online for free. Visit www.michiganEIC.org, or call 2-1-1 (or 1-800-552-1183 if no answer), to find the closest Volunteer Income Tax Assistance site.

Finally, taxpayers can also find forms at post offices, libraries or by calling 1-800-TAX FORM to file their own taxes.

Michigan has a variety of Free tax preparation services available to assist you with your taxes. Click here for a list of free tax preparation sites in your county. (This list is updated as information becomes available, so check back often.) You can also call 2-1-1 (1-800-552-1183 if 2-1-1 is unavailable in your area) for help locating the free tax site nearest you.

Senior Citizens also have a number of AARP sponsored free Tax-Aide preparation sites available (Operational from February 1, 2009 through mid-April). To locate the one nearest you, visit https://locator.aarp.org/vmis/sites/tax_aide_locator.jsp (posted 1/5/09)

Greyhound Improved Accessible Bus Service

In recent years Greyhound has improved its accessible bus service as part of a settlement agreement with the US Department of Justice. For those requiring accessible bus services, call the Greyhound ADA Hotline: 1-800-752-4841 or 1-800-345-3109 (TDD). Call at least 48 hours before you want to travel. Greyhound may need to call you back to make final arrangements. A Personal Care Attendant may be issued a 50 percent discounted ticket to travel with you.

For more information, click here (pdf)

To gain access to Greyhound's website, click here.

Have you had problems getting to the bus because of snow drifts by the road? Is the path clear from the sidewalk or bus stop to the bus? Or the curb cut blocked because of snow piled in the way by the snow plow? Does your transportation system have holiday hours? When does it run? Click HERE to check out the site and post your comments. http://www.transportationallies.net

When Self-Service puts you out of reach - you're not alone.

From www.disabilitygas.com

As the petroleum industry shifted from a full service to a self service industry, they forgot about us. Many of us drivers with disabilities actually need help getting gas into our vehicles and by law they are required to pump our gas if there is more than one employee on duty.

The two basic problems with this are:

1)  We don't know how many employees are inside.

2)  We have no consistent way of letting them know we need assistance when we get there.

There are millions of us drivers out there and we need to let our voices be heard.

We need you to do 5 things!

1)  Watch these news videos about how drivers all over the country can't get gas in their car.

2)  Fill out the survey (takes about 5 minutes).

3)  Write legislators on Federal, State and local levels to share your frustrations. Visit our document library to see model legislation to fix this problem.

4)  Share this site with other drivers with disabilities.

5)  Write to the Department of Justice and let them know your thoughts about the current guidelines (PDF) that they are giving the petroleum industry. They are the enforcement arm of the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) and if they don't hear from you - then they won't know it's a problem. Here is the address:

United States Department of Justice
Disability Rights Sections
PO Box 66738
Washington, D.C. 20035-6738

Volunteer in Michigan Today!

Are you looking for ways to give back to your community, support a cause you believe in, develop new skills, or make new friends?  Whatever your reason, you can put your time and talents to good use by volunteering.

On Monday, June 22, 2009, a new summer service initiative launched at the this past year's National Conference on Volunteering and Service. The initiative, called United We Serve, aims to put volunteers on a path to sustained service.

The United We Serve effort focuses on four broad issues:
1. Promoting clean energy, energy efficiency, and public land restoration
2. Supporting education and literacy for all Americans
3. Increasing health care access, public health awareness, and prevention
4. Providing community renewal to areas hit hardest by the economic crisis

Come participate in an opportunity to share your thoughts on how to expand service and volunteerism to help address our state's biggest challenges - such as hunger, homelessness, unemployment, illiteracy, high school dropouts, and the environment. Stops will include Benton harbor, Cadillac, Detroit, Flint, Grand Rapids, Houghton, Lansing, Muskegon, Saginaw and Sault Ste. Marie.

Learn more here. Register here.

The Arc of the United States Position Statements Adopted on October 27, 2012

• Employment: People with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities1 can be employed in the community alongside people without disabilities and earn competitive wages. They should be supported to make informed choices about their work and careers and have the resources to seek, obtain, and be successful in community employment. Click here to read more

• Health, Mental Health, Vision & Dental Care: All people, including people with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (I/DD)1, should have timely access to high quality, comprehensive, accessible, affordable, appropriate health care that meets their individual needs, maximizes health, well-being and function, and increases independence and community participation. Click here to read more

• Housing: People with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (I/DD)1, like all Americans, have a right to live in their own homes, in the community. Children and youth belong with families. Adults should control where and with whom they live, including having opportunities to rent or buy their own homes, and must have the freedom to choose their daily routines and activities. Click here to read more

• Physician-Assisted Suicide: Physician-assisted suicide must be prohibited for people with intellectual disability (ID)1 due to the inherent risk of undue influence.
  Click here to read more         top

2009 Arc Michigan Conference Presenters and Presentations - includes Key Issues Update presented by Mike Head and information about speakers and presenters.

Board & Governance

Education Committee

IEPT Guidelines

GA Committee

MCE Committee

Mt. Pleasant Center