FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Michigan’s Statewide Independent Living Council Celebrates the Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act

LANSING, Mich. (July 25, 2022) – As we celebrate the 32-year anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) on July 26, it’s important to highlight our state’s own efforts to aid Michiganders living with disabilities. Michigan’s Statewide Independent Living Council (MI-SILC) is tasked with helping those with disabilities live independent and successful lives across the state. 

“The anniversary of the ADA is such an important milestone,” says Steve Locke, MI-SILC’s executive director. “It was a critical step towards equality for those with disabilities, but we obviously still have a very long way to go.” 

MI-SILC, and their partners, promote a philosophy of independent living. This includes consumer control, peer support, self-help, self-determination, equal access, and individual and systems advocacy to maximize the leadership, empowerment, independence, and productivity of people with disabilities. They promote integration and full inclusion of people with disabilities into the mainstream of society.

“We really are just a conduit,” says Jan Lampman, MI-SILC’s Executive Committee Chair and Council Member. “We connect folks with our statewide network of Centers for Independent Living (CILs), who offer lots of resources to help them live independent lives.” 

The CILs provide an array of services and programs. For example, the Disability Network of Kent County (DAKC), which covers Kent, Mecosta, Ionia, Montcalm, and Osceola counties, aims to help individuals with physical, cognitive, mental, and sensory disabilities and their families. They have a variety of projects underway. DAKC raised $2.5 million to fund its Capital Campaign to renovate new space on the Special Olympics Michigan campus. Their occupational therapy team is helping seniors by completing home modifications and allowing them to age at home. DAKC also is completing a summer career preparation workshop for youth and they kicked off a young professional group with networking opportunities and service projects. They are consulting with businesses and organizations about how they can include accessibility, including a recent partnership with Gerald R. Ford International Airport for an accessibility review. They also reach out to traditionally marginalized populations with their Black & Brown Community Partner Luncheons. 

“We have so much going on here,” says Nathan Slauer, DAKC’s Annual Fund Manager. “We’re a very cohesive team and we are working relentlessly to help our community’s residents with disabilities. I think that’s apparent from what we’ve achieved, but we’re not letting our foot off the gas anytime soon.” 

SILC’s partnership with the CILs has led to many success stories. Jeffrey VanDyke, a peer mentor and graphic designer with Disability Network of West Michigan (DNWM), which covers Muskegon, Oceana, Newaygo, Lake, and Mason Counties, originally started out as a consumer. 

“I initially came to DNWM as a consumer,” says VanDyke. “From there, I volunteered and ultimately participated in an On-Job-Experience at our DNWM office. It essentially is a trial work period where I was able to try out various work accommodations in a safe environment and with the support of coworkers in an inclusive atmosphere. Ultimately, I was hired as a graphic designer in 2019, a position which I still hold today, and I have expanded into being a peer mentor as well.” 

For more information or to connect with a CIL in your area, please visit https://www.misilc.org. 


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Warm weather is finally here, and this is the closest we’ve been to a “post-pandemic” summer in two years: it’s time to enjoy the great outdoors and our Michigan communities, both local and distant. The good news is, our CILs have the resources to help you make every vacation or staycation memorable. In this month’s issue, we’ll recap some of June’s most important topics and exciting events, say hello to our featured CILs and staff, and discuss what’s on the horizon for SILC and the disability community come July. 

We’re glad to have you with us on this journey! Thanks for reading, and if you’re looking for the latest from SILC, find us on Instagram or Facebook.


- Steve Locke, MI SILC Executive Director

June Recap

The More You Know…
This month, DNSWM hosted a series of interactive webinars addressing ableism, neurodiversity, the intersection of LGBTQ+ and disability rights movements in honor of Pride Month, and more. These informative sessions provided a useful foundation for people learning more about disability rights or working to become allies and advocates for the movement. Sessions begin again in September—stay on top of the latest webinars and events at https://www.dnswm.org/events/

Michigan Recreation for Everybody
Participants had an amazing time at the Accessible Recreation Day on June 16th, hosted by Disability Network Northern Michigan, Grand Traverse County, and Norte. The event featured hands-on, family-friendly activities for everyone to enjoy and introductions to local disability resources. If you missed it this year, mark your calendar for next summer or check out other DNNM events at https://www.disabilitynetwork.org/events/

Great Ideas & Guest Speakers Galore 
Absolutely Accessible Kent! took place on June 9th to discuss how to increase access and inclusion throughout Kent County. The event featured Keynote Speaker Robin Jones plus architecture and planning experts Jonathan White and Hansel Baumann. Participants learned about the DeafSpace variety of inclusive design, how Universal Design improves urban planning and envisioned a world accessible to all.

Experience Accessibility
The Kent County Home Accessibility Center is open now! Located within Disability Advocates of Kent County’s space in the Special Olympics United Sports & Inclusion Center, this interactive showroom demonstrates how residents can modify bathrooms, kitchens, and other areas of the home to promote accessibility. To learn more, contact Disability Advocates of Kent County at (616) 949-1100

 

How prepared are you? Make an Emergency Plan today!
From severe weather to food and water shortages to a pandemic, having a plan for the unexpected can literally save your life. Disability Network Capital Area has launched a unique program that helps residents with disabilities and their families develop emergency plans, survival kits, and more. Take a course or get started on your plan today at https://www.dncap.org/programming/emergency-preparedness-programming/

Are you over age 62 and living with a disability?
You may qualify for grant funding to modify your home! Disability Network Kent County is the proud recipient of one of just 32 Housing and Urban Development Older Adults Home Modification grants. They will be using the grants to help lower-income seniors modify their homes and age in place in their communities. Recipients must be over 62, own a home, and earn less than 80 percent of the median income in their area. Contact Disability Network Kent County to learn more!  

Maria Paton-Glassbrook
Disability Network–Capital Area

Maria is the Community Resilience Coordinator, she started her role at the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic. From organizing COVID-19 vaccine and booster clinics to developing our unique emergency preparedness program, Maria is a vital part of our team and an asset to our clients and communities.

Jan Lampman
SILC Board Member

Jan is a career advocate for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, having served in roles ranging from Direct Support Professional to Group Home Manager. Today, she is a SILC Board Member, the mom of two young men, and the owner of Community Drive, a training and consulting organization helping people with intellectual and developmental disabilities thrive. Jan is a vital part of our organization and is committed to supporting people with disabilities in achieving their goals. 

Dr. Frank Animikwam
SILC Board Member

Frank is a Family Medicine physician, husband, father, Citizen of the Waganakising, Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians, and a tireless advocate for disability rights. He brings a unique medical perspective and critical representation for both Native American communities and the Northern Michigan region to our organization, and we’re grateful for his work

 

Webinar: Disability Pride

July 14, 1:30-3:30pm

In this interactive webinar, we will explore and celebrate our disabilities as an important part of who we are

Oakland County Fair: Individuals with Disabilities Day

July 14, 9:00-3:00pm
Davisburg, MI

Join Disability Network Eastern Michigan at the Oakland County Fair for music, games, exhibits, and free rides during Individuals with Disabilities Day!

Inclusive Kayaking

July 16, 10:00-2:00pm
Port Huron, MI

Come join a fun group and learn the sport of kayaking in a safe, accessible environment.  All abilities are welcome, no kayak experience is necessary, and all supplies will be provided. 

Gerber National Baby Food Festival: Kids with Disabilities Day

July 21, 8:30-1:30pm
Fremont, MI

Join Disability Network West Michigan for activities, fun, and to learn about resources available for kids with a wide range of disabilities.  

Inclusive Kayaking

July 22, 9:30-4:00pm
Clarkston, MI

Come join a fun group and learn the sport of kayaking in a safe, accessible environment.  All abilities are welcome, no kayak experience is necessary, and all supplies will be provided. 

ADA Day Picnic

July 26, 10:00-2:00pm
Port Huron, MI

Join Disability Network Eastern Michigan for a party in the park with food, games, and entertainment to celebrate the 32nd Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

ADA Day Picnic

July 27, 4:00-7:00pm
Auburn, MI

Disability Network of Mid-Michigan and Personal Assistance Options invite you to join them for live music, food trucks, fun and games, kayaking, and fishing.  

ADA 32nd Anniversary Celebration

July 28 11:00-2:00pm
Lansing, MI

Disability Network Capital Area invites you to enjoy this year's 32nd annual Anniversary Celebration of the Americans with Disabilities Act. 

Access for All Celebration

July 29 3:00-5:00pm
Kalamazoo, MI

Celebrate inclusion and the 32nd anniversary of the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Light summer snacks provided. 

Join us for these upcoming July Events!

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Michigan’s Statewide Independent Living Council Helps Michiganders with Disabilities Across the State

LANSING, Mich. (June, 2022) – Michigan’s Statewide Independent Living Council (MI-SILC) has been helping Michiganders with disabilities live independent and successful lives across Michigan. 

“We really are just a conduit,” says Jan Lampman, MI-SILC’s Executive Committee Chair and Council Member. “We connect folks with our statewide network of Centers for Independent Living (CILs), who offer lots of resources to help them live independent lives.” 

The CILs provide an array of services and programs. For example, the Disability Network of Kent County (DAKC), which covers Kent, Mecosta, Ionia, Montcalm, and Osceola counties, aims to help individuals with physical, cognitive, mental, and sensory disabilities and their families. They have a variety of projects underway. DAKC raised $2.5 million to fund its Capital Campaign to renovate new space on the Special Olympics Michigan campus. Their occupational therapy team is helping seniors by completing home modifications and allowing them to age at home. DAKC also is completing a summer career preparation workshop for youth and they kicked off a young professional group with networking opportunities and service projects. They are consulting with businesses and organizations about how they can include accessibility, including a recent partnership with Gerald R. Ford International Airport for an accessibility review. They also reach out to traditionally marginalized populations with their Black & Brown Community Partner Luncheons. 

“We have so much going on here,” says Nathan Slauer, DAKC’s Annual Fund Manager. “We’re a very cohesive team and we are working relentlessly to help our community’s residents with disabilities. I think that’s apparent from what we’ve achieved, but we’re not letting our foot off the gas anytime soon.” 

SILC’s partnership with the CILs has led to many success stories. Jeffrey VanDyke, a peer mentor and graphic designer with Disability Network of West Michigan (DNWM), which covers Muskegon, Oceana, Newaygo, Lake, and Mason Counties, originally started out as a consumer. 

“I initially came to DNWM as a consumer,” says VanDyke. “From there, I volunteered and ultimately participated in an On-Job-Experience at our DNWM office. It essentially is a trial work period where I was able to try out various work accommodations in a safe environment and with the support of coworkers in an inclusive atmosphere. Ultimately, I was hired as a graphic designer in 2019, a position which I still hold today, and I have expanded into being a peer mentor as well.” 

For more information or to connect with a CIL in your area, please visit https://www.misilc.org. 

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Shine Your Light With SILC

Spring is the time for rebirth, and SILC is channeling this season’s energy into new initiatives and approaches for connecting with the disability community in Michigan. This is the first of a monthly email newsletter recapping key events, accomplishments, and milestones in our work serving and representing people with disabilities. We’ll also proudly highlight staff stories and anecdotes from our disability community about the resources they’ve used to improve their lives. Finally, we’ll be on the move to events across our state sharing information about independent living, the CILs, our goals and objectives from the current State Plan for Independent Living, and highlighting resources from our communities. 

This month, get a sneak peek at our new outreach campaign, meet your Ann Arbor-area and Jackson CILs, hear from our Executive Director, and more! Thank you for reading, and if you have a story or photo you’d like to share for a future newsletter, please get in touch!

 

Executive Director, StEVE LOCKE’S Corner

Throughout April and May, SILC and our IL partners developed and launched our latest statewide outreach initiative: “Shine a Light.” Through this campaign, we’re raising awareness about disability issues and access in our society today, highlighting stories and experiences of people with disabilities throughout Michigan, and “shining a light” on the people and organizations working to make our state and society more inclusive and equitable for people with disabilities. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter, check out our new Shine a Light landing page, or catch us at an event in your area to see this campaign in action!

SILC recently joined the IMPART Alliance Coalition, an MSU-led research team and alliance working to lift personal care attendants (PCAs) out of poverty, achieve living wages, and invest in the workforce. We continue to support their efforts to increase access to quality PCAs for people with disabilities throughout Michigan and the services they need to live independently. 

The 2022 SILC Congress, “Pandemic to Possibilities: SILC Solutions” took place in San Diego from May 16th-18th. MISILC staff met with people from other SILCs, CILs, and DSEs across the county across the country to share ideas and knowledge and attend educational workshops.

 

SHINE A LIGHT ON LOCAL CILS

Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living (AACIL)

Since 1976, our CIL has provided vital information and referral, peer and caregiver support, career planning, and awareness and advocacy services to the Ann Arbor, Monroe, and Livingston regional areas. Our staff members are primarily people with disabilities as well, so we understand the challenges facing the communities and people we serve, and are working hard to find solutions alongside our network of partners across Michigan. Connect with us at annarborcil.org, at an upcoming event, or by calling (734) 971-0277 (Ann Arbor) or (734) 682-5271 (Monroe) today!

 

Meet DISABILITY CONNECTIONS

disAbility Connections knows that independent living means having control over your life and how you live it, and we are dedicated to providing the services and support you need to achieve your goals. Established in 1996, our staff and board include many people with disabilities who can relate to our disability community and effectively advocate for greater access and opportunities. We are proud to be part of the greater Jackson community and bring information and referral, peer support, events, career planning, and many other services to our neighbors. Learn more at j-cil.com or by calling (731) 668-2211.

 

DISABILITY NETWORK WEST MICHIGAN HELPING TO ENHANCE THEIR COMMUNITY
AND WORKPLACES

On May 18th, Disability Network West Michigan provided an information session to employers interested in learning more about hiring candidates with disabilities. Misperceptions about the disability community contribute to disparities in employment and income/poverty status that greatly impact people’s lives. By dispelling myths and helping employers learn about programs and services available to support employees with disabilities, we hope to increase the number of opportunities available to people with disabilities who are looking for employment.

 

MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS MONTH

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and people with disabilities experience mental health issues at significantly higher rates than the general population. According to the 2016 Michigan Behavioral Risk Factor Survey, approximately 28% of adults with disabilities rated their mental health as “poor,” compared to just 8% of adults without disabilities. People with disabilities also have higher rates of poverty, unemployment, and chronic medical conditions that can negatively impact mental health and wellness. If you or someone you know is struggling, please contact your local CIL, or for immediate assistance, the 24/7 National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).

 

Camp Sunshine is Back!

Holland, Michigan’s Camp Sunshine has provided fun-filled summer adventures for people with developmental disabilities since 1983. After a two-year hiatus due to COVID-19, the camp plans to return this summer with four overnight sessions. Learn more or become a counselor at campsunshinemichigan.org!

Sharing Stories, Finding Solutions

In mid-April, Disability Network Lakeshore launched the first of a new weekly series about living with a disability. In partnership with CILs and Disability Network offices throughout West Michigan, the series is co-edited by Lucia Rios, a Michigan-based disability advocate, and takes a solutions-based approach to help readers understand how they can advocate for people with disabilities and promote access and inclusion for all in their own lives. Find the series here.

 

Michigan CILs Particpate in Legislative Day at the Michigan Capitol

Tuesday, May 10, staff and community supporters of Michigan's network of CILs participated in a legislative day at the Michigan Capitol. Attendees spent the day meeting with state legislators to discuss the mission and services provided by the 15 Centers for Independent Living that make up the statewide Disability Network Michigan association as well as to highlight local success stories from each of our regions.

Max, a resident of Saginaw County, was eager to meet with multiple legislators and their staff.  Max originally came to Disability Network Mid-Michigan (DNMM) for assistance with soft skills to help him maintain his newly acquired job.  During the time he was working with DNMM he was connected with our Peer Support Program due to his desire to increase his social network.  The Peer Support Program engages individuals in self-advocacy training which was of great interest to Max.  He immediately volunteered to attend Legislative Day so he could tell his story about how he is working, maintaining his own apartment, and connecting with others, all due to the assistance of DNMM and Max’s personal desire to be independent.  Max was especially excited to connect with his State Representative, Amos O’Neal, and for DNMM staff member Terri Robbins to take this picture to remember the experience.

In addition to meeting with legislators, the network was pleased to recognize two legislators as “Champions of Independent Living:” State Representative Terry Sabo (D-Muskegon) and State Senator Ken Horn (R-Frankenmuth).