SHARE:  
Website
Donate
Events

Newsletter | August 2024

Download a text-only version of this newsletter

Peer Group Events

Peer groups provide an organized environment for people to encourage, advocate and educate one another. Peer Group events are being held both in-person and virtually.

Peer Group Calendar

ADA Picnic Recap 

On July 17, 400 people gathered at Haithco Park in Saginaw to celebrate the 34th anniversary of the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Disability Network Mid-Michigan hosts this annual free picnic to educate community members about the law's impact and recognize the contributions of persons with disabilities. Guests enjoyed accessible recreation opportunities: handcycles, putt-putt golf, and park amenities including the accessible merry-go-round, splash pad, and water access wheelchair. Information about the ADA was dispersed throughout the park so people could learn more about its importance as they enjoyed the yard games and the live music from Stone Street Revival. Community resource information was available from nearly 30 vendors so attendees could become familiar with the support available in their community. Thanks to everyone for a truly wonderful celebration!

DNMM Transitions 100 People from Nursing Facilities


As a Federally funded Center for Independent Living, Disability Network Mid-Michigan (DNMM) is required to provide five Core Services, of which Community Transitions is one.  


We believe people faced with decisions about long-term care should have the opportunity to choose community-based living as a viable alternative to nursing facility residency, regardless of their ability. Our Nursing Facility Transition team helps people navigate the process of doing just that.  


Between October and July of this fiscal year, the team hit a historic milestone and has assisted 100 people to transition from a nursing facility back to a home of their choice in the community. Thank you to Shannon, Alisha, Lauree, and Lori for all your efforts! And welcome to the team Stephanie and Brehanna! Onward to 100 more. 

 

For more information about our Nursing Facility Transition program contact our office at 989-835-4041


Disability Network Mid-Michigan Supports #DWord Campaign


Disability Network Mid-Michigan took the opportunity to celebrate in many ways throughout Disability Pride Month.


In addition to our annual Americans with Disabilities Act Celebration, DNMM staff are supporting the #DWord campaign, which aims to reshape cultural perceptions of the word “disability.”


The campaign encourages using “disability” over terms like “special needs,” “handicapped,” or “differently-abled,” which are seen as perpetuating ableism and excluding true inclusion. It seeks to promote “Disability Pride” and view disability as a form of diversity. Stay tuned to learn more about how DNMM shares #DWord with our communities. Follow us on Facebook or at dnmm.org


Immunization Month 


August is National Immunization Awareness Month. This annual observance highlights the importance of getting recommended vaccines throughout your life. We encourage you to talk to your doctor, nurse, or healthcare provider to ensure you and your family are protected against serious diseases by getting caught up on routine vaccinations.


Some people with disabilities can become severely ill from preventable conditions like influenza or COVID-19 due to underlying medical conditions, living in a group setting, or because of systemic health and social inequities. Adults with disabilities are less likely to report hesitancy about getting vaccinated yet are more likely to report experiencing difficulties obtaining a vaccine than adults without a disability. It is critical to ensure that people with disabilities can access vaccines to keep themselves and their loved ones safe.


Use this tool to find out what vaccines you may need


If you need help scheduling a vaccine, transportation to a vaccine appointment, or companion support during your vaccine appointment we can help! Contact us at (989) 835-4041 or info@dnmm.org.


August Events


Join us throughout the month of August at the following events and meet new people, be a part of the community and learn about what Disability Network Mid-Michigan offers!


River Days

The Tridge in Midland

August 3


Barb Smith Walk for Hope

Saginaw Valley State University

August 4 from 8:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Mental health and suicide awareness 5k walk/run that raises funds and awareness to provide training and resources for mental health and suicide prevention.


National Night Out and Community Resource Fair

Ogemaw Library, 200 Washington Street in Prescott

August 6 from 5-8 p.m.

National Night Out is an event to provide interaction with the police, fire and first responders and the public. We are also adding a Community Resource Fair to the event to provide non-profits, clubs, organizations, and businesses with an opportunity to promote themselves. 


Gladwin Health & Wellness Fair

Knights of Columbus Hall, 751 S. M18 in Gladwin

August 7 from 3-6 p.m.

Free health screenings, car seat checks, haircuts and more.


Fosterpalooza

Grove Park in Midland

August 6 from 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.

A community awareness event and end-of-summer celebration with free games, food, giveaways and more.


Sterling Area Health Center National Health Center Week Health Fair 

Deep River Township Hall on State Street in Sterling

August 8 from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Community vendors, free food, Touch-A-Truck, petting zoo, prizes, balloon animals, school supplies, activities for kids and more! All events are free and open to the public.


2024 Project Connect Iosco County

August 16 from 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Come connect with local non-profit groups, agencies and individuals in your community. School supplies.


Storyhour

Veteran's Memorial Library in Mt. Pleasant

August 23 at 10 a.m.


Harrison Street Fair

Downtown Harrison

August 24 from 12 - 3 p.m.

Food, music, fun activities and a free kids carnival.


Saginaw Township Community Schools Parent Community Resource Fair

Heritage High School

August 27 from 5 - 8 p.m.


Light Up the City Saginaw Safe Community Celebration

Ojibway Island, Saginaw

August 28 from 5:30 - 7 p.m.

Touch-A-Truck, free hot dog & chip dinner, DJ, games, non-profit resources and more.


Independent Living Skills


Independent Living Skills Development is one of the core services at Disability Network Mid-Michigan that builds community and changes lives.


We support adults with disabilities to maintain or increase their independence to complete daily activities in their home and community such as:


  • Develop a Budget
  • Wellness and Exercise
  • Plan and Prepare Meals
  • Care for a Service or Therapy Animal
  • Grooming/Hygiene
  • Navigating the Community
  • Housekeeping
  • Using Public Transportation
  • Health Care

Employment is a means to self-sufficiency and a key to living independently. We also work with youth and adults to prepare them for successful employment by partnering with schools and vocational rehabilitation services to tailor services that support individuals to meet their employment goals, like barrier assessments, benefits planning, employment skills like interviewing, building a resume, work etiquette, and more. Our Pre-Employment Transition Services (PRE-ETS) address the following:


  • Self-Advocacy
  • Work-Based Learning
  • Workplace Readiness
  • Job Exploration and Counseling
  • Post Secondary Education Counseling


We also believe people with disabilities have the same right to participation, the same range of options, degree of freedom, control, and self-determination as people without disabilities. Our Representative Payee service supports that philosophy. We help you manage your money, ensure your basic needs of food, clothing, and shelter are met, and develop a plan for how to manage what remains. For many individuals receiving Social Security benefits, financial responsibilities can seem overwhelming. We can offer support in this area so you can manage other life areas more effectively, in the way that you choose.


Are you ready for independent living? If you or someone you know could benefit from our services, call (989) 835-4041 or fill out this form.


What Students With Physical Disabilities Should Look For In A College


The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 requires that colleges and universities provide reasonable accommodations, and section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 requires colleges and universities that receive federal financial funds to provide modifications or accommodations to ensure that students with disabilities are not excluded. These laws protect students from discrimination on the basis of ability.


Students with disabilities should carefully research colleges to ensure they provide the necessary services – finding a college that meets accommodation needs is important for the success of some students. Read this article to learn what to look for when researching colleges.

Join Disability Network Mid-Michigan at the library for a story, craft, and Q&A where kids can ask questions about people with disabilities and learn how to be their friends!


August 23rd | 10:30 am

Chippewa River District Library in Mount Pleasant

Visit Our Employment Page

Do you need food?

Find Resources Near You

Statement of Inclusion


Inclusion is a universal human right for all people, regardless of race, age, gender, religion, disability, sexual orientation, or any other discernible quality. To be inclusive is to promote a sense of belonging, respect, and value for who you are as a person. It is about equal access and opportunities for everyone. Inclusion is an integral part of our Independent Living philosophy and of our agency's vision of accessible and inclusive communities.


DNMM offices have been, and continue to be, places of solace, understanding, and information for all. We are committed to promoting and protecting diversity and inclusion, within our offices, among our community partners, and throughout the 15 Centers for Independent Living in Michigan.

people of various ethnicities and abilities

Accessibility Statement


DNMM advocates for the removal of barriers to independence and full inclusion of people with disabilities throughout the Mid-Michigan area. DNMM pledges to ensure accessibility. Each year, DNMM conducts a review of its own architectural, environmental, attitudinal, employment, communication, transportation, and other barriers that may exist that prohibit full access to our services.


If you have any issues of concern regarding the accessibility of DNMM services and facilities, we encourage you to share that information with us.

Contact Us

Disability Network Mid-Michigan

989-835-4041 | dnmm.org

Facebook      Instagram      LinkedIn      YouTube