ACCESS 2007 President’S “Working Should Be a Right—Not DESK a Privilege.” E at the Ann Arbor –Joan E

2007 Annual Feature & Directory of Community Resources, Health & Rehabilitation

ZACH DAMON Board Operator and Producer, WTKA, 1050 AM

People with Disabilities, Employment the American Dream &Cover Story, p. 5

MEMBER

Livingston, Monroe & Washtenaw Counties WE’RE WITH YOU ALL THE WAY

The U-M Model Spinal Cord The University of Michigan Model Spinal Cord Injury Care Injury Care System is one of System provides comprehensive services for everyone with a spinal only 14 institutions in the nation cord injury (SCI) during and after hospitalization — from inpatient classiﬁ ed as a Model Spinal Cord care to outpatient rehabilitation, community reintegration and living Injury System by the National effectively with SCI. For more than 20 years, we have been working Institute on Disability and with the Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living (AACIL) to address Rehabilitation Research, U.S. independent living needs including employment. Department of Education, and part of one of the most reputed We’re an integral part of the U-M Health System’s state- Departments of Physical Medicine of-the-art service program for people with SCI, conducting and Rehabilitation in the country. innovative research and engaging in a variety of information sharing and outreach activities.

University of Michigan Model Spinal Cord Injury Care System 300 N. Ingalls, NI2A09, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-0491 | email: [email protected] | www.med.umich.edu/pmr/modelsci Inpatient SCI Rehabilitation: 734.936.7059 | Research and Education: 734.763.0971 | Outpatient Clinics: 734.936.7175 CIL Offices Index of Feature Articles Ann Arbor 2568 Packard Road President’s Desk & Chairperson’s Corner...... 4 Ann Arbor, Michigan 48104 (734) 971-0277 Can You Hear Me Now? by Jennifer Chapin-Smith ...... 5 (734) 971-0826 fax AmeriCorps Services as the Gateway to Employment by Alex Gossage...... 7 www.aacil.org web Your Own Business! by Peg Ball...... 9 [email protected] e-mail Teens Transition into the World of Work by Helen Ledgard ...... 11 New Address Info 2008: 3941 Research Park Drive Reaching for the Stars and Landing in Hollywood by Anna L. Dusbiber...... 13 Ann Arbor, Michigan 48108 u Small Businesses Build Employment by Rick Weir...... 15 Monroe Creatively Seeking Your Ideal Career by Richard Bolles...... 16 40 N. Roessler Street Monroe, Michigan 48162 Capitalizing Ability in Michigan: A Collaboration Between (734) 242-5919 The Abilities Fund & AACIL’s MicroenterpriseWorks! by Patti Lind...... 18 fax (734) 242-7129 People with Disabilities Find New Careers by Jennifer Chapin-Smith ...... 20 [email protected] Meet the Ann Arbor CIL Staff...... 23 Board of A Home of Our Own...... 24-25 Directors Online Employment Resources...... 27 Succeeding in the Work World by Overcoming Obstacles by Kathy Herron...... 28 James Magyar, President & CEO CIL’s Projects with Industry Allows Local Residents to Give Joan E. Smith, Chairperson Back to the Community by Kathy Herron ...... 29 Kim Swartz, Secretary & Treasurer Marcy Epstein, Liina Paasuke, Work Incentives and Social Security Benefits: Dispelling Myths by Helen Ledgard. . . 32 Robert Perry, Gianna Rodriquez, Maggie Shreve, Tobin Siebers, Thomas Tomsik, Deborah Webster Directory of Resources This publication is available in alternate formats – please call. For a Directory of Advertisers, see page 50

On the cover: Accessibility 34 Home Health / Personal Assistance 41 Zach Damon, Advocacy 34 Insurance and Risk Management 42 former Ann Arbor CIL Youth Ambulance Services 34 Legal Services 42 Council member, Arts and Entertainment 35 Library Services 43 p.5. Brain Injury Rehabilitation 35 Life Coaching 43 Case Mangement 36 Medical Services in Home 44 Member, Disability Network/ Michigan Community Media 36 Optical / Low Vision 44

A Washtenaw/Monroe Counseling 36 Orthotics / Prosthetics 44 United Way Agency Dentistry 37 Philanthropy 44 Cover photo courtesy: Graphic Design © 2007 Driving Aids and Services 37 Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation 45 McCullagh Creative, Inc., Ann Arbor, MI Durable Medical Equipment 38 Recreation & Fitness 46 Advertising Supplement to the Ann Arbor News. Education 39 Transportation and Rentals 47 All editorial content supplied by the Employment / Vocational Rehabilitation 40 Wheelchair Seating 49 Center for Independent Living. Financial Planning, Banking 40 Supporting the Mission of AACIL 50 The AACIL is a 501(c)3 tax-exempt, nonprofit/MI CS9599. & Assistive Technology Loans

Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living | ACCESS 2007 President’s “Working should be a right—not DESK a privilege.” e at the Ann Arbor –Joan E. Smith CIL are proud of our with disabilities. I have learned that Whistory in Washtenaw, this expression of human nature and Livingston and Monroe Counties. disability culture is the cornerstone We hope you will continue to of who and what we are, both as support our work as we create a new, individuals and as an organization. permanent home for the Center. Through peer advocacy and Don Anderson, a disability support, members of the disability community pioneer, once said Jim Magyar and Joan E. Smith community share information to me , “Jim, we really need to and adaptive techniques. Our be more than what we are today CHAIRPERSON’S community offers empathy, – as a community of people with understanding and emotional CORNER disabilities, we are only as disabled support while demonstrating how as we are poor!” Years later much to live life to its fullest through inding employment of our work here at the CIL is embracing both the gifts and when you have a focused on increasing the economic challenges posed by disability. disability is a greater self-sufficiency of people with Through peer advocacy and support, Fchallenge than trying disabilities. individuals with disabilities speak to find the curb cuts that The single most important and out, are challenged to be our best, allow you to cross the street constant voice that has guided me seek a life of our own choosing, and in a wheelchair. People with through my now 25 years at the take reasonable, calculated risks to disabilities have a 35 percent helm of the Ann Arbor Center for achieve our goals. employment rate (including Independent Living comes directly those who work part-time), as Peer advocacy and support flourish from the members of our disability compared to 78 percent of those in places where the disability community. I have been and without disabilities, according to community rallies for change, continue to be blessed with a wide a 2004 Harris poll. convenes to do business, or relaxes variety of coaches, mentors, board with food, entertainment, and Employment gives hope and the members, staff and volunteers whose recreation. Through peer advocacy protection of income. Working personal journey with disability and support we continue to build should be a right—not a has provided insight, strength and and strengthen our disability privilege. People with disabilities encouragement as we have, together, culture. need this basic right extended to dedicated ourselves to the success them. of children, youth and adults with Our dream is to create “A Gathering disabilities at home, at school, at Place” – “A Home of our Own” – a Remember, as much of the US work and in the community. place where people with disabilities population ages, we find that an and our advocates come together increasing number of us have From Peg Ball and other pioneers of to draw strength from each other as disabilities. Returning soldiers, the Independent Living Movement, we work to make our world a better suddenly disabled, are among I have learned that living a successful place. those needing accessibility, life with a disability is an art training, and employment. cultivated through individual effort, I hope you enjoy our 19th edition of Today’s youth with disabilities information, and the support of Access Magazine. want to look forward to a future others with similar experience. As of accessibility and employment. an organization whose board of directors, staff and volunteers are composed of a majority of people with disabilities, we have embraced Jim Magyar, President & CEO Joan E. Smith, Board Chairperson the importance of people with Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living disabilities helping other people

ACCESS 2007 | Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living Employment & THE AMErICAN DREAM Can You Hear Me Now? Youth Achieves his Dream as Radio Broadcaster

by Jennifer Chapin-Smith

ach Damon realized his life-long dream Zach Damon uploads information into the computer at WTKA 1050 AM. of working for a commercial radio sports bar where a WTKA sales During his teens, Damon served station in October representative was eating. The as a member of the Ann Arbor Z2006 when the internship he friend got the WTKA program Center for Independent Living’s labored so hard to obtain turned director’s contact information and Youth Council. “Not only do you into a career. Damon, 20, landed gave it to Damon. get to make great friends, it teaches a job as a board operator and you leadership skills and gives you producer at Ann Arbor’s sports “Having a job gives people with a new-found confidence to work radio station WTKA 1050 AM. disabilities power. Having a with people,” Damon said. He also disability means I have the best of “I’m trying to show that anyone served as the master of ceremonies at both worlds. Having a disability is can be a broadcaster; you just have the Ann Arbor CIL’s Walk and Roll a blessing: not everyone has that to figure out how,” the Ann Arbor annual fundraiser for three years. power to motivate people about resident said. life. That’s my reason for getting “Zach would always share his Damon’s dream began when, into broadcasting; it’s to educate ideas and make it a point to as a five-year-old serving as an people,” Damon said. get everybody on board,” CIL ambassador for the March of Youth Services Coordinator Anna Damon underwent an Dimes, he met NBC sportscaster Dusbiber said of Damon’s time as a unprecedented surgery on the Greg Gumble. Damon was born CIL Youth Council member. “He bones of both legs just after premature and has spastic diplegia would also be good at fostering graduating from Pioneer High cerebral palsy, hence his association others’ ideas. He would always tell School in Ann Arbor. It took him with the March of Dimes. people about our program; he was four-and-a-half months to recover. good at marketing not only the Damon’s job at WTKA grew out of “It really makes you grateful for the Youth Council’s work but the CIL his summer 2006 internship there, mobility you have,” said Damon, as a whole. It’s a great place to go which he scored by networking. who was a member of the Pioneer’s to get the assistance you need.” Some family friends own a wrestling team for four years.

ACCESS 2007 | Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living | ACCESS 2007 Damon hosts an internet radio show “Captain’s Corner” Wednesday afternoons on Orchard Radio, Washtenaw Community College’s internet radio station. He also hosts a weekly sports show “The Hot Seat” on CTN- TV Channel 17. Damon credits this CTN show, which he sees as an opportunity “to really promote Ann Arbor and say these are the kinds of things that are happening” with helping him land the internship interview.

During the four-month internship at WTKA, Damon set up interviews and appointments with celebrity guests, sent emails to find people to interview on the show, checked that commercials were recorded in the computer, and came up with the daily trivia question. His nickname at the radio station is Captain Steve, after retired Detroit Red Wings Captain Steve Yzerman.

“I’ve been able to meet a lot of really cool broadcasters [on the Zach Damon schedules interviews with celebrity guests at WTKA 1050 AM. job],” Damon says. Damon is also a member of the Detroit Sports able to show that I work hard. They Broadcasters Association. know that I’m willing to work from the bottom up. I don’t expect to Damon hopes to step from radio have my dream job dropped in my into television, perhaps hosting his lap. There’s no elevator to success. own late-night talk show one day. You have to take the stairs,” he said. In the meantime, he’s working on a video for the March of Dimes’ Damon quotes his roommate as Prematurity Awareness Month in saying, “You’re not different. You November 2007 and focusing on just got something that makes you his schooling. Zach Damon enjoys his job in radio. walk a little slower.”

“It’s all about education. I want Florida spring semester 2008. The “I’m just really grateful,” Damon to be the best,” explains Damon, university is one of the ten best in explained. “I’m lucky to have all who recently completed his the United States for broadcasting. the opportunities I’ve had.” sophomore year at Washtenaw Community College, majoring Damon does not believe that his in visual arts, and plans to start disability has negatively affected at the University of Miami in his career. “I believe that I’ve been

ACCESS 2007 | Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living Employment & THE AMErICAN DREAM

“AmeriCorps*Vista allows people with disabilities to showcase their talents and abilities.”

AmeriCorps Serves as the Gateway to Employment

by Alex Gossage

he Ann Arbor Center to help create healthy, vibrant organizations, according to the for Independent Living communities by developing the AmeriCorps*VISTA Website. (Ann Arbor CIL) assets of community organizations After more than five years seized the opportunity and creating new products and T of running our program, to cultivate the potential of people projects that have not previously we have discovered that our with disabilities and enable people existed locally. AmeriCorps*VISTA is a gateway with disabilities to serve their AmeriCorps*VISTA was one of a to employment for many people country by establishing the Ann number of anti-poverty programs with disabilities because it is an Arbor CIL AmeriCorps*VISTA initiated by the passage of the opportunity to prove their ability. Community Partnership in Economic Opportunity Act of AmeriCorps*VISTA and the Ann 2002. This project has grown 1964. This Act states that “it is, Arbor CIL program also offer to include more than 25 VISTA therefore, the policy of this Nation additional benefits that make volunteers, a majority of whom have to eliminate the paradox of poverty community service as a VISTA an disabilities, working for Centers in the midst of plenty in this inviting prospect. For example, for Independent Living and our Nation by opening to everyone many people with disabilities community partners throughout the opportunity for education rely heavily on the government Michigan. and training, the opportunity to aid they receive, including As fundraisers, researchers, work, and the opportunity to live healthcare, to make it through advocates, program coordinators, in decency and dignity. It is the the month. This dependence and information and resource purpose of the Act to strengthen, causes many people to forgo developers, VISTAs at Centers for support, and coordinate effort in employment because they do not Independent Living work diligently furtherance of that policy.” want to jeopardize their benefits. to improve programs and services Fortunately, the pay structure of Today, nearly 6,000 that Centers offer, which are vital the AmeriCorps*VISTA program AmeriCorps*VISTA members to maintaining a satisfactory quality is such that the monthly stipend serve throughout the United States of life for people with disabilities. provided to each VISTA does to end illiteracy, improve health All our VISTAs are given the not jeopardize their current services, create businesses, increase opportunity to prove that they are government benefits. housing opportunities, bridge talented, dedicated workers who the digital divide, and strengthen have the skills and passion necessary the capacity of community

ACCESS 2007 | Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living | ACCESS 2007 The Ann Arbor CIL’s disability- friendly environment allows people with disabilities to provide community service, while learning and growing during their AmeriCorps*VISTA experience. In fact, one of the primary reasons our program is successful in recruiting and cultivating people with disabilities is because we are so knowledgeable about the accommodations an employee with a disability might need and how to put those accommodations Former AmeriCorps*VISTA Alex Gossage researches funding opportunities for the Ann Arbor CIL. in place. Because of our expertise with disability, the Ann Arbor “After more than five years of running our program we have CIL’s AmeriCorps*VISTA program discovered that our AmeriCorps*VISTA is a gateway to employment understands the needs of people for many people with disabilities because it is an opportunity to with disabilities and can help to prove their ability.” identify job accommodations when needed, such as flexible experience working for community work schedules and assistive to the Ann Arbor CIL following organizations, I had passion for technology. Most importantly, my graduation from the University this work and I had the capacity to AmeriCorps*VISTA has allowed of California, Santa Barbara in learn and grow. people with disabilities to showcase 2004. Although I was born with Spina Bifida, a condition that their talents and abilities without During the two years that I served has always affected my physical being judged. as a VISTA, I researched potential mobility, I had very little exposure sources of funding for the Ann I am an example of a person to the greater disability community Arbor CIL and assisted in the with a disability who was or the culture and experiences development and submission of given an opportunity, through that frame this community. What grant proposals. As a VISTA I AmeriCorps*VISTA, to prove I did know is that I wanted to learned about project and program myself and show that I can make help people, especially people development from the initial steps substantial contributions to the with disabilities. I also felt of creating an idea to the final steps success of my organization. I came that while I had virtually no of writing proposals. Following my second year of VISTA service, I was IMAGE FPO one of a handful of VISTAs in our program who was offered a full- time position working at my office. Through our AmeriCorps*VISTA program I was able to learn, grow, and flourish by helping others and work in a nurturing and understanding environment, that gave me the opportunity to demonstrate my abilities without facing the stigma of my disability.

AmeriCorps members and VISTAs serve the Ann Arbor CIL in a variety of programs.

ACCESS 2007 | Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living Employment & THE AMErICAN DREAM

Some good resources include the AACIL MicroEnterprise Works program or a local Small Business Your Own Development Center, such as the one at Washtenaw Community College or SCORE.

Another important resource for Business! people who receive Social Security Disability (SSDI) or Supplemental A Terrific Employment Option Security (SSI) benefits is a PASS (Plan for Achieving Self Support). A PASS allows one to set aside income and/or resources toward a business goal without the risk of losing needed benefits for a period of time. If the business income has the potential of ultimately by Peg Ball replacing the benefits, a PASS can be an excellent bridge from tarting a business is a remember the freedoms and the dependence on benefits to financial challenge for anyone. So, responsibilities that come with independence! is it even possible with this level of self-determination. A business can be your path to the added complexities Besides having the freedom to independence. It is a path filled of disability? Absolutely! set your own schedule, goals, S and dress code, there are the with adventure, hard work, and A small business, especially one responsibilities of finding and ultimately, great satisfaction! that is home-based, can be a satisfying customers, handling taxes terrific employment option for (and payroll if you hire employees), some people with disabilities. The keeping records, buying supplies “Once you decide that your challenges of daily transportation, and equipment, and managing business idea and desire to arrangements for additional time effectively. If you do not work for yourself are strong personal assistance services at have the personal resources to enough to outweigh the a worksite and control of your start up a business, applying to challenges and hard work, environment can all be less Michigan Rehabilitation Services some good advice is in complicated by working from for assistance might be the best order.” home. With a home-based office, next step. you can choose when to travel into the community. Once you decide that your business idea and desire to work for yourself The first step in starting a business are strong enough to outweigh the is to weigh the pros and cons challenges and hard work, some of being your own boss. While good advice is in order. In planning the idea may seem wonderful a business, it is wise to get input at first glance, it is important to from those who’ve done it before.

ACCESS 2007 | Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living | ACCESS 2007 Resources for “Ball is an expert at helping others Self-Employment maximize their abilities while Michigan Rehabilitation honoring their disabilities.” Services in Ann Arbor (734) 677-1125 Through coaching, her clients: Ann Arbor CIL About the Author • discover how to tap into vital MicroEnterprise Works eg Ball is a Life Coach resources Program in Ann Arbor certified by the Coach (734) 971-0277 Training Alliance in • identify and mobilize their http://www.aacil.org/wwd_ P Boulder, CO. She serves as assets and abilities mew.shtml President of Arete Coaching and • embrace their potential for Consulting, Inc. in Ann Arbor. Small Business Development success She has Spinal Muscular Atrophy, Center at Washtenaw • become empowered to a life-long significant physical Community College in accomplish things that they disability. Having a home-based Ann Arbor never thought possible business has enabled Ball to (734) 547-9170 maximize her limited energy The coaching process offers http://www.gvsu.edu/misbtdc/ and create an effective work clients accountability in taking region12/or environment. As a coach, she lives the necessary steps to make SCORE in Ann Arbor out her passion to help others their dreams a reality. This is (734) 665-4433 x125 succeed at achieving their goals accomplished through a series of http://annarborscore.org/ and creating a life they love. one-on-one phone conversations over a period of three, six or 12 Ball is an expert at helping others Michigan Rehabilitation months. Call Coach Peg Ball maximize their abilities while Services’ PASS in Ann Arbor at (734) 975-1504 for a FREE honoring their disabilities. (734) 677-1135 sample session! http://www.ssa.gov www.aretecoach.com

10 ACCESS 2007 | Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living Employment & THE AMErICAN DREAM Teens Transition into World of Work

by Helen Ledgard gain real world experience and Education (EBCE) program, Guido acquire skills necessary for entering worked in the Creative Discovery ooking for a first job is today’s job market. The programs Learning Center, a preschool tough for any teenager, blend classroom instruction with classroom at Southeast Elementary especially for those practical, on-the-job training in Howell, and at Pizza Hut. who have a disability. and allow students to earn wages, L Guido’s boss at Pizza Hut saw In Livingston County a team of gain skills, and get connected the many talents Guido has and transition counselors, including to employers. The Livingston hired her on as a regular employee. Dan Durci of the Ann Arbor Center Educational Service Agency, She now works there assisting for Independent Living, make that Michigan Rehabilitation Services, the cooks, preparing boxes, and transition from high school into the Works Skills Corporation, and cleaning the dining areas. She work world a little easier. the individual employers fund the tremendously values the experience project collaboratively. Durci and his colleagues work she is getting and the great people with students from Pinckney, June Guido, a 2007 graduate of with whom she is working. Guido Brighton, Howell, Fowlerville, Howell High School, participated ultimately wants to open her own and Whitmore Lake. Besides in one of Durci’s programs and childcare facility and believes assisting with placement, Durci gained a permanent job at Pizza the early childhood education and his colleagues offer students a Hut in Howell. As a participant experiences she got through the variety of programs to help them of the Experience-Based Career EBCE program will benefit her for a long time to come.

Shane Redinger graduated from Pinckney High School in 2006. Determined to not let his learning disability hamper his goal of finding a career path utilizing his strong people skills, Redinger pursued vocational training at the Michigan Career and Technical Institute (MCTI) in Plainwell. Redinger stood out as student at MCTI where he received top grades. Because of his high marks, the school allowed him to skip his second term and go straight to his third term, during which he Local teens with disabilities ride the bus. gained a paid manager’s position at

ACCESS 2007 | Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living | ACCESS 2007 11 the school store. Now a graduate of MCTI’s program in retail for people with disabilities marketing and customer service, Redinger will soon take a job as the host of the Timbers Restaurant Employment at the new Four Winds Casino in New Buffalo. He attributes much There are 54.3 million people in the United States with of his success to the assistance of 1 a disability, totaling 18.1% of the general US population. Durci, who introduced Redinger to MCTI and helped out in countless Among people age 21 to 64 with any type of disability, other ways. 255.9% are employed, as compared to 88.2% of the non-disabled population in that age group.

“…she has found that Among Americans with any disability, 55.9% had some talking openly about 3 sort of employment; 82% of people with a non-severe her disability helps to disability, 42.5% of people with a severe disability, and break down fears and 88.2% of people with no disability were employed. stereotypes and brings her Among Americans with hearing impairments, 64% are closer to her peers.” 4employed; 44% of Americans with visual impairments, 41% of Americans with cognitive disabilities, and 34% of people with physical disabilities are employed. Jennifer Border met Durci when Among people ages 25 to 64 with a non-severe* disability, she was a student at Fowlerville 47.6% have a personal income of less than High School and needed assistive 5 $20,000 per year, as compared to 76.6% of people with technology to help her attend a severe* disability and 39.3% of people with no disability. college. Border has arthrogryposis, a congenital condition that *The US Census Bureau classifies people as having a “severe” disability if they severely limits the use of her arms use a wheelchair, cane, crutches or walker as well as someone who cannot see, hear, lift or carry, use stairs, walk or grasp small objects; is unable to perform and legs. Now a senior at Wright daily living activities or has a specific disability, such as autism, cerebral palsy or State University in Dayton, Ohio, a developmental disability. Someone with a “non-severe” disability can do these Border is an honors student tasks but finds them difficult. Source: US Census Bureau with plans to pursue a Ph.D. in human factors psychology. Border ultimately wants to make Facts a significant impact in the field of a receptionist for the University’s assistive technology and help others honors program. Throughout her like her get connected to new and experiences Border tries to use rapidly improving assistive devices, her disability as a way to educate such as a headband that allows an and connect with others. She says individual to control a computer people are afraid to ask questions or mouse through his or her eyes. offer help, but she has found that Border has added to her academic talking openly about her disability learning with work experience helps to break down fears and while in college. She serves as stereotypes and brings her closer to a test proctor for the disability her peers. Border’s confidence that services office and works as a anyone can overcome a disability to research assistant in the psycho- accomplish his or her dreams will, biology lab. She has also worked as no doubt, take her far.

12 ACCESS 2007 | Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living for people with disabilities Employment & THE AMErICAN DREAM

Employment “With the help of Reaching Michigan Ability Partners (MAP) and a job coach, for the Stars Anderson landed the & Landing in Hollywood ideal job…”

by Anna L. Dusbiber

nn Arbor resident Melissa Anderson’s journey towards independence began with the Aassistance of the Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living. With the guidance and patience Ann Arbor CIL’s Anna Dusbiber talks with Melissa Anderson of Hollywood Video. of a mentor, Anderson was able to a job at Hollywood Video where Anderson says that her disability transition into life as a Washtenaw she now works as a customer is not the most important Community College student. service representative. Her duties thing about her: “I’m just like “My mentor and I would talk on include helping customers locate everybody else.” Anderson, who the phone a lot or meet on my the movies they want and stocking has developmental and learning college campus. She boosted up the shelves. If someone comes to disabilities, has a job coach my confidence to deal with college the store and wants a particular through Services To Enhance stress and family communication.” movie but can’t remember the title, Potential (STEP). STEP’s mission Maria Kirchoff mentored Anderson Anderson can usually figure it out. is to “support individuals in the for two years. During that time, pursuit of their chosen goals She knew she always wanted to they developed a presentation and the achievement of personal work at a video store but would on the importance of mentoring satisfaction in their lives,’’ need assistance locating a job. and how they both grew from the according to their website. That’s when she turned to a experience. Even though their time job developer through MAP, a They provide an array of services, together has ended, the lessons nonprofit organization which including supports coordination, learned help her at her current job. “provides housing supports, transition, self-employment, skills With the help of Michigan Ability vocational and financial services training, mobility training and Partners (MAP) and a job coach, to persons with varying levels of job training to individuals and Anderson landed the ideal job disabilities,” their website states. families. They also assist businesses for someone with her skills and Their transitional service program in recruiting, hiring and retaining interests in 1999. meets the needs of students with employees with disabilities. developmental disabilities who are Anderson, 31, considers herself Anderson’s job coach checks in transitioning from school to the to be a movie buff, so after some on her and makes sure that she world of work. prep work, she was able to obtain is performing job tasks correctly.

ACCESS 2007 | Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living | ACCESS 2007 13 She also helped Anderson come Anderson is an example of how for. Then they should figure out up with creative ways to manage receiving assistance from a local what they like to do and what her stress on the job, such as how agency can bring out a person’s kind of skills or talents they are to react when dealing with a rude inner drive and help him or her able to bring to a job. Finally, it’s customer. “I have learned to do succeed in life, not only in a career important for people to figure out breathing exercises or take a break but also as a contributing member what sort of support they need to with a good book or some music. of society. get a job and maintain it. There I can usually calm myself down are agencies available, like MAP Anderson offers suggestions to pretty easily. When I’m okay, I go and STEP, to assist in this process. those searching for employment. back and do the rest of my job,” Anderson says to “aim high, have a First, people should ask themselves Anderson said. goal, and reach for the stars!” what kind of job they are looking To keep herself on track, Anderson has a calendar, planner, and Michigan Works! Association a single voice on critical issues that affect address book. She always puts provides services to promote the workforce development. Nowhere else in the country is there a partnership like appointments in her planner and advancement of Michigan’s workforce development system and its customers the one Michigan Works! enjoys with the keeps paper, a pen, and a calculator and professionals. state government to help job seekers and employers alike. with her at all times. She even has It enjoys national recognition as the hand-made business cards. largest and most progressive workforce Through its public information, training, development association in the United technical assistance, and marketing In her spare time, Anderson States. The Michigan Works! Association’s activities, Michigan Works! Association volunteers at Hartland Hospice members include the Workforce provides its members with: as a clerk and is an active member Development Boards, Local Elected • a highly effective network of Officials, and Michigan Works! Agency of the Michigan Developmental communication and information Directors from all across the state. exchange that enables the agencies Disabilities Council, where Michigan Works! has served 3 million to be heard at all levels of decision- she advocates for people with people since it opened its doors in making. disabilities and participates in 1987. It fosters employment and training • more than 1,100 hours of training monthly meetings at the state programs that serve employers and annually with more than 2,500 people workers by providing support activities capital on disability issues. The attending workshops, forums and and a forum for information exchange. customized orientations. Council, part of the Michigan That system has been recognized by the • important on-site technical assistance National Alliance of Business as the most Department of Community and “trouble-shooting” on a variety innovative in the country. Health, includes people with of issues, including management developmental disabilities, their Through the Association, members can information systems, cost allocation speak with workforce development and procurement. family members, and professionals professionals across the state, coordinate • a quarterly newsletter, workforce from state and local agencies that efforts on statewide projects, keep development system brochures, legislators and others informed on serve people with developmental position papers and legislative workforce development issues, and disabilities. The Council’s updates. receive important technical assistance mission is to “support people and staff training to deliver services to all • an annual conference with 700 with developmental disabilities to customers. workforce development professionals achieve life dreams.” in attendance, and an annual award Nowhere else in the United States do celebration recognizing outstanding private sector business people, local Anderson has also served as achievement by program participants elected officials and administrators belong and employers. a member of the Washtenaw to a unified association that speaks with Community Transition Council Washtenaw County Livingston County for seven years and currently holds 555 Towner St. 1240 Packard Dr. the position of co-chair. In this P.O. Box 915 Howell, MI 48843 Ypsilanti, MI 48197-0915 Director: William Sleight role, she organizes and facilitates Director: Trenda Rusher Phone: (517) 546-7450 meetings that serve students in Phone: (734) 544-6850 E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] Web Site: www.lcmw.org their transition from school to Web Site: http://etcs.ewashtenaw.org adulthood. Contact Person: Jennifer Bivens ContactMichigan Works!

14 ACCESS 2007 | Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living Small Businesses Build Employment

Nan Asher staffs her small business’ cash register. setting up a hotdog stand! Other • Are you highly motivated? new businesses MEW clients have • Are you good at solving problems? started include massage therapy, • Can you stay focused and on task? by Rick Weir manicures and pedicures, tax preparation and public notary • Are you adaptable and flexible? services, pest extermination, dog • Are you a risk taker? icroEnterprise Works grooming, car detailing, taxidermy, (MEW) enables people If they can answer “yes,” they and music lessons. Mwith disabilities to start may have the potential to start their own small business. We help Many people think that it’s easy a small business because all of people evaluate their business ideas to start a business. According to these personal characteristics are and whether they are personally the United States Chamber of necessary for someone to be a ready to start a small business or Commerce, nine out of 10 small successful entrepreneur. be self-employed. If a business businesses fail within five years. So, In our years of experience we have idea looks promising, we assist the we try very hard to help our clients learned that a business must make client in preparing the business look honestly and realistically personal sense (will it fit in with plan and the analysis necessary to at both the opportunities and your family or lifestyle?), business receive financial support and start challenges of starting a business sense (can you sell your product the business. so that they have a good chance for more than it costs to make of being the one out of 10 who Michigan Rehabilitation Services, and still provide you with a profit succeed. We do this by suggesting the Michigan Commission for or income?), market sense (how careful, honest, and thorough the Blind, and the Veterans many competitors are there in research during the planning Administration send most of your market and is there room for process. We think it is important our clients to us. These potential you?), and financial sense (do you to know as much as possible business owners live all across have enough money to make your about competitors, potential Michigan, from Benton Harbor to business successful?). demand from target customers, Lansing to Detroit to Monroe— and how much it really will cost to Many beginning entrepreneurs and many cities and towns in successfully launch the business. fail to realize that they will have between. Each person brings a We also help with marketing to work long hours and that it can different perspective to the process materials, bookkeeping systems, often be difficult to attract enough and we learn something new with and operational planning. customers for the business to be each client. successful. Almost all of our clients When someone comes to us about Over the 15 years we’ve worked to who start businesses struggle to establishing a business, we ask them: put people to work for themselves, generate sales in the first year. we have helped people start • Do you have experience in the The purpose of our work at MEW businesses in custodial services, work you want to do? is to help beginning entrepreneurs painting contracting, home • Are you able to sell your services realistically look at their business improvement, selling products or products to people? idea or business expansion and, on eBay, woodworking, trophy • Are you able to compete if feasible, prepare them as and engraving sales, metal successfully with others? thoroughly as possible to “fight and fabricating, and others—even win in the marketplace.”

ACCESS 2007 | Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living | ACCESS 2007 15 Creatively Seeking Your Ideal Career

us from achieving our dreams by Richard Bolles, instead of helping us figure out author of What Color how the dream could be realized. is Your Parachute? Some adults whose disabilities start or almost every from accidents or disease lose their jobhunter, constant friends or even their spouse after rejection often causes their injury or illness. Some of us emotional paralysis and have been stared at because our depression. We call it disability startles people. To say F“rejection shock.” Your self-image nothing of the rejecting message Learn about trends at the organization that might hire you. plummets. You feel like something implicit in inaccessible buildings, is wrong with you. Resume after and websites or documents that The numbers game is frequently resume has gone out. You have we can’t read, or being unable presented as the only game in followed the rules. You have made to communicate our abilities to town. Most books on job-hunting sure that every cover letter is people who might hire us. explain this system. Most job- carefully aimed toward the person While the disability issue is a hunting classes teach this system. it addresses. Yet there are no calls- problem that we need to deal with, The disability community, through or interviews. You simply hear the real problem is our job-hunting its system of providing services, nothing. system. Basically “the system” also teaches this system extensively. Unfortunately, this rejection shock involves looking only for openings The numbers game causes so can be worse for a person with a and then competing with others much difficulty for applicants disability, because most of us with for them or sending your resume with disabilities that I wanted to long-term disabilities have already out to employers and hoping they present an alternative strategy. The experienced terrible rejection. We call you. alternative strategy is described in may have been rejected by our detail in the book What Color Is This system is also called the playmates when we were young Your Parachute? We call it “creative numbers game. It works on because of how we looked. We job-hunting.” the principle that employers may have already been through should attract a large number of Creative job-hunting works better major struggles getting into college applicants, screen a lot of them for most job-hunters than the or graduate school because the out, and then pick the best of the traditional ways of looking, which admissions committee tried to remaining applicants. The process encompass the worst ways to find a reject us. of screening people out works job. The creative job-hunt is one of A lot of us have sat across from against people with anything the five best ways to find a job. The counselors and teachers who told unusual about them, including, of four other best ways are: asking for us that our disability prevented course, people with disabilities. job leads from people you know

16 ACCESS 2007 | Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living Employment & THE AMErICAN DREAM

or meet; visiting employers; calling To figure all of this out, you will employers listed in the phone need to do a lot of research, both What Color is book or other directories and written (visiting Internet sites Your Parachute? is the best-selling job-hunting book asking them if they are hiring for and libraries) and oral (talking in the world, with more than 10 your position; and doing this in a to people on the telephone million copies sold. A favorite of job group with other job-hunters. The and in person). I recommend hunters and career changers for more creative approach to job-hunting informational interviews as the best than three decades, it continues to be a mainstay on the best-seller lists, has an 86 percent success rate and way to find out what you need to from Amazon.com to encompasses these steps: know. You use such interviews to: Business Week, to the • Talk to people who have the New York Times, where it has been on the best- career or job you want. Ask seller list for more than questions to find out if you would five years. like it, how to prepare yourself, what the job requires day-to-day, and how they like each activity. Step 3: If possible, find someone with a How Do You Obtain Weigh your options. disability like your own or at least Such a Job? Step 1: another disability. Now you go to the organizations What Do You Want to Do? • Learn about trends at the that interest you the most, whether This consists of a thorough organizations that might hire or not they have a vacancy. Use evaluation of your strengths and you, organizations that recently your contacts to get an interview weaknesses. Which of your skills received grants or any infusion there. Know the needs of the do you most delight in using? of cash, organizations that might person with the power to hire you. What are your talents? What do use your skills, details about a While you’re there, show you are you really want to do? Look for potential place you might want the person who can solve their work that you only think you to work, and any information problems and make their job easier. should do and you probably won’t that helps you determine the Yes, persons with disabilities do look very hard. But look for work fit between your skills and a face challenges and discrimination that you deeply want, and you’ll potential way of making a living. because of their disability. Despite probably look with all of your soul • Build relationships with the best these challenges, the creative job- — and end up finding it. of the people you interview. Find hunting technique works far better Step 2: ways to contribute to their goals than the numbers game for people and become known in the field. with disabilities, not only because Where Do You Want to Do It? of its track record that shows it At this point you must decide works for 86 percent of the folks where you want to use your skills. who try it, but also because the You must decide what subjects entire process of studying and interest you; where you want to selling your strengths contradicts live; what knowledge you already any negative attitudes about have and can put to use; what your yourself that you may have picked preferred working conditions, such up from others. You will quickly as need for autonomy or direction, learn how to feature your strengths are; what jobs exist that use your and become specific about what skills and combine the things you you can do. love to do; and what organizations have such jobs. Look for information online

ACCESS 2007 | Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living | ACCESS 2007 17 Capitalizing Ability “The Abilities Fund offers training, in Michigan: technical assistance, A Collaboration between The Abilities Fund advisory supports, & Ann Arbor CIL’s MicroenterpriseWorks! and access to capital for individuals with disabilities...” by Patti Lind

public and private agencies hroughout the 2000 US Census. Yet only 35% implement effective business country, people with of Americans with Disabilities development services. disabilities continue are employed full- or part-time, to experience according to the 2004 National AF’s experience in self-employment challenges as Organization on Disability for people with disabilities includes Tparticipants in the labor force. the design and management and Harris Survey of American Recognizing that self-employment with Disabilities. This same of Iowa’s Entrepreneurs with allows individuals with survey shows that 73% of this Disabilities Program, a business disabilities to bypass employment unemployed population would development project within discrimination and is a means to prefer to be working. the Vocational Rehabilitation accommodate their disabilities system, and a model that they in ways traditional employment Perhaps that is why so many have duplicated in other states, situations may not, the Abilities Americans with disabilities are including Nebraska Vocational Fund promotes the economic looking to self-employment as a Rehabilitation with Nebraska advancement of people with route to economic self-sufficiency. Self-Employment Services (NSES). disabilities. In fact, individuals with disabilities Comprehensive services in both are nearly twice as likely as others Iowa and Nebraska include Established in 2000 as a nonprofit to choose self-employment, Exploring Entrepreneurship organization, the Abilities Fund according to a 1996 article by workshops, feasibility assessment, (AF) is the first and only national Craig Ravensloot and Tom Seekins business planning and needs- organization focused exclusively in the Rehabilitation Counseling specific customized technical on expanding entrepreneurial Bulletin. assistance, access to capital, and opportunities for people with post-start-up business monitoring. disabilities. AF recognizes AF offers training, technical the fullest expression of the assistance, advisory supports, and Additionally, AF recently entrepreneurial spirit in all its access to capital for individuals developed a relationship with the diversity, strength, and boundless with disabilities, as well as capacity Vocational Rehabilitation Equity originality. building for the public and private Assistance Program (VREAP) organizations that serve them. AF to manage the loan program There are 33 million people of has assisted hundreds of successful that offers micro-loans of up to working age with disabilities in entrepreneurs to start or expand $15,000 to qualifying clients of the United States, according to the business ventures and has helped NSES.

18 ACCESS 2007 | Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living Employment & THE AMErICAN DREAM

• There are 20 million microenterprises • Microenterprise program clients reduce in the United States their reliance on government assistance • 14% of people with disabilities choose • Self employment can offer greater self-employment while 8% of the total flexibility than traditional employment population seek self-employment Sources: “Stats & Stories: Fast Facts & Highlights.” • Self employment allows an individual to Retrieved June 25, 2007, from FIELD Web site: http:// fieldus.org/Stories/FastFacts.html; Craig Ravensloot and use talents that might be un/under- Tom Seekins, “Vocational Rehabilitation Counselors’ utilized in traditional employment settings Attitudes Towards Self-Employment: Attitudes and Their Effects on the Use of Self-Employment as an • People with disabilities often attain a Employment Option.” Rehabilitation Counseling greater level of self-sufficiency Bulletin, vol. 39:3, March 1996. through self employment QUICK POINTS

In a defining organizational effort, benefit from the collaboration as the Abilities Fund, together with well. As the collaboration plan a national lending partner, are comes together, the Ann Arbor launching a loan program in 2007 CIL’s MicroenterpriseWorks will for entrepreneurs with disabilities have a set of products and services nationwide. Flexible terms and that currently are not present competitive interest rates for in Michigan and will serve the micro-loans ranging from $500 to The Abilities Fund provides money to women disability community in a way they $25,000 will be available, along entrepreneurs with disabilities. have not previously experienced. with loan guarantees for borrowers disabilities. Awards to women are Together with AF, the Ann in 45 states. All potential borrowers for business growth and range from Arbor CIL will lead the field in will have access to training and $500 to $2,500. microenterprise development and technical assistance through a new access to capital for individuals So, what’s next for the Abilities suite of online business planning with disabilities in Michigan! Fund? Expanding partnerships tools that include Feasibility First©, remains a priority. To meet the To stay updated on the Ann Arbor business plan development, and goal, the Ann Arbor Center CIL-Abilities Fund collaboration financial planning for business for Independent Living’s and for more information about start-up. MicroenterpriseWorks Program AF programs and activities, visit: Partnerships with organizations and AF are working on a plan for www.abilitiesfund.org. who share AF’s philosophy are a collaboration that will provide critical element of the organization. the Ann Arbor CIL with a range One current partner is Citibank’s of AF products and services to Women and Company© be used by clients seeking self- Microenterprise Boost Program employment. Agencies that refer that provides AF with funds to pass clients to the Ann Arbor CIL on to women entrepreneurs with self-employment program will Develop your business plan in detail.

ACCESS 2007 | Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living | ACCESS 2007 19 People with Disabilities Find New Careers Through Michigan Rehabilitation Services

by Jen Chapin-Smith

ith a 100% job- “MRS provides support placement rate for in training, restoration graduates of and placement.” Wsome of its programs, the Michigan Career and Technical Institute training center in Plainwell. Up helps people with disabilities find to 350 students at a time attend life-long careers. the Institute to learn to be auto One student of the Institute, mechanics, chefs, custodians, who has a hearing impairment, secretaries and to train for other A family celebrates. “ended up working at Whirlpool jobs as well. The average student is Corporation as a machinist. He 21 years old. “We can provide a lot of resources has so impressed Whirlpool that and we have familiarity with all MRS provides support in training, they contacted us about hiring those resources, so we can do some restoration and placement. additional students. They’re linking,” Hart explained. “Our assistance, to some degree, looking at donating some is predicated on the level of MRS assists people with physical equipment and helping us with our independence of the individual,” and mental, cognitive and learning curriculum,” said Dennis Hart, Hart said. MRS teaches consumers disabilities to gain employment. director of the Michigan Career job searching skills, such as how Disabilities include amputation, and Technical Institute, a division to interview for a job and how cerebral palsy, heart disease, of Michigan Rehabilitation to look for a potential employer. hearing or vision impairment, Services (MRS). If someone has difficulty doing mental illness, spinal cord injury, “In our cabinet-making program so independently, MRS can help substance abuse and others. we have 100% placement, and by contacting employers and MRS, a part of the Michigan those folks end up working at working towards cultivating a Department of Labor and higher-end shops,” Hart said, relationship with them. MRS also Economic Growth, has 36 offices noting that every student in the helps employers retain workers around the state, all of which Institute’s auto mechanics program with disabilities. MRS has done refer students to the Career and landed jobs last year. ergonomic assessments of desks, for Technical Institute. MRS serves example, to make them accessible The Career and Technical Institute about 42,000 people each year. for people using wheelchairs. is a residential post-secondary trade

20 ACCESS 2007 | Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living Employment & THE AMErICAN DREAM

If someone has difficulty, MRS can help by contacting employers and working towards cultivating a relationship with them.

Last year, MRS helped 7,000 people get jobs.

Among MRS’s success stories are Odell Brown of Kentwood who uses a right leg prosthesis and now Dennis Hart, director of the Michigan Career and Technical Institute, gets a thumbs up from Michigan works selling cars. Myreo Dixon Gov. Jennifer Granholm, right. of Detroit has paraplegia from a gunshot wound in 1988. Thanks develop a plan for reaching it. transportation, and personal to MRS he completed training at Steps towards the goal can include assistance. the Southfield-based Specs Howard training, such as adult education, MRS will even pay up to $1,500 School of Broadcasting and got a trade or business school, college per year for a student with a job as an engineer at Detroit Radio or on-the-job training. It can also disability to attend a two- or four- Information Service, the area’s only include acquiring hearing aids, year college if that student has radio reading service for people artificial limbs, braces, assistive already applied for financial aid. with visual impairments. Michael technology or help filling out Gross of Monroe has cerebral palsy, a job application and practice “It’s all about informed choice,” which limits his mobility. MRS preparing for the job interview. Hart explained. MRS helps helped him find a job at Lowe’s by MRS can also provide such support individuals to “know enough about teaching him interview skills and services as interpreters, readers, themselves” to choose a career. finding him job leads.

People with disabilities who apply for help finding a job with MRS meet with a counselor to discuss their abilities, interests, and needs. The counselor helps individuals identify their interests, abilities, and barriers to employment. Help can come in the form of medical exams, vocational testing, work evaluations, or job try-outs.

The counselor then helps individuals choose a job goal and Ann Arbor CIL Employment Manager Kathy Herron discusses Tim Fatchett’s new career with him.

ACCESS 2007 | Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living | ACCESS 2007 21 Access = Opportunity

Eastern Michigan University is committed to diversity and to the success of students with disabilities. The mission of the Access Services Office is to make education at EMU fully accessible, opening the door of opportunity to all students.

Students with disabilities are Letters requesting accommoda- strongly encouraged to request tions are available through the and utilize the accommodations ASO and should be provided to available through the Access instructors at the beginning of Services Office (ASO) in suite each semester. 246 of the EMU Student Center.

Welcoming students of all abilities.

Eastern Michigan University Access Services Office Suite 246 EMU Student Center http://www.emich.edu/access_services/ (734) 487-2470 CIL S Ann Arbor Arbor Ann Alysa Mohr Jim Magyar Helen Ledgard Shemeka Johnson Tom Hoatlin Kathy Herron Kevin Hartgerink Carolyn Grawi Alex Gossage Dana Emerson Anna Dusbiber Dan Durci Kit Cromwell Shirley Coombs Jen Chapin-Smith Angie Carlson Deanna Boer Rick Berk Peg Ball Glen Ashlock George Ridenour Jim Magyar Alex Gossage Deanna Boer

taff

O Melissa Sartori Linda Maier Carolyn Grawi Jen Chapin-Smith Director ofDevelopment Computer Instructor Community OutreachSpecialist Transition Counselor IL Advocate Employment Specialist Info Tech Specialist Employment Manager Special ProjectsCoordinator Event Coordinator Community MentorshipCoordinator Director ofOperations Chief FinancialOfficer AT/IT ProgramManager Youth ProgramCoordinator Morning Receptionist IL ProgramManager Director ofAdvocacy&Education Life Coach/Advocate President &CEO ffice Not pictured: Dan Durci, BeckyMunce

Mary Stack Kelly Meadows Kevin Hartgerink Shirley Coombs Angie Carlson

Rick Weir Alysa Mohr Kathy Herron Kit Cromwell Cheranissa Roach Mark Rawlings Kelly Meadows Linda Maier Gary Dygert Monroe Jeanine Wright Edward Wollmann Jeffery Welcome Rick Weir Mary Stack Melissa Sartori George Ridenour Cheranissa Roach Calisa Reid Sue Probert Becky Munce

Jeffery Welcome Sue Probert Tom Hoatlin Anna Dusbiber Glen Ashlock

ffice

Director ofProgramResearch Accountant IL Specialist Business Consultant WTE &Volunteer Coordinator Afternoon Receptionist VISTA/Resource Specialist Info. &ReferralProgramManager Computer/Fundraising Specialist VISTA/I &RSpecialist Director ofOperations Sports &RecreationSpecialist MicroEnterprise Works Manager & Development Intake Specialist Data Specialist

Edward Wollmann Mark Rawlings Shemeka Johnson Gary Dygert Peg Ball

Jeanine Wright Calisa Reid Helen Ledgard Dana Emerson Rick Berk

At last – A Home of Our Own!

eople with disabilities and our advocates created the Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living (Ann Arbor CIL) in 1976 because our community was filled with environ- mental and attitudinal barriers that kept people with dis- “At long last we are in the abilities from living full and productive lives. Over these past 30+ years our volunteers, board members and staff, a majority process of launching a capital of whom are people with disabilities, have dedicated themselves to the success campaign that will enable the of children, youth and adults with disabilities at home, at school, at work and in CIL the community. Ann Arbor to secure At long last we are in the process of launching a capital campaign that will enable the Ann Arbor CIL to secure a “Home of Our Own,” a true “Gathering a ‘Home of Our Own,’ a PPlace” for the disability community and our advocates. It will be a place where peer support and advocacy continue to flourish, where we rally for change, con- true ‘Gathering Place’ for the vene to do business, and relax with food, entertainment, and recreation. We will not just be breaking ground with our new home, we will also be disability community.” strengthening our ability to break down barriers to full community participation. No longer will people with disabilities be thought of as tragic figures, ~Joan E. Smith, needy people without minds of our own, less desirable as friends, mates, co- Board Chairperson workers, and consumers. Imagine our new home: clean, modern, accessible and full of life. A-Ride brings people to the door. Someone welcomes you into a gathering place for peer support and friendship, and people connect you with resources that help you be more successful at home, at school, at work and in the community.

24 Providing Support – Offering Hope – Transforming Lives

At last – In our future t Additional education and support : we envisionservices for businesses, non- profit organizations and units of government that employ people with of disabilities. A Home t A Disability Research and Education Program with links to disability study programs at schools, colleges and universities. Our Own! t New Peer Support Programs in collaboration with rehabilitation providers. t An inclusive Sports and Recreation Program. t Expanded services for people who are blind or visually-impaired. capital atheringcampaign t New programs for people who are A2008-2009G deaf or hard-of-hearing. t Creative Employment and Micro Please join us in our efforts to create a vibrant Gathering Place for the Enterprise Programs. disability community! Ambassador and Mrs. Ronald Weiser, and our t A state-of-the-art Assistive friends at McKinley, havePlace made a Lead Challenge Gift of $200,000 to the Technology Center. Ann Arbor CIL “Gathering Place Capital Campaign.” For each dollar we raise, they will contribute another dollar! t Focused initiatives for Youth with Disabilities. To help us reach our “First Step” goal of $600,000. Please contact: Jim Magyar, President and CEO ([email protected]) or Tom Hoatlin, t A Center for Disability and the Law. Director of Development ([email protected]) or visit us at www.aacil.org t A Center for Disability and the Family. in the Ann Arbor CIL t And a Fund for Self-Sufficiency that will create in the lives of people supports independent living goals. An investmentwith disabilities in our community and in the positive change around us. communities

25 3941 Research Park Drive | Ann Arbor, MI 48108 | 734-971-0277 www.aacil.org Vision We’re here for you Serving the residents of Washtenaw County for over 40 years.

The U-M Home Care Services University of Michigan Home Care Services provides organization partners with many a full range of products and services for people with disabilities. groups and programs, including We’re continually expanding our offerings with new and the Model Spinal Cord Injury innovative products designed to help you live a more comfortable Care System and the Wheelchair and independent life. Seating Clinic. This integrated Our team of professionals will work with you to ensure your approach ensures the highest complete satisfaction. Whether it’s making sure your equipment level of service for our clients. fits properly; explaining the correct use of supplies; designing and building custom mobility products; or providing in-house nursing and care…we’re here for you.

University of Michigan Home Care Services -ED%15)0s$URABLE-EDICAL%QUIPMENTs(OME-EDs(OME)NFUSION 7HEELCHAIR 3EATING 3ERVICES s #USTOM 7HEELCHAIRS AND -OBILITY 0RODUCTS -ICHIGAN6ISITING.URSESAND6ISITING#AREs)N HOME.URSINGAND#ARE3ERVICES Online Resources for People with Disabilities Looking for Jobs

US Dept. of Labor, Office of Disability Employment Policy Work Skills Corporation: an Ypsilanti-based organization http://www.dol.gov/odep/ providing employment and training (866) 633-7365; (877) 889-5627 (TTY) http://www.wskills.com/ (734) 484-6578 New Freedom Initiative’s Online Resource: a US Government resource for people with disabilities Peckham: a non-profit offering job training, assessment http://www.disabilityinfo.gov and placement for persons with barriers to employment http://www.peckham.org/ US Office of Personnel Management: the place to find (517) 316-4000 jobs with the US Government http://www.opm.gov/disability/ MOKA: during the past 15 years this non-profit has (202) 606-1800; (202) 606-2582 (TTY) helped more than 1,500 individuals find jobs of their choice in their local communities National Business and Disabilities Council http://www.moka.org/empans.htm http://www.nbdc.com (800) 644-2434 (516) 465-1519 Area Agency on Aging: This organization offers Michigan Works!: a state-wide initiative to help information and referrals on employment Michigan residents find jobs http://www.aaa1b.com http://www.michiganworks.org/page.cfm/302 (800) 852-7795 (517) 371-1100; (800) 649-3777 (Michigan Relay for Residents who are Deaf) Center for the Education of Women: CEW provides counseling, workshops, and Information and Referral services Michigan Works! Page on Disabilities regarding education and career decision http://www.michiganworks.org/page.cfm/302 http://www.umich.edu/~cew/ Michigan Rehabilitation Services (734) 998-7080 http://www.michigan.gov/mdcd/0,1607,7-122-25392---,00. Michigan Ability Partners: a non-profit agency offering html vocational and financial services to people with Ann Arbor Office: (734) 677-1125; (877) 901-9195 disabilities (Toll Free); (734) 677-1206 (TTY) http://www.michiganabilitypartners.org (734) 975-6880 Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living’s Finding a Job or Starting a Business Michigan Commission for the Blind: this agency helps http://www.aacil.org/wwd_findingajob.shtml people with visual impairments find jobs and gain (734) 971-0277 independence http://www.michigan.gov/cis/0,1607,7-154-28077_28313- Crossroads Industries: a non-profit organization provid- --,00.html ing supported employment (800) 292-4200 http://crossroadsindustries.com/ (989) 732-1233; (877) 982-7677 (Toll Free) Services To Enhance Potential (STEP): a local organization providing employment resources through the Gateway: a non-profit organization providing vocational Washtenaw Resource Center training for people with disabilities (734) 794-7027 http://www.gatewayvro.org/index.html http://www.stepcentral.org (269) 471-2897 Project Able: an IBM Diversity recruitment program offer- Jewish Vocational Service: a non-profit providing ing people with disabilities the chance to explore IBM employment and training to people with disabilities careers nationwide http://www.jvsdet.org/disabilities.htm http://www-306.ibm.com/employment/us/un_div_projable. JVS Career Initiatives Center in Detroit shtml (313) 833-8100; (313) 833-8321 (TTY)

Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living | ACCESS 2007 27 Succeeding in the Work World by Overcoming Obstacles

Michigan First Gentleman Dan Mulhern presents Kate Zajac, by Kathy Herron center, with an award as Jasmina Camo, right, applauds.

olding a bachelor’s We worked with Carrie to define hone her computer skills. She degree from what she enjoyed most in a job continued to work for the mail Ohio State and helped her create a resume order department part-time after University, Carrie that would reflect that interest. the holidays. As her confidence demonstrates We discovered that the restaurant increased, she inquired about cross Hher talents through a diverse work training with this restaurant with business was in her heart. After history. She served as a program working as a political canvasser the intent to work in the catering manager and supervised a large (a job she landed on her own) department. Within a couple staff for IBM for 15 years. When for a small amount of money of weeks, the catering manager her children were small she left the for about two months, Carrie called her for an interview. It took corporate environment and worked unsuccessfully applied for a about three weeks for the catering coordinating services for children position as a catering director for a manager to realize what an asset through the Lutheran Church. local restaurant. We then contacted Carrie would be to this company. As her children grew up and left the human resources director of She is now employed full-time with home, Carrie (her last name is the same restaurant about a sales benefits in the catering department omitted to protect her privacy) representative position in their doing sales work and will assist with opened her own successful holiday mail order department. prep if necessary. Carrie won this part-time position restaurant in a small town in While landing this job was difficult and worked through the holidays. Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. at times, Carrie’s effort paid off in However, the economy in Carrie checked in with me the end. The employer has a great Michigan forced her to close her regularly for support and came employee and a person with a doors after 12 years of service. She to the AACIL several times to disability has a job that she loves. moved closer to family and took a job as a facilities manager for a new senior retirement home. Yet she faced difficulty with new computer technology and a lack of training, so she lost the job after a very difficult year.

Carrie came to Projects With Industry through Michigan Rehabilitation Services. She had developed depression as a result of the loss of employment, economic stress and chronic arthritis pain. Ana Obando celebrates her success.

28 ACCESS 2007 | Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living CIL’s Projects “Many individuals do not know what their strengths with Industry are, or even worse, how to express themselves so they can Allows Local Residents to give back to the world.” Give Back to the Community

employment and engage employers The CIL currently employs two in the process of employing full-time Employment Specialists: by Kathy Herron them. The U.S. Department of Helen Ledgard and myself. On any Education, an arm of the federal given day you will see us working government that funds this project, with individuals with disabilities, linical Psychologist says the grant’s purpose “is to most often referred to us from Dr Martin create and expand job and career our local vocational rehabilitation Seligman, author of opportunities for individuals with agency. Our work includes Authentic Happiness disabilities in the competitive labor identifying strengths, setting tells us that if we market. This is accomplished by goals, and determining a plan to Cwant a happy, meaningful life we involving private industry partners achieve employment that includes need to know our strengths and to help identify competitive job writing resumes, filling out job use them as often as possible in and career opportunities and the applications, making phone calls to our daily lives and to do so for skills needed to perform these jobs, employers, and Internet searches. something greater than ourselves. to create practical job and career We also get really creative and We need to give back to the world. readiness and training programs, help individuals see themselves Many people who visit the Ann and to provide job placement and in the field or job they think will Arbor Center for Independent career advancement.” make them happiest or use their Living (AACIL) come in search strengths in the best way. of just that—a need and desire to give back to the world—to use their strengths and abilities to live a meaningful life. Many individuals do not know what their strengths are, or even worse, how to express themselves so they can give back to the world. The Ann Arbor CIL can help with that, at least in terms of employment.

At the AACIL we have a grant called Projects With Industry (PWI) that is designed to assist individuals with disabilities in Use your strengths to make your life meaningful.

ACCESS 2007 | Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living | ACCESS 2007 29 “The employment specialist’s job is also to identify, engage and educate employers in our community that are open to recruiting, and assisting individuals with disabilities in achieving their goals.”

Focus on your outcome to make your dreams come true.

In her book Write it Down, that may impede success or reveal mock interviews, review resumes, Make it Happen, Henriette Anne an accommodation necessary for send us their job openings and Klauser talks about the power of employment. educate individuals with disabilities goal-setting and the even more on how to improve their skills to The employment specialist’s job is incredible power of actually obtain employment. In return also to identify, engage and educate writing down your goals. Her they get an opportunity to hire employers in our community that main premise is that “if you know a qualified individual for a job, are open to recruiting, and assisting what you want, you can have it.” one they know has been through individuals with disabilities in As she says (and as we all know on a process of identifying their achieving their goals. As part of the some level), “setting your intent, strengths, setting their goals, and PWI, we are building a Business focusing on the outcome, being who knows their abilities and has Advisory Council (BAC) and clear about what you want in life support as they start their work. assisting in the job placement of can make your dreams come true.” the people with disabilities that we Some of these local employers The first step in the process, serve then tracking their progress. include Home Depot, Edwards according to Klauser, is to write Employers involved in the Business Brothers, Toledo Municipal Court, down your goal. Some of our PWI Advisory Council will conduct Sears, Frito Lay, Zingerman’s, participants read Henriete Anne Washtenaw Community College, Klauser’s book first to become clear Ford Motor Company, Rouse on what would be ideal for them. We Corporation, McKinley Properties begin with the end goal in mind. and Caribou Coffee. There are also national companies that actively While the employment specialist recruit people with disabilities. uses several resources in our community for employment In December 2006 the Ann searching, such as Michigan Arbor CIL met in Lansing with Works! in Ypsilanti, we give one- Contact Michigan Works! or the Ann Arbor CIL the organizers of the Michigan on-one service to individuals in for more information on employment. Business Leadership Network order to expedite the employment (MIBLN). Many national process and to identify barriers employers, state agencies and

30 ACCESS 2007 | Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living Business Leadership Network

he Business Leadership Network of Michigan (MIBLN) serves as Give back to your community to a resource center for public and private businesses, community find authentic happiness. Tleaders, job seekers, employees and consumers with disabilities. Through its resource center, MIBLN offers: • Assistance to employers trying to maximize productivity in their workforce through hiring, training, supporting, and advancing workers with disabilities. • Training in integrating workers with disabilities into the business organization, as well as training for people with disabilities to effectively represent themselves as consumers in the marketplace and workers in the workplace. Local businesses employ and serve people with disabilities. • Networking support to create, maintain, and develop linkages between employers, people with disabilities and their representative local employers attended the organizations, agencies, and vendors and to encourage communication two-day workshop to begin the between them. development of local chapters. The • Consultation to re-orient employment service providers such that their CIL heard about best practices for values, structures and efforts respond to employer satisfaction and to employing people with disabilities help workers with disabilities find new jobs or return to work. from such companies as Northwest • Research and development to advance best practices in helping people Airlines, Sun Trust Bank, and with disabilities find jobs and move forward in their careers. Microsoft. This provided the CIL with the opportunity to promote MIBLN benefits the local community by offering a place where: some local businesses that employ • Businesses actively market their products and services to consumers people with disabilities, such as with disabilities because doing so creates profit opportunities. Dykema, Second to None, Inner • Employers actively recruit, hire, train, advance, and support workers Circle Media and Comcast, and with disabilities because doing so raises productivity. to recruit new people for our BAC • Agencies and vendors that exist to serve the employment needs while giving local employers an of people with disabilities recognize and respond to the fact that opportunity to share their best employer satisfaction is a fundamental service outcome that must be practice and learn more about addressed to guarantee their success and survival. recruiting and hiring people with • People with disabilities, once hired and properly accommodated in disabilities. their jobs, are not “workers with disabilities,” but simply workers. PWI is the Center for Independent The Business Leadership Network (BLN) began as a project of the Living’s venue to assist individuals former federal President’s Committee on Employment of Persons with with disabilities who want to use Disabilities (PCEPD) Employer Subcommittee. Michigan was one of their strengths in an employment the first 10 states to host a pilot program and was so successful that such setting. It enables us and those networks now exist in most states. In 2004, the Business Leadership we serve to discover “authentic Network in Michigan reengineered itself to better serve the community. happiness” and thereby give back to the world. Find more information www.mibln.org and www.usbln.org.

ACCESS 2007 | Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living | ACCESS 2007 31 Work Incentives & Social Security Benefits: Dispelling the Myths

by Helen Ledgard after your trial work period is over, regardless of how much you make.

f you receive Social Security In addition, for three years after disability benefits and are your nine-month trial period ends, thinking about returning to you can resume receiving your work, you may fear that if benefits easily if you make less you enter the work world, than $900 in any given month. Iyour benefits will be terminated. This time is referred to as your Yet in many cases, you can “extended period of eligibility.” It make money in a new job and is also important to know that any still receive your Social Security expenses you incur related to your The Ticket to Work program allows people benefits. employment can be deducted from with disabilities to work without losing Social your income. So, if your earnings Security benefits. If you are receiving Social Security minus your expenses equal less than Disability Insurance (SSDI), you $900, you can still receive SSDI. Medicaid coverage will continue are entitled to a nine-month trial unless you earn more than $25,326 If you are receiving Supplemental work period, during which you in a year. can earn as much as you want, and Security Income, or (SSI), your your benefits will not be affected at cash benefits will be reduced if If you receive SSDI or SSI, you all. In addition, employment does you begin working, but how much are eligible for the Ticket to not count toward your nine-month your benefits are reduced depends Work program. The program trial period unless you earn more on how much you earn. If you will connect you with a vocational than $640 per month. If you do earn less than $85 per month, your counselor who will help you create earn more than $640 in a month, benefits will not be affected at all. a vocational plan. You can work it is important to report your If you earn more than that, your with a vocational counselor at earnings to Social Security so that benefits will be reduced by half of a number of participating local you do not lose track of your trial anything you make over and above agencies, including the Ann Arbor work period allowance and end $85. For example, if you earn $300 Center for Independent Living. up owing money back to Social in a month, your benefits will be Once you have a vocational plan Security. reduced from $623 to $515.50. If in place, for as long as you are you earn $600, your SSI payment working on your plan with your Once your nine-month trial work will be reduced to $365.50. If you counselor, you are exempt from period is over, if you make less than earn $1,000, your payment drops any medical reviews by Social $900 per month, you will continue to $165.50. You can earn up to Security. In other words, your to receive SSDI cash benefits. If $1,331 per month before your SSI eligibility for your benefits will you make more than $900 per benefits are eliminated altogether. not be questioned as long as you month, your SSDI cash benefits Thus, no matter what you earn, a are working on your plan for will end. However, your Medicare new job brings you more money. employment. For a full list of coverage will continue for at least In addition, even if you make participating agencies, see www. seven and three-quarters years more than $1,331 per month, your yourtickettowork.com/endir.

32 ACCESS 2007 | Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living Employment & THE AMErICAN DREAM Michigan Commission for the Blind he Michigan Commission for the Blind helps MCB’s Vocational Rehabilitation Program matches individuals people with visual impairments land jobs and live with jobs that suit their current or potential skills and abilities. Tindependently. A part of the Michigan Department of MCB provides diagnostic evaluations, vocational counseling, Labor and Economic Growth, MCB provides rehabilitation and and training in skills of blindness at no cost to the consumer. education services. Depending upon an individual’s needs and eligibility, additional services may include low-vision equipment, vocational training, MCB serves 4,500 individuals annually who are blind or visually technical school training, a college education, job development impaired. With eight offices in such locations as Lansing, and placement, and follow-up. Detroit, Flint and Grand Rapids, MCB provides services in all 83 Michigan counties. The Commission provides services in MCB was created under Public Act 260 of 1978, as amended, people’s homes, at “mini adjustment seminars” around the state, although Michigan has provided services to its blind residents and at the residential MCB Training Center in Kalamazoo. for more than 50 years. The US Department of Education provides guidance to the Commission through its Rehabilitation Specifically, MCB provides a vocational rehabilitation program, Services Administration. MCB programs receive funding business services for employers, an independent living program through federal grants with matching state revenues. for citizens age 55 and older, youth services, a business enterprise program and services directed towards individuals who are both For more information, call 1-800-292-4200 (voice) or 1-888- deaf and blind. MCB’s nearly 100 staff members serve the state’s 864-1212 (TTY). estimated 50,000 persons who are blind.

The Plan for Achieving “In many cases, you can Finally, the Expedited Self Support (PASS) make money in a new Reinstatement of Benefits program can help you to save or EXR program works to money to accomplish a vocational job and still receive your provide some insurance for you dream you may not otherwise be Social Security benefits.” once you are working and no able to afford. For example, you longer receiving benefits. Under may want to purchase a piece of the EXR program, if you stop equipment in order to start your Under the Freedom to Work working and need to receive SSDI own business. Or you may wish to program run by the State of or SSI benefits again, while you are go to school to obtain a degree or Michigan, if you have a qualifying waiting for your application to be license. Under the PASS program, disability under Social Security approved by Social Security, you if you receive SSDI and can save guidelines and you are eligible for can receive your original benefit that money in the bank, you can or receiving Medicaid, you can be amount. The EXR operates only if apply for SSI and your payment covered by Medicaid no matter how it has been less than five years since from SSDI will not be considered much income you make from a job. your SSDI or SSI benefits were when determining your financial It costs you nothing unless you earn terminated, and the EXR program need for SSI. If you are eligible to more than about $3,900 in a month; will pay your benefits for only 6 receive SSI, you can get up to $623 if you earn more than that, you will months. If your new application is in cash benefits every month as have to pay a premium. To apply, ultimately not approved, you owe well as Medicaid coverage. In other go to the Michigan Department no money back to Social Security; words, if your plan is approved, of Human Services. Because the any payments made under the you can put your SSDI money initiative is new and not that well EXR program are yours to keep. away to save for something and get known, it is important to ask for SSI in the meantime. PEM code 174.

ACCESS 2007 | Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living | ACCESS 2007 33 2007 Resource Directory

Directory of Community Resources The Center for Independent Living extends our sincere Ambulance Services appreciation to the participants of this News Feature and Resource Directory. By participating, they have made a Huron Valley Ambulance LifeLink financial commitment to the people we reach every day. We are 1200 State Circle Ann Arbor, MI 48108 grateful for the businesses and organizations that have been a (734) 477-6453 or (866) 824-4413 part of this publication for many years. We especially welcome www.hva.org and thank all of the new community partners found in this HVA LifeLink is an in-home monitoring system that allows you to live year’s magazine. Please patronize these generous organizations. independently but still reach loved ones or 9-1-1 immediately if you need them. System consists of a speakerphone and button to wear on Accessibility neck or wrist. Calls go into HVA’s local call center, not out-of-state. Huron Valley Ambulance is your locally owned, nationally accredited Cornerstone Design, Inc. nonprofit ambulance service. Services include emergency paramedic 940 N. Main Street ambulance service, non-emergency ambulance transportation, Ann Arbor, MI 48104 wheelchair vans, special event coverage and community outreach. (734) 663-7580 General info available at (734) 971-4420. www.cdiarchitects.com Cornerstone Design provides creative, responsive architectural services Advocacy for all types of projects. A particular specialty is universal design for people of all ages and abilities. Firm principal, David Esau, AIA, also Association for Community Advocacy consults on accessibility issues through the Ann Arbor Center for 1100 N. Main, Suite 205 Independent Living. Ann Arbor, MI 48104 (734) 662-1256 Phoenix Contractors, Inc. ACA, in partnership with consumers, works to assure personal choice, 2111 Golfside self-determination and opportunities for full participation in all aspects Ypsilanti, MI 48197 of community life for persons with disabilities. ACA has recognized Phone: (734) 487-9640 expertise in entitlements, special education and criminal justice Fax: (734) 547-0432 advocacy, home ownership, community organizing, systems change, and www.phoenixco.biz person-centered planning. Phoenix Contractors, Inc. is a general contractor and construction manager with extensive experience in modification of existing Michigan Ability Partners commercial and institutional buildings for full accessibility, particularly 3810 Packard, Suite 200 in multi-story structures. Phoenix works regularly with area architects Ann Arbor, MI 48108 and can provide design-build services for renovation of existing or (734) 975-6880 development of new commercial buildings. Michigan Ability Partners is an Ann Arbor-based, private, non- profit human service agency that helps persons with developmental disabilities and/or mental illness by accessing and/or providing shelter, food, medical care, mental health services, substance abuse treatment, affordable housing and community employment throughout Southeastern Michigan.

Creative, responsive architectural services.

Specializing in Universal Design 9Adaptive Vehicles for people of all ages and abilities. 9New & Pre-owned 9Equipment & Accessories Cornerstone Design Inc 9Certified ARCHI t e C t s Technicians

940 N. Main Street • Ann Arbor • MI • 48104 734.663.7580 www.cdiarchitects.com Fax 734.663.1180 866.885.8267 www.mobilityworks.com

34 ACCESS 2007 | Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living

AACIL Business Card Ad (b/w) 3.25 x 2.35”

Submitted by Proforma Akron, Ohio 330.688.1424 Resource Directory 2007

Michigan Disability Rights Coalition Brain Injury Rehabilitation 740 West Lake Lansing Road, Suite 400 East Lansing, MI 48823 Brain Injury Association of Michigan (517) 333-2477 8619 W. Grand River, Suite I www.copower.org Brighton, MI 48116-2334 The Michigan Disability Rights Coalition: Your Partner in Building (810) 229-5880 or (800) 772-4323 Freedom. MDRC is a statewide network of individuals and organizations E-Mail: [email protected] that advance the issues of Michigan’s disability community through Web: www.biami.org grassroots activism, public education and advocacy. MDRC works to The Brain Injury Association of Michigan is a non-profit organization that build opportunities for people with disabilities so that we may live fully brings together people with brain injury, families, friends, and professionals integrated lives within our chosen communities. to improve the quality of life for people living with brain injury. United Cerebral Palsy of Metro Detroit (UCP/Detroit) More than 25 years ago, a group of concerned families, living with 23077 Greenfield Rd. Suite 205 brain injury founded the Association to ensure that needed services and Southfield, MI 48075 supports were available for people with brain injuries and their families. (248) 557-5070 The Association is a chartered affiliate of the Brain Injury Association of www.ucpdetroit.org America. Our Mission is to advance the independence of all people with Our mission is to enhance the lives of those affected by brain injury disabilities and to secure their right to self-determination and inclusion, through education, advocacy, research, and local support groups; and to i.e., “Life without limits for people with disabilities.” reduce the incidence of brain injury through prevention. UCP/Detroit provides information and referral services, employment BrainTrainers, LLC programs (Benefits Planning, Assistance and Outreach Project, 2900 S. State St. Customized Employment), individual and family support services Ann Arbor, MI 48104 (Advocacy, Assistive Technology and Parent Coalition), community (734) 665-1922 inclusion, independent living supports and community education. Email: [email protected] BrainTrainers in one of only a handful of full-time day programs based Arts and Entertainment upon a time-proven holistic small-group model, and the only program of its type in Michigan. Now successfully providing its 7th year of semester- The Ark based treatment, it has become the model of choice for referrals from a 316 S. Main Street, Ann Arbor, MI 48104 growing number of physicians, case managers, and other professionals. (734) 761-1800 Office (734) 761-1451 Hotline Treatment encompasses cognitive and interpersonal skills, vocational Email: [email protected] development, and functional treatment. Assessments are provided Web: www.theark.org throughout the year, all therapy is individualized to maximize client skills The Ark is a non-profit music venue located on Main Street in Ann and compensate for targeted deficits. Focused individual services include Arbor between Liberty and William Streets. Founded in 1965, The Ark is Psychology, Vocational Training, Occupational Therapy, Home Evaluation, dedicated to the presentation, preservation, and encouragement of folk, Community Education, and individual case consultation. roots, and ethnic music. Eisenhower Center The Ark is wheelchair accessible and works to accommodate any special 3200 E. Eisenhower Parkway seating needs. Please note that the club doors open ½ hour before Ann Arbor, MI 48108 a performance. If someone in your party has a wheelchair or special (800) 554-5543 seating needs, we recommend coming slightly earlier and ringing the Email: [email protected] doorbell located next to our front entry doors so we can seat your party prior to entry of the general public. This way we can assure adjacent Eisenhower Center provides neurorehabilitation services in a state- seating for your friends and family. of-the-art residential setting. We assist our clients in reaching their fullest potential in an environment that combines hard work and Please call with any seating concerns or special needs at (734) commitment to treatment. Our services include a variety of recreational 761-1800 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. weekdays or email us at and therapeutic activities that encourage effective socialization and [email protected]. community integration.

ACCESS 2007 | Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living | ACCESS 2007 35 2007 Resource Directory

Rainbow Rehabilitation Centers, Inc. Community Media Corporate Offices/Treatment Center 5570 Whittaker Road PO Box 970230 Assistive Media Ypsilanti, MI 48197 400 Maynard Street, Suite 404 (734) 482-1200 or (800) 968-6644 Ann Arbor, MI 48104 www.rainbowrehab.com Email: [email protected] [email protected] Web: www.AssistiveMedia.org Rainbow Rehabilitation Centers provides rehabilitation services to Assistive Media is the only service on the Web that delivers spoken-word individuals who have experienced a spinal cord or traumatic brain injury. recordings of traditional print media for people who have difficulty Rainbow’s continuum of care allows individuals with injuries to achieve reading text because of a visual, physical, or perceptual disability. their highest potential in the least restrictive, most independent setting possible. Our professional, specially trained staff consistently provides With a recording studio located within the AACIL, Assistive Media understanding, supportive and progressive rehabilitation at every stage of focuses on reproducing titles from highly regarded periodicals (The the recovery process. Residential, day treatment and outpatient services New Yorker, Harper’s, Wired, Scientific American, Atlantic Monthly, The are available for adults and children in locations throughout Washtenaw, Economist, Civilization, Foreign Affairs, Smithsonian, The Ann Arbor Wayne, Oakland and Macomb counties. Observer, and more) and independent writers, providing an eclectic mixture of interesting and educational works of non-fiction, essays, ResCare Premier social commentary, history, fiction, humor, poetry, and criticism. Residential Rehabilitation Continuum Assistive Media’s free online service is located at www.AssistiveMedia.org (734) 476-6152 ResCare Premier’s Residential Rehabilitation Continuum is dedicated Counseling soley to the treatment of individuals with acquired brain injury. Our Comprehensive Continuum offers affordable services that foster Jan Hansen, Ph.D. exceptional outcomes for persons with intensive rehabilitation needs and 101 S. Ann Arbor St., Suite 203A for individuals with behavioral issues. Saline, MI 48176 The Residential Rehabilitation Continuum incorporates traditional (734) 429-4244 therapies into functional, community-based skill training. It is specifically Licensed psychologist based in Murphy’s Crossing in Saline with designed to provide the concentrated life skills training so vital to extensive experience providing psychological counseling to individuals regaining autonomy and re-establishing quality, productive lifestyles. living with a head injury, cancer, stroke, or other disabilities. Dealing Individuals may be admitted to any program along the Continuum. with adjustment, self-acceptance, and working with feelings of Our Continuum allows individuals to transition to more independent confusion, anxiety, and depression are very important in recovery. settings, stop along the way to fully integrate newly acquired skills, or Marital and family counseling and group counseling are also available. step back to practice challenging tasks. This continuity ensures that progress is never interrupted. Special Tree Rehabilitation System 39000 Chase Street, Romulus, MI 48174 (800) 648-6885 www.specialtree.com For over 30 years, Special Tree has been one of Michigan’s leading resources for subacute rehabilitation, inpatient, residential, outpatient, and in-home neurorehabilitation services. A CARF- and JCAHO- accredited provider, Special Tree serves the needs of children and adults with brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, and other disabilities. Services are offered at over 20 conveniently located facilities across Mid-Michigan, Metro-Detroit and the Southeast Region. Case management Traumatic Debra Dzenko & Associates, LLC 14397 Norman Street Livonia MI 48154 Phone: (734) 464-8706 Fax: (734) 468-0247 [email protected] Debra Dzenko & Associates, LLC is an independently owned and operated Case Management and Rehabilitation consulting service. Debra Dzenko, RN-BC, BSN, CRRN, CCM, established her business in 2000 in order to provide professional, personalized advocacy for individuals who have been seriously injured in motor vehicle accidents. With over 35 years as a registered nurse and close to 25 years working with individuals with spinal cord injuries and traumatic brain injuries, Ms. Dzenko’s expertise and relationships with providers and payors enable her to obtain those necessary services and products that assist individuals to experience the most independent, quality life possible. 36 ACCESS 2007 | Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living Resource Directory 2007

Dentistry Advantage Mobility Outfitters 3990 Second St., Maryann Griffith, D.D.S. Wayne, MI 48184 2340 East Stadium Blvd., Suite 6 (800) 990-8267 Ann Arbor, MI 48104 www.advantagemobility.net (734) 973-3200 Advantage Mobility Outfitters provides high quality sales and service of new and used vehicles and modifications such as wheelchair and Dr. Griffith has been providing gentle dental care for toddlers, senior scooter lifts, hand controls, raised roofs and doors, and more. With citizens and every age in between for the last 16 years. Services include many options to meet your needs, Advantage develops custom mobility preventative dental cleanings, periodontal treatment, crowns and solutions for all types and brands of vans, cars, and RVs. We offer pick- bridges, cosmetic dentistry, “white fillings”, Zoom ™ bleaching system, up and delivery service, and a mobile repair unit that can be dispatched orthodontics and more, all in a friendly atmosphere. Her barrier-free office right to your home or business. With top-notch sales, service, and repair, is located between St. Francis and Trader Joe’s on East Stadium Blvd. Advantage has served the Ann Arbor and Metro-Detroit communities Driving Aids and Services for more than 25 years. Ford Mobility Motoring Program A&A Driving School – P.O. Box 529 Drivers Rehabilitation Center of Michigan Bloomfield Hills, MI 48303 28911 Seven Mile Road Phone: (800) 952-2248 Livonia, MI 48152 TTY: (800) 833-0312 (734) 422-3000 Fax: (800) 292-7842 www.aa-driving.com Email: [email protected] Website: www.fordmobilitymotoring.com Motor safety and mobility have been our goals since 1959. Evaluations and trainings take place in automobiles or vans with a variety of GET IN. GET OUT. For persons with physical disabilities, having choices adaptive equipment. Individualized programs for persons with physical, in modified Ford, Lincoln or Mercury cars, vans, trucks, CUVs and SUVs visual, cognitive and/or emotional disabilities are available. Our highly can mean the difference between staying home and getting to work. specialized staff is ADED-certified driver rehabilitation specialists and The Ford Mobility Motoring Program provides up to $1,000 toward the include occupational therapists, special educators, and certified driving cost of adaptive equipment, or up to $200 for an alert hearing device, instructors. after-market lumbar support seats or running boards on a new Ford, Lincoln or Mercury vehicle. The Program also offers Ford Credit Mobility Financing and comprehensive Roadside Assistance. Visit your local Ford, Lincoln or Mercury dealer to determine which vehicle would be best adapted to serve your needs. Brain Injury Rehabilitation Programs

Improving Lives.

Our professional staff consistently provides understanding, supportive and progressive rehabilitation at every stage of the recovery process. For more information call... (734) 482-1200 www.rainbowrehab.com

ACCESS 2007 | Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living | ACCESS 2007 37 2007 Resource Directory

General Motors Mobility Program with OnStar Durable Medical Equipment P.O. Box 5053 Troy, MI 48007 Christian Roux, Ltd. (800) 323-9935 561 Woodlawn Avenue TTY (800) 833-9935 Ypsilanti, MI 48198 www.gmmobility.com Phone: (734) 483-7350 GM Mobility is dedicated to making automotive transportation easier Fax: (734) 483-7350 and more accessible for people with special needs. Through the GM Email: [email protected] Mobility Reimbursement Program, customers can now get up to $1,000 Web: www.hurricanecrutch.com reimbursement PLUS two extra years of OnStar standard service when Hurri-Cane/Crutch is the first ergonomically correct designed aircraft eligible adaptive equipment is installed in a new, eligible General Motors aluminum crutch with the custom UltraTip™ and Ergonomic Multi- vehicle. OnStar can help with emergency assistance and other helpful Purpose Switch Grip™. It is the strongest, lightest and most adjustable services. Limit $1,000 total reimbursement per eligible vehicle. To qualify, walking aid built in America today and weighs 27 ounces. The open-arm vehicle must be adapted and a claim submitted within 12 months of cuff eliminates underarm pressure. the date of vehicle purchase/lease. To learn more, please call 1-800-323- 9935 or visit gmmobility.com. The Switch Grip™ is ergonomically designed and tilted downward to help prevent inflammation of the tendons. The hand is in a natural Gresham Driving Aids position. 30800 Wixom Road The Hurri-Cane/Crutch is adjustable by ½” increments and Wixom, MI 48393 accommodates children and adults up to 6’6” tall. A wide range of (800) 521-8930 exciting colors is available with the Hurri-Cane/Crutch. The leader in quality modified vehicles. Gresham Driving Aids, Inc. has New Americane™, an ergonomic and fully adjustable cane that can be serviced the disability community for over 38 years. Utilizing the latest upgraded to a Fore Arm Crutch. Documented on the national television technology from companies such as Ricon, Braun, Crow River, MPS program “The Profiles Series.” and others, Gresham equips vehicles to maximize the abilities of their Also see: You Tube, Meta Cafee, Google Video, AOL, Video and Yahoo customers. Ask their many satisfied customers – your friends – then call Video. Gresham for your mobility needs! New! Multi-Purpose Ergonomic Switch-Grip™ for Canes, Crutches, MobilityWorks Walkers, Four Wheelers/Walkers, Wheelchairs and Industrial uses such as 1965 East Avis Power Tools, Exercise Equipment and Bicycles. Every Thing with a 7/8” Madison Heights, MI 48071 shaft. Accessories, Cane Holder, Hand strap, Eis pick. Call us for an in- (866) 885-8267 or (248) 616-3004 service (734) 483-7350 www.mobilityworks.com Fusion Medical We are Michigan’s largest adaptive vehicle and equipment dealer. Since 802 Main Street 1986, the personnel at MobilityWorks have been dedicated to satisfying Essexville, MI 48732 the transportation needs of active people with wheelchairs and scooters. (866) My-Fusion By representing the best equipment in the industry, the sales consultants www.fusionmedical.com and technicians work to find the best long-term solution for our customers. MobilityWorks offers consultive fitting, extensive new and Fusion Medical is not just a medical supply company; it is a multi-level used vehicle inventories, a 5000 sq. ft. indoor showroom, financing RESOURCE for people with spinal cord injuries. When you become options, 24-hour help line support, vehicle rentals, customer lounge, part of the Fusion network, you will find new opportunities geared and trade-in availability for current adapted van owners. toward health, family, and fun. Fusion Medical’s family of collaborative organizations will keep you informed of community events, SCI seminars, adaptive sporting events, and innovative new products. In the process, we will provide you with the products you need, when you need them, hassle-free. At Fusion Medical, we focus on providing resources for the active lives of our customers, so that our customers can Focus On Living.

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38 ACCESS 2007 | Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living Resource Directory 2007

Quality Home Medical Equipment, Inc. EMU Access Services Office 1533 S. Wayne Road Suite 246 EMU Student Center Westland, MI 48186 Eastern Michigan University (734) 721-4821 Ypsilanti, MI 48197 (734) 721-9866 Fax Telephone: (734) 487-2470 Quality Home Medical Equipment Inc. is a new, family-owned company http://www.emich.edu/access_services/ that is dedicated to providing our clients with prompt, professional The Access Services Office ensures that students with disabilities receive care and assisting with all your home care needs. We offer a range the accommodations they need to succeed in the classroom and of products including hospital beds, patient lifts, ambulatory aides, participate in extracurricular activities, conducts educational programs bathroom accessories and scooters. We specialize in wheelchairs for faculty, staff, and students that promote access and inclusion, – manual, power and standing chairs, with great emphasis on patients’ and advocates for changes in policies and procedures that make the specific needs. Our seating and mobility specialist has over 10 years University a more welcoming and accessible environment for everyone. of experience, and we also have certified delivery techs and a caring reimbursement specialist. We offer delivery, set up and instruction in U of M Services for Students with Disabilities your home and a superior repair service for most equipment. (SSD) University of Michigan Home Care Services - G-664 Haven Hall 505 S. State St. MedEQUIP Ann Arbor, MI 48109-1045 2705 S. Industrial Highway (734) 763-3000 Ann Arbor, MI 48104 www.umich.edu/~sswd (734) 971-0975 or (800) 530-0714 SSD provides services to students with visual, mobility, or hearing www.um-homecare.org impairments, learning or psychological disabilities, and chronic health MedEQUIP, part of the University of Michigan Health System, is a leader problems. SSD helps facilitate such services as accessible campus in home medical equipment, customized wheelchairs, and respiratory transportation, adaptive technology, and sign language and oral care. Our highly skilled technicians and respiratory therapists can handle interpreting. All services are free of charge. all your home medical equipment needs at an affordable price. SSD staff is available to answer questions and provide referrals Wright & Filippis concerning admission, registration, services available, financial aid, etc., before and during enrollment at the University. In addition, SSD can 3330 Washtenaw help assess the need for modified housing, attendants, transportation, Ann Arbor, MI 48104 classroom accommodations, and adaptive equipment. (800) 482-0222 For over 60 years, Wright & Filippis has been a leader in prosthetics, orthotics, home medical equipment, respiratory care, medical supplies, and barrier-free design. Their reputation for providing superior customer When was the service has enabled Wright & Filippis to build the Midwest’s largest full-service company specializing in total physical rehabilitation. With everything from portable oxygen and hospital beds to diabetic supplies last time you and wheelchair lifts, Wright & Filippis provides Michigan’s largest selection of home medical products & services. smiled at Education your radio?

Ave Maria School of Law We bet you would if it was reading Services for Students with Disabilities your local newspaper! Student Affairs · Ave Maria School of Law 3475 Plymouth Road If you or a loved one can’t read because of vision loss, Ann Arbor, MI 48105 illness or injury, DRIS can help. Volunteer readers provide (734) 827-8040 audio access to more than 100 local and national news- www.avemarialaw.edu papers, magazines, newsletters, handbills, consumer information and other items not available in Braille or on tape– Throughout history, mankind has sought to implement justice through law. At the core of this effort is the search for truth with an emphasis bringing words to life through radio. Issue-based programs, on the inherent dignity of the human person. With these principles in support-forums, stories and other audio services also offered. mind, Ave Maria School of Law provides students with the knowledge Audio streaming and archives on demand! and skills necessary to practice law at the highest levels. Ave Maria School of Law is located in a modern, accessible facility 1 (313) 577-4207 in northeast Ann Arbor. The Office for Student Affairs is committed to addressing the needs of students with disabilities to ensure that or www.dris.org both the academic program and physical facilities are fully accessible, supporting the entry of persons with disabilities into the legal Detroit Radio Information Service profession. WDET-FM/Wayne State University Audio Information Since 1978

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Washtenaw Community College Financial Planning, Banking & Learning Support Services 4800 East Huron River Drive Assistive Technology Loans P.O. Box D-1 Ann Arbor, MI 48106 Ann Arbor Commerce Bank (734) 973-3342 2950 State Street South TDD (734) 973-3635 Ann Arbor, MI 48104 www.wccnet.org/studentresources/learningsupport/ (734) 887-3100 Learning Support Services (LSS) provides the following services for www.annarborcommerce.com students enrolled at WCC: Ann Arbor Commerce Bank is a full-service Community Bank established • Free tutoring is provided for all students enrolled in credit classes. in 1990 to provide local financial options for all your financial needs. Our reputation is based upon experience, trust, personal attention, and • Academic advising is available on an individual basis for academic reliability. We are located on the corner of State & Eisenhower, with needs. ample free parking and barrier-free access. We provide a complete array • Services for students with documented disabilities include of products and services including: assistance with obtaining reasonable accommodations and use of • Deposit Products & Services – Personal and Business Checking specialized technology. & Savings; CDs, IRAs & HSAs; Worldwide ATM Service; Debit • Learning Disabilities Assessment: A free comprehensive assessment Cards; Drive-thru lanes; Saturday Banking; Telephone Banking for enrolled students is available by a Learning Disability Specialist. – 1.866.330.3233; Internet Banking – www.annarborcommerce. Please call (734) 973-3342 or stop by LA 104. com • Personal Loans & Services – Residential Mortgages; Home Equity (WISD) Washtenaw Intermediate School District Loans & Lines; Construction Loans; Bridge & Lot Loans; Installment 1819 S. Wagner Lending; Private Banking Ann Arbor, MI 48106-1406 (734) 994-8100 • Business Loans & Services - Loans & Lines; Cash Management; www.wash.k12.mi.us Merchant Services; Courier Services; Sweep Accounts Washtenaw Intermediate School District coordinates/delivers programs/ • Trust & Investment Services – Financial Planning; Trust Services; services to support continuous improvement of student achievement in Estate Planning & Settlement; Retirement Plans; Investment the school districts of Ann Arbor, Chelsea, Dexter, Lincoln, Manchester, Management Milan, Saline, Whitmore Lake, Willow Run, Ypsilanti, and public school We welcome new customers. Member FDIC – Equal Housing Lender academies. Guided by Washtenaw County Common Expectations for Student Learning, this regional educational service agency: • Provides school improvement consultation, assessment/curriculum/ instruction assistance. Associates in Physical Medicine • Offers the latest educational training. • Provides consultant/research assistance and resources. & Rehabilitation, P.C. • Coordinates programs/services too expensive or specialized for one school district to operate. • Performs regulatory functions for the Michigan Department of Paul Shapiro, M.D. Jon M. Wardner, M.D. Education. Owen Z. Perlman, M.D. Marc L. Strickler, M.D. • Coordinates/supports services for students with special needs from Steven N. Gross, D.O. David P. Steinberg, M.D. birth through age 26. Steven C. Harwood, M.D. Jennifer E. Doble, M.D.

Employment/Vocational Physical Medicine Sports Medicine Amputee Clinic Rehabilitation Electromyography Occupational Rehabilitation Acupuncture Rehabilitation Traumatic Brain Michigan Department of Labor Injury Performing Arts Botox and Economic Growth Medicine Michigan Rehabilitation Services 3810 Packard, Suite 170 St. Joseph Mercy Hospital Ann Arbor, MI 48108 Reichert Health Building (734) 677-1125 5333 McAuley Drive, Suite 5106 • Ypsilanti, MI 48197 MDLEG-RS is a state- and federally-funded program which partners Genoa Medical Center with persons with disabilities in preparing for, finding and maintaining 2305 Genoa Business Park Dr., Suite 210 • Brighton, MI 48114 employment. The goal is to provide comprehensive, coordinated, effective and efficient vocational rehabilitation services designed to St. Joseph Mercy - Arbor Health Building assess, plan, and achieve vocational success consistent with the person’s 990 W.Ann Arbor Trail, Suite 201 • Plymouth, MI 48170 interests, priorities, strengths, abilities, capabilities and needs. There are MDLEG-RS offices located throughout the state, serving the employment needs and goals of people with a wide range of disabilities. (734) 434-6660 • (800) 767-3336

40 ACCESS 2007 | Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living Resource Directory 2007

Home Health/ Community Housing Alternatives P.O. Box 980767 Personal Assistance Ypsilanti, MI 48198 (734) 482-6585 Aegis Health Perspectives, Inc./ [email protected] Aegis Life Care, LLC www.communityhousingalternatives.org 20770 Middlebelt, Suite 1 CHA, a subsidiary of Community Residence Corporation, offers Livonia, MI 48152 affordable housing and homeownership opportunities for low- and (248) 615-1730 moderate-income individuals and families in Southeast Michigan. This www.aegishp.com service is provided with the support of federal, state, local and private Private duty home care programs: Spinal Cord Injury, rehabilitation, funding sources. therapeutic ultrasound treatments, ventilator care, intravenous infusion For homeownership, CHA serves households in the approved Urban therapy. Disciplines: RN, LPN, High Tech HHAs, CNAs PT, OT,. Coverage County areas, which include Ypsilanti City and the following Townships: guaranteed for 24-hour cases. Care from 1 hour to 24 hours/ 7 Ypsilanti, Pittsfield, Superior, Northfield, Salem, Ann Arbor, Bridgewater, days/week. RN-owned and operated since 1999. Coverage Areas: York and Scio. Washtenaw, Wayne, Oakland, Macomb, Genesee, Lapeer counties. Through development and supportive management of affordable and Membership: Michigan Home Health Association, Rehabilitation accessible rental housing and through training and assistance with Insurance Nurses Consortium, Case Management Society of America, the home purchase process, CHA assists individuals and families in Spinal Cord Nurse Association, Detroit Regional Chamber of Commerce. identifying and securing the housing option of their choice. New services added through Aegis Life Care, LLC, our newest affiliate: geriatric care management, Alzheimer’s/dementia care, end-of-life care, Community Residence Corporation community/wellness programs. 1851 Washtenaw Avenue Ypsilanti, MI 48197 Area Agency on Aging 1-B (734) 482-3300 Livingston/Washtenaw County Access Office [email protected] 3550 Liberty Road, Suite 2 www.communityresidence.org Ann Arbor, MI 48103 CRC’s mission is to provide people with disabilities living option, life (800) 852-7795 choices and control of their futures. As we enter our 21st year, CRC www.aaa1b.com offers: Supervised Living in licensed group homes with 24-hour staffing; The Area Agency on Aging 1-B (AAA 1-B), a nonprofit organization, and Supported Living in the customer’s home providing staffing and offers support, resources, services and information to assist older adults, support based on each individual’s needs and desires. persons with disabilities or their caregiver. Trained resource specialists Through our subsidiary, Community Living Network, we offer Fiscal will answer questions and connect individuals to more than 5,000 Intermediary Services for people who desire control over their individual services and providers in southeast Michigan. The mission of the agency budgets and a more self-determined life. Customers hire and employ is to help older adults and persons with disabilities remain living in their their own support staff, and CLN acts as a payroll service producing homes or chosen place of residence for as long as possible. The AAA paychecks and paying the appropriate taxes. Other bill payments can 1-B serves the counties of Washtenaw, Livingston, Monroe, Oakland, St. be made upon request. Each customer receives monthly statements Clair and Washtenaw. regarding their financial activity. CLN is not an employment service or an employer. This service is available in Washtenaw, Jackson, Hillsdale, Livingston, Macomb, Ottawa and St. Clair Counties. • Custom Prostheses Look for our new administrative offices sometime this fall or winter at • Custom and off-the-shelf 1851 Washtenaw, Ypsilanti, MI 48197. Orthoses • Personal Touch – Post Mastectomy products • Custom Foot Orthoses • Soft goods, compression garments and off-the-shelf items In today’s unpredictable business climate, you need an experienced insurance agent you can trust.

(734) 973-2400 The experts at Hylant create risk management and insurance 2850 S. Industrial Hwy., Suite 400 solutions to help companies of all Ann Arbor, MI 48104 sizes achieve their business goals.

Practitioners, technicians and facility accredited by the American Board for Certification in Orthotics You can Trust Hylant. and Prosthetics (ABC) 24 Frank Lloyd Wright Drive | Suite J4100 P.0. Box 541 | Ann Arbor, MI 48106 734-741-0044 | hylant.com

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Glacier Hills Home Care Insurance and Risk Management 3909 Research Park Dr., Suite 600 Ann Arbor, MI 48108 Hylant Group, Inc. (734) 769-5758 or (877) 971-4200 24 Frank Lloyd Wright Drive www.ghhomecare.org P.O. Box 541, Suite J4100 Service: Not-for-profit private duty home care agency provides a Ann Arbor, MI 48106 comprehensive range of quality care services 3 to 24 hours per day. (734) 741-0044 Skilled nursing services include wound care, medication set-up and www.hylant.com education, and care management of acute and chronic illnesses. Nursing Hylant Group is dedicated to providing quality insurance, risk oversight includes initial assessment and supervisory visits of home management, employee benefits and financial services to our clients. health aides. Fee: Private Pay Regular business hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, Partners in Personal Assistance with emergency service available after hours and on weekends. 1100 N. Main Suite 117 Ann Arbor, MI 48104-6354 Legal Services (734) 214-3890 www.annarborppa.org Heberle & Finnegan, LPA [email protected] 2580 Craig Road Partners in Personal Assistance (PPA) offers an empowering solution for Ann Arbor, MI 48103 people with disabilities (Consumer Employers) who want to exercise Phone: (734) 302-3233 independence and self-determination in managing their personal care. Fax: (734) 302-3234 Personal Assistants (PAs) employed through PPA have access to health [email protected] care benefits and training opportunities. PPA staff and volunteers Heberle & Finnegan LPA is an Ann Arbor law firm concentrating in can assist Consumer Employers in identifying and screening potential civil rights litigation. In the area of disability rights, the firm represents PAs. PPA is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization managed by Consumer individuals, organizations and groups in cases brought to improve access Employers and Personal Assistants. Services can be covered by private to public accommodations, government facilities and services, housing, funds, insurance, and Medicaid long-term care programs. employment and education. The firm has successfully sued dozens of municipalities throughout Ohio and Pennsylvania to require installation ResCare HomeCare (formerly First Choice) and retrofitting of curb ramps. In a recent settlement in a fair housing (800) 548-3467 case in Erie, Pennsylvania, a developer agreed to build 80 additional www.firstchoicebestchoice.com accessible units. Who We Are: First Choice is a 24-hour live-in homecare agency Pierce & Hahn, Attorneys and Counselors exclusively providing live-in care to the elderly and people with special needs. 709 W. Huron, Suite 200 Ann Arbor, MI 48103 Our Mission: Is to support and provide a professional, compassionate (734) 769-9191 live-in program to individuals who choose to receive care in the comfort [email protected] and familiar surroundings of their own home. Pierce & Hahn is an Ann Arbor law firm which practices in the areas of The Services We Provide: corporate, immigration, real estate, probate and international law. Gary For the recovering and elderly, our caregivers provide: L. Hahn concentrates in the areas of corporate, limited liability company, • Personal Assistance general business, commercial transactions, probate, and real estate law. He works primarily with entrepreneurs and companies that are family- • Medication Reminders owned or otherwise closely held. Mr. Hahn also works with both buyers • Companionship and Conversation and sellers of commercial and residential real estate. • Nutritional Meal Preparation • Every Day Living University of Michigan Home Care Services – Michigan Visiting Nurses 2850 S. Industrial Highway Ann Arbor, MI 48104 (800) 842-5504 www.umvn.com Michigan Visiting Nurses provides a broad range of high-quality, reasonably- priced home care services to the community. Care may range from minimal assistance with personal care to highly technical and specialized nursing support. All services are customized to fulfill our patient’s unique and changing needs, and are available on a per- visit, shift or hourly basis. Care is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. We’re proud to have been serving Southeast Michigan since 1909! Michigan Visiting Nurses serves patients in Genesee, Hillsdale, Ingham, Jackson, Lapeer, Lenawee, Livingston, Macomb, Monroe, Oakland, St. Clair, Washtenaw and Wayne counties. Our main office is in Ann Arbor, with satellite offices in Bloomfield, Brighton, Dearborn, Jackson and Plymouth. 42 ACCESS 2007 | Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living Resource Directory 2007

Lou Weir Washtenaw County Library for the Blind 7990 Grand River, Ste A & Physically Disabled Brighton, MI 48114 4135 Washtenaw Avenue (810) 227-1300 Ann Arbor, MI 48108 In Ann Arbor: (734) 662-3160 (734) 973-4350 The Law Office of D. Louis Weir specializes in helping clients in the (888) 460- 0680 areas of Worker’s Disability compensation and Social Security Disability. www.ewashtenaw.org Mr. Weir has been in practice in the Ann Arbor area for more than 20 [email protected] years. Mr. Weir is able to provide high-quality representation, along with The Library loans books and magazines on audiocassette tape and personal service. Initial inquiries are at no cost. in large print to individuals who are certified as being unable to read standard print due to a physical disability. All services are free including Library Services mailing materials through the US Postal Service. The Library also loans descriptive videos and has assistive technology available for consumer Ann Arbor District Library use, including Internet access. Computer training is provided at no www.aadl.org charge. Regular programming includes a bi-monthly Book Lovers Club, Downtown Library: 343 S. Fifth Ave., Ann Arbor MI 48104 a bi-annual technology fair, and other social programs. For additional Branch Locations: Malletts Creek: 3090 E. Eisenhower Pkwy., information, contact the Library. Ann Arbor MI 48108 Northeast: 2713 Plymouth Rd., Ann Arbor MI 48105 Life Coaching Pittsfield: 2359 Oak Valley Dr., Ann Arbor MI 48103 West: 2503 Jackson Ave., Ann Arbor MI 48103 Arete Coaching and Consulting Inc. Ann Arbor, MI AADL circulates books, periodicals, DVDs, CDs, audio books and art Phone: (734) 975-1504 prints. Large-print books, low-vision aids, foreign-language books, and Fax: (734) 975-2848 books for non-native readers of English are available. AADL offers a Email: [email protected] wide variety of programs, including lectures, panel discussions, musical Web: www.aretecoach.com events and public Internet classes. Internet access, word processing and other software programs are also available at all AADL locations. Hours: Life Coach Peg Ball is an expert at helping others maximize their abilities Mon. 10 am – 9 pm; Tues. – Fri 9 am – 9 pm; Sat. 9 am – 6 pm; Sun. while honoring their disabilities. noon – 6 pm. Through coaching you will: • discover how to tap into vital resources • identify and mobilize your assets and abilities • embrace your potential for success • become empowered to accomplish things that you never thought possible The coaching process offers you accountability in taking the necessary steps to make your dreams a reality. Services include: Independent Living Coaching for those seeking greater independence and empowerment, transitioning wisely from high school to college, finding the right career or job, designing an optimal living environment, or meeting unique challenges posed by progressive disabilities Health Coaching to achieve and maintain personal wellness Consultations in natural health alternatives and nutrition, assistive technology, and noninvasive ventilation alternatives Lifestyle Coaching to promote positive approaches to being “out“ for lesbian or bisexual women with disabilities Person Centered Planning, a unique and comprehensive approach to developing a life plan that is based on a person’s strengths and dreams Coaching is primarily provided by phone, thus decreasing time, travel and access concerns for active, busy clients with disabilities or health challenges. Coach Peg is certified by the Coach Training Alliance of Boulder, CO. Call (734) 975-1503 for a free sample session!

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Medical Services in Home Orthotics/Prosthetics University of Michigan Home Care Services - University of Michigan Orthotics HomeMed and Prosthetics Center 2850 S. Industrial Hwy., Suite 50 2850 S. Industrial Hwy, Suite 400 Ann Arbor, MI 48104 Ann Arbor, MI 48104 (734) 975-7441 or (800) 862-2731 (734) 973-2400 As a home infusion provider and licensed pharmacy, HomeMed provides www.med.umich.edu/pmr/op a wide range of services to safely and effectively facilitate care to the Since the first orthoses were fabricated in 1912, the University patient in the convenience and comfort of his or her home. of Michigan Orthotics and Prosthetics Center has been providing Since 1989, we have been providing infusion medications, nutritional comprehensive services to clients from the University of Michigan Health therapy, specialty drugs, high-tech in-home nursing and care System and to clients referred directly by their physicians. A physician management services throughout Michigan. Our core staff of skilled prescription is required for all services. Orthotists provide a full range pharmacists, nurses and dietitians is among the most experienced of pre-fabricated and custom orthotic services. We also have a full clinicians in the area. range of soft good and post-mastectomy products in our “Personal Touch” program. Our pedorthists design, fabricate, fit and modify As a clinical service within The University of Michigan Health System shoes and foot orthoses. And finally, our prosthetic team designs and (UMHS), HomeMed is committed to maintaining the institution’s fabricates a prosthesis that is most appropriate for individuals’ needs tradition of leadership in health care. (both physiological and psychological). Please stop by and meet our ABC board-certified and registered staff members in our ABC and JCAHO- Optical/Low Vision accredited facility. Dr. Steven Bennett, F.A.A.O. Philanthropy Certified Low Vision Specialist 2000 Green Road, Suite 200 Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation Ann Arbor, MI 48105 301 S. Main Street, Suite 300 (734) 930-2373 Ann Arbor, MI 48104 The specialty of Low Vision provides an improvement in vision through (734) 663-0401 the use of state-of-the-art technology. Devices such as bioptic telescopes www.aaacf.org for driving, microscopic systems for reading and computer use, To build a strong community requires a strong foundation. At the Ann electronic vision systems and the new “Systems of Sight, Maculens” Arbor Area Community Foundation (AAACF) we harness the power of allow our patients to maintain their independence. Our new Low Vision permanent endowment so that today’s charitable donations become Resource Center carries a full line of hand-held and stand-magnification tomorrow’s charitable legacy. We offer donors a variety of ways to systems. The general public can view them without appointment. help them meet their philanthropic goals, such as establishing a fund People with Macular Degeneration and other conditions that cause legal in honor of a loved one or to benefit a favorite nonprofit agency. Just blindness can be helped. ask the Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living: for nearly 17 years, University of Michigan Health System distributions from the AAACF John Weir Fund have kept important programs strong and vital. Only imagine what you could make possible. Low Vision and Vision Rehabilitation Services AAACF: matching your philanthropic interests with community needs. W.K. Kellogg Eye Center 1000 Wall Street Ann Arbor, MI 48105 (734) 764-5106 www.kellogg.umich.edu Many people who struggle with low vision are not aware that there are ophthalmologists, optometrists, and rehabilitation specialists with special training in low vision. The Low Vision and Vision Rehabilitation Services Team includes Dr. Donna Wicker, O.D., and Dr. Sherry Day, O.D., working cooperatively with our occupational therapist. Expert Care Right Here Because of our multi-disciplinary approach, the UM Kellogg Eye Center CHELSEA COMMUNITY HOSPITAL Low Vision and Vision Rehabilitation Services Clinic can tailor its services For information, please call us. to the unique needs of each individual. Our doctors monitor remaining 734-475-1311 vision closely, prescribing the corrective lenses that are best suited to each vision problem. Our occupational therapist works with patients, at Emergency Room ...... (734) 475-3960 Physician Referral Line ...... (734) 475-4050 home when possible, to make the home environment more useful to Behavioral Health Services ...... (734) 475-4029 the patient. The low vision team teaches patients how to use adaptive Chelsea Orthopedic Specialists ...... (734) 475-4028 devices and make better use of their remaining vision to assure they are Community Health Education ...... (734) 475-4103 functioning well in their daily lives. Home Health Care...... (734) 475-4190 Rehabilitation & Therapy Service...... (734) 475-4085 www.cch.org Chelsea 775 South Main Street Community Hospital Chelsea, Michigan

44 ACCESS 2007 | Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living Resource Directory 2007

Physical Medicine The Recovery Project 37650 Professional Center Drive and Rehabilitation Suite 105A Livonia, MI 48152 Associates in Physical Medicine (734) 953-1745 and Rehabilitation www.therecoveryproject.net 5333 McAuley Drive, Suite R5106 The Recovery Project, with outpatient rehabilitation centers located in Ypsilanti, MI 48197 Livonia and Clinton Township, Michigan provide innovative treatments (734) 434-6660 for individuals with spinal cord, brain injury and other neurological (800) 767-3336 injuries or diseases. Our clinics are located in existing fitness centers Affiliated with St. Joseph Mercy Health System, we are board-certified providing individuals the transition from rehabilitation to community physicians providing comprehensive rehabilitation services across the fitness and health programs. We utilize the highest qualified clinicians continuum of care. We treat a wide range of disabling conditions, in the areas of physical and occupational therapy and personal training. including back, work and sports injuries, stroke, traumatic brain injuries, Our clinics have state of the art equipment including: stim bikes, body spinal cord injuries and pain. Offices in Ann Arbor, Brighton, Plymouth/ supported treadmills, arm and leg ergometers, vitaglide, standing frames Canton. EMG, Acupuncture, and IME services. and various strengthening/resistive machines. We offer the following recovery programs: Chelsea Rehab, Chelsea Community Hospital • Traditional therapy 775 S. Main St. Chelsea, MI 48118 • High intensity therapy (734) 475-4102 • Home and community-based therapy www.cch.org • Lifelong fitness programs Chelsea Rehab specializes in the inpatient and outpatient treatment of people who have had a stroke or traumatic brain injury, as well as patients with orthopedic, musculo-skeletal and other neurological disorders. Comprehensive outpatient programs for people with hand injuries, sports injuries, orthopedic conditions and spinal disorders are provided by Occupational and Physical Therapists in the new CCH Wellness Center (734-475-3947). Visit our web site at www.cch.org.

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ACCESS 2007 | Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living | ACCESS 2007 45 2007 Resource Directory

University of Michigan Health System Recreation & Fitness Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Model Spinal Cord Injury The Ann Arbor YMCA Care System 400 West Washington Street 300 N. Ingalls Ann Arbor, Michigan 48103 Ann Arbor, MI 48109 (734) 996-9622 Phone: (734) 763-0971 www.annarborymca.org Fax: (734) 936-5492 For people with special physical needs, the Ann Arbor YMCA offers a E-mail [email protected] Sci-Fit Ergometer, four Nu-Steps, an elevated stretch bench and several Web: www.med.umich.edu/pmr/modelsci weight training accessories that can be utilized from a seated position. The University of Michigan’s Model Spinal Cord Injury Care System is Slower-paced exercise classes with seated options and one-on-one a medical care and research effort, in partnership with the Center for training options are also available. Our Aquatics Center features a zero- Independent Living, to improve outcomes for individuals with Spinal depth entry pool and a six-lane 25-yard lap pool, plus a portable lift Cord Injuries. As a Model SCI Care System, UM is able to offer not only for use with either pool. We have shower benches in our adult locker outstanding clinical services, but also to support cutting-edge research rooms and individual changing rooms for those needing assistance and ongoing education to consumers and their families – keeping it in or wheelchair space. On-site parking, including disabled parking, is the forefront of SCI care. The UM Department of Physical Medicine and available for members. Rehabilitation has 5 certified physicians specializing in care of individuals Adaptive Sports Coalition with SCI – the largest of any hospital in Michigan. Please refer to 2845 Crooks Road our website for more information on clinical, education and research Rochester Hills, MI 48309 activities. (248) 829-8318 University of Michigan Health System www.adhof.org Department of Physical Medicine and As part of the official organizational structure of the Athletes with Rehabilitation, Pediatrics Disabilities Hall of Fame, the Adaptive Sports Coalition is a group of community-based smaller organizations that support sports and 325 E. Eisenhower Parkway recreation programs for the disabled throughout the state of Michigan. Ann Arbor, MI 48108 By hosting awareness clinics and training events in local communities, Phone: (734) 936-7175 the Coalition helps people better understand the recreational Fax: (734) 615-6716 opportunities available for people with disabilities. The Coalition http://www.med.umich.edu/pmr specializes in activities such as wheelchair basketball, tennis, air rifle, The University of Michigan Pediatric Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation track and field, sled hockey, water and snow skiing, hand cycling, program provides both outpatient and inpatient services to children adaptive golf, and baseball. and adolescents with physically disabling conditions such as cerebral palsy, spina bifida, brachial plexus injuries, amputations, brain injuries, Athletes with Disabilities Hall of Fame spinal cord injuries and muscular dystrophy through the comprehensive 2845 Crooks Road pediatric rehabilitation team of physicians, therapists, and psychologists. Rochester Hills, MI 48309 (248) 829-8318 The University of Michigan Health System www.adhof.org Department of Physical Medicine and Created in 1999 by Tony Filippis, Sr. of Wright & Filippis, the Rehabilitation, The Spine Program ADHOF celebrates the athletic achievements and community service 325 E. Eisenhower Parkway accomplishments of people with disabilities. The alumni group of Ann Arbor, MI 48108 more than 50 individuals and teams represents more than 20 different Phone: (734) 998-6550 or (800) 254-BACK adaptive sports. Alumni represent various disabilities, including Fax: (734) 615-1770 Amputees, Cerebral Palsy, Developmentally Disabled, Little People, www.med.umich.edu/pmr/spine Muscular Dystrophy, Multiple Sclerosis, Spinal Cord Injury, Traumatic Brain Injury, and Visual Impairment. Current programs include The The University of Michigan Health System Spine Program is a No Limits Mentoring Program, which sends alumni members into multidisciplinary team of experts that strives to improve the health local schools, and churches to present motivational speeches and and productivity of individuals with spine disorders. The mission of the the Adaptive Sports Coalition, a group of community based smaller Spine Program is to become a national leader in spine care through organizations that support sports and recreation programs for the synergy of excellence in clinical service, research and education; and to disabled. provide a comprehensive, patient-centered service that addresses the controllable factors influencing the health and productivity of persons with spine disorders. Numerous assessment and treatment options are offered to individuals with acute, subacute and chronic back disorders. These include diagnostic, general medicine, surgical and rehabilitation interventions, delivered by a team of physiatrists, physical therapists, occupational therapists, psychologists, and exercise specialists.

46 ACCESS 2007 | Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living Resource Directory 2007

Michigan Sports Unlimited, Inc. Programs to Educate All Cyclists 1915 Fordney Street 32 N. Washington Suite 1 Saginaw, MI 48601 Ypsilanti, Michigan 48197 (989) 771-5530 [email protected] Michigan Sports Unlimited, Inc. (MSU) recognizes the value of sports www.bikeprogram.org and recreation in the lives of individuals with disabilities. Our mission is Programs to Educate All Cyclists’ purpose is to enhance the lives of to educate, instruct, and provide unlimited access to a wide range of individuals with disabilities by using cycling for transportation, integrated recreational activities in order to improve the physical, social, and mental recreation, fitness, and therapy. well-being of individuals with disabilities and ultimately empower them PEAC helps individuals with cognitive, physical, and emotional disabilities to achieve success. reach their cycling goals by providing basic skills programs, family rides, Michigan Sports Unlimited gives individuals with disabilities an participating in cycling club rides, bicycle commuter training, mechanical opportunity to become active — socially and physically; and ultimately skills, and spinning classes. In addition, PEAC strives to integrate cyclists to empower them to achieve success in many areas of their lives, simply with disabilities into the mainstream cycling community by giving them by showing them that “It can be done!” The list of pros is endless… the skills necessary to participate in tours, races, and bicycle club rides. there are no cons. Many of the individuals utilizing this organization have been stagnant in various parts of Mid- and Lower Michigan for years due to the unavailability of recreational opportunities. By the same Transportation and Rentals token, it will provide newly-injured individuals, both young and old, not Ann Arbor Transportation Authority only a glimmer of hope for the future, but a brightly lit path to health and well being. 2700 S. Industrial Hwy. Ann Arbor, MI 48104 Michigan Sports Unlimited will enable those with “limited” (734) 996-0400 abilities to have: TDD (734) 973-6997 • Unlimited access Web: www.theride.org • Unlimited possibilities The AATA provides safe, convenient and efficient public transportation services and specialized services for persons with disabilities and seniors • Unlimited opportunities in the greater Ann Arbor area. Bus route and schedule information is • Unlimited amount of recreational activities available by phone at (734) 996-0400 or (734) 973-6997 (TDD), at the Please contact us with any questions: (989) 771-5530. Thanks for your AATA website: www.theride.org and in alternative formats by request. support!! For information or an application for specialized service, call (734) 973-6500. Jeff Coupie, Program Director Michigan Thunderbirds Wheelchair Sports 2nd 2568 Packard Road Annual Ann Arbor, MI 48104 (734) 971-0277 x33 Email: [email protected] Thursday throughSave Sunday the dates! Web: www.michiganthunderbirds.org The Thunderbirds promote competitive sports opportunities for athletes August 7 - 10, 2008 with disabilities. We have an adult and two junior wheelchair basketball “iRide is a great family event and a personal challenge”. teams and are active in handcycling, waterskiing, and other sports. When not competing, the T-Birds put on basketball and hand-cycling Join us in promoting new inclusive recreation oppor- demonstrations for school or community organizations. Players are tunities, public awareness, and make many new available to speak about their daily experiences of living with a disability, friends in the process. Choose your own tour from emphasizing the benefits of active participation in sports and promoting options ranging from one, to two hundred miles! recreation and well-being for all people including those with disabilities. [email protected], or call 734.971-0277 [email protected] Contact Glen Ashlock at (734) 971-0277 x33 or [email protected]. 734.971-0277 www.IndependenceRide.org Aegis Health Perspectives, Inc.

Woodwinds Office Center 20270 Middlebelt Road, Suite 1 Livonia, Michigan 48152 www.aegishp.com

The Spinal Cord Injury Home Care Specialists Michelle Kalous, RN • President/CEO Phone (248) 615-1730 • Fax (248) 615-1830 Email: [email protected]

ACCESS 2007 | Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living | ACCESS 2007 47 2007 Resource Directory

AATA A-Ride Jet Set Travel 2700 S. Industrial Hwy. 8233 Allen Rd, Allen Park, MI 48101-1401 Ann Arbor, MI 48104 Phone: (313) 382-1800 (734) 973-6500 Fax: (313) 382-6033 Web: www.theride.org E-Mail: [email protected] A-Ride is a shared-ride, demand-response, public transportation service Jet Set Travel is a proud provider of travel services to the Thunderbirds for individuals whose disability prevents them from riding the regular basketball team. We have staff onsite that specialize in all areas of both fixed-route buses. Trips are provided using lift-equipped vehicles and taxi domestic and international travel. Call one of our agents when planning cabs. A-Ride service is provided within 3/4 of a mile from regular fixed your trip of a lifetime! routes in the cities of Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti plus Pittsfield, Superior and Ypsilanti townships. The fare is $2.00 per trip by advance reservation or The People’s Express Transportation $3.00 for same-day service, and can be paid with cash or pre-purchased (734) 216-6073 scrip tickets. Applications for the A-Ride program are available on the People’s Express Transportation is a transportation program of AATA website: www.theride.org, by calling (734) 973-6500, or by visiting Northfield’s Human Services in Washtenaw County. To schedule a ride, AATA’s main office at 2700 S. Industrial Hwy., or the Blake Transit Center, call (734) 216-6073. We transport people in Washtenaw and parts of 331 S. Fourth Ave., Ann Arbor. Livingston and Oakland counties. Please call 24 hours in advance. Our AATA Travel Training buses and vans are all lift equipped. We have a team of experienced and caring drivers. Ask about our special programs that may you qualify for 2700 S. Industrial Hwy. rides at $1.00 each way by simply filling out a few forms. Ann Arbor, MI 48104 (734) 677-3948 Rehab Transportation The Travel Training program helps individuals with disabilities learn to 5570 Whittaker Road PO Box 970286 ride the fixed-route bus system to best meet their transportation needs. Ypsilanti, MI 48197 Individualized training is free of charge, so climb aboard and “Learn (734) 482-0506 or (800) 306-6406 Your Wheels.” Call for information or to enroll. Rehab Transportation offers personalized, attentive and expert transportation for persons with special needs throughout Southeastern Michigan. Vehicles featuring hydraulic lifts with 800 lb. capacity, and 4-point tie-down with seat belts are available. We are also available to transport small groups including multiple wheelchairs. All drivers are professionally trained caregivers, so assistance with personal care tasks before and after transportation is also available. Insured and registered with the State of Michigan. Contact us for all your transportation needs.

48 ACCESS 2007 | Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living Resource Directory 2007

Select Ride, Inc. Ann Arbor, MI 48103 Wheelchair Seating (734) 663-5959 TDD/TTY (734) 663-5994 University of Michigan Home Care Services Select Ride is pleased to offer accessible transportation through its Arbor Wheelchair Seating Service Limousine division at no extra charge. We have fully accessible lift vans 2850 S. Industrial Highway, Suite 200 available for point-to-point transfers or hourly service. Non-accessible Ann Arbor, MI 48104 service is also available via your choice of taxicabs, vans, town car (734) 971-8286 or (877) 868-8889 sedans, minibuses, or limousines. We go anywhere…whether you need The UMHS Wheelchair Seating Service provides evaluations and mobility a trip across town, to the airport — wherever you need to go! For more equipment for complex seating and mobility needs. We offer a complete information or to schedule your next trip, please call Arbor Limousine at line of seating services including custom seating and positioning, and 663-5959. complex power mobility devices at affordable prices. Wheelchair Getaways 6005 Carscadden Way Highland, MI 48357 (800) 887-7868 Serving the state of Michigan for fifteen years, Wheelchair Getaways rents vans by the day, week, or month to persons with disabilities. Our PAWS WITH A CAUSE® vans include full-size conversion vans with raised-roof, raised-door, trains Assistance Dogs nationally for and side-door entry. Our minivans are equipped with a dropped floor, people with disabilities and provides kneeling system, and power side-door ramp. All vans have tie downs lifetime team suppor t which for the wheelchair and tie downs for the chair user. Some of our vans encourages independence. are equipped with hand controls, power transfer seat for the driver and power doors.

800-253-7297 www.pawswithacause.org

“I’m afraid, Sylvia, that his care will be very expensive. Nursing home costs can exhaust a However, Medicaid middle-class couple’s investments, but protects the wife of a you can save your savings. If your spouse nursing home resident. is in a nursing home, planning can make the difference between maintaining your You should talk to an From Our Home–to Yours standard of living and living in poverty. attorney with experience Personal Care & Companionship Consult a competent and reputable in financing long-term estate-planning attorney before it is care as soon as possible.” Nursing & Care Management too late! Individualized Care Planning Respite Care (734) 769-5758 or 877-971-4200 3909 Research Park Dr., Suite 600, Ann Arbor

ACCESS 2007 | Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living | ACCESS 2007 49 YES! I want to support the mission of the AACIL. Enclosed is my gift of: $10 $25 $50 $100 $250 Other $______Please make check payable to: AACIL Or charge my Visa MasterCard (Write card number below.) Please send to: AACIL • 3941 Research Park Dr. Ann Arbor, MI 48104 Signature:______Exp. date:______(734) 971-0277 (734) 971-0826 fax My company’s matching gift form is enclosed. Thank you for your support. [email protected] e-mail Donor information: It truly makes a difference! Please print your name as you wish to be acknowledged. Annual Gift Options Name/s:______If you wish to make an annual gift of $500 or more using Address:______multiple contributions, please complete the following: I would like to make an AACIL investment of: City:______$500 $1,000 $2,500 Other $ ______State:______ZIP:______Yes, I would like to increase the impact of my gift Phone: ( ) ______by making a multi-year commitment for ______years and a total contribution of $ ______E-mail:______Enclosed is my first contribution of $ ______Check here if you wish to remain anonymous Optional payment plans are available. Please send me information on the following: Corporate sponsorship Planned giving, wills & bequests Transformation Society Volunteer opportunities John Weir scholarship endowment fund Innovation Society Gifts to the Center for Independent Living are tax-deductible. The AACIL is a 501(c)3 tax-exempt, nonprofit / MI CS9599.

Advertiser Index Detroit Radio Information Service...... 39 Phoenix Contractors, Inc...... 34 Thank you to our many advertisers & supporters! Disabilities Today...... 43 Pierce and Hahn...... 42 Debra Dzenko & Associates...... 36 Programs to Educate All Cyclists...... 47 A & A Driving School...... 37 Eisenhower Center...... 35 Quality Home Medical Equipment, Inc...... 39 AATA ...... 47, 51 EMU Access Services Office...... 22, 39 Rainbow Rehabilitation Centers, Inc...... 36, 37 AATA A-Ride...... 48 Ford Mobility Motoring Program...... 37, 52 The Recovery Project...... 45 AATA Travel Training...... 48 Fusion Medical...... 38 Rehab Transportation...... 47, 48 Adaptive Sports Coalition...... 46 General Motors Mobility Program...... 38 ResCare HomeCare...... 42 Advantage Mobility Outfitters...... 37, 42 Glacier Hills Home Care...... 42, 49 ResCare Premier...... 36 Aegis Health Perspectives...... 41, 47 Gresham Driving Aids...... 38 Christian Roux LTD (Hurri-Cane/Crutch)...... 38 Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation...... 44 Maryanne Griffith, DDS...... 37 Select Ride Inc...... 49 Ann Arbor Commerce Bank...... 40, 45 Dr. Jan Hansen...... 36 Special Tree Rehabilitation...... 36, 37 Ann Arbor District Library...... 43 Heberle & Finnegan, LPA...... 42 UMHS Wheelchair Seating Services...... 26, 49 The Ann Arbor Transportation Authority...... 47 HomeMed...... 26, 44 UM Home Care Services...... 26 The Ann Arbor YMCA...... 46 Huron Valley Ambulance LifeLink...... 34, 38 UM Kellogg Eye Center...... 44 Area Agency on Aging...... 41 Hylant Group, Inc...... 41, 42 UM Model SCI Care Systems...... 2, 46 Arete Coaching & Consulting, Inc...... 43 IRide...... 47 UM Orthotics and Prosthetics Center...... 41, 44 The Ark...... 35 Jet Set Travel...... 48 UM Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation – Pediatrics.....46 Assistive Media...... 36 MedEquip...... 26, 39 UM Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation – Associates in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation....40, 45 Michigan Ability Partners...... 34 Spine Program...... 46 Association for Community Advocacy...... 34 Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Growth..40 UM Services for Students with Disabilities...... 39 Athletes with Disabilities Hall of Fame...... 46 Michigan Disability Rights Coalition...... 35 United Cerebral Palsy of Metro Detroit...... 35 Ave Maria School of Law...... 39 Michigan Sports Unlimited...... 47 Washtenaw Community College...... 40 Bennett Optometry...... 44 Michigan Thunderbirds...... 47 Washtenaw County Library for Blind & Physically Disabled...... 43 Brain Injury Association of Michigan...... 35 Michigan Visiting Nurses...... 26, 42 Washtenaw Intermediate School District...... 40 BrainTrainers, LLC...... 35, 36 Mobility Works...... 34, 38 Weir, Lou...... 43 Chelsea Community Hospital...... 44, 45 Partners in Personal Assistance...... 42 Wheelchair Getaways...... 48, 49 Community Housing Alternatives...... 41 PAWS With A Cause...... 49 Wright & Filippis...... 39 Community Residence Corporation...... 41 John B. Payne, Attorney...... 49 Cornerstone Design Inc...... 34 People’s Express Transportation...... 48, 49

50 ACCESS 2007 | Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living mobility d o o r -to - TheRide d o o r

e a s y convenient

Greater independence is right outside your door with AATA. We offer reduced-fare ID cards and door-to-door transit service for ADA-eligible individuals. We’ll

ACCESSIBLE even help you learn to get around through our Travel Training program. So whether you opt for fixed-bus service or one of our specialized services, AATA provides safe, efficient transportation — and better mobility for you. For more information, call 734.973.6500, or visit www.TheRide.org.

ACCESS 2007 | Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living 51 ACCESS 2007 | Ann ArborWherever Center for Independent life takes Living you Ford’s Mobility Motoring Program keeps people on the go. To a person with a disability, the Ford Mobility Motoring Program can mean the difference between staying home and getting to work.

It offers ﬁ nancial reimbursement of up to $1,000 toward the cost of adaptive equipment for Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles.

The Program also offers up to $200 on alert hearing devices for people with hearing impairments, after- market lumbar support seats and running boards on Ford, Lincoln or Mercury new vehicle purchases or leases.* *Options available for factory installation, such as air conditioning, running boards, lumbar support and Equipment like lifts and ramps help open horizons and power windows are not considered eligible under the terms of the Ford allow participation in events that may have been Mobility Motoring Program. See your impossible for persons with disabilities until now. local Ford or Lincoln Mercury dealer for complete details. Whether you choose a Ford, Lincoln or Mercury vehicle, you’ll fi nd almost all are accessible and adaptable. The Program also provides guidance in fi nding the right adaptive equipment supplier. To learn more and to get started toward fi nancial assistance right away, visit www.fordmobilitymotoring.com or call 1.800.952.2248 or TTY 1.800.833.0312. www.fordmobilitymotoring.com

ACCESS 2007  President’S “Working Should Be a Right—Not DESK a Privilege.” E at the Ann Arbor –Joan E

ACCESS 2007 President’S “Working Should Be a Right—Not DESK a Privilege.” E at the Ann Arbor –Joan E