PIER Newsletter                                  
                                      National Suicide Prevention Lifeline’s 988 calling code
​
Network of Care ~ Peace of Mind Portage County, Wisconsin (networkofcare.org)                                                                   (This is NOT just for Portage Co. Residents!)This Web site is a resource for individuals, families and agencies concerned with mental wellness. It provides information about mental wellness services, laws, and related news, as well as communication tools and other features. Regardless of where you begin your search for assistance with mental wellness issues, the Network of Care helps you find what you need - it helps ensure that there is "No Wrong Door" for those who need services. This Web site can greatly assist in our efforts to protect our greatest human asset - our beautiful minds.
                                   FIND AGENCIES, PROGRAMS, OR FACILITIES NEAR YOU
                                                          https://portage.wi.networkofcare.org/
                                   Peace of Mind Portage County, Wisconsin (networkofcare.org)

The Arc's Center for Future Planning ​                         Each video covers why to consider using each resource, how they work, what they can pay for, and how to get started
​                        These videos are also available in Spanish, and more videos will be released soon!

When you're ready to start building a plan, use Arc's Center for Future Planning free tool, which will guide you through each step of the process.
                                -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 April: 2022   HealthMatters™
Adults with disabilities are three times more likely than people without disabilities to experience heart disease, diabetes, stroke, and cancer. HealthMatters™ is an evidence-based class for people with disabilities that will help you increase get control over your health and learn to make healthier choices.
  • Lesson 1: What Does It Mean to Be Healthy?
  • Lesson 2: Step Into Exercise
  • Lesson 3: The Fab Five
  • Lesson 4: How Much Food Is Too Much?
  • Lesson 5: Benefits Healthy Eating Has on Our Bodies
  • Lesson 6: Healthy Lifestyle Review
           Tuition: $240  Tuition payment is due by April 1, 2022
                                  ====================================================
So many questions, too many options... Guardianship, Supported Decision Making, Power of Attorney.... Check out this great tool!
                                                   http://wi-bpdd.org/index.php/supporteddecision-making/                             

       Trainings and Workshops
          Local and Statewide

    Grandparent and Caregiver 
​                    Resources

      Epilepsy Resource & Camps 
*******************************​*

       Wisconsin FACETS Webinars

Most webinars 12:00—1:00 PM ​
                (unless otherwise noted)
             https://wifacets.org/events 
                     877-374-0511

1/18 WSEMS: Mediation 
Create a better understanding of the Wisconsin Special Education Mediation System (WSEMS) and how to access the system’s services.
Presenters: Nissan Bar-Lev, CESA 7 and Courtney Salzer, Executive Director, WI FACETS
                       REGISTER

1-/27  Temper Tantrums 


2/2  Fit Families Program: Physical Activity Program for Children with Autism and Their Families       12:00-1:00pm
Discuss the general characteristics of the physical education programs, rights of children and parents, individualized education plan, and more. 
Presenter: Luis Columna, Associate Professor in the Kinesiology Department at the University of Wisconsin at Madison
        REGISTER

2/7  WSEMS: FACILITATED IEPs    | 12:00-1:00pm
Learn about how to request a neutral, trained professional (a facilitator) to help the IEP team with the IEP process.
Presenter: Nissan Bar-Lev, CESA 7 and Courtney Salzer, WI FACETS
        REGISTER

2/9 Helping Families Create Child Centered Goals| 12:00-1:00pm
 This workshop will share a resource for parents in WI to create goals for their children.
 Presenter: Becky Burns, CYSHCN Statewide Coordinator and advocate for over 20 years for children with disabilities
         REGISTER

2/14 Up to Me Series - Defining Stigma     12:00-12:30pm
Part 1 of the Up to Me: Starting the Conversation Series on supporting families facing mental health challenges. Stigma informs the way our society sees mental health challenges and those who seek treatment. 
          REGISTER

2/16 Why Adapted Physical Education is Important for Children with Disabilities     12:00-1:00pm
This session will focus on Adapted Physical Education for students with disabilities and why services should be made available to all students with an IEP.
         REGISTER

2/23  Introduction to Disability Rights Wisconsin's Victim Advocacy Program (VAP)   12:00-1:00pm
Learn how to access program supports and provide examples of the type of services the VAP provides and how these services intersect with multiple systems.
                      REGISTER
​         
Be sure to check out WI FACETS archived webinars!  Archived Workshops | WI FACETS
----------------------------------
Sign language class!  Tuesdays!
           Tuesdays – starting in March 2022
This opportunity is for: Families, Professionals and "Community!" Class is structured so the new members are always welcome!
             5:30 to 6  eat/ intro/ share
             6:00 to 7:00  Functional and Conversational signs you can use!
             Faith Lutheran Church.  
             207 South Cherry Ave.                                               (Marshfield)
 *Per Faith Lutheran we will need to wear masks at this time.
     Questions?  Pam 715-423-7182  
                   ironkids@hotmail.com
                    http://www.pierwi.info
           
Thank you Faith Lutheran Church for letting us use your facilities! Thank you to St. John The Baptist Catholic Church providing the funding for our Sign Language classes!
---------------------------
Fourth Monday Mental Wellness Speakers The fourth Monday Mental Wellness Speakers are back for 2021. Free to the public.  6:00-7:00 p.m.  Oak Room, 2501 Main Street, Stevens Point

   January - Wade Rasmussen, LPC, MA, a counselor with Ascension Behavior Health in Stevens Point.
      How to improve your self-care skill

         Kathy at 715-254-5452
​         Linda at 715- 572-7135.
e51eb74b-9b10-40a2-88f1-c3510aecceda.pdf (constantcontact.com)
---------------------------
Children and Youth with Special Needs - Parent Network opportunity!
Parents/caregivers we invite you to connect with each other as well as to provide feedback to the Regional Center.
In January we are focusing on the Caregiver Crisis and Respite options and how parents have creatively addressed this.
Three different times/dates are available over Zoom:
  • ​Thursday, January 20, 2022, at 12 Noon
  • Saturday, January 29, 2022, at 8:30 AM
https://northernregionalcenter.org/jan21parentnetwork/
 
Contact: Allison, Michelle,  or Hope
Northern Regional Center for Children & Youth with Special Health Care Needs (CYSHCN)
Office: 715-261-1906 or Toll Free- 866-640-4106
Email: specialneedsinfo@co.marathon.wi.us
Website: www.northernregionalcenter.org
Please visit our Facebook page and "Like" us to stay up to date!
-----------------------------------
 1/22 United Hmong with Disabilities 2022 Virtual Conference: 
 Registration is currently free and more information.  https://www.unitedhmongwithdisabilities.org/
-----------------------------------
1/26  Webinar: The Impact of Implicit Bias on BIPOC Populations              10am PT / 1pm ET
Learn how to advocate for proactive approaches that eliminate barriers impacting people of color, promote racial equity, and advance cultural humility.
                    Register »

2/2  Webinar: Healing from Diet Culture and Body Dissatisfaction8am PT / 11am ET
This webinar will explore how diet culture has influenced the way society thinks about health and self-image, and how the Health At Every Size movement is dismantling those ideals to shift beauty standards and create equal access to healthcare for bodies of all shapes and sizes.
                     Register »
-----------------------------------
2/14   SEIZURE FIRST AID TRAINING OPPORTUNITY!
Join us online Monday February 14 at 6:00 pm for another FREE opportunity to become  certified first aid ready!
             https://bit.ly/3tazKrZ
 If you saw someone having a seizure would you know what to do?
-----------------------------------
2/17 Wisconsin’s Supported Decision-Making . Supported Decision-Making is one alternative to guardianship that allows people with disabilities and older adults to retain their legal rights.
 Supported Decision-Making Training (thedatabank.com)
This statewide training will cover:
  • What Supported Decision-Making is
  • What alternatives to guardianship are available in Wisconsin
  • How to use Supported Decision-Making strategies, both as an alternative to guardianship and within existing guardianships
  • Legal responsibilities of Supported Decision-Making
  • Stories of how Wisconsin residents have used Supported Decision-Making
---------------------------
4/29 &30   Autism Society of Greater Wisconsin’s Annual Conference
 Kalahari Resort & Convention Center, WI Dells
Annual Conference - Autism Society of Greater Wisconsin (autismgreaterwi.org)
Early Bird discounts available until January 7, 2022.  
---------------------------
4/29/30  NAMI Wisconsin 2022 Annual Conference

The NAMI Wisconsin Annual Conference is a two-day event for everyone interested in mental health. The event hosts approximately 300 attendees including peers, family members, mental health providers, advocates, social workers, clinicians, government officials, and criminal justice partners.
 
The conference includes keynote speakers and a variety of workshops designed to give attendees as much information and resources as possible. Please check our website for the most up-to-date information. We look forward to seeing you in the Wisconsin Dells!
 
Register for Conference
---------------------------
5/ 12 &13~ FAMILIES LIVING, LOVING AND LEARNING TOGETHER
Holiday Inn, Stevens Point

Circles of Life is Wisconsin’s annual conference for families who have children with disabilities and the providers and other professionals who support them.

Talk to your Human Services Support people now to register and help cover expenses to attend this conference that is inclusive of ALL our families! 

For those who do not have funding ~ Scholarships (circlesoflifeconference.com)

Registration will be open around February 15, 2022.

Circles of Life Conference – Circles of Life is Wisconsin’s annual conference for parents and family members who have children with disabilities and professionals who support them.

 It will also be livestreamed and recorded for those who prefer to participate virtually.
​===========================
      Grandparent~
  Relative caregivers
For workshops that are geared toward caregivers., Contact Jennifer Odum, Grandparents As Parents Program Manager: jodum@ONEgeneration.org. 
     ------------------
Also see: Grandparenting Tab 
​Grandparents & Other Relatives as Parents (GORP) – outreach: quarterly newsletter, warmline (not crisis line but more about finding resources) and community presentations on topics that resonate with relative caregivers.

For more information, contact Serena at referrals@therainbowproject.net or (608) 255-7356.
            -------------------------
From the New York City Department for the Aging Grandparent Empowerment Series -With Dr. Carole B. Cox, Graduate School of Social Service, Fordham University
 
DFTA is currently recruiting grandparents and relative caregivers for their Grandparent Empowerment Series. Eligible participants must be: 
  • current grandparent or relative caregivers 
  • able to access an active email address;  
  • use Zoom for Video Call.
 
Classes are held once a week on Zoom. All course materials are free.
 
RSVP Now: grc@aging.nyc.gov or
                      (212) 442-1094
First Come, First Served!
Program Graduates take part in a virtual graduation ceremony and receive a $50 stipend and certificate of achievement.
            -------------------------
Changing relationship from relative to parent. 

When a child cannot live with their parents often times the next best alternative is living with a relative.  While this can mean less change and trauma for the child, it can also mean role changes and new family challenges the relative hadn’t considered.  Join us for a brief overview of the challenges relative caregivers face in their new role and a discussion of how you can provide support to relative caregivers while they get adjusted.  

Presenter Tiffany Meredith, the founder of Tiffany L. Meredith Consulting. 
Tiffany is a former relative caregiver with over twenty years of experience in child welfare, foster care, and adoption.  

You may view this at: 
https://zoom.us/rec/play/cyyZ0gNEuYFTthTywHQAkJ148duWuFUGTqgXzv57ruVbrb3dIwP8UMFYbqPIJ8SwiUmr0H0rfGLscR5n.pucGXuG1AuhOC7vR?continueMode=true
 ------------------------------------------
WI Adoption & Permanency Support shared this link for Virtual Support Groups for Relative Caregivers:  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/virtual-support-group-for-relative-caregivers-tickets-114153498186

============================
      Caregiving 
Caregivers with adult children with I/DD  
https://www.pbs.org/newshour/show/caring-for-an-adult-child-with-disabilities-in-retirem

Caregiving versus parenting:
https://centerforfamilyinvolvementblog.org/2019/11/22/caregiving-and-parenting-are-not-the-same/
Print and share with your school or circle of family and friends!
  Family Caregivers/Providers 
       *Funding for Respite!  
         *Find a Provider
         * Be a Provider
Respite Care Association of Wisconsin    Please go to:  https://respitecarewi.org/live/our-programs/   for their most current forms and application process. 
   
Respite Care of Wisconsin also has 
resource for:
           Caregivers of Elderly
           Caregivers of Adults
           Caregivers of Children 
                        and 
           Respite Care Worker
           https://respitecarewi.org/
--------------------------------------------------
​ Learn more about       these resources!!!! 
               +++++++++++++++
          WI FACETS 
​            – www.wifacets.org
Family Engagement Newsletter –
  Education support and resources 
​​  
       January: Transition
       February: Intellectual Disabilities
       March: Early Childhood

                  -------------------
Looking for another  GREAT Newsletter - written in English, Spanish and Hmong? 
​ FOR FAMILIES with Children with Special Needs?

All in for Kids Important Information about COVID-19 Vaccine (wisconsin.gov)
     AND  Info on Children's Waivers~ 

​         Family Voices -
   https://familyvoiceswi.org/resource-library/
  Fact Sheets
        Mental Health Series
        Children's Long-Term Support                               Waivers Series
       Family Support Group Series
        Newborn Screening Series Show all articles ( 22 )
·Newsletters
          Family Support
·        Health Care
·        Long-Term Supports
·        Medicaid
·        Mental Health
·        Money Matters
·        Transition to Adult Life
·        Telehealth
·        Equity and Diversity
·        Family Leadership

​ * Your link to statewide resources
https://familyvoiceswi.org/resource-library/organizations-to-assist-families/

Preparing for emergencies:
 https://mailchi.mp/fvofwi/family-voices-of-wisconsin-spring-newsletter?e=52afc598d7

Fact sheet on Preparing for emergencies:
    https://familyvoiceswi.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Preparing-for-Emergencies-compress.pdf    

Yellow Pages for kids with speical needs
​  Wrightslaw Yellow Pages For Kids with Disabilities

     Wisconsin Sibs  
         Activities
        www.wisconsibs.org
                         or call    
                    920-968-1742

 Sibshops ~ for children ages 6-12 who have siblings with disabilities. Registration required. To register, visit our website
          October 30 1-4 pm
          Washington Park—Neenah

           December 18 10 am—1 pm
           Place TBD

12/ 11 WisconSibs Santa Celebration event for children with disabilities, their siblings, and families.
9:00 AM to 11:30 AM 
 
The Grand Meridian
2621 N Oneida St
Appleton, WI 54911

Registration now open for the 
Get more information

Register Now!
Do you have a sibling child age 3 to 5 years old? Or perhaps a very young grandchild who has a sibling with disabilites? Sibsack helps parents talk with their 3-5- year-old(s) about their sibling’s disability diagnosis. The kit provides simple, fun tools and aps. A $30 Value Thanks to a grant from Schreiber Foods, Sibsacks are s#ll available to families at no charge through 2021.

Visit Sibsack (wisconsibs.org)
 ------------------------------------------------
   EPILEPSY WISCONSIN
   CONNECTION GROUP
​
If you're a caregiver or a person with epilepsy, what should you do if you're considering a seizure alert dog as part of your treatment plan? 
 
Learn more here:  https://bit.ly/3m4XwSF

         Virtual Trainings
              WI  BPDD
         Parent to Parent
               ARC WI 
        Family Caregivers
         Catholic Charites
         Down Syndrome 
                 ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
      2/5  & 2/26   Sensory     
  Friendly Vaccine Clinic
            8:00 am - Noon
SSM Health Treffert Center
371 E 1st St
Fond du Lac, WI 54935

Sensory Friendly COVID-19 Vaccine Clinic (autismgreaterwi.org)

       Virtual Training         Opportunities! 

Family Voices of Wisconsin, Training sessions are FREE and online!  Trainings are for family members, self-advocates, educators and professionals.
 
For registration information go to familyvoiceswi.org/learn.
 
What's After High School? This training is an overview of the transition to adult life for young adults with disabilities and/or special health care needs. It’s perfect for families with children ages 14-21 and the providers and school staff who work with them. Of course, youth are welcome! We’ll cover: Planning for the future; Your school’s role; Long-term supports; Vocational resources; Moving to adult health care; Supported decision making and guardianship; and, Self-Determination basics.

Medicaid Made Easy will give you a solid understanding of Medicaid programs for children and how they’re funded. Most importantly, it’s focused on how these programs work for Wisconsin families. We’ll cover: Doorways to Medicaid; Medicaid funded programs; Uses for the ForwardHealth card; and, Next steps with resources.

Did You Know? Now You Know! Learn about all the resources and services for children with disabilities and special health care needs from birth through young adulthood. Topics include private health insurance, Medicaid, long-term supports, how to coordinate services and so much more.
​------------------------------
  Living Well Wednesdays  
  Wisconsin Board for People with       
         Developmental Disabilities. 
       9am on Facebook and Zoom! 
  
You can join us on Facebook Live at: https://www.facebook.com/WisconsinBPDD/ 
 
 Or register to join our Zoom Living Well Wednesdays here:  
https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJAqde6hqTgpH9DzJDJD30itgZv3weWt0Fwk
  
Contact Sally Flaschberger
 sally.flaschberger@wisconsin.gov
 ----------------------------
Parent to Parent  is going virtual with Parent trainings.  Help another parent's journey and make it a little easier! To learn more, go to https://p2pwi.org/P2P/Trainings.
------------------------------
The Arc Wisconsin
​The Arc's Center for Future Planning offers free resources to help self-advocates, families, professionals, and others, tackle all aspects of future planning, including housing, finances, employment, support services, and more.                          Each video covers why to consider using each resource, how they work, what they can pay for, and how to get started
​                        These videos are also available in Spanish, and more videos will be released soon!

When you're ready to start building a plan, use Arc's Center for Future Planning free tool, which will guide you through each step of the process. 
=============================
  Family Caregivers
please check out this is a new free online educational tool for family caregivers across Wisconsin. Learn about health issues, care techniques, and managing care for loved ones during flu season.   http://WisconsinCaregiver.org/virtual-events-for-caregivers

`Virtual -Support Groups, Memory Cafes,  Events, and Powerful Tools for Caregivers classes  

Let’s Get Away, Together: Winter Series explore a new world, experience a variety of engaging opportunities, and enjoy a sense of camaraderie and community. 
Interactive travel and culture activity sessions
Incorporating storytelling, music, poetry writing, and/or a simple craft.
Dementia 101- increase your knowledge of dementia
Ask A Dementia Care Specialist
Caregiver Rest and Restore –
Boost Your Brain and Memory
Online Book Club
Ask A Dementia Care Specialist
The Caregiver Experience:  Tools to Assist in the Journey

Caregiver Teleconnection Program 
Wisconsin Adoption & Permanency Support  for Grandparents and Relative Caregivers.
Caregiver Coffee Hour 
Northeast WI Telephone Support Group
Caregiver Support Group
Family Caregivers for a Loved One with Dementia in the Early Stages
Caregiver Friends Support Group
Let's Talk Over Coffee
Alzheimer's/Dementia Caregiver Support Group
Caregiver Support Group
Family Caregivers for a Loved One with Dementia in the Early Stages
Dependable Friends Virtual Support Group
For Persons Living with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI)
Male Caregiver Support Group
Family Caregivers for a Loved One with Frontotemporal Degeneration (FTD)
Family Caregivers for a Loved One with Dementia Living at a Facility
Wacky Wednesday for Fun and Socialization
Knowledge is Power Hour - Educational Programming
Webinar Wednesdays- re: respite care in Wisconsin. https://www.respitecarewi.org 
Outagamie Caregiver Coalition Chats
Virtual Pizza & Trivia
MEMORY CAFES(Memory Cafes provide a way for persons with memory loss and their care partner to socialize with other people going through similar journeys.)
 
POWERFUL TOOLS FOR CAREGIVING VIRTUAL CLASSES 
Check the Wisconsin Institute for Healthy Aging website for other classes in your area. 
 https://wihealthaging.org/workshops
                  ------------------

KINnect virtual groups and events for relative caregivers of children throughout Wisconsin.
​ KINnect Family Events (wisapsp.org)

​=============================
             Catholic Charities Adoption Opportunities for foster and adoptive families!
        ***Registration required |833.WIS.APSP | info@wisapsp.org |    
​                 https://wisapsp.org

www.eventbrite.com/o/wisconsin-adoption-amp-permanency-support-987835783

1/29  Tubing at Trollhaugen: Adoptive/Guardianship Family Fun: Dresser    1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Trollhaugen Outdoor Recreation Area
2232 100th Avenue
Dresser, WI 54009
                   REGISTER

2/2  Adult Adoptee Dinner Group: La Crosse     6:30 pm – 8:00 pm
Big Al's Pizza
115 3rd Street South
La Crosse, WI 54601
                 REGISTER

2/8  Birth Parent Get Together: Eau Claire    6:30 pm
Catholic Charities
318 Fulton Street
Eau Claire, WI 54703
                REGISTER

2/8 ​Parenting Children with Trauma: How Couples Can Thrive
6:30–7:30 pm
 
2/15 Sensory Issues and Trauma
Tues, February 15, 2022
6:00 pm – 8:00 pm


2/17  Online Workshop: Did you know? Now you know! with CYSHCN
6:00 pm – 7:00 pm        Online
              REGISTER
​
​3/5 Morning Coffee Chat for Adoptive/Guardianship Parents: Stevens Point    9:30 am – 10:30 am
Ruby Coffee Roasters Cafe
1410 3rd Street
Stevens Point, WI 54481
                     REGISTER

3/26  Adoptive and Guardianship State Park Day: Wausau
12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
Rib Mountain State Park
4200 Park Road
                     REGISTER

Live Webinars for adoptive families: 
             click on titles for mor info
 
2/8 Parenting Children with Trauma: How Couples Can Thrive   
6:30–7:30 pm
 
2/15 Sensory Issues and Trauma   
6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
 
Previously recorded webinars can be found here: https://wisapsp.org/videos/
Online Workshops 
 
2/17  Did you know? Now you know! with CYSHCN   6:00 pm – 7:00 pm

Virtual Groups
 
Understanding the IEP Process
Tues, March 1, 2022
6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
 
Coffee Talk for Adoptive and Guardianship Parents
Fri, January 7, 2022
10:00 am – 11:00 am
 
Adult Adoptees
Wed, January 12, 2022
7:00 pm
 
KINnect Relative Caregivers of Children–Morning
Thurs, January 27, 2022
11:00 am
 
KINnect Relative Caregivers of Children–Evening
Wed, January 19, 2022
6:00 pm
 
Single Parent Support
Tues, January 25, 2022
8:00 pm
 
Sibling Support Group
Tues, January 11, 2022
7:00 pm
 
Trauma Informed Parenting
Mon, January 17, 2022
12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
​
            Activities
-------------------------------------------------
        Sibling Support Group!!!!

A virtual support group for those aged 12-16   Join other siblings of adoption or guardianship families for a live, video group session to socially connect and discuss topics related to challenges that arise in these family dynamics. Please pre-register via Eventbrite. This group will take place approximately once every six weeks on a Tuesday evening at 7pm. Join as often as you would like.
​VIRTUAL GROUP: Sibling Support Group Tickets, Multiple Dates | Eventbrite
-----------------
Trauma-informed virtual support group  Adoptive, Kinship & Guardianship parents and caregivers: This groups is especially for caregivers who are:
  • Parenting youth with trauma histories
  • Parenting youth with emotional or behavioral challenges and/or diagnoses such as RAD, DMDD, & ODD.
The group meets on the 3rd Monday of each month from noon (12:00 pm) - 1:00 pm. There will be monthly focus areas for discussion and/or guest speakers to support ongoing learning, but always with plenty of time for connection and support. Please register early as group size is limited.
VIRTUAL GROUP: Trauma Informed Parenting Tickets, Multiple Dates | Eventbrite
-----------------
Virtual Group: Sibling Support Group         7:00 pm
 Online         REGISTER
-----------------
Morning Coffee Chat for Adoptive/Guardianship Parents:
​-----------------
-----------------
1/30  Adoptive/Guardianship Family Tubing: Wausau
1:30 pm – 3:30 pm
 
Location:
Sylvan Hill Park
1329 Sylvan Street
Wausau, WI 54403
 
REGISTER
-----------------
WI Adoption & Permanency Support |  833.WIS.APSP | info@wisapsp.org | https://wisapsp.org
-----------------
Event Calendar – WI Adoption & Permanency Support (wisapsp.org)

-----------
Here Be Dragons
Pre-Recorded
 
Beyond Picky Eating
Pre-Recorded

Understanding Historical Trauma
Pre-Recorded
​
           Virtual Groups:
 Parents of  Older Youth
Waiting to Adopt
Birth Parent Support
Caregiver of young children
 Relative Caregivers
Connected Parenting
Adult Adoptees
Adoption Triade Circle
Foster Parent Connections REGISTER 
Virtual Group: Trauma Informed
​          Parenting    REGISTER
Questions? Contact ~
Eau Claire - Anne Rozeboom - anne@wisapsp.org - 608-519-8065
Green Bay - Heather Hansen - heather@wisapsp.org - 920-272-8240
La Crosse - Susan McParker - susan@wisapsp.org - 608-519-8023
Madison - Jessica Wright - jessica@wisapsp.org - 608-692-2910 
Milwaukee - Pattie Godsell - pattie@wisapsp.org - 414-369-7489
Wausau - Chelsey Zommers - chelsey@wisapsp.org - 608-519-8068
 
You may also continue to reach us via phone or text with our 24/7 warm-line at 1-833-WIS-APSP.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
   Down Syndrome​
Statewide events Calendar
Statewide Events Calendar — Down Syndrome Association of Wisconsin (dsaw.org)
                   ----------------
DSAW- Central WI Parent Group
DSAW- Chippewa Valley Parent Group
DSAW- Fox Cities Parent Group
DSAW- Green Bay Parent Group
DSAW- KRW Parent Group
DSAW- La Crosse Parent Group
DSAW- Sheboygan Parent Group
DSAW- Southeastern Parent Group
                   ---------------
Statewide Family Bingo Night hosted by MADSS — Down Syndrome Association of Wisconsin (dsaw.org)
                    --------------
Grandparents Group  A group for Grandparents! Now meeting at the DSAW Office in West Allis, WI and virtually via Zoom.   Next Meeting:  (Virtual Only Session)

New Parents Group  A group for people who have recently become parents to a child with Down syndrome or other disabilities. This group meets via Zoom.
Prenatal Diagnosis Support Group A virtual support group for expectant women who have received a Down syndrome diagnosis and are in various stages of the decision making process.​

                 ---------------
DSAW Connects: Virtually
See, link, register to more opportunities!
All classes take place over Zoom. Zoom will work on computers, tablets, and phones. Check out: 
https://www.dsaw.org/dsawconnectsfall

For the below opportunities and more! 
Please note: For paid classes, we will be accepting IRIS or DSAW's "Pay-What-You-Can" options as payment for our courses.
                  ---------------
Move & Groove
Get your sweat on while having fun! We will learn new moves and dance to your favorite music

Body Blast
A modified and inclusive fitness class for all abilities! Fun workout music and socialization with friends will enhance your experience and keep fitness fun!

Let's Get Connected 
Learn how to make new friendships while strengthening current relationships!

Navigating Our World
In today's ever changing and challenging times navigating our world can be difficult. Explore ways to communicate and cope with problematic changes and emotions through mindful and creative outlets. 
Course Objective: Emotional health, communication skills, encouraging self-expression and creativity, exploring individuality

Boost your Brain                      
School may be out, but learning is always in! From mindful meditation to crossing the midline, learn a variety of activities that will teach you brand new ways to boost your brain! 

Media Madness                        
Explore challenges and benefits associated with technology and our expanding social network all while enjoying popular media.
 
Young Leaders Academy
              (18+ session ONLY)
Young Leaders Academy Westside: Second and Fourth Thursday from 6pm-7pm
Young Leaders Academy East Side and Beyond: First and Third Thursday from 6pm-7pm
We're taking our Young Leaders Academy online! This will be a continuation of the in-person classes we were offering at DSAW's office (west side) and on the east side, but we are welcoming new registrants as well!

Back To Work
**Option to supplement with a 1:1 session
This class will explore safe and appropriate ways to prepare for the workplace.
Course Objective: Safe work habits, attitude, communication, interpersonal/social skills, professionalism, teamwork

Life Skills and Laughter
Join DSAW for a class that combines Life Skills and Stream Team classes. The first hour is designed to develop life skills while the second hour offers a variety of fun games, online exploration, trivia, relationship building, and lots of laughter! 
Course Objective: Life skill development, strengthening communication, relationship building, positivity 

​Statewide calendar of events! 
Register or for more info go to: https://www.dsaw.org/statewide-events  

Downs Syndrome Awareness Walks Around the State
Sheboygan (10/24)
​============================
​

                   Fun stuff!
​   Marshfield Resource Center
              Mental Health
     Autism group/networking
   Resources you need to know
         Sibling opportunities

​          Fun Stuff!
​​ ******************************
​1/29  Tubing at Trollhaugen: Adoptive/Guardianship Family Fun: Dresser    1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Trollhaugen Outdoor Recreation Area
2232 100th Avenue
Dresser, WI 54009
                   REGISTER

1/30 PE Lion's Fisheree and Wakely's Ice Harvest
Go to www.historicpointbasse.org 
​ or     www.e-clubhouse.org/sites/portedwardswi/.

2/3 Wisconsin Rapids Art Council - 'The Greatest Loe of All: Tribute to Whitney Houston - PAC of WR
7​:30 PM - 9:00 PM CST
 http://www.savorthearts.org
Sally Kissner - Arts Council - 715.424.2787   Send an Email
Fees/Admission:
$10 Students / $49 Adults

2/6  Bowl for Autism
Dale’s Weston Lanes
1-5 pm
$7 dollars per bowler
Silent Auction/50-50 Raffle/Door Prizes
Call 715-573-9787

2/3-6 Snow Valley Weekend  https://www.sandvalleypursuits.com/events/event-four-87h5d

Weekend includes a plethora of snow-based outdoor activities, such as:  Ice skating
Please bring your own skates, rentals are not available
Pond hockey
Snowshoeing
Snowman building
Nordic Skiing - Check out our trail options here CHILDREN’S SNOW VALLEY ITINERARY ACTIVITY HIGHLIGHTS:
Disney Trivia
Outdoor Bowling
Bingo
Dance Competition
Family Movie Night
and more!
VIEW FULL ITINERARY

3/26th Historic Point Basse Sugar Bush 10:00am to 4:00pm
​
https://historicpointbasse.com/2021SugarBush.html

Historic Point Basse site
300 Wakely Road
Nekoosa WI 54457-1556

Observe maple sap being cooked down in a large kettle over an open fire to make syrup.
Observe maple sap being boiled down using a log as Native Americans would have done.
Watch as the maple syrup is cooked down more to make maple sugar.
If the trees are running, help gather the sap.
Then sample some 100% maple syrup on a silver dollar sized buckwheat pancake in the Wakely House.

Fee: Donation

For further information call (715)459-1722
 -----------------------------------------------
Biron Adult Handicapped Dances are back!  Live music, light lunch and dancing!  6:00pm – 8:30pm
         1st Wednesday of month
         Biron Town Hall
Come dressed in a costume for October 6ths event!
For more information - 715-424-5639
-------------
           In Minocqua area -
Contact Debra Adams ~ Gracie's Place- Hope for families and help for kids with special needs
       715-966-6474 
      www.gracies-place.org
      Gracie's Place | Facebook

Outdoor Adventure – Nature walks around the area. 
 
Encouragement Hour – Zoom guest speakers who can offer advice and encouragement.

     Rhinelander and Northwoods

https://www.facebook.com/events/428901351656002

============================
Remember to connect with your local library to see how they are providing activities and resources.
 
From Children's Museum
Follow on FB for current events!
https://www.facebook.com/Central-Wisconsin-Childrens-Museum-CWCM-17911389555
--------------------------------
     Check out UW Stevens     
     Points - STEAM camps!  
​​
UWSP 2021 Summer Catalog (flippingbook.com)

Home - Continuing Education and Outreach | UWSP
-----------------------------------------------
 Marshfield Family Resource
       Center Opportunities
Call 715-660-8103  hevans@cwh.org
 
      Parent Aide Program
      Raising Resilient Children       
      Parenting Class
      LENA Start MC
      Myths of Motherhood
      Creative Corner
      Play and Learn
      Parent Chat
      Warmline
       Lending Library
----------------------------------------------
        Mental Health 
Telehealth for Transition Age Youth and Young Adults Privacy, Emotional Safety and Welfare
https://www.pathwaysrtc.pdx.edu/pdf/telehealth-tip-sheet.pdf

Contact your local CAP services - they have Mental Health Navigators!
https://capservices.org/who-we-are/

Rogers Behavioral Health - trainings            https://rogersbh.org/resources

Accessing Telehealth - 
​ForwardHealth allows coverage for behavioral health services delivered via telehealth, including over the phone, during this public health emergency.   https://www.forwardhealth.wi.gov/kw/pdf/2020-12.pdf      


Crisis Card - Please access the  PDF you can download:
https://children.wi.gov/Pages/Integrate/Youth-Mental-Health-Crisis-Plan-Card.aspx

​Develop a card for your community - school - agency or work place!

 Wisconsin Addiction Recovery 
​ Helpline: https://211wisconsin.communityos.org/addiction-helpline
​
This website also has a list of other helplines, hotlines, and virtual meetings for people with substance use concerns. There are also self-care tips on our website for consumers and professionals.

Behavioral Health/Mental Health Online Database: 
www.mch-hotlines.org/wisconsin-first-step

2-1-1 Your local United Way Website!
---------------------------------- 

Autism Opportunities
Not a member yet, or need to renew? Click here and choose Central as your local affiliate:    https://76148.blackbaudhosting.com/.../Annual-Membership...

 autismsocietycw@gmail.com 
------------------
New to Autism Virtual Group
           6:30 PM - 7:30 PM
The New to Autism Group is a monthly virtual group for parents of children newly diagnosed with autism. Join us to connect with other parents for a casual discussion about shared experiences, community resources, and to learn more about the Autism Society.
                  Learn More
------------------
Dads' Virtual Support Groups
7:00 - 8:00 pm

This virtual group is a monthly opportunity for dads, grandfathers, and other male caregivers of autistic children to network, share experiences, and learn from one another.
                 Learn More
------------------
Autistic Mental Health & Well-Being Virtual Training

Registration is still open for this 3-part training series! This training is open to all - parents, teachers, support workers, therapists or anyone interested in this topic. Complete this training on your own time, at your own pace!
                Learn More
------------------
        Stop Motion Movie Club
              7:00 - 8:00 PM

The purpose of the club is to discuss stop motion movie making, share movies that were made, or discuss ideas for new movies. This is for people new to the hobby or experienced. This group is for teens ages 13-19.
                      Learn More
------------------
           Autism Virtual Group                            6:30 PM - 7:30 PM
The New to Autism Group is a monthly virtual group for parents of children newly diagnosed with autism. Join us to connect with other parents for a casual discussion about shared experiences, community resources, and to learn more about the Autism Society.
Learn More

 PC Minecraft  for Adults and Kids
 ascw.minecraft@gmail.com
                7:00 PM
This event is for people ages 8-17 with the Java version of Minecraft on their PC who would like to play online with friends in creative mode. Up to 20 players allowed on the private server. Please sign up to receive the private server information         Learn More

​
Trivia Night  6:30 - 7:30 PM
6:30pm over Zoom. Individuals and families are welcome! There will be a maximum capacity of 20 participants. RSVP is required – please use the link below to register.
Meeting Registration - Zoom

Questions? Email kbrodhagen@autismgreaterwi.org
                     --------------
​
 Online Teen Hangout
             6:00 – 7:00 PM
 Teens with autism are welcome to join us online to chat and play games!
​Meeting Registration - Zoom
                   --------------
 ​               ======
NEW- Transition to Adulthood           Discussion Series
Third Wednesday of every month                    6:00 – 7:00 pm
https://www.autismgreaterwi.org/transition-to-adulthood-discussion-series/
        -------------------------
    ​
Supporting Neurodiverse Students Professional Learning System has new virtual options 
https://tinyurl.com/SNSVirtualWI

Support Group Meetings -6:30 pm   FREE   autismsocietycw@gmail.com

AUsome Tweeners Social Group
11:00 am – 12:30 pm
Suggested ages 8-17.
autismsocietycw@gmail.com

Adults with Autism Support Group Meeting -  10:00 am – 11:30 am  A peer support group for adults on the autism spectrum.  autismsocietycw@gmail.com


Autism Society of Wisconsin!​               https://www.asw4autism.org/resource-guide/getting-started/

 Autism Societies
Autism Society of South Central Wisconsin    1-608-630-9147
                     
Autism Society of Southeastern Wisconsin   414.988.1260

Autism Society of Greater Wisconsin  920-558-4602
​​ ​
Community of Practice on Autism Spectrum Disorder and other Developmental Disabilities,
The recordings of the March 10th CoP ASD/DD are available on the WI CoP ASD/DD YouTube Channel.
The handouts are now available on the Connections website on the past meetings page:  https://connections.waisman.wisc.edu/past-meetings/
​===========================
 Resources for Talking to            Students About Race   
https://dpi.wi.gov/news/dpi-connected/resources-talking-students-about-race
================
       Reminders

Office of Children's Mental Health
https://children.wi.gov/Pages/ResearchData/FactSheets.aspx
FYI sheets on: 
​​​​​Building Social & Emotional Skills

Prioritizing Children's Mental Health; Spanish Version​

Preventing Underage Drinking

Bullying Prevention​​

Healthy Use of Screen Time
​
Child Maltreatment and Out-of-Home Care 

Children’s Demographics and Well-Being

Children’s Medicaid Funded Mental Health Services

Crisis Intervention Services for Children on Medicaid

Mental Health Services in Schools

Opioid and Methamphetamine Use

​Outpatient Mental Health Service Data for Children on Medicaid

Psychotropic Medication Prescribing for Children on Medicaid

Resilience

School Outcomes Services for Children with Delays or Disabilities

Youth Justice

Youth Psychiatric Hospitalizations, Readmissions, and Emergency Detentions

Youth Suicide and Self Harm

​https://children.wi.gov/Pages/ResearchData/FactSheets.aspx
                 -------------
​ Resilient Wisconsin -   helps you understand the causes of toxic stress and trauma and how to manage the related harms to help you live your best life. Take a closer look at resilience 

Trauma- informed practices
Social Determinants of health
Trauma and toxic stress
Adverse childhood experiences
Risk and protective factors

New resources
Building Resilience During Winter Celebrations 
In This Together: Understanding the Effects of Collective Trauma
​=========================
Accommodating Patients with Disabilities During COVID-19 Pandemic Today, in response to the first federal complaint challenging discriminatory hospital “no-visitor” policies, the Office for Civil Rights (OCR) at the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services announced a resolution making clear that federal law requires hospitals and the state agencies overseeing them to modify policies to ensure patients with disabilities can safely access the in-person supports needed to benefit from medical care during the COVID-19 pandemic.
https://www.hhs.gov/about/news/2020/06/09/ocr-resolves-complaints-after-state-connecticut-private-hospital-safeguard-rights-persons.html
 
Strict no-visitor policies put in place at hospitals have prevented patients with disabilities from safely receiving support from family members or staff necessary for them to effectively communicate with medical personnel or otherwise receive equal access to medical treatment. No-visitor policies have disproportionately impacted Black people with disabilities, who have higher rates of infection and hospitalization. Accommodations to these policies are required by federal civil rights laws.  
https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/69/wr/mm6918e1.htm?s_cid=mm6918e1_w
===========================
​Wisconsin of Public Instruction Website (DPI) Extended School Closure for Students with IEPs due to COVID19Special Education Question and Answer Document
https://dpi.wi.gov/sites/default/files/imce/sspw/pdf/Extended_School_Closure_due_to_COVID_Revised_3-20-2020.pdf
 
U.S. Department of Education Questions and Answers on Providing Services to Children With Disabilities During The Coronavirus Disease 2019 Outbreak
https://www2.ed.gov/policy/speced/guid/idea/memosdcltrs/qa-covid-19-03-12-2020.pdf
 
Supplemental Fact Sheet Addressing the Risk of COVID-19 in Preschool, Elementary and Secondary Schools While Serving Children with Disabilities (March 21, 2020)
https://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/frontpage/faq/rr/policyguidance/Supple%20Fact%20Sheet%203.21.20%20FINAL.pdf?utm_content=&utm_medium=email&utm_name=&utm_source=govdelivery&utm_term=
 
 
Office of Civil Rights (OCR) webinar https://www.youtube.com/watch?utm_content=&utm_medium=email&utm_name=&utm_source=govdelivery&utm_term=&v=DCMLk4cES6A
 Ensuring web accessibility for students with disabilities for schools utilizing online learning during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.
 
Fact sheet for education leaders on how to protect students' civil rights as school leaders take steps to keep students safe and secure.
https://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/docs/ocr-coronavirus-fact-sheet.pdf
-----------------------------------------------
Home Alone –Preparing Children For Self Care
These videos are for parents and their children who are getting ready to stay home alone. Parents and children should watch the videos together and use the short activities after each video to discuss your plans to stay safe.  https://fyi.extension.wisc.edu/homealone/
​
Looking for child care?
Watch this video to learn about how Child Care Resource & Referral agencies and local Referral Specialist staff are just a phone call away to support you in your child care search. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A0zBScoPt2E&feature=youtu.be
 --------------------------------------------
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     * Purchasing Kwik Trip Gas cards  
                       Contact  Pam
               ironkids@hotmail.com
       
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                PIER, c/o Pam Ironside,
               6211 North Park Road,
               Wisconsin Rapids, WI 54494

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​Disclaimer: These activities and information in this document are not sponsored nor endorsed by the agency, organization or school district sharing forwarding this information. Neither do they assume responsibility for the conduct during or safety of the activities. The above (or forwarding party) shall be held harmless from any cause of action, claim, or petition filed in any court of administrative tribunal arising out of the distribution of these materials including attorney’s fees and judgments or awards. ​      ​ 

PIER is an informational site.  It is not a legal services agency and cannot provide legal advice or legal representation.  Any information contained on this site is not intended as legal or medical advice but only as an informational resource.   This web site was created to inform and educate. The content should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, recommendations, diagnosis or treatment.

You are encouraged to confirm all information with other sources and a physician. If you have health concerns, please call or see a qualified health care provider without delay. . 

We do not endorse any treatments, providers, or product information in this site.    

As with any program - we strongly encourage you to thoroughly check ou  

This newsletter is compiled through a variety of list serves including but not  limited to:

Waismen Center Healthy Ready to Work
Children and Youth with Special Health Care Needs (CYSHCN)
Family Voices of Wisconsin
DPI Connection
Family Assistance Center for Education Training and Support 
             (FACETS)  http://www.wifacets.org
 Public Access to Court  Electronic Records (PACER)
Cooperative Educational Service Agency (CESA)
Wisconsin Statewide Transition Initiative  (WSTI) 
             http://dpi.wi.gov/sped/parent.html
Parents
Board for People with Developmental Disabilities
DAWN - Disability Awareness Wisconsin Network
National Center on Secondary Education and Transition
             http://www.ncset.org/enews/.
Wisconsin Children and Families - WisKids Journal -       
             http://capwiz.com/wccf/mim/signup/.
The Catalyst Center http://hdwg.org/catalyst/.
National Center on Secondary Education and Transition  
                http://www.ncset.org/enews/.

WSPEI and WI FACETS to share statewide information
regarding parent leadership and family involvement.

Parent Leadership Hub:http://wispdg.org/pl/e-news.html
 Just in Time Information (JITI):
                                          http://wispdg.org/pl/res_jit.html
Resources: http://www.wispdg.org/pl/resources.html*
Calendar of Events:  http://wispdg.org/int/pl-cal.html
Multi-Media Workshops, Video and Webcasts: 
                                    http://wispdg.org/pl-multi.html
Product Order Form:  http://wispdg.org/pl/Revised_Parent_Leadership_Hub_Order_Form-9-08.pdf
 The Parent Leadership Hub supports parents/family members, educators and other  community partners to build capacity regarding meaningful family involvement.   The Hub serves three primary purposes:
(1)  To support parents of children with disabilities between birth and 26 years of  age to participate as partners in the professional development activities of each of the other Statewide Initiatives as they design, deliver and support
professional development experiences
(2) To facilitate opportunities for parents/family members to build leadership skills
(3) To provide Content  Focused technical assistance concerning family  involvement
---------------------------------------
PIER is an informational site.  It is not a legal services agency and cannot provide legal advice or legal representation.  Any information contained on this site is not intended as legal or medical advice but only as an informational resource.   This web site was created to inform and educate. The content should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, recommendations, diagnosis or treatment.

You are encouraged to confirm all information with other sources and a physician. If you have health concerns, please call or see a qualified health care provider without delay. . 

We do not endorse any treatments, providers, or product information in this site.    

As with any program - we strongly encourage you to thoroughly check out references.