Disability Networklakeshore

To support the determination of individuals with disabilities to lead dignified, independent lives and to heighten community awareness of physical & social barriers which restrict independence. Fiscal year 2023 significant outcomes include, but are not limited to: community outcomes: 20 private, public, government and nonprofit entities increased their physical or programmatic accessibility 7 municipalities received technical assistance about titles ii of the ada 1,701 hours of community education and public information and 259 hours of community and systems advocacy led to increased community awareness, access and availability of supports to community-based independent living. 11 employers from local employer networks and chambers of commerce were provided with deia training and educated about inclusive employment and the value and employability of people with disabilities in the workplace. Individual outcomes: 843 individuals received a total of 3,264 information and referral services and acquired increased access to desired knowledge, goods,services and the supports necessary for enhanced independence and community-based living. Through peer support & mentoring, 57 consumers developed or maintained natural and other community-based supports. 63 individuals acquired desired independent living skills and outcomes for independent living. Through individual advocacy efforts, 24 individuals acquired access to benefits, services and programs to which they were entitled. 92 consumers reported increasing their self-help/self-advocacy skills. 263 individuals attained access to previously unavailable assistive technology, health care or transportation. Provided employment-related services and educated 100 Michigan rehabilitation services customers about Disability network/lakeshorNetworklakeshorere and other community-based services. 89 individuals received necessary assistive technology and/or durable medical equipment through the assistive technology loan fund or disablity network/lakeshorNetworklakeshorere loan closet. Through community transitions services, 4 nursing facility residents transitioned from a nursing facility to community-based living options of their choice; 9 persons at-risk for institutionalization attained diversion-related outcomes; 27 post-high school youth assisted with transition to post-secondary education vocational training, independent living and/or community participation. As referred from Michigan rehabilitation services (107) and Michigan bureau of services for blind persons (13), 120 total eligible youth received pre-employment transition services and were educated about the world and reality of work. 37 youth participated in paid summer work experiences in allegan and ottawa counties.