Program areas at Disability Rights Wisconsin
Legal protection and advocacy (p&a) system: employs legal means to protect the personal and civil Rights of persons with intellectual/developmental disabilities, physical disabilities, sensory impairments, and mental illness. Individual advocacy services include info and referral, guidance in self-advocacy, investigation, negotiation, mediation, or representation in legal proceedings. The p&a works to create positive systemic changes in programs and policies affecting persons with disabilities. The p&a offers training on a variety of Disability related topics to individuals with disabilities, family members, and professionals.
Disability benefit specialists (dbs): dbs located in each county and serving tribal nations throughout wi help people with disabilities age 18-59 to understand and access public and private benefits. Dbs works with people to avoid common errors by explaining benefits eligibility, appeal options, and deadlines, filling out paperwork, gathering documents, and supporting legal representation for those who require a hearing. Drw's dbs attorney support provides ongoing training, technical assistance, and case oversight to all dbss.
The family care and iris ombudsman program (fciop): provides advocacy to adults under age 60 enrolled in Wisconsin's long-term care programs. The state of Wisconsin contracts with drw to provide participants with an independent advocate.