DNWML Impact Report 2024-2025
Services Provided
People Served
Guests at our
Annual Americans with Disabilities Act Celebrations
Letter from the Director
Dear Friends, Partners, and Community Members,
This year asked a lot of all of us. Even through uncertainty, our community showed what resilience truly looks like. I’m deeply grateful for everyone who helped uphold the Independent Living values that guide our work—dignity, choice, and the belief that people with disabilities deserve every opportunity to live full, self-directed lives.
One of the biggest challenges we faced wasn’t just the state budget, but the unpredictable shifts in public policy that touch every part of our community. At one point, Centers for Independent Living were facing the possibility of a devastating 40% funding cut. While that scenario didn’t come to pass, we did see a significant six-figure reduction to our state line item. Combined with ongoing national threats to key supports like Medicaid, we were forced to make thoughtful and difficult decisions—always with our mission at the center.
In the midst of this, our community stepped up. Your support helped steady the ground beneath us. We strengthened our organization by launching the MI Options Counseling program, and as we prepare for our 50th anniversary in 2026, we are continuing to broaden our funding base. To everyone who contributed this year—thank you. Your support made a real difference when it mattered most.
Our commitment to accessibility and justice remains unwavering. We focused our advocacy on the issues that shape daily life—Transportation, Housing, and the Direct Care Workforce. We also hosted a moving event on the history of Willowbrook, a stark reminder of why the Independent Living movement exists and why this work continues to be so urgent.
This year required creativity, partnership, and trust. Our community rose to the occasion, and because of that, our foundation is strong. As we look ahead, I invite you to stay engaged with us. Your involvement fuels independence, strengthens our mission, and ensures that everyone in our region can thrive.
Thank you for standing with us.
With gratitude,
Lewis A. Gossage
Executive Director DNWML
Our Numbers
Funding By Revenue Source
State and Federal Funding: 55%
Disability Network Programs: 30%
Donations: 10%
Other: 5%
Total Expenses
Program & Services for Our Community: 90%
Fund Development/Administrative Costs: 10%
Disability Demographics
Cognitive: 11.2%
Mental/Emotional: 21.1%
Physical: 23.9%
Multiple Disabilities: 2.4%
Hearing: 1.7%
Vision: 3.2%
Other: 19.1%
Ally*: 17.4%
*Community members who may have reached out on behalf of a disabled family member or friend or may not consider themselves disabled.
Ages* Served
Under 5: 6
6-19 years: 149
27-59 years: 417
60-100 years: 257
*Based on known ages of those served.
Percentage Served by County
Washtenaw: 42.1%
Monroe: 40.7%
Livingston: 10.1%
Other Michigan Counties: 6.7%
Other Non-Michigan: 0.4%
Our Work
Every day, we empower individuals with disabilities to live fuller, more meaningful lives. Through personalized support, advocacy, and a wide range of programs, we help each person achieve their fullest potential, build new skills, and find a true sense of belonging.
As a dynamic community enrichment and advocacy center, we offer individualized counseling, skill-building classes, arts and recreation programs, and more. Our goal is to create a place where individuals with disabilities can connect with others, advocate for their needs, and thrive in a supportive environment.
Proudly serving people across Southeast Michigan, we impact the lives of individuals with disabilities, their families, and the wider community. Together, we create a stronger, more inclusive world.
Arts & Recreation Programming
Making up over 10% of services provided, DNWML offers a wide array of recreational activities and creative experiences, providing opportunities for participants to explore new interests and enjoy time with friends in a supportive, relaxed environment. We regularly collaborate with other organizations to bring fresh, engaging opportunities to our community.
Accessibility & Education
This year, we completed 48 community awareness and education services, including ADA and accessibility consulting, programs and workshops, walk-throughs, accessibility audits, Disability Awareness Workshops (DAWs), and ongoing accessibility support.
Career Services
At DNWML, we provide consumer-driven employment programming to empower individuals with disabilities to make informed decisions about working while living with a disability. Our services are designed to support career development, skill-building, and job placement.
Community & Individual Advocacy
The Disability Community Action Lab (DCAL) is a collective of community members who work together to identify issues, gather information, and take action to make a meaningful difference in the disability community. Through advocacy, we amplify voices and create positive change.
Community Transition Services
Our Community Transition Program helps nursing facility residents explore and transition to community-based living options. Funded through Medicaid, this program offers support to individuals who wish to move out of institutional settings and into independent living environments.
Independent Living Skills Development
Information & Referral Services
Peer Support
Youth Summer Camps
Our Community
At the heart of our work are the individuals whose lives we strive to uplift and empower every day. In this section, we are proud to share the stories of community members who have experienced firsthand the difference our support can make. These powerful narratives highlight the resilience, strength, and creativity of people with disabilities, and showcase how, together, we are breaking down barriers and creating a more inclusive world. Each story is a testament to the positive change DNWML is helping to bring about.
Carson's Story
Amy's Story
Annie’s Story
Adaptive Technology
Transcript
Hi, I’m Annie Goode. I’m a client in Washtenaw County. I was referred by Renee Echols and I needed some technology assistance and she referred me to Eliot Carter. I’ve received great help because my vision is very, very low and I’ve received help with my phone, technical assistance with the computer, and I’m looking forward to other programs. And it has helped me on this journey, this new journey, that I am on. Because I used to have 20/20 vision and it is a challenge not to be able to see.
And I’ve learned so many things with the accessibility and other things that were offered to me. And I am so grateful. There are so many resources that are available here and I am so grateful and thankful.
Daniel’s Story
“I came to Disability Network (DNWML) because I needed support with navigating finding affordable and stable housing while having housing barriers. Celleste helped me with finding housing applications, support completing them, gathering required documentation, and directions for submitting my applications. Amy assisted me with getting my food assistance benefits, support with applying for Medicaid, and updating all my Social Security information.
My life has improved in several areas. Because of the support and kindness I received from the Monroe Office, my mental health has improved. I have more happy days because there has been a huge weight lifted off my shoulders. My self-worth and confidence with living with a disability is so much stronger. I am excited and blessed to be moving in my own affordable apartment.”
Kensington Metropark Work Based Learning Experience
“I can speak on behalf of the group and share that it was truly a pleasure to partner with your Team this Summer at Kensington Metropark. Your team of 6 young adults and job trainers worked hard every day at Kensington to improve the visitor experience. The list of responsibilities they were involved in included trail brush trimming, litter pickup, shelter routine maintenance, gardening, and more.
They maintained a positive attitude and were respectful to Metropark staff and park visitors. Their involvement this Summer also freed up our staff time to focus on project we couldn’t otherwise complete. We hope to continue this successful partnership in the future!”
Jim O’Brien
Western District Superintendent of Kensington Metropark
“I had a fun time working. I like talking to new friends. They are nice. I have money! I love people. I love to work hard everyday. I like when my boss talks to me. I love to talk to the girls and I will work next summer. I am so excited I will see everyone again.”
Kate M.
Program Participant
Community Partners
“I just wanted to reach out to sincerely thank you for the opportunity to table [at the ADA Celebration] on Saturday and share more about Best Buddies Michigan.
We made so many meaningful connections, and the buddies who joined me had an absolute blast! It was incredibly empowering for them to share their experiences with a new audience—they’re already asking when the next tabling opportunity will be.
Thank you again for including us and for your continued support. Hope to see you again soon!”
Lydia Goff
Lead, Program Manager at Best Buddies Michigan
“We had a great experience working with the staff from Disability Network on Digital Skills Training programs at the Ann Arbor District Library. They presented information that met the needs of our patrons, including access to technology for people with disabilities, how to be successful using the internet as a senior or person with disabilities, and how to avoid technology based scams. The staff was knowledgeable, professional, and took time to answer questions as they arose. We appreciated working with them and hope to do so again!”
Katie Monkiewicz
Supportive Services Supervisor at Ann Arbor District Library
Donor Support
We are deeply grateful to the individuals, foundations, and organizations whose generosity has made our work possible. Your unwavering support enables us to continue creating meaningful change in the communities we serve. Thanks to you, we are able to expand our reach, deepen our impact, and bring our mission to life. Every gift—whether large or small—plays a vital role in driving the success of our mission. Together, we are supporting and advocating for the disability community. Thank you for being an essential part of this journey.
Special thank you to our U of M football season parkers!
Albert Chan
Alex Gossage
Amy Johnson
Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation
Anna Dusbiber
Anthony Bruant
Atlas Home Safety
Ben & Christine Hunholz
Bob & Gail Henry
Boxin Zhang
Carrozza Pizza
Carson & Melissa Gallagher
Caryss Baldwin
Chad Wiebesick
Charlotte Miller
Chris Gelso
Christina Lirones
Claire Moore
Cliff & Ingrid Sheldon
Coach Jeremy Sports LLC
Cornerstone Design
Danny White
Darry & Tobi Dusbiber
David & Jill Esau
Dawn Northrup
Destination Ann Arbor
Disability Rights Michigan
Djamel Bouzit
Dr. Ferranmi Okanlami
Dr. Katharine Seagly
First Unitarian Universalist
Francis Tinney
Francisco Vaca
GEM
Geraldine Allen
Give Lively Foundation
Ink Spot Design
James & Barbara Leonard
James Walter
Jodi Kreschmer
Joe Slowins
Joel Bailey
Johanna Mabry
Judy Robertson
Julie Angeli
Julie Murtha
Kappa Phi Lambda Sorority
Katy Held
Key Bank
Krystina Johnson
Laura Lagerquist
Lindsey Banks
Lions Club
Livingston Civitan Club
Marcia & Chuck Seigerman
Martin Forchheimer & Nancy Firestone
Martin Lipton
Maureen Forrest
Michael Taylor
Mothfire Brewing Company
Next Day Access
Noah Kaplan
Noble Dog
Paul Royal
Peng Franchise
Philip & Barbara Zaret
Philip Zazove & Barb Reed
Rebecca Lewis
Rick & Gretchen Weir
RRAF
Sage Solutions
Sarah Conner
Scott Zeigler
Shelly Banet
St. Paul’s Episcopal
Superior Van & Mobility
Susan Sowder
Terry Frye
The Ride
Thomas Haffner
United Way of Southeastern Michigan
Washtenaw ISD
Yaroslava Nechaeva
Donate Today
At DNWML, we are dedicated to providing vital programs and resources that help individuals with disabilities thrive. From classes and groups to support for essential services, we are committed to removing barriers and fostering a more inclusive community for everyone. Your generous donation makes a direct impact on our community.
Donate today and be a part of creating a world where everyone has the tools to succeed. Together, we can make a lasting difference!
Quick Donate
Volunteer Support
Beyond monetary donations, the donation of one’s time is invaluable to our organization. Thank you so much to our incredible volunteers!
Alvorada
Amy Johnson
Chase Gifford
Coach Abbey
Coach Brian
Douglas Sieloff
Guy Mattinson
John Walker
Katharine Wiyokovicks
Know Obstacles
Sabrina Lomax
Samantha Crump
Maiyah Devenport
Maja Garcia
Sue Gossage
Trumpet John