DNWML Newsletter
Edition #29
April 5, 2024
News & Updates
Nothing About Us Without Us Virtual Film Fest
Register Today
Disability Network Washtenaw Monroe Livingston and Disability Network Southwest Michigan present our 4th Annual Nothing About Us Without Us Virtual Film Festival. After you register, organizers will email you Zoom details for each event that you have signed up for.
FILMS
  • Right to Be Rescued short film and discussion: Tuesday, April 16 from 10 to 11 AM ET
  • We Are the Most Beautiful People | Adults with Disabilities (with filmmaker Zian Chavez) extended clip and discussion: Tuesday, April 16 from 11 AM to 12 PM ET
  • Interview with Hollywood Star Eileen Grubba (with filmmaker Zach Damon) short film and discussion: Tuesday, April 16 from 1 to 2 PM ET
  • Web Join (with filmmaker Grace Cregar) short film and discussion: Tuesday, April 16 from 2 to 3 PM ET
  • Read Me Differently movie and discussion: Wednesday, April 17 from 10 AM to 12 PM ET (Content Note: Outdated and offensive language)
  • Unrest movie + How to Tell Your Personal Disability Story discussion: Wednesday, April 17 from 1 to 4 PM ET (Content Note: Discrimination in healthcare)
  • Crip Camp movie and discussion: Thursday, April 18 from 10 AM to 12:15 PM ET (Content Note: Sex and drugs mentioned)
  • Disability Rights & Justice Presentation and closing discussion: Thursday, April 18 from 1 to 3 PM ET
INFO/REGISTER
Eliot – eliot@dnwml.org or (734) 971-0277 x520
TOTALLY RAD!
Spring Fling Youth Dance
Register Today
Join us for a Totally Rad!
90s-inspired Spring Fling Dance
For disabled youth and young adults:
Ages 14- to 26-years-old
Friday, May 10, 2024
6:00-8:00pm
90s Music ⚡ Cool Crafts ⚡ Rad Snacks
Second Annual
Disability Pride Exhibition
CALL FOR ARTISTS
Show us YOUR PRIDE! What makes you, YOU?
Share the artwork that speaks to your disability experience at a disability-centered gallery space, during Disability Pride month AND our annual Americans with Disabilities Act Celebration Picnic.
Open to all disabled artists, working in all media!*
  • 2D media
  • 3D media
  • Time-based and performance including video, music, poetry, acting, etc.
  • Written word
  • Other–just ask!
Gallery Be
On-site at Disability Network Washtenaw Monroe Livingston
3941 Research Park Dr
Ann Arbor, MI 48108
APPLY BY MAY 19.
Show dates: June 10, 2024 – August 2, 2024
Intersectionality Unleashed:
Amplifying Diverse Voices
Blog #2 – Women + Disability + Advocacy
This April DNWML is highlighting intersectional individuals and organizations addressing Minority Mental Health, Sexual Assault Awareness, and STI prevention. Together, they seek to spark new conversations and build dialogue.
Mental health has and still is not accessible to everyone and trying to access services from trained mental health support can be a burden. Both historically and today, access to mental health support is easier with various kinds of privilege. Many people of color have sought out to change the narrative about addressing mental health concerns, and changing the ways in which services are accessible…
Camp New Horizons RETURNS
Parent & Guardian Info Night
Camp New Horizons is a summer day camp for youth with disabilities, ages 14- to 26-years-old. At Camp New Horizons, campers will make friends, learn new skills, and experience inclusive sports and art programming–and more!
In 2023, we held two week-long camps. Due to popular demand, we’ve added a third week for 2024!
INFO
Tuesday, April 16 @ 6:00 – 7:00pm
Disability Network – Washtenaw Office
3941 Research Park Dr
Ann Arbor, MI 48108
Register below and join us April 16 to learn about:
  • Camp dates
  • Themes/subjects for each week
  • Costs
  • Meet our staff
  • Tour our building
CONTACT
Krystina – krystina@dnwml.org OR (734) 889-9108
FUN FACT
2023 New Horizons Art Week Campers created a mural for our building that was accepted into and will be displayed at the summer-long Embracing Our Differences exhibition at Riverside Park in Ypsilanti!
🍹March Mocktail
Mixer Magnificence🍹
Great Times Had By All
Our first adult mixer was a huge success! It was an evening of enjoyment and peer connection. The 2000’s playlist in the background set the vibe for mixing and mingling with old friends and new.
The Pineapple Mule was our biggest hit, not to mention a very robust and enthusiastic group Jeopardy game while we sipped on our mocktails and chatted the evening away.
We’re looking forward to our next Mix It Up Adult Mixer in August 2024.
Make sure to check your inbox or social media for more details in the future!
Image Descriptions: TOP – A large group of event attendees sits at tables in a conference room, looking at large tv monitor with an interactive Jeopardy game displayed on it. MIDDLE – DNWML staff member, Anna, looks on as a guest makes a drink. BOTTOM – Event attendees sit at tables in our Gathering Space, playing games and drinking mocktails.
Save the Date text graphic.
Tie Dye-namite ADA Celebration text graphic.
Save the Date for our Annual Disability Network
TIE DYE-namite ADA Celebration
34 years since the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act
Friday, July 26, 2024
3:00pm – 7:00pm
Disability Network – Washtenaw Office
3941 Research Park Dr
Ann Arbor, MI 48108
Free Food & Drinks✌️Keynote Speakers
Tie-dye Station✌️Raffle Items
Disability Pride Art Exhibition✌️Crafts
Slime Station✌️ Adaptive Sports
Community Info Tables ✌️Prizes✌️More!
INTERESTED IN MORE INFO?
Organization? Volunteer? Guest?
If you’d like to get involved with our amazing picnic, please contact us ASAP.
✌️ dnwml.org
✌️ (734) 971-0277
SPONSORSHIPS AVAILABLE
Sponsors help make our events possible.
As thanks for your generosity, we promote your business through marketing materials, social media posts, signage, and thank-you goodie basket, and more!
Classes, Events, & Groups
Upcoming Classes
  • April 9, 2024 – SCI Support Group 12:00 pm-1:30 pm at Zoom
  • April 10, 2024 – In-person Art Class: Open Studio 10:00 am-12:00 pm at Washtenaw/Ann Arbor DNWML
  • April 10, 2024 – Washtenaw: Drop-in Computer Lab Hours 11:00 am-3:00 pm at Washtenaw/Ann Arbor DNWML
  • April 10, 2024 – Monroe: Drop-in Computer Lab Hours 11:30 am-3:30 pm at Monroe DNWML
  • April 11, 2024 – ASL Virtual Theatre Workshop 1:00 pm-2:00 pm at Zoom
  • April 12, 2024 – General Support Group 3:00 pm-4:00 pm at Washtenaw/Ann Arbor DNWML
  • April 15, 2024 – In-person Art Class: Guided Sessions 1:00 pm-3:00 pm at Washtenaw/Ann Arbor DNWML
  • April 16, 2024 – In-person Community Art Class 10:00 am-11:30 am at Monroe Crossroads Clubhouse
  • April 16, 2024 – In-person Community Art Class 1:00 pm-2:30 pm at Monroe Fairview
  • April 17, 2024 – In-person Art Class: Open Studio 10:00 am-12:00 pm at Washtenaw/Ann Arbor DNWML
  • April 17, 2024 – Washtenaw: Drop-in Computer Lab Hours 11:00 am-3:00 pm at Washtenaw/Ann Arbor DNWML
  • April 17, 2024 – Monroe: Drop-in Computer Lab Hours 11:30 am-3:30 pm at Monroe DNWML
  • April 18, 2024 – Delishability Cooking Class 12:30 pm-2:00 pm at Washtenaw/Ann Arbor Office DNWML
For ALL of your favorite programming and groups…
Find them on our DNWML Calendar!
Where you can:
  • See event details
  • Register for classes and events
  • Contact facilitators
  • Download it to your personal calendar
  • And more!
Support
REMINDER Applications OPEN for
John Weir Academic Scholarship
We invite all students with disabilities enrolling in their first or second year of college during the school year to apply for the John Weir Academic Scholarship, named in honor of one of the Center for Independent Living founders.
ELIGIBILITY
For new applicants, to be eligible for the John Weir Scholarship, you must:
  • Have a significant disability of any kind – for example, physical, visual, developmental, cognitive, hearing, learning, emotional, or other;
  • Live in Washtenaw, Livingston, or Monroe County, Michigan; and
  • Plan to attend, be starting, or in the first two years of a 2- or 4-year college, university, or trade school program.
*A scholarship recipient is eligible for a renewal of their scholarship for an additional year if they are entering their 2nd year of a 2- or 4-year colleague, university, or trade school program.
DEADLINES
  • All application materials MUST be completed online or postmarked by Monday, April 15, 2024.
  • Awardees will be announced by May 15, 2024.
INFO/CONTACT
Andrea – andrea@dnwml.org
DNWML Tech Desk / Computer Lab
Open Hours at Washtenaw Office
The 21st Century Assistive Technology Program from DNWML is here to help you get online, use your device, and make it accessible for you and your unique needs!
Our Tech Desk hours are your chance to talk to one of our technology specialists, no appointment needed!
Bring in your portable device (such as a laptop or smartphone) and we can assist in the following ways:
  • Understanding common applications like Email and Microsoft Office
  • Finding and activating low-cost home internet
  • Exploring your AT needs and enabling accessibility settings
INFO
WASHTENAW OFFICE
Wednesdays
11:00am – 3:00pm
CONTACT
Eliot – eliot@dnwml.org
Seeking Volunteers for
Disability Awareness Workshops
Image descriptions: TOP – A man in a wheelchair talks to students at a table. MIDDLE – a student balances on a balance board, with their legs restricted. A volunteer is about to throw a ball to the student. BOTTOM – students navigate a path in wheelchairs, outside.
Your knowledge, and willingness to share your experiences as a person with a disability are needed for the Disability Awareness Workshop (DAW) that Disability Network runs for elementary school children in their schools.
The Disability Awareness Workshop is primarily geared towards 4th graders (9-10 years) and is a hands-on experience that aims to encourage an empathetic understanding of physical, developmental, and learning difficulties. Students also learn about the complexity of daily life for individuals with disabilities, as well as also how innovative and resourceful they are at finding solutions.
DAW WEBSITE
SCHEDULE
Workshops are scheduled over the next 5 months and you can sign up for as many or as few as you want to.
INFO/CONTACT
Karen – karen@dnwml.org OR
(734) 971-0277 ext. 430
DNWML Fitness Center OPEN
By Appointment
The Fitness Center at DNWML Washtenaw Office is now open by appointment only. Please note, Fitness Center appointments have a maximum of 2 hours AND for safety reason, a minimum of two people MUST be scheduled for the same appointment.
Schedule your appointment today!
CONTACT
In-person Office Hours in Livingston
at Michigan Works
Now Livingston residents have a location in Howell to meet with us on a weekly basis! Please note that if there is inclement weather we may not be available in person.
WHERE
Michigan Works Southeast Office
1200 Byron Rd.
Howell, MI 48843
Next to Trinity Livingston Hospital
WHEN
Most Mondays, 11:30am – 5:00pm
INFO
Mark – mark@dnwml.org OR 517-586-0233
DNWML Loan Closet
The DNWML is happy to provide individuals with disability-related equipment at no cost. Equipment availability, color, brand, or style may vary. Our loan closet’s inventory is dependent upon new or gently-used donations.
Equipment includes (but might not be limited to:)
  • Wheelchairs
  • Reacher/grabber tools
  • Shower chairs
  • Tub transfer chairs
  • Walkers
  • Canes
  • Rollator walkers
  • And more!
Other items are considered on a case-by-case basis.
INFO
Washtenaw/Livingston: Dana – dana@dnwml.org
Monroe: Krystina – krystina@dnwml.org
Monroe Food Pantry
Open to Monroe County residents.
Located at our Monroe Office:
15515 S Dixie Hwy
Monroe, MI 48161
Walk-ins welcome!
Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday
9:00am – 2:00pm
If you’d like to support our food pantry, please consider making a financial donation on our website!
INFO
Tara – tara@dnwml.org OR
(734) 682 – 5271
Nursing Facility Transition Assistance
We are working closely with facilities to help folks who will no longer qualify for Medicaid in nursing facilities.
If you or anyone you know are currently working with a nursing facility in our three-county service area, please share what you know about the NFT program along with our contact information!
INFO
NFT Team – nft@dnwml.org
American Dream Employment Network Member logo. Simple yellow sun with rays on top of blue lettering.
American Dream Employment Network
DNWML is a member of the American Dream Employment Network (ADEN). ADEN is a national administrative Employment Network providing services to individuals receiving Social Security Administration (SSA) disability benefits under the Ticket to Work program. For individuals receiving SSA disability benefits, the return to gainful employment can be complicated and challenging. As a new Member of ADEN, we want to invite all of our current customers/clients who are receiving Social Security disability benefits to explore assigning your Ticket to Work.
To read and hear about success stories of ADEN Participants improving their financial situation, visit:
INFO
Tennery – tennery@dnwml.org OR (734) 889-9110
Community Resources
Movement & Meditation Class
Heather’s movement classes focus on somatic meditation, intriguing improvisations, and creative choreography for the disabled and non-disabled community!
Every Thursday at 7:00pm on Zoom
Cost is $10-30, sliding fee
Check out Heather’s website and learn more about her classes and mission here: 
Apprenticeship Fair
Join us at our highly anticipated Apprenticeship Fair! This event presents an incredible opportunity for job seekers of all ages to connect with leading companies, organizations and training programs to explore a wide range of career options. Don’t miss out on this fantastic chance to kick-start your professional journey!
Why attend? Connect with local companies offering apprenticeship opportunities. Explore diverse and in demand career options.
Who should attend? Youth and high school aged students exploring career options. Adults seeking career advancement or change.
2024 Miller Family Open
The 2024 Miller Family Open brought to you by the Adaptive Student Athlete Program sponsored by Guardian.
Calling all athletes, coaches, volunteers, officials, and track and field enthusiasts! We are hosting University of Michigan’s inaugural adaptive track and field meet at the U-M Track & Field Stadium from June 28th – 30th. The event will feature three divisions of competition: high school, collegiate, and open (18+).
Sign-up now to take advantage of our early registration (closes 04/30/24). All registration closes on 06/03/24.
The mission of Disability Network Washtenaw Monroe Livingston is to empower the lives of people with disabilities and to advocate for a more inclusive community for all.