It’s been 32 years since the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act, and while so much has changed, creating truly accessible communities takes time. It also takes a combination of resources and initiatives from organizations across our state and country. That’s where our CILs come in. From raising awareness and reducing intrinsic bias to connecting residents with career support, home modification assistance, life planning, and more, each CIL provides valuable services that make independent living possible today while we work to achieve a more accessible tomorrow. This month’s issue recaps the incredible events and opportunities organized by our CILs and helps us make the most of summer this August with more great events and educational opportunities.
SILC is also seeking new council members! If you are passionate about creating a more accessible Michigan and serving our residents and communities, learn more about our council or submit an application today.
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July Recap
Celebrating ADA Day Across Michigan
Our CILs and partners held celebrations across Michigan to recognize the importance of this law and for some much-needed social engagement. From picnics in the park to family-friendly activities and live music, our celebrations were memorable and exciting. Check out the great photos captured by participants and CIL staff!
Remembering Mike Zelley
Mike Zelley was a devoted advocate for disability rights at every level, a community leader, and co-founder and former President of The Disability Network. He also served as the Chair of the National Task Force on Technology and Disability, where he spearheaded the implementation of 20+ national disability-related policies. He was also a prior Chair of the Michigan Civil Rights Commission, the statewide MIJOB Coalition, and a participant on countless boards, committees, and councils in Flint and Genesee County. We are devastated by his loss and grateful for his lifelong commitment to people with disabilities. Our condolences are with Mike’s wife, Lana, and his family. The Disability Network intends to name its new building in honor of Mike, and his family has designated TDN as the recipient of memorial contributions. Make a gift in honor of Mike here.
The Philosophy of Independent Living
Our approach to independent living is based on four key concepts: choice, control, freedom, and equality. Our CILs, partners, Statewide Plan for Independent Living, and day-to-day operations focus on promoting these concepts and helping people live the lives they envision. Learn more about the origins of this philosophy at The Independent Living Institute.
Mosaic @ SVSU
There’s still time to see Mosaic, an inclusive art exhibition at Marshall M. Fredericks Museum at Saginaw Valley State University! Running through August 27th, the exhibition features and celebrates art created by community members with and without disabilities on 16 x 20 canvases. Learn more or plan your visit at marshallfredericks.org/mosaic
Michigan Alliance for Families
The Michigan Alliance for Families provides information, referral, education, mentorship, and more to Michigan families who have children with disabilities and/or who receive or are eligible for special education services. They are instrumental in helping residents support their children in achieving their educational goals. Connect with the Michigan Alliance for Families at www.michiganallianceforfamilies.org
Great Lakes Loan Closets
For people in need of durable medical equipment and mobility aids temporarily, Great Lakes Loan Closets provide connections to local organizations that offer no- or low-cost equipment loans. Find a resource near you at loanclosets.org/michigan
Steve Locke
SILC's Executive Director, Steve Locke, has been a committed advocate for people with disabilities since growing up with two siblings with significant disabilities. He worked with Disability Network Mid-Michigan from 2006-2019, was appointed to the MISILC council by Governor Granholm and a MISILC council member for six years, and is now MISILC's Executive Director. When he's not helping MISILC create a more inclusive and accessible Michigan, he enjoys spending time with his husband and raising rescued Great Danes and English Mastiffs.
Jamia Davis
Jamia Davis is the Secretary of the MISILC Executive Committee and is eager to use her skills and empathy to help other people with disabilities thrive. A graduate of Western Michigan University Cooley Law School, Jamia received one of just two Leadership Achievement Awards for her graduating class. She completed her internship in Estate Planning, including powers of attorney and guardianship matters, and was recently admitted to the Michigan Bar Association. She enjoys spending time with her family and friends, traveling, volunteering, and going to concerts.
Glen Ashlock
Glen Ashlock is a SILC Board Member and the Assistive Technology Manager at the Region 2 Area Agency on Aging. He has spent more than 30 years teaching classes and working with individuals with a wide range of disabilities to provide assistive technology services and increase safety and independence. As a member of the Athletes with Disabilities Hall of Fame both individually and with the Michigan Thunderbirds, he is a strong advocate for sports opportunities for people with disabilities. Glen earned an MS in Biomedical Engineering from the University of Michigan and is a RESNA-certified Assistive Technology Professional. Glen is married and enjoys cycling and boating with his family.
Inclusive Kayaking Workshops with Disability Network Eastern Michigan on August 4th in Shelby Township and August 12th in Leonard, Michigan from 3:00 pm to 8:00 pm (kayaking sessions are 90 minutes long). All abilities are welcome, no kayak experience is necessary, and all supplies will be provided. Register for Shelby Township here or for Leonard here.
My Personal Protection Plan (MyP3) emergency planning seminars with Disability Network Mid-Michigan. August 4th, 10th, and 18th from 1:00 pm-3:00 pm. In seminar one, create an action plan and support network, then pack your “go kit” and make an evacuation plan in part two, and finally, focus on personal safety and advanced care directives in session three. Register at the link here.
DiversAbility Day in Oakland County, August 5th from 11:00 am-3:00 pm. Try adaptive sports including archery, kayaking, bicycling, pontoon boating, cornhole, and geocaching. Learn more or register here!
DiversAbility Day in Oakland County, August 5th from 11:00 am-3:00 pm. Try adaptive sports including archery, kayaking, bicycling, pontoon boating, cornhole, and geocaching. Learn more or register at the link here!
Webinar: Disability Language & Etiquette, August 11th from 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM. The language we use is powerful and can reveal hidden assumptions we might not realize we have. This webinar allows participants to explore new ideas, ask questions in a safe environment, and challenge assumptions about what it means to live with a disability. Learn more or register at the link here!
Raise money and go “Over the Edge” On August 20th with Disability Network Flint & Genesee! Take the leap for independence and help us meet our $80,000 fundraising goal to support people with disabilities in our county. Participants who raise $500 with the help of friends and family can rappel down the side of the Durant Luxury Apartments on August 20, 2022! Learn more and sign up here.
WebMovie: The “R” Word, August 24th from 3:00 pm-4:30 pm. The R-Word documentary film confronts the word retard(ed) through the stories, hopes, and dreams of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their siblings. Register at WebMovie: The “R” Word | Disability Network Southwest Michigan (dnswm.org)
