Tuesday, October 18
Keynote:
Have you thought about writing a book? Hear from some amazing Wisconsin self-advocates that have done just that. They will share their stories and insight on how they got their book published.
Moderator: Ashley Mathy
Is a well-known speaker around the state of Wisconsin advocating for people with special needs. She has been interviewed on TV, Radio, and Newspaper on multiple occasions to provide her insights on the importance of employment and education.
Cindy Bentley is the Executive Director of People First Wisconsin and one of Wisconsin’s most inspirational leaders and activists. Born with an intellectual disability as the result of fetal alcohol syndrome, Cindy Bentley spent much of her childhood at the Southern Wisconsin Center for the Developmentally Disabled. No one expected her to learn the skills necessary to live on her own, but she did and then accomplished so much more. Cindy co-authored her book as part of the Wisconsin Historical Society’ Badger Biography Series.
Spirit of a Champion is the story of Cindy’s life, from her childhood in the institution, to her adventures with Special Olympics to meeting presidents. Chosen as a Global Messenger for the Special Olympics International in 2000, Cindy had dinner at the White House with two different American presidents, traveled around the world, and gave speeches in front of thousands of people.
Jesse Horn was diagnosed with autism at age 3. He learned visually through VCR tapes and in 2006, Jesse saw a TV commercial for a set of cups called “Speed Stacks.” The commercial showed how to stack these 12 specially designed cups in specific pyramids. Today, he
is a world champion sport cup stacker, a motivational speaker, and author. His goal is to help others who struggle with disabilities.
Stacked Against the Odds Written in his own words, Jesse walks us through his darkest times and greatest victories as an autistic person who became a world champion sport cup stacker and motivational speaker!
Lindsey Moreland is a young woman with autism who is an author and artist. She has written two children’s books that shine a light on autism and plans to write additional books in the “Little Lindsey” series. She also co-authored a book with family members aimed at helping families with autistic members. She loves her job at Target where she is one of their Spanish-speaking team members.
Autism: A family Lives Beyond the Label. The Lindsey Moreland Story is a story of a family dealing with the uncertainty and struggles of raising a child with autism. Lindsey and other family members contributed their own perspective in hopes it will support other families.
Little Lindsey is a Picky Eater and her family tries to convince her to eat. However, little Lindsey has autism. She is not trying to be difficult. It also makes some foods feel YUCKY in her mouth and smell FUNNY. This story shows how a family will do everything possible to help their child with autism live and thrive in a world she doesn’t always understand. The other in this series is Little Lindsey’s Haircut.
It’s a New Life: Mom is Gone is a raw, honest, and endearing story. Steven writes movingly about the death of his mother, about the humiliations of ordinary life, his hopes and dreams and his adjustment to living in a group home.
Steven has written a total of five books!
Steven Salmon as a published author with Cerebral Palsy, Steven gives us a very personal in-depth look at his life. Steven is unable to use his hands and uses morse code to write, tapping out letters using his head. He often spends 10 to 12 hours a day writing 4 to 5 words a minute. Steven has a Bachelor of Science in English from the University of Wisconsin Stevens Point. He also has an associate degree from Madison College where he freelances as a writing assistant.
10:00 a.m. – 10:45 a.m.
Networking Break and Exhibitors Corner
10:45 a.m. – 12:15 a.m.
Really Good Learning Sessions 1 – 8
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Presenters: Wendy Maher, Pam Malin, Transition Students
Boundaries are an important part of our relationships. At work we have different boundaries than at home and in the community. How do you make friends at work? Can you date someone you work with? How do we meet people in the community? In this session we will use activities and role-play to practice setting strong boundaries and identify tools to help stay safe.
Or Dial in: (312) 626-6799
Meeting ID: 82977126315
Session 1: Tips for Grant Writing
Presenters: Stephenie Mlodzik and Jenny Neugart
This session will give self-advocates, families, and small nonprofit organizations tips on how to apply for grants. We’ll talk about where to look for grant opportunities, and how to answer questions on a grant application to give your project the best chance of being funded.
Click Here for Session Materials
Or Dial in: (669) 254-5252
Meeting ID: 161 776 4721
Session 2: Empowering all Voices:
Plain Language in Advocacy Room: Africa 20
Presenters: Sydney Badeau, Molly Cooney, Beth Gaytan, and Stan Hudson
Plain language is clear communication that people understand the first time they read or hear it. Learn how to use plain language to advocate effectively. Learn plain language techniques you can use right away with practical exercises. In small groups, you will practice using plain language and other strategies to advocate for yourself and others.
Click Here for Session Materials
Click Here for Session Materials
Or Dial in: (669) 254-5252
Meeting ID: 160 720 6676
Session 3: Fearless Future Planning
Presenters: Lauren Dettmer, Virginia Harrison, and Sam Katz
Start the conversation with your loved one and your family on what happens when the current primary caregiver is no longer able to provide the care. Learn about the conversations that should be had and how to work with your family.
Click Here for Session Materials
Click Here for Session Materials
Or Dial in: (669) 254-5252
Meeting ID: 161 463 4956
Session 4: Coaching from the Sidelines
Presenters: Cindy Bentley, Matt Frisinger, and Tasia Pinkham
Learn about best practices for job coaches to support people with disabilities in the workplace. You’ll also learn how to express your needs at work and figuring out the right job for you.
Or Dial in: (669) 254-5252
Meeting ID: 16 0672 4411
Session 5: Staying Connected:
Building Relationships Room:
Presenters: Sally Flaschberger and Emily Savage
Want to learn how to stay connected with friends and build new connections? Map your relationships to work on a plan for including new connections and finding new activities in your community.
Or Dial in: (669) 254-5252
Meeting ID: 161 743 9406
Session 6: Self-Determination in Michigan:
A Look Across the Lake Room: Africa 60
Presenters: Annette Downey and John Toppi
Michigan and Wisconsin have historically learned from each other: following each other’s promising practices, paying attention to lessons learned, and working to avoid potential missteps. Let’s check-in to see what has transpired over recent years.
Or Dial in: 669 444 9171
Meeting ID: 843 0523 4286
Session 7: Podcast-In Real Life
Presenters: Marilee Adamski-Smith, Holly Carmichael, and Dominika Tamley
Podcasts are another way you can tell your story. A podcast is much like a radio show that you can listen to whenever you like. Attending this session, you will understand how you are able to tell your story through a podcast. You will experience a podcast in real life and learn key points to telling your story.
Session 8: YouTube Channel Story Studio
Not available virtually
12:15 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Lunch & BPDD 50th Anniversary Presentation
and Networking Break
The Wisconsin Board for People with Developmental Disabilities (BPDD) is celebrating its 50th Anniversary. Join us during lunch for a celebration of achievements and self-determination!
1:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Really Good Learning Sessions 9 – 16
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Presenters: Hunter Markel, Tim Markle, and Lauren Tierney
Taking charge of your health is an important step toward becoming an adult. When you are healthy, you can go to work and school. We’ll hear the story of how a team of people can help youth with I/DD learn about how to be healthy and take charge of their healthcare. You’ll learn about when and how to get started taking charge of your healthcare.
Click Here for Session Materials
Or Dial in: (312) 626-6799
Meeting ID: 86081347681
Session 9: Living Beyond the Label
Presenters: Brittany Moreland, Lauri Moreland, and Lindsey Moreland
Living Beyond the Label is an interactive session which will leave its participants with a new self-awareness of what labels mean to people and tools to help individuals manage mental health and look at labels differently.
Click Here for Session Materials
Or Dial in: (669) 254-5252
Meeting ID: 161 262 8278
Session 10: Let’s Get High-Tech!
Presenters: Stacy Ellingen, David Scribbins, and Stacey Wargowsky
Hear from self-advocates sharing their experience with technology and how technology has greatly increased their independence and connection to their community. Learn tips on technology resources and how to go about exploring different technology solutions!
Click Here for Session Materials
Or Dial in: (669) 254-5252
Meeting ID: 161 016 0393
Session 11: Community Integrated Living
Presenters: Kathryne Auerback, Tony Freiburg, and Stefanie Primm
Hear one renter’s strategies for long-term success. Learn what to consider when moving into your own supported, community integrated place, and options for renting or purchasing your own home.
Or Dial in: (669) 254-5252
Meeting ID: 160 493 8710
Session 12: A Seat at the Table
Presenters: Keith Jones, Delores Sallis, and Jeanette Walker
Organizations often have Boards of Directors. Board members are people who care about the mission of the organization who guide and help make decisions for the group. Learn how to get involved on Boards and why it is important for people with disabilities to get involved.
Or Dial in: (669) 254-5252
Meeting ID: 161 111 8161
Session 13: Living my BEST Life
Presenters: Julie Strenn and Self-Advocate
Use the power of relationships and technology to help you live your best life in their community. Learn how technology can help individuals live independently in their own homes. There will be hands-on activities to demonstrate how you can use apps or other technology to maximize your independence.
Click Here for Session Materials
Or Dial in: (669) 254-5252
Meeting ID: 161 922 8428
Session 14: The Unique LGBTQ+ Voices Within Our Communities
Presenter: Christie Carter
Learn LGBTQ+ terminology, ways to discuss sexual orientation and gender identity and feelings surrounding sexuality in our communities, as well as resources of support for individuals, parents, and guardians.
Click Here for Session Materials
Or Dial in: (669) 254-5252
Meeting ID: 870 6486 4123
Session 15: The Dangers of Lead Poisoning
Presenter: Shyquetta McElroy and Nathan James
Shy’s son, Nathan, is living with lead poisoning. They have had to learn a lot on this journey. Shy will educate families about the dangers of lead poisoning and present tools they need to live with the disabilities lead poison causes. Learn how to prevent lead poison at home, how to use your voice to bring awareness to this crisis, and support for lead poisoned children and adults.
Session 16: YouTube Channel Story Studio
Not available virtually
3:00 p.m. – 3:45 p.m.
Networking Break and Exhibitors Corner
3:45 p.m. – 4:15 p.m.
Really Good Learning Sessions 17 – 24
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Presenters: Nekita Krisko, Stephenie Mlodzik, Nathan Ruffolo
Self-advocates and disability service professionals discuss relationships and the road to marriage. The topics covered include the lived experience of panelists, a review of the marriage penalties for people with disabilities, planning options, and current workarounds related to disability benefits, policy updates, action steps, and a Q&A session. Whether you are curious about this topic, want to advocate for marriage and disability rights issues, or simply want to share information and learn more, this session is for you. Join us, and let’s
have a conversation!
Click Here for Session Materials
Click Here for Session Materials
Click Here for Session Materials
Or Dial in: (312) 626-6799
Meeting ID: 85327149334
Session 17: Dreaming Big
Presenter: Felicia Clayborne
Nothing comes to a sleeper but a dream! In this session, you will learn how I made my dream of travel come true. I will also share how I created my travel blog.
Or Dial in: (669) 254-5252
Meeting ID: 161 192 4630
Session 18: Stacked Against the Odds
Presenters: Jesse Horn
Passion and perseverance carried me through school and transitioned me into doing presentations for CESA’s, Teachers, Schools K-12, Autism Conferences and on a segment of the Doctor’s in LA. My life has had peaks and valleys. With a bit of grit and not letting autism define me I have continued to grow.
Or Dial in: (669) 254-5252
Meeting ID: 160 977 9802
Session 19: Dimensions of Wellness
Presenters: Kai Slater
Kia shares her strategies and how to use them to create habits that can benefit one’s overall wellness, de-stress and take care of your mental health.
Or Dial in: (669) 254-5252
Meeting ID: 160 896 0379
Session 20: Goal Setting
Presenters: Matt LaBerge and Mitch LaBerge
Come join Matthew and Mitchell as they discuss the importance of setting and achieving goals related to education, employment, and independent living as they have navigated life with Autism.
Click Here for Session Materials
Or Dial in: (669) 254-5252
Meeting ID: 161 566 8234
Session 21: Advocacy with Ginger
Presenters: Ginger Beuk
Ginger Beuk shares her story of advocacy. She explores three areas of advocacy: personal, local, and at the state and federal level. Learn how to start advocating for yourself in simple ways.
Click Here for Session Materials
Or Dial in: (669) 254-5252
Meeting ID: 160 481 9367
Session 22: My Surprise New Home
Presenters: Lori Siegler and Marshfield Siegler
Marshfield got a new home! Learn about how Marshfield uses problem solving skills and how others can support you in your goals.
Or Dial in: 669 444 9171
Meeting ID: 845 8315 5736
Session 23: Jordan’s Advocacy Journey
Presenter: Jordan Anderson
Jordan has had a busy few years. Since he attended the 2020 Self-Determination conference he has advocated for Supported Decision-Making, has become a Youth Voice, Youth Choice ambassador, has spoken at several national conferences, and has received a national grant to do more advocacy work! His story and passion will inspire you.
Or Dial In: (669) 444-9171
Meeting ID: 833 3435 6716
Session 24: YouTube Channel Story Studio
Not available virtually
5:30 p.m – 6:30 p.m.
Dinner & Diehard Awards
Diehard Awards are presented to people who have made a significant contribution to advocacy work here in Wisconsin. A diehard is someone with a commitment to self-determination and goes above and beyond what’s expected to help others along the way.
Diehard Awards Winners by Year
2011
Lynn Breedlove
2013
Dennis Harkins
2014
Jim Canales
Peter Tropman
Jennifer Kuhr
2015
John O’Keefe,
Marian Hamburg, Julie
Burish, Erin Miller,
Nancy Gapinski, Sally
Flaschberger,
Jason Endres
2016
Kristy Bridenhagen
Sherry Gundlach
Beth Wroblewski
Nicki Vander Meulen
Olivia Quigley
2017
David Pinno
Deb Wisniewski
Abby Tessmann
Sue Urban
2018
Jennifer Kratsch
Marilee Adamski-Smith
Cathy Derezinski
Patti Becker
Barbara Beckert
Emily Flood
2019
Stacy Ellingen
Shannon Webb
Lisa Pugh
Let’s give an in-person applause to all thsoe who receive awards during our virtual conference in 2020 and 2021:
2020
Jennifer Kratsch
Marilee Adamski-Smith
Cathy Derezinski
Patti Becker
Barbara Beckert
Emily Flood
2021
Jordan Anderson
Sydney Badeau
Kathryn Burish
Vicky Gunderson
Mike Hipple
Kate Rinehart
Maria Nogueron
Maureen Ryan
Delores Sallis
2022
Congratulations to the 2022 Winners! Click each name to watch their Diehard Award videos!
Emily Savage
Jenny Felty
Lisa Schneider
Ramsey Lee
Lisa Sobczyk
6:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Dance Party Live
Join us on the Red Carpet for our Gala Celebration of 50 years of Wisconsin BPDD. Red carpets, dancing, and a few surprises throughout the night…you don’t want to miss it!