News

For information on DRW news, events, or press releases, please contact:
email media@drwi.org.

For information on DRW action alerts, public policy, or voting efforts, please contact:
Lisa Hassenstab at 608-308-2639 or lisah@drwi.org.

Be Prepared for The Big Share 2024!

The Big Share logo, with the text 10th anniversary below it.
The Big Share Kicks Off Tonight! The Big Share kicks off tonight at 6:00 p.m. and continues all day on March 5. We hope that you are excited to support Disability Rights Wisconsin and that you have set a time during your day to contribute to our goal to raise $12,000 over the next 24 hours. We have already raised almost $1600! Learn about Disability Rights Wisconsin’s Impact on Wisconsinites with Disabilities Please check out…
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Words from Savanna and Nancy

The Big Share logo, with the text 10th anniversary below it.
Nancy Heltemes, Disability Rights Wisconsin’s Board President, and her daughter, Savanna, share how DRW’s advocacy work changed their lives when they were struggling with a lack of communication from the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development. Thanks to the advocate’s efforts in making sure there was a plan in place for work training and support, Savanna is now 25 and working in a job she loves. Watch the video directly on Youtube. Our advocacy work ensures…
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Disability Rights Wisconsin in The Big Share 2024!

The Big Share logo, with the text 10th anniversary below it.
About The Big Share 2024 Disability Rights Wisconsin, a member organization of Community Shares Wisconsin, will be part of The Big Share 2024, on March 5, 2024. This online day of giving is a positive way to donate to Disability Rights Wisconsin and to impact our vital work. For 10 years, Community Shares of Wisconsin has hosted The Big Share to support 70 nonprofit organizations like Disability Rights Wisconsin which strives to protect the rights…
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Now Hiring: Disability Benefit Specialist Program Attorney

A collection of wooden hexagons are grouped together, with a red arrow running through them. The text reads "Now Hiring".
Disability Rights Wisconsin is now hiring for a Program Attorney within our Disability Benefit Specialist Program! The Program Attorney for the Disability Benefit Specialist (DBS) Program has primary responsibility for providing technical assistance to DBSs located in Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRCs) on public benefits matters relevant to people with disabilities. Responsibilities include: providing technical assistance, caseload management, and caseload oversights to Disability Benefit Specialists. training Disability Benefit Specialists using effective teaching methods for…
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Now Hiring: FCIOP Ombudsman

A raised metal engraving of the scales of justice and the word "Advocate". The text reads "Now Hiring."
Disability Rights Wisconsin is now hiring for an Ombudsman within our Family Care and IRIS Ombudsman Program! The Family Care and IRIS Ombudsman Program (FCIOP) provides a variety of assistance to Family Care, Partnership, and IRIS enrollees statewide. Responsibilities of the position include: investigating clients’ concerns through discussion with the client and/or guardian, analyzing records and relevant documents, and working collaboratively with external entities. providing guidance and negotiating resolutions through information and referral, support in…
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Mental Health Advocates Needed: Join the PAIMI Advisory Council

scrabble pieces spelling out the words mental health
About the PAIMI Advisory Council The DRW PAIMI Advisory Council (PAC) is seeking new members who want to advance positive change for the rights of Wisconsinites with mental health diagnoses. DRW’s PAIMI program protects the human and civil rights of children and adults with serious mental health conditions. PAIMI stands for Protection and Advocacy for Individuals with Mental Illness. DRW’s PAIMI advocacy is supported by a PAIMI Advisory Council (PAC). DRW’s PAC members come from…
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Before the Ball Drops, Support Disability Rights Wisconsin!

A woman with an intellectual and developmental disability laughs while playing with a dog. Her caretaker is in the background, looking on.
2024 is almost here. Be sure to support Disability Rights Wisconsin now! Donate and support Disability Rights Wisconsin’s work for the new year here! Your support inspires us — thank you! Happy New Year!
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Support DRW in your year-end giving!

An older man and woman with Down Syndrome hold hands while walking in a wooded park.
As we reflect on the work we have done this year, each story and each experience inspires our continued commitment to defending the rights and dignity of people with disabilities in our state. Our mission is clear, and it requires collective effort. Will you join us? Your contribution, no matter the size, makes a real difference. Please donate now! Warm wishes for a joy-filled new year!
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Your Support Makes a Huge Difference! Help Us End the Year Strong!

An end of year message from our Executive Director: As I reflect on my first months with Disability Rights Wisconsin, I continue to be humbled by the amazing work the team is doing to safeguard the rights of children and adults with disabilities throughout our state. Every day we receive calls from dozens of people seeking assistance to access the support and services they rightfully deserve. The dedicated DRW staff attentively listen to the challenges…
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Now Hiring: Impact Litigation Attorney

A gavel and scales of justice sit on a desk.
Disability Rights Wisconsin is now hiring for an Impact Litigation Attorney within our Protection and Advocacy Program! The Impact Litigation Attorney is the first-chair litigator for DRW’s Protection and Advocacy program, working independently and as part of a team on systemic change litigation. Responsibilities include maintaining a litigation and administrative hearing case load; advising and mentoring DRW staff attorneys on their cases; and co-counseling with them when necessary; developing external relationships with potential pro bono…
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