Independence First @independencefirst.bsky.social · 11/09/2026“It wasn’t about normalcy. It was all about functionality.” Tyson Wenzel’s mother, Tracy, shares how Ty’s drive to do things his own way shaped how he grew up — and what independence means to him today. ♿ 000
Independence First @independencefirst.bsky.social · 26/08/2026This Saturday would have been Justin Dart’s 96th birthday. Here's why his legacy still matters for our movement today. 000
Independence First @independencefirst.bsky.social · 24/08/2026Something new is taking shape at Independence First! 🎥🎙️ We’ve been hard at work transforming an empty room into the Voices of Independence Digital Media Studio, a dedicated space where we can share more stories, perspectives and experiences from people with disabilities in our community. 000
Independence First @independencefirst.bsky.social · 17/08/2026When a power wheelchair breaks, waiting weeks or months for a repair can mean losing mobility, independence and safety. Ty shares what that reality is like and why timely wheelchair repair matters. ♿ 000
Independence First @independencefirst.bsky.social · 13/08/2026Just 6 days after an accident left Ty without access to his power wheelchair, Independence First’s AIM program delivered a newly refurbished chair, free of charge. ♿ Now Ty can get back outside and enjoy the rest of his summer. 110
Independence First @independencefirst.bsky.social · 12/08/2026Wisconsin needs your voice! 📣 Help shape the 2028–2030 State Plan for Independent Living by taking the statewide Needs Assessment Survey. It takes about 6 minutes and is open to all Wisconsin residents—with or without a disability. www.independencefirst.org/Independence...independencefirst.orgHelp Shape the Future of Independent Living in Wisconsin: Take the 2028–2030 Needs Assessment Survey 011
Independence First @independencefirst.bsky.social · 10/08/2026An important change from HUD could affect people with disabilities who rely on emotional support animals. 🐾 The Fair Housing Act hasn’t changed, but HUD’s approach to enforcing ESA-related complaints has. 000
Reposted by Independence FirstNational Council on Independent Living @ncil.bsky.social · 06/08/2026A Message from Theo Braddy: Every Six Months, I Become Disabled Again Every six months, the system will ask me a question it already knows the answer to. Am I still disabled? I know that sounds ridiculous. It sounds ridiculous because it is. Read more: bit.ly/3RzW2lLbit.lyA Message from Theo Braddy: Every Six Months, I Become Disabled Again - National Council on Independent LivingListen to the audio version of this message Hello again. This is Theo W. Braddy, Executive Director... 011
Independence First @independencefirst.bsky.social · 06/08/2026After a community outing, our consumer Adolfo was left stranded when his pre-scheduled accessible transportation ride was canceled without notice. He and his brother waited more than an hour for another vehicle. Reliable transportation is essential to independent living. It's never optional. 010
Independence First @independencefirst.bsky.social · 06/08/2026#TBT: These photos from October 2003 show Independence First staff advocating for an accessible Milwaukee RiverWalk. Their persistence helped drive improvements that transformed one of MKE's most iconic public spaces into one that more people can enjoy. Progress happens when people speak up. ♿💙 000
Independence First @independencefirst.bsky.social · 30/07/2026At @ncil.bsky.social, we spoke with Dr. Victor Pineda of Berkeley's Center for Independent Living—the original ILC that inspired a nationwide movement. "Together... we can accomplish anything." #IndependentLiving #DisabilityRights #Accessibility 000
Independence First @independencefirst.bsky.social · 29/07/2026"We won't go back." ♿💙 Some highlights from this year's @ncil.bsky.social march on Washington for disability rights #IndependentLiving #DisabilityCommunity #Accessibility #WashingtonDC 011
Independence First @independencefirst.bsky.social · 27/07/2026Part 3 of our conversation with former Senator Tom Harkin. He argues that people with disabilities should have every opportunity to live in their communities with the supports they need, not be steered toward institutions. #ADA36 #DisabilityRights #IndependentLiving 000
Independence First @independencefirst.bsky.social · 24/07/2026Part 2 of our conversation with former Senator Tom Harkin at @ncil.bsky.social annual conference. His message: many of the disability rights we have today were won through persistent, nonviolent advocacy. Progress doesn't happen by accident. It happens when people organize and take action. 021
Independence First @independencefirst.bsky.social · 22/07/202636 years after the #ADA became law, former Senator Tom Harkin reminds us at the @ncil.bsky.social annual conference that the work isn't finished. "We've got this far... it's not okay yet." Independent living, integrated employment, and equal opportunity remain goals worth fighting for. 011
Independence First @independencefirst.bsky.social · 20/07/2026We're in Washington, D.C. for the @ncil.bsky.social Annual Conference! ♿ Joining us this week is Amber Hammond, who reminds us why advocacy matters: "Legislators aren't going to know what we want and need unless we tell them." 021
Independence First @independencefirst.bsky.social · 16/07/2026We are honored to announce that Independence First has been awarded a $200,000 matching grant from the Green Bay Packers Foundation to expand our Alternatives in Mobility (AIM) Program. 110
Independence First @independencefirst.bsky.social · 16/07/2026🌫️ Canadian wildfire smoke has reached Milwaukee. These photos were taken outside Independence First this morning. If you're sensitive to poor air quality, take extra care today. 💙 #Milwaukee #AirQuality 020
Independence First @independencefirst.bsky.social · 15/07/2026What do the colors of the Disability Pride Flag mean? ♿ 022
Independence First @independencefirst.bsky.social · 09/07/2026Reminder: Disability is the only minority group anyone can join at any time. 010
Independence First @independencefirst.bsky.social · 06/07/2026Three donated power wheelchairs. One grateful family. ❤️ 000
Independence First @independencefirst.bsky.social · 29/06/2026Finding a little peace in a busy world can make a big difference. 💙 Join us for Calm Your Mind, a four-week workshop where you'll learn simple mindfulness techniques to help reduce stress, stay present, and build healthy coping skills you can use every day. 100
Independence First @independencefirst.bsky.social · 16/06/2026We visited the Abilities Expo in the Chicago area over the weekend. This thread will update all that we saw and documented! 101
Independence First @independencefirst.bsky.social · 11/06/2026Creating a more inclusive world starts with how we talk about disability and each other. Watch Gerald Hay's thoughtful message on language, learning, and inclusion. #DisabilityInclusion #Accessibility #IndependentLiving 010
Independence First @independencefirst.bsky.social · 08/06/2026Joel's power wheelchair was discontinued years ago, but it's still the chair that works best for him. When other repair providers won't service older equipment, Independence First's AIM program helps keep mobility devices running. Watch Joel and Tim Kiley explain why the right fit matters.♿ 110
Independence First @independencefirst.bsky.social · 08/06/2026What can you create with stickers, photos, ticket stubs, and a little imagination? 🎨📖 Missed this session? More free Arts & Crafts workshops are coming all summer long! #JunkJournal #ArtsAndCrafts #DisabilityInclusion #CreativeExpression #Milwaukee #IndependenceFirst 010
Independence First @independencefirst.bsky.social · 08/06/2026🎮♿ "It gives me the ability to connect with people and adapt... and just have fun with adaptive equipment." Meet Adolfo, a 19-year-old student with cerebral palsy, as he demonstrates adaptive gaming technology at our Summertime Vibes program. #AdaptiveGaming #Accessibility #DisabilityInclusion 020
Independence First @independencefirst.bsky.social · 18/05/2026Refurbished power wheelchairs can still have years of life left in them. Through our AIM Program, Independence First repairs and redistributes complex mobility equipment at reduced costs to help more people access independence. Partner of WisTech, Wisconsin’s AT Act program. 100
Independence First @independencefirst.bsky.social · 16/03/2026🗳️ The Wisconsin Spring Election is April 7, 2026. Independence First created a simple guide for voters with disabilities explaining what’s on the ballot and how to vote, including how to check your registration and find your polling place. #DisabilityRights #VoteWisconsin 122
Independence First @independencefirst.bsky.social · 20/02/2026On #NationalCaregiversDay, we’re honoring Sonia Ruiz, a Milwaukee mom who has cared for her daughter Jessica since she was born prematurely at six months. Caregiving is challenging. It’s often unseen. But as Sonia says: “Love above everything.” Today we recognize caregivers everywhere. 💙 010
Independence First @independencefirst.bsky.social · 12/02/2026Despite years of talk, the disability “marriage penalty” still exists. Some couples must choose between getting married and keeping the benefits that help them live independently. Love shouldn’t cost independence. #DisabilityRights #EndTheMarriagePenalty 021
Independence First @independencefirst.bsky.social · 12/02/2026Did you catch us on the radio this morning? Our Spinal Cord Injury Peer Support Group at Independence First is featured in a new story from @wuwmradio.bsky.social 89.7 FM, highlighting how peer connection helps people navigate life after injury. Read & listen: www.wuwm.com/milwaukee-su...wuwm.comIn Milwaukee support group, wheelchair users talk navigating life after injuryA local support group for wheelchair users brings together people to discuss the challenges of living with mobility issues. 000
Independence First @independencefirst.bsky.social · 15/12/2025Art without barriers. 💙🎨 At Independence First, our walls showcase artists with disabilities and the beauty of inclusion in every brushstroke. #DisabilityArt #AccessibilityMatters #IndependenceFirst #Milwaukee #ArtForAll 011
Independence First @independencefirst.bsky.social · 08/12/2025Fiver the Labubu’s rolling through the Independence First office to show off our five core services! 💙♿️ Because independence, inclusion, and choice belong to everyone. #DisabilityInclusion #IndependentLiving #Milwaukee #Accessibility #IndependenceFirst 110
Independence First @independencefirst.bsky.social · 05/12/2025Meet Connie & Bob Abing, parents and lifelong caregivers to their son Jacob, who lives with Down Syndrome, Autism, and the lasting effects of childhood cancer. Their love and resilience is something special. 🎥 Watch their story: www.youtube.com/watch?v=1TaP...youtube.comHonoring Family Caregivers: Connie and Bob Abing’s StoryYouTube video by Independence First 000
Independence First @independencefirst.bsky.social · 04/12/2025Disability is part of the human experience and accessibility benefits everyone. 💙 At Independence First, we have countless examples of assistive technology to help people with disabilities live more independently and confidently. Learn more: independencefirst.org 000
Independence First @independencefirst.bsky.social · 03/12/2025Big thanks to @cbs58.bsky.social for visiting Independence First today and spotlighting accessibility in action! 💙 Watch the story here: cbs58.com/news/interna... #IDPD #DisabilityInclusion #AccessibilityForAllcbs58.comInternational Day of Persons with Disabilities: How Independence First is helping people in the Milwaukee communityMILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Independence First in Milwaukee's Walker's Point neighborhood, helps people with technology, education, and resources-- like, loans and grants. They not only advocate for persons 000
Independence First @independencefirst.bsky.social · 01/12/2025Allow us to be the First to wish a Happy December First from all of us at Independence First! ❄️ Wishing you a joyful start to the month. 100
Independence First @independencefirst.bsky.social · 20/11/2025Today we honor Transgender Day of Remembrance and the lives lost to anti-trans violence. Our Youth Services Coordinator Logan Edmonds (they/them) led staff education this week and created a public showcase on trans rights 🏳️⚧️💙#TransDayOfRemembrance #TransRightsAreHumanRights 100
Independence First @independencefirst.bsky.social · 19/11/2025Cooking up independence! 👩🍳💙 Since October, our Youth Leadership Coordinator Yer has been meeting 1:1 with Emmalee, who set a goal to build her cooking skills. Today she made gluten-free chicken enchiladas and did almost all the cooking herself! Proud of her progress and confidence. 🙌 110
Independence First @independencefirst.bsky.social · 17/11/2025🌲 Happy #NationalTakeAHikeDay! At Independence First, we believe fresh air and nature are for everyone. Discover how to get outside on four of Wisconsin’s most wheelchair-accessible trails thanks to Travel Wisconsin. It makes for an inclusive adventure! ➡️ www.travelwisconsin.com/article/trai...travelwisconsin.comWheelchair Accessible Hiking in Wisconsin | Travel WisconsinFind fun without limits at these Wisconsin trails and parks, each bursting with natural beauty and accessible to adventurers of all abilities. 000
Independence First @independencefirst.bsky.social · 14/11/2025Today we served 69 seniors at our monthly Food Distribution with Hunger Task Force ! ❤️ Huge thanks to the volunteers from Capital First Trust Company for helping deliver food boxes right to each car. Grateful for strong community partnerships during the holiday season.💙 010
Independence First @independencefirst.bsky.social · 13/11/2025🏡 November is National Care at Home Month! We’re celebrating the caregivers, personal care workers, and consumers who make independent living at home possible. Everyone deserves the choice to live where they feel safe and supported. 💙 Learn more: IndependenceFirst.org 000
Independence First @independencefirst.bsky.social · 12/11/2025💸 Ladies, ready to take charge of your finances? Join Independence First & Summit Credit Union for a FREE Women’s Financial Education Workshop on Dec 11 at 4 PM Learn to budget, build credit, and earn $50 just for attending! Details and how to sign up here -> independencefirst.org/moneyindependencefirst.orgWomen’s Financial Education Series 000
Independence First @independencefirst.bsky.social · 10/11/2025Have you ever felt left behind because of a disability? You’re not alone — and you shouldn’t have to be. Tell us about a time accessibility made a difference… or when it was missing. 000
Independence First @independencefirst.bsky.social · 01/07/2025Independence First is hiring! Join our award-winning team. We are seeking a full-time, salaried Controller. For application and more information, visit: atsod.com/j/s.cfm/18G5 000
Independence First @independencefirst.bsky.social · 10/06/2025It's almost Youth Leadership Summit time! If someone you know is a high-school student with a disability, join us for a week of fun & advocacy! The program runs 6/23- 6/27 from 10AM-4PM at the Independence First main office. Lunch provided! To register: www.independencefirst.org/Events/Youth... 000
Independence First @independencefirst.bsky.social · 29/04/2025 This week we are happy to be hosting five Governor-appointed disability councils and committees. Thank you to Lieutenant Governor @lgsararodriguez.bsky.social for supporting people with disabilities! 000
Independence First @independencefirst.bsky.social · 26/03/2025We recently had a conversation with CW18 Milwaukee's program, Connect MKE. Watch the video to learn more about our resources for people with disabilities in Milwaukee: youtu.be/4y9taQPZGEA?... #disabilityrights #milwaukeeyoutu.beIndependence FirstYouTube video by Connect MKE 010