If this message is clipped, click "View Entire Message" at the bottom of this email. | | Third Thursday: Autism Awareness | | |
Thursday, April 16, 2026
6:00 - 7:30 pm | On Zoom
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Autism is a spectrum. Come, learn more about autism, including:
- Neurodiversity in the workplace
- Sensory processing differences
- Accommodations available at work
- Debunking myths
| - Stephanie Conklin, Occupational Therapist
Michigan Rehabilitation Services
| - Justin Skibin, DIF Grant Specialist
Business Network Division
Michigan Rehabilitation Services
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Can you spot the mistreatment of older adults?
Attend our upcoming PEANE presentation to learn how to prevent elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation. We will discuss the types and effects of abuse, the role of loneliness and social connection, and supportive resources.
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Thursday, April 30, 2026
6:30 - 8:00 pm
Auburn Hills Public Library
3400 E Seyburn Drive, Auburn Hills
Call 248-370-9466 to register for the PEANE presentation.
| | Disability Network Eastern Michigan is funded in part by the Federal Older Americans Act and the Michigan Aging & Adult Services Agency through AgeWays Nonprofit Senior Services. Disability Network Eastern Michigan complies with the terms and regulations of the Title V of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 as amended, and Section 504 of the Social Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Reasonable accommodations will be provided upon notification or request. | | Contact us to schedule a free PEANE presentation near you: | | |
Accessibility in Your Community:
Mouthpad^ Webinar
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Disability Network Eastern Michigan hosted an Accessibility In Your Community Webinar in February where Gabi Munoz from Augmental provided a demonstration and overview of a device known as MouthPad^.
MouthPad^ is a hands-free Bluetooth mouse that enables users to control their personal devices using tongue, sip, and head gestures. MouthPad^ works across all operating systems and offers a hands-free way to interact with phones, computers, and other digital devices.
In case you missed it, you can now watch the webinar on YouTube.
| | Stroke Survivor Recreation Group | | |
Wednesdays, April 1 & May 6, 2026
12:00 - 2:00 pm
DNEM Clinton Township Office
Join us monthly for a supportive and engaging recreation group designed for stroke survivors. Enjoy a variety of activities, from games and crafts to gentle movement and social connection, all adapted to meet individual needs and abilities. This group provides a positive space to connect with others who understand the stroke recovery journey. Build confidence and have fun while exploring new ways to stay active and engaged.
| | Questions about the Stroke Survivor Recreation Group? | |
Contact the RecConnect Team
REC-IT@DNEMichigan.org
586-268-4160
| | Let your creativity shine! Come make unique crafts in a fun, relaxing environment. The class is accessible, and all abilities are welcome. | |
Mondays, April 2, 9, & 16, 2026
1:00 - 2:00 pm
DNEM Troy Office
| Questions about the Craft Class? | | |
Wednesday, April 8, 2026
6:00 - 8:00 pm
DNEM Troy Office
Join us for a special night of fun - singing, dancing, and sweet treats!
| | Questions about the Spring Karaoke Dance? | |
Contact the RecConnect Team
REC-IT@DNEMichigan.org
586-268-4160
| Games & Social Hour in Lapeer | | |
It's game time! Come have fun and make new friends while playing games in a relaxing, welcoming space. The group meets every other Monday.
April 13, 27, & May 11, 2026
11:00 am - 12:00 pm
DNEM Lapeer Office
| | Questions about Games & Social Hour? | | |
Mondays, April 13 & May 11, 2026
5:00 - 6:00 pm
Huron County Tech Center
1160 S Van Dyke Rd, Bad Axe, MI 48413
Join the final two sessions of our art classes in Bad Axe. We will explore a variety of art forms and make something unique each time. No prior art experience is needed. All abilities are welcome.
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Tuesday, April 14, 2026
DNEM Troy Office
Choose one time slot:
10:00 am - 12:00 pm or
1:00 - 3:00 pm
During each 90-minute session, spend about 30 minutes learning golf basics, etiquette, and rules, followed by practicing your golf
skills at stations. All equipment
is provided. No experience
is necessary.
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Thursday, June 4, 2026
Stoney Creek Metropark,
Shelby Township
Choose one time slot:
10:00 - 11:30 pm or
11:30 am - 1:00 pm
Whether you are new to golf or
want to learn how to use adaptive equipment to accommodate your needs, our therapists and golf
pros will be there to assist.
All equipment is provided.
| | | Games & Social Hour - Virtual | |
Tuesdays, April 14 & May 12, 2026
6:00 - 7:00 pm | On Zoom
Come share some laughs and have fun as we play games online!
| Questions about Games & Social Hour - Virtual? | |
Contact the RecConnect Team
REC-IT@DNEMichigan.org
586-268-4160
| | Join us for an hour of socializing, dancing, and singing with other friends with intellectual disabilities. | | |
Wednesday, April 15, 2026
5:00 - 6:00 pm
DNEM Troy Office
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Wednesday, May 15, 2026
5:00 - 6:00 pm
DNEM Troy Office
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Thursday, April 30, 2026
12:00 - 2:00 pm
Imperial Lanes, Clinton Township
Join us for an afternoon of bowling, connection, and recreation. Equipment will be provided to help create a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. No bowling experience is needed. All abilities are welcome. The cost is $12 per bowler, which includes 2 bowling games and shoe rental.
| | 5K Race in a Running Chair | | | | |
Wednesday, May 6, 2026
5:30 - 7:30 pm
Hansen's Running Shop, Utica
Enjoy the thrill of racing in a 5K!
Disability Network Eastern Michigan is partnering with The Agape Project, which exists to enhance the lives of individuals with disabilities by sharing the exhilaration and excitement of racing as one community.
| | Volunteer runners run alongside and push participants in running chairs. You can take part in this event as either a rider, runner, or support staff. | Questions about the 5K Race in a Running Chair? | |
Contact the RecConnect Team
REC-IT@DNEMichigan.org
586-268-4160
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Friday, May 8, 2026
11:00 am - 12:30 pm
Independence Oaks County Park, Clarkston
Join us for a nature walk at a beautiful Oakland County Park to explore the spring greenery and local wildlife. Buildings and trails are fully accessible. All are welcome.
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Join us for a morning of catching fish and enjoying the great outdoors!
This program is open to people of all abilities, whether you have never gone fishing or are a seasoned pro! We provide poles, bait, modifications, and adaptive equipment as needed for catch-and-release fishing.
May 12 & 26, 2026
10:00 - 11:30 am
Independence Oaks County Park, Clarkston
Check out our calendar or adaptive fishing flyer for additional fishing dates.
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Wednesday, May 13, 2026
12:30 - 2:00 pm or 2:30 - 4:00 pm
Independence Oaks County Park, Clarkston
Register for an adaptive archery lesson designed for individuals with disabilities, ages 14 and older. No prior archery experience is required. All adaptive equipment and modifications are provided to ensure a safe, supportive, and enjoyable experience.
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Thursdays, May 14, 21, & 28, 2026
Choose a 1-hour time slot between 2:00 & 6:00 pm
Independence Oaks County Park, Clarkston
Join us for a bike through the park!
We have 7 bikes. You will be signing up for a bike AND a one-hour time slot. Please note that the bikes are all adult-sized.
Helmets are required. We will supply one if you do not have your own.
Check out our calendar or adaptive cycling flyer for additional cycling dates.
| | Register for a DNEM Community Activity | | |
Disability Network Eastern Michigan (DNEM) is a Center for Independent Living (CIL), proudly serving Huron, Lapeer, Macomb, Oakland, Sanilac, St. Clair, and Tuscola counties. If you reside outside of these counties, we’re happy to assist you in connecting with the CIL that serves your area.
To register for DNEM activities, you will need a RecDesk calendar account.
| | | | To help with the registration process, we have created these two videos: |
Questions about RecDesk?
Contact the RecConnect Team
REC-IT@DNEMichigan.org
586-268-4160
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Technology First: Advancing Independence
Through Innovation
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Michigan stands at a critical crossroads. With a shortage of more than 36,000 direct care workers and growing demand for support, the question is no longer whether change is needed, but how we respond. The Michigan Technology First Initiative offers a clear and forward-thinking answer: put independence first by putting technology first.
Technology First is more than a policy shift. It is a values-driven movement rooted in the belief that people with disabilities deserve the tools and opportunities to live life on their own terms. By prioritizing enabling technology and remote support as a first option, rather than a last resort, Michigan has the opportunity to transform how services are delivered and experienced.
This approach is already proving successful across the country. Enabling technology, such as smart home systems, medication reminders, and communication devices, empowers individuals to complete daily tasks more independently. Remote supports allow people to receive assistance when needed without sacrificing privacy or autonomy. Together, these tools are increasing self confidence, expanding employment opportunities, and enhancing quality of life.
The impact is not only personal, it is systemic. Data from Tennessee shows that for every dollar invested in enabling technology, there is a return of up to $13.50 in the first year alone. Over time, the use of technology reduces overall service costs while improving outcomes, demonstrating that independence and efficiency can go hand in hand.
At the heart of this movement must be the voice of the disability community. Centers for Independent Living, including Disability Network Eastern Michigan, are uniquely positioned to ensure that Technology First remains grounded in consumer choice and real-world experience. We are trusted navigators, advocates, and partners who understand that true independence is not about replacing human support, but enhancing it in ways that respect dignity and self-determination.
This is where advocacy matters. AMPeD is not just a message; it is a call to action. We must advocate for policies that expand access to technology across all disability populations, not just limited programs. We must motivate systems to invest in innovation that works. We must participate in shaping the future of service delivery. We must educate our communities about what is possible. And we must defend the principle that independence is a right, not a privilege.
Technology First is not about gadgets or systems. It is about people. It is about a future where individuals with disabilities have greater control, greater opportunity, and greater freedom.
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| | AMPeD represents a renewed commitment to the core mission of Centers for Independent Living to support individuals with disabilities in living full, self-directed lives in their communities. | | | | Disability Network Eastern Michigan has a team of Community Information Specialists ready to assist you in finding resources. We can support inquiries about advocacy, accessibility, housing resources, transportation, high school transition, community transition services, veteran services, and more. Call us! | | |
Oakland and Macomb County:
586-268-4160
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Thumb Region:
810-987-9337
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Accommodations: Please contact DNEM with accommodation requests.
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Do you need support now?
Or are you worried about a loved one who may need crisis support?
| | Your Consumer Experience Defines Our Success | | It is our pleasure to serve the community as we believe people with disabilities should have the same options, and control over choices in their own lives as do people without disabilities. We hope you will share your experience with us, allowing us to connect with others who will benefit from our services. Please take a moment to provide a Google review. | | Disability Network Eastern Michigan is committed to promoting independent living by breaking down barriers and opening paths towards personal choice through resources, advocacy, information, support, and education. | | Follow our social media pages to remain up-to-date with everything happening at DNEM. | | | | |
