If this message is clipped, click "View Entire Message" at the bottom of this email. | | The Season of Giving is Here! | | |
Hello Friends!
As we approach the end of the year, we pause to reflect on all that we’ve accomplished together. Your support of Disability Network Eastern Michigan (DNEM) has made a powerful difference in the lives of people with disabilities across our communities.
Because of your generosity, individuals have gained new skills, access to essential resources, and the confidence to live more independently. You’ve helped us expand programs, build partnerships, and foster opportunities for all.
But our work is far from done. As we look ahead to 2026, DNEM is committed to reaching even more individuals through innovative technology, stronger collaborations, and new initiatives that promote respect, acceptance, and independence.
Your year-end contribution helps ensure we can continue this important work. Together, we’re not only breaking barriers, we’re building bridges to a more accessible future.
Please consider making your tax-deductible year-end contribution today. Every dollar directly supports programs that strengthen community access, respect, acceptance, and independence for all.
Simply click the “Donate to DNEM” button below to make your gift.
Thank you for being part of our mission, for believing in what’s possible, and for helping us make meaningful change; one person, one community, one step at a time.
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We were thrilled to provide Kroger gift cards to 159 households (381 people) this Thanksgiving!
It was all possible because of a grant from the Food Bank of Michigan and the generous support of DNEM staff.
Thank you, everyone, for coming together to bless our consumers!
| | Family Celebrations: Tips for Caregivers | |
Third Thursday:
Enjoying Family Celebrations: Tips for Caregivers
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December 18, 2025 | 6:00 - 8:00 pm
Hybrid Format
Join us on Zoom or in person at DNEM's Clinton Township Office.
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Presenter:
Debra Ross, Alzheimer's Association
| | Family celebrations and holidays can provoke a mix of emotions. Learn helpful strategies to prepare for family gatherings, adjust traditions for loved ones with dementia, and stay flexible and focus on what matters. | | Making the Holidays Welcoming for Everyone | | |
The holiday season brings joy, celebration, and cherished traditions, but it can also present real challenges for people with disabilities. Crowded gatherings, unpredictable schedules, loud environments, and physical barriers can turn what should be a festive time into a stressful one. At AMPED*, we believe that thoughtful planning helps create spaces where everyone feels welcome, safe, and supported. Small adjustments can have a meaningful impact on comfort, safety, and independence, and a few thoughtful strategies can help make every moment of togetherness happy and bright.
Physical accessibility is a great place to start. Clearing pathways, removing clutter, and eliminating loose rugs or cords can ensure that mobility devices move freely and safely. Adjusting the environment to include stable, comfortable seating and arranging tables with adequate room for wheelchairs or walkers supports everyone’s participation. Accessible bathrooms are essential, and even temporary additions such as portable grab bars, raised toilet seats, or a commode can make a significant difference. (Remember, our Loan Closet may be able to help if you need equipment.) Food and drink setup also matters; placing items at reachable heights and pre-plating meals for those who benefit from assistance promotes dignity and ease.
The sensory side of the holidays deserves equal attention. Bright lights, new smells, and lively gatherings may be exciting for some, yet overwhelming for others. Creating a calming atmosphere can help reduce sensory overload. Soft, warm lighting, minimal flashing decorations, and gentle music can make the environment more inclusive. Offering items like noise-canceling headphones, weighted blankets, or fidget tools can support comfort and self-regulation. Respecting personal boundaries is also crucial. Honoring touch preferences, acknowledging personal space, and using predictable social scripts can help individuals feel safe, confident, and connected.
Throughout all of this, it’s essential to remember your own well-being. Honor your own limits and practice self-compassion. Flexibility goes a long way, as needs, both yours and others’, can change from day to day. Setting realistic expectations and allowing yourself to simplify traditions or adjust plans keeps the season enjoyable rather than overwhelming. Taking breaks, stepping away when needed, and grounding yourself in the moment helps you stay present and engaged.
By planning with accessibility, sensory needs, and self-care in mind, we create holiday celebrations where everyone can fully participate and truly enjoy the season. Together, let’s continue building welcoming spaces, compassionate communities, and meaningful moments for people of all abilities. When we do, we make every season brighter for everyone.
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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. | | | |
Getting Ahead in a Just-Gettin'-By World
Huron County Informational Session
| | Build Resources for a Better Life! | | |
Tuesday, December 9, 2025
6:00 - 7:00 pm
Zoom
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Getting Ahead in a Just-Gettin'-By World is designed to promote awareness and understanding of poverty, and provide tools and resources to bridge economic divides.
Learn about this free program that can help you create lasting financial change and take the next step toward the life you want.
| | Watch DNEM's First YouTube Short! | | Did you know that electric toothbrushes were invented for people with disabilities? Today, they enhance the quality of life for many more—a great example of universal design. | | 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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Join us for a special night of fun!
Get into the holiday spirit with us at our festive Karaoke Party—a night of singing, dancing, laughter, and sweet treats! Warm up with hot chocolate, enjoy some cookies with friends, and make memories that'll jingle you all the way to the New Year!
Wednesday, December 17, 2025
DNEM's Troy Office
6:00 - 8:00 pm
| | Peer Support Opportunities | | Connect with others who understand the challenges and triumphs of living with a disability. We have four groups to choose from. | |
Adults with Cognitive Disabilities Peer Support Group | |
3rd Wednesday of the month, beginning January 21st
DNEM Troy Office
5:00 - 6:00 pm
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Adults with Physical Disabilities Peer Support Group | |
4th Tuesday of the month, beginning February 24th
DNEM Troy Office
6:00 - 7:00 pm
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Stroke Survivors Support Group | |
3rd Wednesday of the month
DNEM Clinton Township Office
12:00 - 2:00 pm
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Stroke Survivors Recreation Group | |
1st Wednesday of the month, beginning January 7th
DNEM Clinton Township Office
12:00 – 2:00 pm
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Move, groove, and have fun in this upbeat dance class designed for adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities and other cognitive impairments.
Explore a variety of dance styles through simple, easy-to-follow movements that encourage creativity, self-expression, and social connection.
No dance experience is needed — just bring your energy and enthusiasm!
1st & 3rd Tuesdays:
January 6 & 20; February 3 & 17; March 3 & 17, 2026
DNEM Troy Office
1:00 - 2:00 pm
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Explore healthy recipes, cooking techniques, and adaptive tools in one of our three in-person classes. All food and supplies will be provided. Each session includes preparing a meal together and enjoying it as a group in a fun, supportive environment.
Or join our virtual class. Learn practical tips for making healthy food choices while we prepare a meal together. You will receive recipes, a grocery list, and a Zoom link to cook along from home.
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2nd & 4th Fridays:
January 9 & 23; February 12 & 27; March 13
11:00 am - 12:30 pm
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Cooking in Clinton Township | |
1st & 3rd Thursday:
January 15; February 5 & 19; March 5 & 19
11:00 am - 12:30 pm
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2nd & 4th Wednesday:
January 14 & 28; February 11 & 25; March 11 & 25
11:00 am - 12:30 pm
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Thursdays:
February 19; March 5 & 19
5:00 - 6:00 pm
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Discover relaxation, focus, and gentle movement in this adaptive class designed for adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities and other cognitive impairments.
Combining elements of yoga, tai chi, breathing exercises, and mindful movement, this class helps participants improve body awareness, coordination, and calmness.
All activities are adapted to individual needs, with options to participate seated or standing. No prior experience is needed — just bring your curiosity and enjoy moving mindfully in a supportive, welcoming environment.
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1st & 3rd Tuesday:
January 6 & 20;
February 3 & 17; March 3 & 17
11:00 am - 12:00 pm
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Mindful Movement in Lapeer | |
2nd and 4th Monday:
January 12 & 26;
February 9 & 23; March 9 & 23
11:00 am - 12:00 pm
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Participants will explore a variety of art forms such as pottery, painting, and pastels. No prior art experience is needed—all abilities are welcome!
Those who require one-on-one support are encouraged to attend with a caregiver. Modifications and adaptive equipment will be available.
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2nd & 4th Thursday:
January 8 & 22
February 12 & 26
March 12 & 26
1:00 - 2:00 pm
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2nd & 4th Monday:
January 12 & 26
February 9 & 23
March 9 & 23
1:00 - 2:00 pm
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2nd & 4th Wednesday:
January 14 & 28
February 11 & 25
March 11 & 25
1:30 - 2:30 pm
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2nd & 4th Tuesday:
January 13 & 27
February 10 & 24
March 10 & 24
1:00 - 2:00 pm
| | | 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?
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988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline offers 24/7 judgment-free support for mental health, substance use, and more. Your conversations are free and confidential.
Text, call, or chat 988.
Access to 988 is also available for Deaf/HoH and Spanish speakers.
| | | 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. | | | | |
