If this message is clipped, click "View Entire Message" at the bottom of this email. | | Accessibility in Your Community Webinar: Mouthpad^ | | |
Thursday, February 26, 2026
12:00 - 1:00 pm
Zoom
| Mouthpad^ is the world's first hands-free touchpad! |
- A safe and comfortable Bluetooth device that fits perfectly on the roof of your mouth.
- It converts subtle head and tongue gestures into seamless cursor control and clicks on your phone, computer, or tablet.
- It empowers people with motor disabilities to connect, communicate, and create—on their own terms.
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Thursday, February 26, 2026
6:00 - 7:30 pm
Zoom
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Come learn about disability culture and the principles of independent living.
- Better understand the experiences of people with disabilities.
- Gain practical ways to improve accessibility and communicate more effectively.
- Create spaces where everyone can participate and feel supported.
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Presenter:
Traci Comer-Scarsella, Advocacy & Outreach Director
Disability Network Eastern Michigan
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Can you spot the mistreatment of older adults?
Attend an 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 resources and supports.
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Friday, February 13, 2026
1:00 - 2:30 pm
Centerline Public Library
7345 Weingartz, Center Line
Registration is not required.
Call for more information:
586-758-8274
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Tuesday, February 24, 2026
2:00 - 3:30 pm
St. Clair County Council on Aging, Inc.
600 Grand River Ave., Port Huron
Call to register:
810-984-5061, ext. 129
| | | 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: | | 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
| | Games & Social Hour in Troy | | |
It's game time! Come have fun and make new friends while playing games in a relaxing, welcoming space. The group meets on the first and third Thursdays of the month through March.
February 5, 19; March 5 & 19, 2026
1:00 - 3:00 pm
DNEM Troy Office
| | Questions about Games & Social Hour? | | Indoor Archery & Adaptive Games | | |
Get ready to play!
Join us for an afternoon packed with indoor fun, featuring adaptive archery, golf, cornhole, and more. Move from station to station, try new games, and challenge yourself at your own pace. Our staff will be on hand to help you explore adaptations so each activity works best for you. Come hang out and build skills in a space where everyone belongs.
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Friday, February 6, 2026
1:00 - 3:00 pm
DNEM Troy Office
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Friday, March 6, 2026
1:00 - 3:00 pm
DNEM Troy Office
| | | Questions about Indoor Archery & Adaptive Games? | | |
Let your creativity shine!
This four-session art class meets on the second Monday of each month. We'll explore pottery, painting, and pastels. No experience is needed.
Adaptive equipment will be provided, and caregivers are welcome to attend if one-on-one support is needed.
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February 9, March 9, April 13, & May 11, 2026
5:00 - 6:00 pm
Huron County Tech Center, Bad Axe
| Questions about the Art Class in Bad Axe? | | Join us for an indoor visit to an Oakland County Park nature center led by a park naturalist. We’ll explore the exhibits, watch the bird feeders, and learn how animals survive during the winter. | | |
Friday, February 13, 2026
11:00 - 12:30 pm
Red Oaks Nature Center
in Madison Heights
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Friday, February 27, 2026
11:00 - 12:30 pm
Wint Nature Center
in Clarkston
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Love words, rhymes, or storytelling?
Join us for a fun, easygoing poetry class designed for everyone. Each session introduces a new poetry style, followed by time to write your own poem and share it if you'd like. This class meets every other Tuesday through March.
February 17; March 3, 17, & 31, 2026
10:00 - 11:00 am
DNEM Troy Office
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Join us for Karaoke in Troy!
Music, dancing, and good vibes! Karaoke Hour is a monthly chance for people with intellectual disabilities to sing, socialize, and have fun together. Join us on the third Wednesday of each month. Sign up separately for each date.
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Wednesday,
February 18, 2026
5:00 - 6:00 pm
DNEM Troy Office
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Wednesday,
March 18, 2026
5:00 - 6:00 pm
DNEM Troy Office
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Strike up some fun at our adaptive bowling program!
Bowlers of all abilities are welcome, whether it’s your first time or your fiftieth. We provide all the equipment you need for a safe and enjoyable experience.
The cost is $12 per bowler, payable to the bowling alley on the day of the event. The fee includes two games and shoe rental.
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Friday, February 20, 2026
12:00 - 2:00 pm
Imperial Lanes, Clinton Township
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Pickleball for Adults with Intellectual Disabilities
| This clinic is designed for adults with intellectual disabilities who want to learn pickleball in a fun, low-pressure environment. Paddles and balls will be provided, and staff will help you try out different adaptations to make the game work for you. Come and see why pickleball is becoming such a popular and accessible sport! | | Invented for Disabilities, Used by Everybody: Swivel Cushions | |
Are you looking for an easier way to get in and out of your seat?
A swivel cushion may help!
Watch this YouTube Short to explore the purpose of swivel cushions and where they can be used.
| | | Michigan Policy Changes in 2026: Wages, Benefits, and Supports That Strengthen Communities | |
| | 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. | | | | |
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Several important statewide changes are taking effect in 2026 that will directly impact workers, families, and individuals with disabilities. At AMPED, we know that economic stability, accessible services, and strong public support are essential to true independence.
Below are some of the most significant changes to know.
Minimum Wage Will Rise in 2026
Starting January 1, 2026, Michigan’s general minimum wage increased from $12.48 per hour to $13.73 per hour under the Improved Workforce Opportunity Wage Act. Michigan is also beginning a gradual increase in tipped wages. Beginning in 2026, tipped workers must earn at least 40% of the full minimum wage, strengthening protections for service industry employees. For many hourly workers, this means more income to cover everyday essentials like rent, food, transportation, and healthcare. For workers with disabilities, who are more likely to experience underemployment or financial insecurity, this increase is especially important.
Unemployment Benefits Are Increasing
Michigan is also boosting unemployment support for workers navigating job transitions. Beginning January 1, 2026, new unemployment claims may qualify for up to $530 per week, up from $446. There will also be increased benefit amounts for eligible dependents. This increase is part of broader reforms aimed at ensuring Michiganders have stronger financial support during layoffs, career changes, or unexpected employment disruptions. Importantly, these benefit levels will continue rising in future years through a phased schedule tied to inflation.
Expanded Home Heating Support through Michigan Tax Credits
Michigan residents may claim a home heating fuel credit on their income taxes for heating expenses related to their homestead, with base credits. These credits are adjusted each year so that households under 110% of the federal poverty level are not denied support. For many people with disabilities, older adults, and low-income households, heating assistance can be the difference between safety and crisis during Michigan winters.
Continued Medicaid Medical Service Coverage and Oversight
The payment and reimbursement system for county-owned medical care facilities that provide Medicaid-funded long-term care has been extended through 2030. Public notice and legislative oversight is required if reimbursement levels change by more than 1%, ensuring accountability in how Medicaid services are funded statewide. For many Michiganders, Medicaid remains one of the most critical systems supporting health, independence, and community living.
At AMPED, we believe policy is personal. Fair wages, stronger unemployment support, heating assistance, Medicaid protections, and community-focused reforms all shape daily life for people with disabilities. As always, AMPED will continue monitoring these changes, advocating for equitable implementation, and ensuring Michiganders have the tools and information needed to thrive.
| | 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. | | | | |
