With the future of disability services on the line, CSN was proud to take part in Disability
Advocacy Day 2025. Held during Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, this powerful annual event—hosted by the Survival Coalition of Wisconsin, amplifies the voices of individuals with disabilities, bringing self-advocates, caregivers, and supporters together to engage with legislators on critical issues affecting the disability community.
A Call to Be a Champion for Inclusion
This year, the event shifted from an in-person gathering at the State Capitol to a virtual format to eliminate transportation barriers and ensure broader participation. Unfortunately, one of the very issues advocates hoped to address—transportation challenges—was also why many could not attend in person. Changes in Wisconsin’s long-term care disability coverage over the past seven years have made arranging transportation for people with disabilities increasingly difficult. Traveling across the city, let alone the state, to reach the Capitol has become a significant hurdle that highlights the urgent need for policy change.
A United Voice for Change
At CSN, we were honored to stand alongside these passionate advocates and work with other dedicated service providers like MARC and the Waisman Center. CSN’s Executive Director, Caroline Bowers, and Director of Community Engagement, Kristen Wells, were able to meet with Francesa Hong (WI Assembly District 76) and Kelda Roys’ (WI Senate District 26) office to highlight the incredible stories of this population and how important it is for individuals with disabilities to participate in community life.
Why Medicaid Matters
A key focus of the day was Medicaid, as debates continue over who relies on it, what it covers, and its necessity. This virtual gathering provided a vital platform for self-advocates to share powerful stories about the life-changing impact of Medicaid-funded services. They highlighted the opportunities it provides—from supported employment, art programs, and recreation activities to essential caregiving support, wheelchairs, and feeding devices. Parents spoke candidly about how these services enable their children with disabilities to thrive—and how funding cuts could force them to leave their jobs, relocate, or face overwhelming hardship.
According to KFF’s Medicaid in Wisconsin factsheet, 18% of Wisconsin’s population—approximately 1.3 million people—receives services through Medicaid? For many, these services are lifelines, covering the cost of essential needs like:
✅ Caregivers
✅ Wheelchairs and communication devices
✅ Medical visits and therapies
✅ Food and other daily necessities
Cuts to Medicaid would not only jeopardize the health and independence of these 1.3 million individuals—it would also profoundly impact families, caregivers, and service providers who play a critical role in supporting their well-being.
The Fight Isn’t Over—Here’s How You Can Help
Disability Advocacy Day was a powerful reminder of what we can achieve when we unite for a common cause—but the work is far from over. You can be a champion for inclusion by taking action today:
✅ Contact Your Representatives – Your voice matters. Call, write a letter, or schedule a meeting to share your story and advocate for disability rights. Unsure who your representatives are? Find them HERE.
🗳️ Vote – A critical election is coming up on April 1st, and your vote can make a difference. To find your polling place, register to vote, and learn who is on your ballot, visit My Vote Wisconsin.
📹 Hear Directly from the People We Support - At CSN, we believe that personal stories are the most powerful tool for advocacy. That’s why we’re proud to share "Our Stories"—a video series where CSN clients share their journeys, experiences, and the impact of the services they receive. These stories bring to life the importance of programs like Medicaid and the need to protect and expand access to essential services. Watch "Our Stories"
💙 Donate to CSN – Your support helps us continue providing essential services that empower individuals with disabilities to lead independent, fulfilling lives. Every contribution makes a difference. Donate today
By working together, we can continue to advocate for inclusion, accessibility, and the rights of all individuals in Wisconsin.
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