Michigan Developmental Disabilities Institute

DRM is investigating cases where Freedom to Work Medicaid ended.

If your Freedom to Work Medicaid coverage ended, we want to hear from you.

Please call 1.800.288.5923.

Our hearts are deeply saddened by the passing of Andre Robinson, former Chair of the Michigan Developmental Disabilities Council. Andre’s voice, compassion, and dedication touched countless lives. He was a true champion for people with developmental disabilities.

Andre was first appointed as a council member in 2003 and devoted many years to advancing our mission, including serving as Chair from 2008 to 2012. He was a founder of Michigan's peer mentoring program, helping shape its curriculum and training, and serving as a lead trainer for Peer Mentoring 101. His passion for lifting others up continued through his work as a Peer Mentor at Community Living Services in Wayne, MI.

In 2018, Andre expanded his impact by graduating from Central Michigan University and by becoming a sexuality educator focused on healthy relationships for people with disabilities. Through every role, Andre brought care, insight, and genuine dedication to helping the people he served.

Andre’s legacy is one of compassion, leadership, and lifelong advocacy. He will be truly missed and forever remembered by all who were fortunate to know him.

Visitation will be held on Friday, August 14, and his funeral will take place on Saturday, August 15. For details, or to share a tribute to Andre, please visit:

https://www.pyefuneralhome.com/obituaries/andre-robinson-4/ #!/Obituary

Earlier today, The Detroit News published an opinion by Jeremy Murphy, MiDDC Chair, on the importance of community living for people with disabilities.

Recently, the U.S. Department of Justice announced it, “will not rely on the Olmstead Guidance in its enforcement of Title II of the ADA.” State and local governments have relied on the Olmstead Guidance since 2011 to comply with the ADA’s integration mandate.

"For many Americans, independence means making choices about where to live, where to work, how to spend time with family and friends and how to engage in active community life. Disability advocates have worked for decades to protect those same freedoms for people with disabilities. Without the integration mandate, much of this progress could be lost. The move away from institutions toward group homes, supported living and family-based settings could be reversed if the federal government stops enforcing the integration mandate."

"MiDDC remains dedicated to protecting and advancing the civil rights of people with developmental disabilities and their families. We believe everyone should have the freedom to make choices about their own life, receive support and services in their community and become fully integrated members of society."

To view the published article, visit: https://www.detroitnews.com/opinion/

Are you or someone you know living with disabilities and thinking about living alone or becoming more independent?

Join MI-DDI’s Community Transition Trainers (CTT) for a FREE virtual session designed specifically for people with disabilities who want to explore independent living.

Whether you're planning to move out, looking for more control in your current living situation, or just want to learn about your options, this session is for you!

Hear from others with lived experiences, ask questions, and get helpful insights on living in the community.

Thursday, August 13th
1:00 – 2:00 PM

Online via Zoom
Register here: https://tinyurl.com/yc2dsnv7

Have you heard about Independent Facilitation and want to know more? Do you want to use an Independent Facilitator in your next Person-Centered Plan? Have you thought about becoming a trained Independent Facilitator?

Independent facilitation is part of the person-centered planning process. It assures someone has an ally in directing a person-centered planning meeting.

Join our upcoming free webinar to learn how this process can help you or a loved one.

August 21, 2026
10:00 - 11:00 AM
Register: https://tinyurl.com/89w7hwak

Who should attend?
x People with disabilities
x Family members
x Case Managers
x Anyone who wants to learn more about Independent Facilitation

This webinar is offered as a 1 Credit Hour General Social Work CE Credit

For more information: https://ddi.wayne.edu/if

Join us for Inclusive Shelters: Advancing Equity, Access, and Belonging, a virtual training focused on helping shelters create more accessible, welcoming, and inclusive environments for people with disabilities.

Participants will explore disability identity and culture, common barriers within shelter settings, responsibilities under the Americans with Disabilities Act, and practical strategies that promote dignity, choice, safety, and belonging.

Tuesday, August 18
12:00 to 1:30 p.m. ET
Virtual on Zoom
ASL and CART captioning will be provided

Register today: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/inclusive-shelters-advancing-equity-access-and-belonging-tickets-1992079328898?aff=ebdsoporgprofile

This training is offered through LEAD Inclusive Network and funded by the Michigan Developmental Disabilities Council.

Check out our July E-newsletter!

https://mailchi.mp/464e2d610eed/aprilnews-17463338