ADRC March 2024 Newsletter

March 2024

Aging & Disability

Resource Center (ADRC)

721 Oxford Avenue

Suite 1130

Eau Claire WI 54703

Monday - Friday

8:00 am - 4:30 pm

715-839-4735

1-888-338-4636

tty: use Relay (711)

Website and Email

www.eauclaireadrc.org

adrc@eauclairecounty.gov

Social Media

www.facebook.com/ ECC.ADRC

www.instagram.com/ adrceauclaire/

ADRC Mission Statement

To advocate for individuals age 60+ and adults living with disabilites, and assist them in securing needed services or benefts, live with dignity and security, and achieve maximum independence and quality of life.

March for Meals

The Meals on Wheels program in Eau Claire County serves a hot, made from scratch meal to approximately 450 homebound seniors every weekday. All the meals are made locally in our central kitchen in Eau Claire. We believe that good nutrition will help seniors maintain healthy minds, bodies, and ultimately their independence. Some of our program funding comes from the seniors we service in the form on a monthly contribution. These participants are often on fxed incomes and are battling the rising cost of living.

One year of Meals on Wheels, per participant, is the same cost of one day in the hospital. 11% of Wisconsin seniors struggle with hunger, deciding between medication, housing or food. We would like to offer business leaders and community partners an exclusive opportunity to help by sponsoring a route for homebound seniors in Eau Claire County.

March For Meals is a campaign for the Meals on Wheels program and our participants. Here is how it works: For a one-time contribution you will sponsor meals for our local Meals on Wheels participants at various levels of support.

• $125 will sponsor 25 meals business or individual acknowledgement in our newsletter and social media pages.

• $625 will sponsor 125 meals business or individual acknowledgement in newsletter, social media and postcard with person message or business information will be given to each participant.

• Any dollar amount will increase in the impact that Meals on Wheels can have on the participants in Eau Claire County. To make a donation follow any of the options below.

1. Call the ADRC at 715-839-4886 to make a donation over the phone using a credit card or debit card.

2. Visit www.eauclaireadrc.org and click on Make a Difference Donate button.

3. Mail check along with form which is on page 13.

The Eau Claire ADRC Team

ACCOUNTANT

Kelli Weiss

ADRC VAN DRIVER

Dave Okas

COOKS

Aaron Pritzl

Rodney McRae

Karen Mittag

Penny Parkinson

DEMENTIA CARE SPECIALIST

Lisa Wells

DISABILITY BENEFIT SPECIALISTS

Jim Coldwell

Melissa Wendtland

ELDER BENEFIT SPECIALISTS

Jessica Smith

Leda Welke

KITCHEN COORDINATOR

Gilda Halbleib

MANAGEMENT

Linda Struck, Director

Betsy Henck, ADRC Manager

Lisa Riley, ADRC Manager

MEAL DELIVERY DRIVERS

Doug Salter

Gordy Geurink

Kris Bertrand

Norm Brunkow

Sue Klauck

MEAL SITE WORKER

Jon Samolinski

OPTIONS COUNSELORS

Barb McRae

Brianna Werner

Jenna Belter

Jennifer Solfest

Liz Nett

Maddie Kettner

Molly Yang

Sue O’Branovich

PREVENTION COORDINATOR

Deb Bruning

RESOURCE SPECIALISTS

Carmelita Hogan

Heather Craker

RESOURCE SPECIALISTS II

Karen Hauck

Katie Telschow

Lindi Engedal

ADRCs: Help for Older Adults and Adults Living with Disabilities

The Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) of Eau Claire County provides information about resources and support on all aspects of life related to aging or living with a disability. ADRC staff are unbiased and knowledgeable professionals who listen to your concerns, help clarify your options and direct you to appropriate resources. The ADRC administers the Senior Nutrition Programs for Eau Claire County and is also the access point for information about long-term care options and public benefts. Services provided by the ADRC are free and available to all Eau Claire County residents regardless of income or assets.

Aging and Disability Resource Center Board

Stella Pagonis, County Board (Chair)

Sue Miller, Citizen Member (Vice Chair)

Heather Deluka, County Board

Tami Schraufnagel, County Board

Conflict of Interest Statement

Amanda Babb, County Board

Allen Myren, County Board

Jean Doty, Citizen Member

Ron Hon, Citizen Member

Sandra Romey, Citizen Member

Terri Stanley, Citizen Member

Bill Libberton, Citizen Member

The primary purpose of the ADRC is to provide the customer with unbiased information about services that will meet their needs. This includes sharing information with customers about agencies that provide needed services. The ADRC may operate programs that provide direct services to customers. The ADRC Specialist:

• Cannot attempt to influence customers for fnancial gain or other self-interests.

• Cannot attempt to influence customers in the interest of any service or program provider, including the ADRC itself. The ADRC is prohibited from using revenue generated from direct service programs to support the ADRC Specialist program.

The advertisements in this newsletter are obtained from the printing company LPI, not the ADRC. The ADRC provides unbiased information and assistance to those we serve.

ADRC Equity Statement:

The Aging & Disability Resource Center of Eau Claire County is welcoming and safe for all. We are committed to serving with equity in mind. No judgement, assumptions or shame.

There are no income requirements to utilize the services of the ADRC.

ADRC's assist anyone age 60 and over, as well as adults age18-59 living with disabilities.

ADRC services are also available to family members, friends, caregivers and professionals working with these populations.

Report Misleading Medicare Ads

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) are asking consumers and benefciaries to help identify misleading Advantage plan sales practices that violate new federal marketing rules. That includes television ads promoting benefts that may not be available in the consumer’s service area, as well as printed materials and telephone marketing practices.

CMS is asking people to watch for marketing efforts that:

Suggest benefts are available to anybody who joins the plan.

• Mention benefts that are not available in the service area where they are advertised.

• Claim that the plan advertised will provide the "most" or "best" benefts or coverage.

• Promise unrealistic savings that most consumers will not realize.

• Fail to identify the name of the plan being advertised.

• Use the Medicare name or images of the Medicare membership card or logo without approval of CMS.

• Contact Advantage or drug plan members who have already told a plan or issuer not to contact them.

• Pretend to be representative of the government-run Medicare program.

The new marketing rules, which took effect September 30, 2023, require sales representatives to explain to consumers how any plan being offered differs from the consumer’s current plan before making a switch. The rules also require insurers and third-party marketing companies to submit advertisements to CMS for review before going public. However, the sheer volume of Advantage plan advertising makes it unlikely that CMS will be able to catch every misleading sales pitch.

CMS is asking consumers to report potentially misleading marketing efforts to 1-800-MEDICARE. Wisconsin residents can also report potential marketing violations to the Senior Medicare Patrol at 1-888-818-2611.

By the GWAAR Legal Services Team (for reprint)

Caregiving is rewarding. But it can be challenging too. Whether you provide care for a spouse, partner, parent, friend; at home or in a care facility, whether down the block or miles away, yours is an important role.

But taking care of yourself is important also. Powerful Tools for Caregivers is an educational workshop designed to help caregivers take care of themselves while caring for someone else. By taking care of your own health and well-being, you become a better caregiver.

The classes give caregivers tools to help:

• Reduce stress

• Improve self-confdence

• Manage time, set goals, and solve problems

• Better communicate feelings

• Increase ability to make tough decisions

• Locate helpful resources

WHEN: Thursdays

April 18th - May 23rd, 2024

WHERE: Lake Street United Methodist Church 337 Lake Street Room 202 Eau Claire WI 54703

TIME: 2:30 - 4:00 pm

COST: FREE

Registration required:

Class size is limited to 12 participants and registration is required. Register by contacting the Aging & Disability Resource Center at 715-839-4735 or online at www.adrcevents.org.

Respite funds may be available. Please contact the ADRC if respite is needed during the class series.

I recently completed a course through our local Aging & Disability Resource Center in Eau Claire County. The book, “Living a Healthy Life with Chronic Conditions” was used as our guide. My husband has type 2 diabetes, and I enrolled hoping to learn more about diabetes and how to improve his health and diet.

The group facilitators were knowledgeable and made the six sessions interesting, interactive and relevant, and immediately applicable to my family’s needs. The book provided a helpful, easy-to-read guide and a valuable resource I will continue to use.

This course taught me about diabetes and other chronic conditions, but an added bonus was I learned how I can make wise decisions about my health. The tools for setting goals, dealing with negative thoughts, decision-making, meal planning and learning the levels of physical exercise provided strategies for maintaining a healthy balance. We’ve already made some important changes. I believe we are building some healthy life-long habits!

Kathy,

Class Participant

Check Out Upcoming Healthy Living Programs on Page 14

March 2024 Meals on Wheels & Senior Lunch Menu

Meals on Wheels Phone Line: 715-839-4886

Suggested contribution $5/meal

St. John’s Apts | 815 Chapin Street, Eau Claire| Mon– Fri Serve Time: 11 am | 715-839-4886

Augusta Senior Center | 616 W Washington St, Augusta | Mon– Fri Serve Time: 12 pm | 715-286-2953

Fairchild Comm Center | 121 Farmer St, Fairchild | Every Wednesday Serve Time: 12:15 pm | 715-839-4886

L.E. Phillips Sr Center | 1616 Bellinger St., Eau Claire| 1st & 3rd Friday Serve Time: 11:45 am | 715-839-4886

All meals are served with 1% milk and subject to change without notice due to diffculty with supply chain.

Home Delivered & Lunch Sites-Reservations & Cancellations must be submitted by 1 p.m. the day before.

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday

Wednesday Salads*

3/6 Lemon Herb Mediterranean Chicken Salad

3/13 Fresh Fruit & Cottage Cheese

3/20 Chef Salad

3/27 Cobb Salad

4 Chicken Gordon Blue, Dijon Mustard, Garlic Mashed Potatoes*,

Peas* &Carrots*,

Egg Butter Roll*, Fresh Fruit

11

Baked Honey

Mustard Chicken, Brown Rice*, Wax Beans*, W/G Roll*,

Fresh Fruit

18

Crunchy Baked Ranch Chicken, Baked Red Potatoes* w/Sour Cream*, Beans*, W/G Roll*, Fruit^

Note: The signs indicate the number of carbs in a meal.

^ = ½ carb

* = 1 carb

*^ = 1 ½ carb

W/G = wholegrain

5 Hot Beef Sandwich, W/G Kaiser Bun*, Bean Medley*, Roasted Red Potatoes*, Fresh Fruit

6

Easy Baked Tender Loin, Wild rice W/ Brussel sprout*, Spinach

Casserole*, W/G Dinner Roll*, Oreo Fluff*

7 Beef Barley Soup* W/Carrot/Celery/ Mushroom/Diced Potatoes/, Side Salad w/ French*, Crusty Bread*, Sugar Cookie<*

1

Panko Crusted Cod*, Roasted Potatoes*, Corn*, W/G Roll*, Vanilla Pudding*, Fruits

8

Shrimp Stir Fry W/ Red Pepper/ Broccoli/Mushroom/ Jasmine Rice*, Vegetable Egg Roll*, Fresh Fruit*

12

Baked Ham W/ Pineapple Glaze*, Mashed Sweet Potatoes*,

Asparagus*,

Egg Butter Roll*, Brownie

19

Baked Beef Rigatoni

Pasta*,

Zucchini W/Tomato*, Garlic Bread*, Chocolate Cookie^

13

Turkey/ Gravy*, Mashed Potatoes W/ Spinach/ Cheese*, Green Beans

Casserole*, Chocolate Cake*, W/G Roll*

20

Creamy Mushroom

Pork Loin*, Yukon Mashed Potatoes*, Mixed Vegetable*, Carrot Cake*, W/G Roll*

14

Beef Stew W/Carrots/Peas/ Celery/Potatoes*, Egg Noodles*, Corn Bread*, Fruit

21

Salisbury Steak W/ Brown Gravy*, Mashed Potatoes*, Butter Bean Stew W/Spinach*, W/G Roll*, Fruited Jello

15

Oven Fried Cod W/ tartar Sauce*, Roasted Potatoes*, Corn W/Edamame*, Cookie*, W/G Roll*

22

Tuna Casserole W/ Potatoes Chips*, Carrot/ Peas*, W/G Roll*, Grapes

25

Chicken Marsala*, Red Mashed Potatoes*,

Butter Beets*,

Egg Butter Roll*, Fruit

26

Beef Bean Chili*, Side Salad W/ French Dressing*, Corn Bread*, Oatmeal Cookie

27

Slow Roasted Pork W/ Gravy*, Mashed Potatoes*, Peas W/Carrots*, Ambrosia Fruits* W/G Roll*

28 Holiday Meal*, Baked ham W/ Pineapple*, AuGratin Potatoes*, Roasted Asparagus*, W/G Roll*, Easter Cookie

29

Lunch Meal Site Locations

Call 715-839-4886 to make your reservation by 1:00 the day before.

St. John’s Apartments

Monday-Friday 11:00 a.m.

Fairchild Community Center

Every Wednesday at 12:00 p.m.

LE Phillips Senior Center

1st & 3rd Friday at 11:45 a.m.

Augusta Senior Center*

Monday-Friday 12:00 p.m.

*Call 715-286-2953 to make reservation by noon the day before.

Suggested contribution for Senior Dining Sites is $5 a meal for those who are 60+.

Under 60 meal is $8.80

The Wednesday salads listed are only available at Senior Dining Sites.

Evening Meal Site Location

LE Phillips Senior Center

Meals are available on the 2nd and 4th

Tuesday’s of the month at 5:00 p.m.

REGISTER BY 4 p.m. the Friday before.

Tuesday, March 12th

Chicken Cordon Bleu, Green Peas, Fresh Bread, Side Salad/Ranch Dressing and Dessert

Tuesday, March 26th

Baked Ham, Scallop Potato, Steamed Carrots, Fresh Bread, Fresh Fruit and Dessert

Suggested Contribution for the Evening Meal is $6 for those who are 60+

Under 60 meal is $8.80

Please call ADRC Meals on Wheels at 715-839-4886 by 3pm the Friday before to make your reservation.

Resource Center Updates

As a Resource Center, we put together a wide range of resource lists that are separated by topic and specifc to our audience: the residents of Eau Claire County. We are passionate about getting you personalized information for your circumstances.

We’ve been going through a round of updating these resources, so rest assured that the most updated lists are in the Resource Library on our website www.eauclaireadrc.org.

We can also email or snail mail the list that you need, and our staff can talk through your situation to see if it can be narrowed down even more so that you don’t spend your precious time looking into options that aren’t the right ft.

Keep in mind that the information on the handout was accurate at the time of printing but it’s hard to keep up with changes in pricing, contact information etc. The date it was last updated is on the bottom right of the page.

Call us with your questions so we can get you pointed in the right direction!

715-839-4735 www.eauclaireadrc.org adrc@eauclairecounty.gov

The ADRC van has room for one wheelchair and 3 additional individuals for no cost non-medical trips. The van is available for seniors 60+ and adults living with a disability in Eau Claire County. Contact Dave, Transportation Coordinator to schedule at 715-225-0975. Priority given to individuals who live rurally.

CallingALLVeterans

We are taking appointments and can help you file a VA Disability Claim, apply for VA Healthcare, or just answer questions about your eligibility.

Schedule an appointment for: Wednesday, March 13, 2024 9am 3pm Augusta Senior & Community Center 616

YES, I Want to Help—March for Meals

Mail this form with a check payable to Meals on Wheels Attn: March for Meals to:

ADRC of Eau Claire County, Attn: Betsy Henck, 721 Oxford Ave. Room 1130, Eau Claire, WI 54703

SPONSORSHIP LEVELS

______ $125 sponsors 25 meals business/individual acknowledgement in our newsletter and social media pages.

______ $625 sponsor 125 meals—business/individual acknowledgement in our newsletter, social media pages, and postcard with personal message or business information given to each participant.

______ $_____ another amount, specify

Business or individual name making this donation: ____________________________________________

Donation made in honor or memory of: ______________________________________________________

Contact name: ___________________________________________________________________________

Phone: _________________________________ Email:___________________________________________

Need more information: contact Betsy Henck, ADRC Manager at besty.henck@eaulclairecounty.gov or call 715-839-6259

ADRC Prevention and Health Promotion Workshops

REGISTER at least one week prior each of these programs: Call the ADRC at 715-839-4735 or go to www.adrcevents.org

Walk With Ease (in person)

Six-week walking program developed by the Arthritis Foundation. While walking is the central activity, it also includes education to ease arthritis symptoms, stretching and strengthening exercises, and motivational strategies. Classes meet indoors three time weekly for one hour. Proven benefts include: Reduce pain and discomfort of arthritis; Increase balance, strength and walking pace; Build confdence in your ability to be physically active; Improve your overall health. All participants receive the Arthritis Foundation Walk With Ease guidebook.

Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, 10:00 - 11:00 am/ February 12 - March 21, 2024

Oakwood Mall, 4800 Golf Rd, Eau Claire

Stepping On fall prevention program (in person)

Are you feeling unsteady on your feet? Stepping On can help you avoid a dangerous and costly fall so you can keep doing the things you love to do.

In just 7 weeks, you will learn: Strength and balance exercises you can adapt to your individual level. To identify and remove or avoid fall hazards both inside and outside your home. How vision, hearing, medication, and footwear afect your risk of falling. To get back on your feet the right way if you do fall.

Tuesdays, 10:00 am - 12:00 pm/ April 9 - May 21, 2024

Grace Lutheran Church, 202 W Grand Avenue, Eau Claire

Healthy Living with Diabetes (in person)

Designed for adults of all ages who have type 2 diabetes, pre-diabetes, or who live with someone who does. Learn how to manage the condition through 14 self-management tools. Topics include healthy eating and nutrition: food label reading, meal planning, relaxation techniques, ftness for exercise and fun, feedback and problem-solving, stress and depression management, short-term goal setting, communicating with friends, family, and your medical team. Meets weekly for 6 weeks, plus optional class with a Certifed Diabetes Specialist.

Thursdays, 10:00 am - 12:30 pm/ April 18 - May 23, 2024

Grace Lutheran Church, 202 W Grand Avenue, Eau Claire

ADRC Prevention and Health Promotion Workshops

This month we highlight our StrongBodies Winter 2024 session, meeting now through March 2024. These are participants of two in-person classes taking place with thanks to Dove Healthcare West, volunteer leaders Mary Lange and Angela Larson, and Grace Lutheran Church volunteer leader Gloria Godchaux.

Registration for Spring 2024 classes

Orientation for new participants will be held 10:00 - 11:15 A.M. on March 7th. Call 715-839-4735 or online at www.adrcevents.org to register by February 29. A program packet will be mailed.

Repeat participants must complete a Re-enrollment Consent Form to sign up by March 18, 2024. Spring classes start April 1, 2024. Complete schedule of StrongBodies workshops is available at www.adrcevents.org.

VEHICLE MODIFICATION GRANT AVAILABLE

Do you have a vehicle that needs modifications for accessibility?

The Vehicle Modification Grant has money available, up to $5,000, to make a vehicle accessible for caregivers, adults 60 and over, or adults living with a disability. This may also help with the purchase of a new/ used modified vehicle. Applications are reviewed and granted based on funding availability.

Must be a Eau Claire County Resident to qualify.

Examples of possible modifications: lifts, ramps, left foot accelerator, right hand turn signal, modified-effort steering, swivel seat…and so much more!

Contact the ADRC at 715-839-4735, we may be able to help pay for those modifications.

VEHICLE REPAIR GRANT AVAILABLE

Do you have a vehicle that needs to be repaired and you can’t afford to fix it?

The Vehicle Repair Grant has money available, up to $2,500 for caregivers, adults 60 and over, or adults living with a disability. Applications are reviewed and granted based on funding availability.

Must be an Eau Claire County Resident to qualify.

Examples of possible repairs: brakes, tires, non-cosmetic fixes etc.

This grant does not qualify for general maintenance such as oil changes.

Contact the ADRC at 715-839-4735, we may be able to help pay for those repairs. Ms. Wheelchair Wisconsin-Ms. Rayquetta Lawerence Congratulations

Ms. Lawrence is the winner of the 2024 Ms. Wheelchair Wisconsin pageant. Ms. Lawrence was born with Cerebral Palsy.

The mission of Ms. Wheelchair Wisconsin, a subsidiary of Ms. Wheelchair America, Inc., is to provide an opportunity for women of achievement who utilize wheelchairs to successfully educate and advocate for individuals with disabilities.

CAREGIVER CAFÉ: March 5, 2024

The caregiver café is an informal gathering place where caregivers can drop in, relax and connect with others while enjoying a cup of coffee/tea and delicious pastries. An ADRC staff person is available to provide information and assistance regarding resources available in our community.

Everything is provided, just show up!

Tuesday, March 5, 2024

9 – 10:30 a.m.

Location: The French Press

2823 London Rd, Eau Claire

What Can You Expect?

• Social connection with others

• Peer Support

• An informal and relaxed environment

• Reduced Stress

• Contact the ADRC if respite is needed

Horticulture-Inspired Program for People Living with Dementia & Their Care Partners

Hands-on, nature inspired experiences that provide opportunities to stimulate the senses, enjoy social interactions, and provide physical activity while imparting a sense of purpose. All supplies and materials provided. Come and Learn about Seedlings.

WHEN: Thursday, March 21st

TIME: 1:00 - 2:30 pm

WHERE:UW-Extension, 227 1st St W, Altoona

Register online at www.adrcevents.org or call 715-839-4735

MARCH DEMENTIA SUPPORT

For more information and program flyers, check out the ADRC calendar events at www.adrcevents.org

Coffee Group for Men

Connections and coffee for men caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease or other type of dementia.

Wednesday, 3/6 and 3/20, 11:00 am - Noon

Peace Lutheran Church, 501 E. Fillmore, Eau Claire. Contact Bob at 414-378-2114 or beevee6610@gmail.com

Lewy Body Dementia Virtual Support Group

This virtual support group is for people caring for a person living with Lewy Body Dementia.

Wednesday, 3/13 & 3/27, 1:30-3:30 pm

For more information and to receive the link for the meeting, contact Rob at 920-386-4308 or greisel@co.dodge.wi.us

Memory Loss and Caregiver Support Group

This support group is for people with memory loss and caregivers.

Wednesday, 3/27; 1:30 - 3:00 pm

Lake St. Methodist Church, 337 Lake Street, Eau Claire. For more information, contact Lisa at 715-839-4750 or lisa.wells@eauclairecounty.gov

Savvy Caregiver Support Group

This virtual support group meeting is for family caregivers caring for a person living with dementia. The group provides information, support, and resources.

Tuesday, 3/5 10—11 am

For more information contact Lisa Wells at 715-839-4750 or lisa.wells@eauclairecounty.gov

Virtual Support Group for Working Caregivers

Monday, 3/4 7:00 — 8:00 pm

Contact Scott at 715-261-6066

scott.seeger@adrc-cw.org

Memory Café

Did you know that Wisconsin is 4th in the nation in maple syrup production? It’s time to “syrup” some fun and hear from Beaver Creek Reserve to learn about the process of maple syrup thrown in with some trivia. Be sure to come hungry...pancakes and syrup will be served!

Refreshments sponsored by Village Caregiving.

Chippewa Valley Museum, 1204 E. Half Moon Dr. Tuesday, 3/12, 10:00 am

For more information, contact Lisa at 715-839-4750 or lisa.wells@eauclairecouty.gov

Stand in the Light Memory Choir

People in the early to mid-stages of memory loss, their care partners, and singing volunteers come together to share their love of music.

REHEARSALS: Thursdays, 9:45 - 11:00 am 1/11 - 4/18, 2024

Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd, 1120 Cedar St. Eau Claire. Questions call 715-210-4165 or standinthelightmemorychoir@gmail.com

Questions about brain health, dementia, and/or caring for a person with dementia?

Contact Lisa Wells, Dementia Care Specialist, ADRC

715-839-4750

Lisa.Wells@eauclairecounty.gov

National 24/7 Helpline 1-800-272-3900

Disability Advocacy Day Approaching

March 20, 2024 is Disability Advocacy Day in Wisconsin. Share your story and educate legislators on life as a person with a disability in Wisconsin. Offer solutions to problems that legislators may not even have been aware of.

To locate the contact information for your legislators so you can share your experience, go to https://legis.wisconsin.gov

Tips for communicating with your legislator.

• Be clear about your issue and use clear simple concise statements.

• State the action you would like done

• Keep to facts

A phone line is now available allowing all Wisconsinites to share their successes and challenges with a peer who will listen and offer support. Built by Mental Health America of Wisconsin under a grant from DHS for people experiencing mental health and substance use concerns, UpliftWI can be reached at 534-202-5438 daily from noon to midnight, with 24/7 operation expected by the end of the year. This nonemergency service is free and confidential.

Callers to UpliftWI speak to certified peer specialists with diverse life experiences stationed across the state. A certified peer specialist is a person who has navigated their own mental health and substance use challenges, completed a training course, and passed a state exam that tests their skills and knowledge about how to support others. They use their personal experiences to help callers identify and pursue their own wellness goals and will share information about community resources if requested. Callers are not required to provide their name, address, or other identifying information.

The goal of UpliftWI is to help callers feel connected, understood, and less isolated in an effort to prevent mental health and substance use crises. UpliftWI is a safe place to share those challenges with a supportive voice who will listen in confidence without judgement or criticism.

It is completely anonymous – your phone number & name are blocked.

People experiencing mental health and substance emergencies should call, text, or chat the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. If the emergency is life-threatening, call 911.

Colony Park West

Colony Park East

Mark Your Calendars for Upcoming Programs

Family Caregiver Skills Fair

Thursday, May 9

8:00 am - 3:30 pm

Jacob’s Well Church

989 122nd Street, Chippewa Falls

Confdent Dementia Caregiver Series

Thursdays: May 30, June 26, July 25, August 29, September 26

1:00 - 2:30 pm

Peace Lutheran Church

501 E. Fillmore Avenue, Eau Claire

Better Brain Fridays Seminar Series

Fridays: May 17 & 31, June 14 & 28, July 12 & 26, August 9 and 30

10:00 - 11:30 am

Dove Healthcare Community Room 1405 Truax Blvd, Eau Claire

85th Anniversary Year of The Wizard of Oz

2024 marks the 85th year since The Wizard of Oz frst was shown in theaters in 1939. This iconic flm is in the top 10 of 100 best movies of all times by The American Film Institute. Here are some facts:

 The Wizard of Oz was one of the frst flms to be made in Technicolor.

 Judy Garland was paid $500 a week, while Bert Lahr the Cowardly Lion was paid $2,500 a week.

 There were 124 little people who played the Munchkins during the 26 weeks it took to flm.

 Toto was a 4 year old Cairn Terrier named, Terry, after the movie her name was changed to Toto.

 The Wicked Witch of the West’s green makeup was toxic.

 The Wizard of Oz is considered to be the most viewed movie EVER!