Independent Living
Peer Counseling is a Core Service that RCIL offers to people with disabilities. RCIL helps them connect with other people who have, or have experienced, a disability by hosting an online RCIL Friends group once a month. The group meets virtually via Zoom on the fourth Tuesday of each month from 2:00pm – 3:00pm. They…
Read ArticleWe have been receiving some questions regarding how Direct Support Workers (DSWs) can get a COVID-19 vaccination. The following information was provided by the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services (KDADS): Community-Based Long-Term Services and Support (LTSS) workers like DSWs in Kansas are deemed health care workers in the context of receiving a COVID-19…
Read ArticleJames and Sandy Garner were thrilled to have their ramp built at their home. For several years, James spent numerous days inside their home because it was difficult for him to walk and to use steps. When he had to go to the hospital, the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) had to use their back door…
Read ArticleA Virtual Celebration with Judith Heumann Judith Heumann, internationally recognized disability rights leader and activist, will celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and October’s National Disability Employment Awareness Month virtually with the University of Kansas and the Lawrence communities and guests worldwide on October 28-29, 2020. Heumann’s visit is organized…
Read ArticleDo you have a mobility – related disability? Looking to lose weight? We are offering a research weight management program that provides: diet plan physical activity social interaction without leaving your home! All participants must be over the age of 18 and willing to: Being randomized to either individual home visits or group participation via…
Read ArticleThe 2020 Kansas Disability Caucus has been cancelled due to concerns about the Coronavirus. However, plans are being made to hold some caucus sessions virtually. More information on that will be released soon. Please see this cancellation announcement for more complete details.
Read ArticleAll households participating in SNAP will get the maximum benefit per their size beyond May. Emergency allotments for SNAP food assistance are extended on a month-by-month basis. For example, a household of one will now automatically get their monthly food benefits increased to $194. Families of four will get $646 per month. Now is the…
Read ArticleThe U.S. Treasury Department has announced that individuals receiving SSDI and/or SSI will automatically be sent stimulus funds. However, those who have who have qualifying children under age 17 must enter information as soon as possible to receive the $500 per dependent rebate. Those who have dependents should visit the IRS website and complete the…
Read ArticleWe have started a list of localized resources, services, and changes to businesses, agencies, and other organizations on our resource page. Remember to check it often as the information changes quickly. If you know of a resource in your area please share it with us by commenting here or emailing us with the details at…
Read ArticleRCIL has received some phone calls from concerned Direct Support Workers regarding the need for travel documents while they are working for their consumer during “stay at home” ordered periods. RCIL has received official direction from the Kansas Department of Aging and Disability Services that Home and Community Based Services (HCBA) are considered essential healthcare.…
Read ArticleConsumers and Direct Support Workers – here’s an important list of Self-Direction-Preparation tasks to keep in mind to prepare and protect yourselves during this COVID-19 health crisis.
Read ArticleDo you have an issue or a goal that you need some assistance to achieve? Perhaps you can’t afford that piece of medical equipment you need? Is your goal is to make a cake, learn how to budget, or find a job? RCIL’s Independent Living Specialists work with people with disabilities to help them resolve…
Read ArticleThe Kansas Disability Caucus, Inc. Board has five positions up for election each beginning January 1, 2020 for a two year term. They are seeking individuals who want to join the group to organize and coordinate activities that promote independent living of all people with disabilities through collaboration, networking, education, planning, and peer-to-peer interaction, including…
Read ArticleDo you have a mobility – related disability and are looking to lose weight? You may be eligible for the University of Kansas Medical Center Research Study. This weight management program provides diet guidance, physical activity and social interaction without leaving your home! All participants must be over the age of 18 with a mobility…
Read ArticleThe 2019 Medicare Annual Enrollment Period is October 15th to December 7th. Medicare Part D is known as Prescription Drug Plan. Individuals who have Medicare Part D can explore, compare drug plan options, and choose a plan that will meet their needs during annual enrollment. The plan they choose will go into effect on January…
Read ArticlePlease join us for an informative session on Self-Directing your Home and Community Based Services. Topics will include information on: How to Recruit, Select, Interview, Hire, Train, Supervise and Dismiss Direct Support Workers (DSWs) Understanding Enhanced Care Services (Sleep Cycle Support) KS AuthentiCare (the Electronic Visit Verification Call In System) Having a Backup Plan (of…
Read ArticlePlease join us for an informative session on Self-Directing your Home and Community Based Services. Topics will include information on: How to Recruit, Select, Interview, Hire, Train, Supervise and Dismiss Direct Support Workers (DSWs) Understanding Enhanced Care Services (Sleep Cycle Support) KS AuthentiCare (the Electronic Visit Verification Call In System) Having a Backup Plan (of…
Read ArticlePlease join us for an informative session on Self-Directing your Home and Community Based Services. Topics will include information on: How to Recruit, Select, Interview, Hire, Train, Supervise and Dismiss Direct Support Workers (DSWs) Understanding Enhanced Care Services (Sleep Cycle Support) KS AuthentiCare (the Electronic Visit Verification Call In System) Having a Backup Plan (of…
Read ArticleAT&T is offering low-cost wireline home Internet service to qualifying households with at least one resident who participates in the U.S. Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and with an address in AT&T’s 21-state service area, which includes both Kansas and Missouri! Internet plans range from $5 – $10 per month. Click here to find rates,…
Read ArticleAre you a woman with a spinal cord injury (SCI) or with a physical disability who is thinking about getting pregnant, currently pregnant, been pregnant before, or have decided not to get pregnant? Researchers from The University of Michigan are working to create a tool that women with SCI or with a physical disability can…
Read ArticlePlease join us for an informative session on Self-Directing your Home and Community Based Services. Topics will include information on: How to Recruit, Select, Interview, Hire, Train, Supervise and Dismiss Direct Support Workers (DSWs) Understanding Enhanced Care Services (Sleep Cycle Support) KS AuthentiCare (the Electronic Visit Verification Call In System) Having a Backup Plan (of…
Read ArticleRCIL Information and Referral Team received their certification as a Community Resource Specialist through the Alliance for Information and Referral System (AIRS). This credential demonstrates their ability to work directly with consumers either via phone, e-mail, or in-person to provide mediated information and referral systems navigation. This certification is very valuable for RCIL because RCIL…
Read ArticleLearn fall prevention techniques and exercises as well as hearing from community experts regarding overall health and wellness. This program is free to the public. The meetings are every Thursday from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. in the Flinthills Room at Newman Regional Health in Emporia, KS. The first meeting starts on April 4, 2019. …
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