Minnesota Olmstead Implementation Office

Today is the first day of the Minnesota State Fair! We’re excited to join our partners at the Minnesota Council on Disability at their booth in the Education Building on August 23, 27, and 29. Our materials will be available at the MCD booth throughout the Fair. Information about accessibility at the Fair can be found in their accessibility guide: https://bit.ly/3Aslugr

The Paralympics start next week on August 28 and go through September 8! There are 22 sports and over 500 events in this year’s Paralympic Games. Minnesota is well represented on Team USA! Meet the ten athletes with ties to Minnesota: https://bit.ly/4fRqzTc

There are many openings for Minnesota Boards and Commissions. Some openings include Council on Disability, Behavior Analyst Advisory Council, Cultural And Ethnic Communities Leadership Council, and many more! View open positions and apply: https://bit.ly/4658Bqm

Olmstead staff had a great time tabling at the Kandiyohi County Fair last Thursday! We were able to share information about OIO, Minnesota’s Olmstead Plan, and Lois Curtis and Elaine Wilson while giving out some fun swag.

Join the Minnesota Department of Health for a free webinar: Changing the Narrative on Mental Health and Suicide. This virtual event is Wednesday, September 4, from noon to 1 p.m. Presenters will discuss how to start meaningful conversations about mental health, suicide, hope, and resilience. Learn more and register: https://bit.ly/3LTr956

In celebration of Disability Pride Month in July, MPR News highlighted people throughout the month with disabilities who are working to make Minnesota more inclusive and accessible for everyone. Read the article: https://bit.ly/3SwHtMI

Minnesota Council on Disability is seeking passionate individuals to join the Legislative Task Force on Guardianship. The task force will develop recommendations that will transform Minnesota’s guardianship system. MCD is looking for a diverse group of 25 members, including people with disabilities, advocates, family members, and guardians. The application deadline is August 2, 2024. All qualified individuals are encouraged to apply. Apply and learn more on the Secretary of State’s website: https://bit.ly/4bXgXTy

The Olmstead Implementation Office was at Disability Pride Festival earlier today! An annual event, Disability Pride Festival is hosted by Advocating Change Together. It features activities, entertainment, food, and vendors. July is Disability Pride Month, a celebration that honors the diversity, history, and achievements of the disability community. Thanks to everyone who stopped by to say hi!

Minnesota Department of Human Services and Institute on Community Integration are studying some services including crisis respite, respite, and positive supports. People who use these services or are interested in using these services have the opportunity to provide feedback. Feedback will be used to make recommendations for legislation to improve services. Learn more: https://z.umn.edu/9nbk

The Minnesota Department of Human Services, Minnesota Housing, and Minnesota Interagency Council on Homelessness are seeking community feedback about Housing Stabilization Services. Their survey is open until Friday, July 12. Information collected through the survey will be used to strengthen supportive housing across the state and improve the Housing Stabilization Services program to better meet people’s needs. Learn more and take the survey: https://bit.ly/3zDXPwM