WIND provides education about disabilities and for individuals with disabilities and their families, friends, and service providers throughout Wyoming. Community Education staff members are trained to provide disability education to diverse groups that include residents; University of Wyoming students, faculty, and staff; professionals; educators; and residents. Some community education staff members have expertise in assistive technology, aging, and outreach to the ranching communities.

Current Activities

A goal of Community Education within WIND is to enhance the opportunities for individuals with disabilities to experience full community inclusion. The projects focus on providing information, connecting individuals to services, and developing assistive technology expertise. Many Community Education staff members work within the goals and objectives of more than one project, which enhances their ability to appropriately respond to needs throughout the state. Current projects include:

AgrAbility

WIND works with the University of Wyoming, College of Agriculture, Cooperative Extension Service to deliver the AgrAbility program. One of a number of national programs, the Wyoming AgrAbility program provides direct education and assistance to Wyoming ranching families that have been impacted by a disability.

ADRC

WIND is the grantee for a three-year CMS/AOA Systems Change Grant that is focused on streamlining access to long-term care services and supports. Pilot sites will be opened in Casper and Glenrock through a contract with Wyoming Independent Living Rehabilitation, Inc. These sites will operate as Aging and Disability Resource Centers and will provide information and referral along with and eligibility information to individuals age 50+ and all individuals with physical disabilities with regard to long-term care services. The Resource Centers will provide counseling and information through a 'no wrong door', 'one-stop' model that will allow individuals to obtain information regarding service options.

Partners in Policymaking

A goal of Partners in Policymaking is to encourage self-advocates and their family members to participate in full community inclusion. Partners provides information on employment, housing, assistive technology and advocacy skills through legislative training.

WATR

WIND Assistive Technology Resources is funded through the Assistive Technology Act of 1998 and is the official Tech Act project for Wyoming. WATR offers several services that address the fields of education, employment, community living, and IT/telecommunications and are open to all Wyoming residents. In addition to the Device Loan Center, Device Demonstration Center, and AT recycling programs, WATR offers training and technical assistance and public awareness activities and collaborates with agencies across the state.

WFSN

Wyoming Family Support Network is a coordinated network of parents who have children with special needs. These parents represent a wide variety of disabilities or special health needs. The Network includes an Advisory Board and a Director.