Description:

Thinking about Supported Decision-Making (SDM) explores the things that families need to know about decision-making supports in Wisconsin for adults with disabilities, including SDM agreements, guardianship, and other legal tools like a Power of Attorney (POA) and Release of Information forms. This session is helpful for families with children ages 14 and older, and the providers and educators who work with them.

Presenter:

Danielle Tolzmann joined Family Voices of Wisconsin in 2022 and became Executive Director in 2024. A parent and grandparent of children with special health care needs, she brings lived experience and professional expertise. Danielle holds degrees and certificates in Community and Nonprofit Leadership, Disability Rights and Services, Public Policy, Business, and Nonprofit Management. She has served in leadership roles with the Autism Society of South Central Wisconsin and continues to contribute through the Wisconsin Community of Practice on ASD /DD, Survival Coalition, CLTS Council, Respite Care Association of Wi, the National Council for Supporting Families, and the Wi Transportation Advisory Council, in addition to having consulting roles in community research projects. At Family Voices, her work centers on empowering families as they navigate systems, advancing collaborative improvements, and fostering parent leadership.

Learning Objectives:

Learn about legal status changes when a person turns 18

Learn about SDM agreements and how they can be used starting at age 18

Gain a better understanding of myths of guardianship and possible unintended consequences Explore decision-making and choice-making as a learned skills and how to work with your child to gain these skills