WV Statewide Independent Living Council

06/16/2026

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires health care providers and medical facilities to ensure equal access to medical care for individuals with disabilities. This includes the use of accessible medical diagnostic equipment (MDE), such as examination tables.

Health care providers and facilities must comply with accessible examination table requirements by August 9, 2026.

06/15/2026

Today, June 15, is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day.

Each year, an estimated 5 million older adults are abused, neglected, or exploited. Older Americans lose an estimated $2.6 billion or more annually due to elder financial abuse and exploitation, funds that could be used to pay for basic needs such as housing, food, and medical care. Unfortunately, it occurs in every demographic and can happen to anyone — a family member, a neighbor, even you. It is estimated that only one in five of these crimes are discovered.

To learn more visit: https://acl.gov/news-and-events/events-and-observances/world-elder-abuse-awareness-day

06/15/2026

Are you, your child, or someone in your care under the age of 21 and on Medicaid? If so, do you know that you or your child automatically qualifies for the Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic and Treatment (EPSDT) benefit?

Have you been refused or denied assistive technology, durable medical equipment, or other needed services by EPSDT/Medicaid? If so, we want to hear from you! Please call us at 304-346-0847 or toll free at 800-950-5250 for an intake.

In WV, the name of the EPSDT program is HealthCheck.
For more information about HealthCheck, go to:
https://dhhr.wv.gov/healthcheck/Pages/default.aspx

For more information about EPSDT in general, go to:
https://www.medicaid.gov/medicaid/benefits/early-and-periodic-screening-diagnostic-and-treatment

06/15/2026

Due to the threat of thunderstorms and out of an abundance of caution for the families we serve, we have made the decision to RESCHEDULE today's Bubble & Beach Ball Bash.

The good news? We're not completely canceling this event! We have way too many fun activities and prizes planned to let the weather spoil the fun.

We're currently working to secure a new date and will keep everyone updated on Facebook and by email as soon as it's confirmed.
Thank you for your understanding. We can't wait to celebrate with you soon!

06/14/2026

🚗🏆 Got a car, truck, or bike you're proud of?

Register today for the 2026 Freedom Car, Truck & Bike Show and show off your ride at one of West Virginia's most unique automotive events!

📅 October 3, 2026
📍 Magic Island Park, Charleston, WV

Whether it's classic, custom, muscle, antique, lifted, lowered, or completely one-of-a-kind—we want to see it! The first 50 registered entrants receive a commemorative dash plaque and goodie bag. Early registration is $25.

Register online today: 🏆
https://carshowpro.com/events/view/3248

All proceeds support programs that help West Virginians with disabilities live independently.

Check out our website to learn more about the Freedom Car Show:
https://freedomcarshow.org/home

06/14/2026

Join us for our next training session, Legislative Advocacy 101.
This training will be presented by Delegate Kathie Hess-Crouse.

The training will be on July 7, 2026, from 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM. This is a hybrid event, and you may attend virtually.

However, Delegate Hess-Crouch will be speaking in person on location at the WVSILC office and we encourage everyone to attend in person at 6908 MacCorkle Avenue, St. Albans, WV 25177.

Please note: Individuals attending in person will be responsible for their own travel expenses, as reimbursements cannot be provided.

Kathie Hess Crouse is a West Virginia Delegate representing District 19 in Putnam County. She is a strong advocate for conservative values, focused on practical solutions that support families, strengthen communities, and grow West Virginia’s economy.

She serves on the Education Committee, Energy and Public Works Committee, and the Legislative Oversight Commission on Health and Human Resources Accountability, and she chairs the House Education Choice Subcommittee.
Deeply connected to her district, Kathie also serves on the board of the Putnam County Convention and Visitors Bureau, where she supports tourism and local economic development. She has been a consistent voice for policies that reduce taxes, expand educational opportunities, and attract new business investment to the region.

Kathie is a wife and mother who remains committed to serving her constituents with transparency, accessibility, and a focus on results.

Register at this link below.
d8099148-9878-4452-8570-9e573bddfce6@e2e87991-13d6-4c43-859b-b54025d6ecee" rel="ugc" target="_blank">https://events.teams.microsoft.com/event/d8099148-9878-4452-8570-9e573bddfce6@e2e87991-13d6-4c43-859b-b54025d6ecee

06/13/2026

🎒📚 Registration is NOW OPEN for the 2026 Back-to-School Event for Students with Disabilities and Their Families in West Virginia.

📅 Thursday, July 30, 2026
🕒 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM
📍 Maranatha Fellowship Church
James R. Wright, Jr. Family Life Center
2929 Kanawha Terrace
St. Albans, WV 25177

Join us for an afternoon of fun, learning, and resources designed to help students with disabilities and their families prepare for the upcoming school year!

✨ Event Highlights:

• Special Guest Speaker
• Three informative presentations for students and families
• Physical activities
• Coloring area
• Reading space for youth
• Exhibitors

Students who are registered to receive a backpack and gift card must have a ticket.

✅ One ticket is required for each student receiving a backpack and gift card.
✅ At least one parent or guardian must attend with the student.
✅ Parents and guardians do not need a ticket.
✅ Youth attending only to participate in the activities do not need a ticket.

We look forward to seeing you on July 30, 2026, for an afternoon of education, activities, and back-to-school preparation!

If you have any questions, please reach out to Tonya Barnett at [email protected] or call 304-766-4624

06/13/2026

Would you like to be an exhibitor at the 4th Annual Freedom Car Show?

If you are interested in being an exhibitor at the 2026 Freedom Car, Truck & Bike Show on October 3, 2026, at Magic Island Park, register at: https://freedomcarshow.org/exhibitor-application

This exciting community event brings together vehicle enthusiasts, businesses, organizations, and individuals with disabilities to celebrate accessibility, independence, and innovation.

Why Exhibit?
✅ Promote your products and/or services
✅ Connect with families and community members
✅ Increase awareness of your organization
✅ Support a meaningful cause that promotes independent living

All proceeds benefit the WV Independence Network's Community Living Services Program (CLSP), helping provide assistive technology, vehicle modifications, home modifications, and other resources for people with disabilities.

Join in on the fun and be part of a great cause.

Apply for the exhibitor application for the 2026 Freedom Car Show and showcase your vehicles at the premier car show event.