In 2009, individuals with disabilities and their families in LOV Inc. worked together to identify a major barrier to creating fulfilling, community-centered lives. They realized they needed someone to help build a bridge into community life. Based on a desire to be valued members of a community marked by self-direction, independence, and meaningful relationships, the Bridge Builder Project was established.
Independence First is THE Resource for people with disabilities. You have found the right agency, specializing in whatever you may need to help you or a loved one live independently in the community. We offer options, from help with care in your home, to workshops and classes to learn independent living skills and socialization, to helping businesses be inclusive. We also advocate for positive change.
540 South 1st Street
Milwaukee, WI 53204-1605
414-291-7520 (V/Relay)
Ozaukee County:
In the Ozaukee Nonprofit Center:
2360 Dakota Drive Suite J1
Grafton, WI 53024
414-731-7834 V/Relay
Washington County
Inside Moraine Park West Bend Campus:
2200 Green Tree Rd, #129
West Bend, WI 53090
414-731-7834 V/Relay
Waukesha County
Located at:
2607 N Grandview Blvd #100
Waukesha, WI 53188
414-731-7834 V/Relay
IndiGO is a non-profit agency empowering people with disabilities in Northwestern Wisconsin. As a consumer-controlled organization, at least 51% of our staff and board are people with disabilities. IndiGO staff provide information, training, and support to people with disabilities in making informed decisions about disability-related needs.
All services are consumer-controlled and each individual decides which services they wish to participate in while working with staff to establish goals and determine steps to meet those goals.
Donna Brendel is a late-diagnosed woman with autism, ADHD, OCD, and dyslexia. She shares her stories and journey through life with autism on her podcast, “I Should Say That Out Loud,” and in her books, “Autistic Revelations- Body Edition,” and “Autistic Revelations- Career Edition.” She enjoys traveling and speaking to help advocate for adults with autism and parents with autistic children.
Islands of Brilliance provides creative technology programs for autistic and neurodivergent youth, where students build skills in design, animation, and digital media alongside professional mentors. Through a supportive, strengths-based environment, students develop confidence, social connection, and pathways to education and employment.
Options for Independent Living is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization committed to empowering people with disabilities to lead independent and productive lives in their community through advocacy, the provision of information, education, technology and related services.
As part of the independent living philosophy of consumer-directed services, Options staff will provide information so individuals with disabilities, family and friends can make informed choices and achieve their goals.
Green Bay, Wisconsin 54313
Having a child with special health care needs sets parents on a different journey than the one that was originally expected. Fortunately, many parents have “gone before” and can be a source of strength, hope, direction, and help. Through a one-on-one match, you will connect with another parent who has experienced a journey similar to yours. A match provides emotional support and information to families of individuals with disabilities or other special needs. Like each family, every match is unique.
CLTS respite agency, mentoring, skills, caregiver support groups, sibling groups, socialization groups. Forward thinking, inclusive environment
Sankofa Midwest offers peer support that is designed by and led by Black parents for parents of Black children with special healthcare needs. This includes autism, neurodiversity, and different abilities. Our mission is to hold space, provide culturally sensitive information, increase advocacy, and decrease disparities for Black children.