Wisconsin's Self-Directed Supports Program
What is IRIS?
IRIS – Include, Respect, I Self-Direct – is Wisconsin’s Self-Directed Supports Program for older people and adults with disabilities.
In IRIS you determine the combination of supports and services you need, including who will provide the services and when and how they will be provided. The IRIS team is available at every step to help you build the life you want with the support you need!
New Public Assistance Fraud Website and Hotline Number
The Department of Health Services (DHS) recently announced the creation of the Office of the Inspector General (OIG). The OIG was established to better coordinate reporting of fraud and abuse within all DHS-related programs.
Anyone can report public assistance fraud and abuse online at www.dhs.wisconsin.gov or by calling the Fraud Hotline at
1-877-865-3432.
You can read the entire press release for a quote from the Inspector General and further information about the role the OIG plays in investigating public assistance fraud and abuse.
IRIS Participant Story
Jack Boyle is a young man whose life is heading in a new direction. He is in the process of taking his first steps into adulthood.
Jack lives in southern Wisconsin as one of six siblings raised by his mother, Amy, and her husband Andy. He was diagnosed with autism in 1995. His mother likes to talk about the active life that Jack leads as part of their family. He enjoys hiking, swimming, riding bikes, and playing kickball with his family and friends.
One of the activities Jack likes most is going to camp over the summer. He uses his IRIS funding to attend these camps, which provides respite for members of his family who are some of his main caregivers.When he is away at camp, he spends his time participating in activities, meeting new people and re-connecting with friends from past years.
Even though Jack leads a busy life, he makes time to participate in work and volunteer opportunities in his hometown. He discovered some activities through family connections while others are part of the vocational programming at his school.
Jack works with the Brookfield Humane Society, helps out at a local horse farm, and donates his time at the Sussex food pantry. Jack is also connected to the Sussex Public Library where he helps keep the books neat for the library patrons.
This is just a sampling of the many places Jack spends time helping others. Through a creative combination of all these activities, Jack develops work experiences along with his community involvement. How Jack Adapts and Connects with Others
Jack uses his iPad to help him be a better communicator. Many people with autism spectrum disorder use tablet computers as cost-effective communication aides. Several apps have been designed just for people with autism.
Jack has a bright future before him. He plays an active role in his community and in turn, his family – especially his mother – encourages him to participate fully in all life has to offer.
Jack with his sister, Lanie.
New Administration for Community Living
On April 16, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services announced the creation of the Administration for Community Living (ACL). This new agency will focus on enhancing and improving the supports that people need to live as full and respected members of their communities.
The recent IRIS Regional Meetings focused on community living education and outreach. Participants, guardians, and families are encouraged to learn more by visiting the “Regional Meeting” group on this website to find the Community Living Toolkit and other valuable resources.
A copy of the IRIS Community Living Toolkit is also available by calling the IRIS Information Center at 1-888-515-4747.
Please read the complete press release issued by Secretary Sebelius announcing the Administration for Community Living.
Graduation and Summertime Plans
Are you finishing your high school journey this year? Now is a good time to make plans for services that will begin soon after graduation. This is also a great time to talk with your IRIS Consultant if you are thinking about attending summer camps or making other summertime plans. Make sure to contact your IRIS Consultant or the IRIS Information Center at 1-888-515-4747 if you need to make any adjustments to your IRIS plan.
Voluntary Benefits Agency (VBA) Insurance Benefits
IRIS Participants with workers who purchase benefits through their employment should remember that both parties are responsible for turning in the worker’s time sheets on time. A delay in turning in time sheets could mean cancellation of the worker’s insurance policy due to non-payment. All medical claims submitted after the policy has been cancelled will be denied. The charges will then become the responsibility of the worker.
Questions? Please call VBA at 1-866-301-9375, option 1 or visit www.irisbenefits.info for more information.
Blog Posts
2012 FSA Payroll Schedules
Posted by IRIS Webmaster on December 16, 2011 at 11:00am
Need Help?
Posted by IRIS Webmaster on July 19, 2011 at 2:00pm — 2 Comments
IRIS Community Data
18 Orientation Consultants
10 Mentors
Click here to map the number of IRIS Participants and IRIS Consultants in your county.
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Events
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IRIS Networking and Learning
June 21, 2012 from 10am to 3pm – Jefferson Street Inn
© 2012 Created by IRIS Webmaster.
