The Big Picture: Piecing It Together

Many people across Wisconsin are using IRIS as one tool to improve their lives. As IRIS begins its third year of operation, it is important to celebrate success stories that demonstrate how participants are combining IRIS and community supports to achieve their goals.

John began developing a business plan, and with the guidance of his IRIS consultant and the support of friends and family, launched an idea to increase his income and independence. He worked directly with the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation and a community group that offers assistance and funding to people in low-income situations who start their own business.

Jane knew that she wanted to own her own home, but didn't know where to start. Her IRIS consultant linked her with Movin' Out, an organization that assists with first-time home buying and finding affordable financing. After she purchased her home with a low-interest loan, she received a grant from the United Way to repair her roof.

Like John and Jane, many people are finding that readily available community resources and their existing supports can help them not only more fully direct their lives, but increase community involvement and personal connections.

Getting what you need in life starts with thinking about what is important to you. Working with your IRIS consultant to identify your goals can help you put the pieces together in a unique plan that draws on your strengths and existing supports.

On August 31, 2010 the following people were included in IRIS: 2470 Participants 130 Consultants

IRIS Consultant: Mary Tree

Mary Tree entered the social work field 30 years ago. She has worked in nursing homes, community service programs and a grocery store.

"Self-determination, outcome-based programs and participant-centered services were philosophical concepts I dreamt about while wondering how I could change the world," Mary said. "I am honored to be part of a team that uses these concepts to make real change happen in the lives of IRIS participants."

As an IRIS Consultant, Mary listens to and ask questions of each participant to understand what they want and how they want to use the IRIS program to improve their life. When asked about her role in IRIS, she said, "the participant is always in the driver's seat; I am there to provide information and directions."

Mary became an IRIS Consultant in May 2009 after moving from Racine to La Crosse. She and her partner have four children and six grandchildren.

IRIS Participant: Cindy Bentley

Not many people can say that they have carried the American flag at the Special Olympics World Games, or rubbed elbows with international superstar athletes, or dined with two different United States presidents. Not everyone is chosen to be a Special Olympics Global Messenger, or has the courage to speak in front of large crowds of people. Cindy has been there and done that.

The latest addition to her long list of accomplishments is her new biography, Cindy Bentley: Spirit of a Champion. The book describes her difficult childhood, and how athletics and Special Olympics helped her create her incredible life. The book was written to inspire young people to overcome their challenges and find their own championship spirit.

To learn more about Cindy the athlete, advocate and amazing person, pick up a copy of her book at Amazon.com, visit her Facebook page, or log onto the Wisconsin Historical Society Press website.

Participant Business Card

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