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Events Calendar

Apr
18
Thu
COL Deadline to Register for Sibshop
Apr 18 all-day
Circles of Life is Wisconsin’s annual conference for parents and family members who have children with disabilities and professionals who support them.

The 2019 Conference will be held May 2 – 3 at the Holiday Inn – Convention Center, Stevens Point.

Details on sessions, events and activities coming in early 2019

WisconSibs offers Sibshop for attendees who are 8-17 years old and have a sibling with developmental disabilities.

Important note to Parents:

  1. First register your child through online conference registration
  2. Complete the COL Sibshop Registration form and mail or email to the address on the form by April 18.

Download Sibshop Registration for Circles 2019

May
2
Thu
Circles of Life Conference 2019 @ Holiday Inn Convention Center
May 2 – May 3 all-day

Circles of Life 2019 Registration Now Open!


Looking for Sibshop Registration Form?  Click HERE

May 2nd and 3rd at the Holiday Inn Convention Center, Stevens Point

Celebrating 35 years with a special keynote from Peter Leidy!  Peter will inspire and entertain us and remind us to stay focused on the person and family in challenging times, and why “We’re All in This Together!”

Circles of Life is Wisconsin’s annual conference for families who have children with disabilities. This event brings together families and the providers who support them to learn, connect, and become more knowledgeable about programs and services for their children.

Registration and hotel information are available in the Conference Brochure or go directly to the online registration at http://bit.ly/Circles2019 – Sign up by March 29 and get a discounted rate!

To learn more about the conference go to CirclesofLifeConference.com

Sibshop offered to siblings ages 8-17

WisconSibs offers Sibshop for attendees who are 8-17 years old and have a sibling with developmental disabilities.

Important note to Parents:

  1. First register your child through online conference registration
  2. Complete the COL Sibshop Registration form and mail or email to the address on the form by April 18.

Download Sibshop Registration for Circles 2019

Registration Fees:

Parents/Adult Family Members: $120 (early bird) / $150 (after March 29) / $75 (One Day Rate)

*Professional: $150 (early bird) / $180  (after March 29) / $100 (One Day Rate)

Child/Teen/Students: $50.00 (This fee includes either Gathering of Youth or Sibshop.  Parents MUST complete a separate registration for these programs)

Attendant/Child Care Provider (meals only): No Cost (Fee is Waived)

ExhibitorSee online registration form 

Presenter – See online registration form 

* Professionals are eligible for CEU credits through the University of Wisconsin Stevens Point.

Jun
13
Thu
Teen Sib Leadership Day @ BEAMING Equine Center
Jun 13 @ 10:00 am – 3:00 pm

Siblings of people with disabilities who are 13-17 years old may apply to be selected as a Teen Sib Leader. Selected teens receive a free one-day leadership training session.  This day is focused on personal leadership skills and having fun with other teen sibs.  Teen Sib Leaders are then eligible to become counselors and mentors at SibDays of Summer and leaders at a variety of WisconSibs events and opportunities.

 

The event is being held on June 13, 2019 at Beaming, Inc in Neenah from 10 am – 3 pm. Participants are responsible for their own transportation to and from the event.

 

More information and application

Feb
1
Sat
Joy Conference 2020 @ Fox Valley Lutheran High School
Feb 1 @ 8:00 am – 2:15 pm

This one-day conference is packed with uplifting speakers to help bring joy to family caregivers and others. If you are interested, register yourself and look for WisconSibs table to gather for lunch together.

Click for more information and register.

Features inspiring and humorous speakers and lunch.

Schedule of the day:
8:00 am    Doors Open (must be registered – no walk ins)
9:00 am    Welcome
9:15 am     Speaker:   Misdiagnosed:Discovering Joy in the Midst of Adversity – Jean Abbott
10:45 am   Speaker:  Joy Spreaders: Who They Are, What Makes Them Tick and Why You Desperately Need Them – Neil Ihde
noon           Lunch – box lunch included with registration. Find the WisconSibs table to eat together.
1:00 pm     Speaker: My Happy Place: Latte and Laughter – Dr Danielle Hairston-Green
2:15 pm     Closing remarks

Register

 

Apr
25
Sat
Journey Forward in Fox Valley @ WisconSibs Office
Apr 25 @ 8:30 am – 1:00 pm

JF Call OutAre you a sibling whois concerned about the day your parents no longer can care for your sibling?  Or you’ve become responsible for your sibling and are unsure about the future and need some answers?

For adults who have a sibling with developmental disabilities or long-term illnesses, the journey together is lifelong. You may already be in a care giving role or expect to in the future. This program helps you clarify your role, get the planning tools to move forward, and connect with other siblings and local resources that will change your future.

 

JF header photo

 

Journey Forward has one main goal— to help you as an adult sibling move forward with peace of mind. 

 

 

When you are finished with both workshop sessions, you will have a written document which describes your sibling’s desired future living arrangement, community role, and lifestyle preferences.  You will have a plan that includes practical directions and information for maintaining continuity in your sibling’s daily life and needed supports to achieve these outcomes.  Some call this peace of mind. 

This is the first session of a two-session program.  Adult siblings are encouraged to invite parents, siblings (including any with disabilities), and other family members as their guests. The program includes all materials and lunch for adult siblings and their guests (spouse, other siblings, parents, and any other significant members of their family or team) for both sessions.

If you have questions about Journey Forward in general, contact us at the WisconSibs office.

Jun
11
Thu
Teen Sib Leadership Day @ Bubolz Nature Preserve
Jun 11 @ 10:00 am – 3:00 pm

Siblings of people with disabilities who are 13-17 years old may apply to be selected as a Teen Sib Leader. Selected teens receive a free one-day leadership training session.  This day is focused on personal leadership skills and having fun with other teen sibs.  Teen Sib Leaders are then eligible to become camp counselors and mentors at SibDays of Summer and leaders at a variety of WisconSibs events and opportunities.

The theme for Teen Sib Leadership Day 2020 is Transitions: Awake Your Strengths

The event is being held on June 11, 2020 at Bubolz Nature Preserve. Participants are responsible for their own transportation to and from the event.

More information and application

Sep
29
Tue
What about Me? Tips for Raising Siblings of Children with Disabilities @ Zoom
Sep 29 @ 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm
WisconSibs and St. Francis Children’s Center present a two-part series for parents on how to support our typically developing children.

Parents want to do their best for all of their children, but sometimes they are uncertain how when they have a child with disabilities and also “typical” children. This two-part Zoom meeting will provide parents with insights and ideas for raising children who are growing up with their siblings with disabilities. What’s fair? What’s right? What about Me?

Part 1 – Sept 29 – Harriet Redman, founder and Executive Director of WisconSibs will share her personal experiences and insights working with siblings for over 20 years.

Part 2 – October 6 – A panel of adults who have siblings with disabilities will reflect on growing up with a sibling with disabilities and their advice to parents.

Your registration is good for both sessions.  CLICK TO REGISTER

Sep 29, 2020 06:30 PM   and   Oct 6, 2020 06:30 PM
Oct
6
Tue
What about Me? Tips for Raising Siblings of Children with Disabilities @ Zoom
Oct 6 @ 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm
WisconSibs and St. Francis Children’s Center present a two-part series for parents on how to support our typically developing children.

Parents want to do their best for all of their children, but sometimes they are uncertain how when they have a child with disabilities and also “typical” children. This two-part Zoom meeting will provide parents with insights and ideas for raising children who are growing up with their siblings with disabilities. What’s fair? What’s right? What about Me?

Part 2 – October 6 – A panel of adults who have siblings with disabilities will reflect on growing up with a sibling with disabilities and their advice to parents.

(Part 1 held September 29. You can attend Part 2 even if you missed Part 1.)

Your registration is good for both sessions.  CLICK TO REGISTER

Oct 6, 2020 06:30 PM
Apr
12
Mon
Emerging from COVID-19 Session #4 @ Zoom
Apr 12 @ 2:00 pm – 3:30 pm

Wondering about the annual K.I.T.E. Conference? Wonder no more. We’re moving it to Zoom and offering it as a FREE four-part learning series focusing on emerging from COVID-19 with Knowledge, Independence, Togetherness, and Empowerment.

This FREE four-part, four-week series is brought to you by SOAR Fox Cities, WisconSibs and The Autism Society of Greater Wisconsin.

Each session features experts discussing everything from self-care to staying connected, to what needs to be in your“transition suitcase” to embracing resilience & acceptance of “what is” and being hopeful of “what can be.”

Click for a full description of each session.

May
8
Sat
Circles of Life Sibshop 2021 @ Zoom
May 8 @ 10:00 am – 11:30 am

Sibshop at Circles of Life

Circles of Life is Wisconsin’s annual conference for families who have children with disabilities. This event brings together families and the providers who support them to learn, connect, and become more knowledgeable about programs and services for their children.

To learn more about the conference go to CirclesofLifeConference.com

Sibshop offered to siblings ages 8-12

WisconSibs offers Sibshop for attendees who are 8-12 years old and have a sibling with developmental disabilities.

Sibshops are celebrations of the many contributions made by sisters and brothers of kids with special health or developmental needs.

This special Zoom Sibshop takes place Saturday, May 8 at 10:00 am. It is for kids ages 8-12 who have siblings with disabilities and have registered for the virtual Circles of Life conference.

At Sibshop kids will meet other kids who share the challenges and joys of having a sibling with disabilities. Of course, like all Sibshops, this one will be sprinkled with lots of fun stuff like games, scavenger hunts, and even Pokemon!

Register for the COL conference first to get link to register for COL Zoom Sibshop.

REGISTERED SIBSHOP PARTICIPANTS – DOWNLOAD AND PRINT ACTIVITY PAGES No need to complete this activity in advance. Bring markers to Sibshop so we can do the activity together.

Sep
18
Sat
Kickoff Sibshop
Sep 18 @ 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm

This Sibshop kicks off the 2021-2022 season for WisconSibs Sibshops in the Northeast Wisconsin.

The outdoor event will feature Sibshop activities and lots of fun reconnecting with other kids who have siblings with disabilities, long-term illnesses, or mental health conditions.  Parents: drop off your sibling child at 1 pm and return with your family between 3 pm – 4 pm for some family fun and networking with other families.

It takes place at the Small Shelter inside Plamann Park at 1375 E Broadway Dr., Appleton. (Same location as SibDays for older campers.)

Advance registration required. Limit: 15 Sibshop participants.  TO REGISTER, CLICK

Watch for more details about this Sibshop and Sibshops planned for October, November, and December 2021.

Teen Sib Leadership opportunity. Click to volunteer.

Oct
30
Sat
October Sibshop @ Washington Park
Oct 30 @ 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm

October Sibshop

This event will feature Sibshop activities and lots of fun reconnecting with other kids who have siblings with disabilities, long-term illnesses, or mental health conditions.  Bring your mask and wear a costume.

 

Advance registration required. Limit: 15 Sibshop participants.  TO REGISTER, CLICK

Watch for more details about future 2021-2022 Sibshops.

Teen Sib Leadership opportunity. Click to volunteer.

May
12
Thu
Circles of Life Sibshop 2022 @ Holiday Inn Convention Center
May 12 @ 9:00 am – May 13 @ 12:00 pm

Sibshop for ages 8-17 at Circles of Life conference

Circles of Life is Wisconsin’s annual conference for families who have children with disabilities. This event brings together families and the providers who support them to learn, connect, and become more knowledgeable about programs and services for their children.

This year’s conference will be held on May 12–13, 2022. You can attend
either in person or remotely (online).
Attend in Person The conference will be held at the Holiday Inn Convention Center in Stevens Point, Wisconsin. The Holiday Inn is holding some rooms for conference attendees who want to stay at the hotel. We recommend making hotel reservations early.

To learn more about the conference go to CirclesofLifeConference.com

Sibshop offered to siblings ages 8-12

WisconSibs offers Sibshop for attendees who are 8-12 years old and have a sibling with developmental disabilities.

Sibshops are celebrations of the many contributions made by sisters and brothers of kids with special health or developmental needs.

This special Zoom Sibshop takes place Saturday, May 12 from 9 am – noon. It is for kids ages 8-12 who have siblings with disabilities and have registered for the Circles of Life conference.

At Sibshop kids will meet other kids who share the challenges and joys of having a sibling with disabilities. Of course, like all Sibshops, lots of fun! For registration information, visit https://www.circlesoflifeconference.com/sibshop/

Jun
23
Thu
Sib Camp 2022 – June 23-26 @ Peninsula State Park
Jun 23 @ 12:00 pm – Jun 26 @ 12:00 pm

Sib Camp – June 23-26 Ages 9-14  Peninsula State Park, Door County (sleeping in tents)  $375/camperSib Camp Tent inside

Great adventure for ages 9-14.  4 days, 3 nights hiking, biking**, swimming, paddling, and camping. Guided by experienced Door County Adventure Center staff certified in education, ropes course, kayak, lifeguard, CPR and first aid.  Siblings get to kick back and experience the freedom and thrill of adventure while sharing a great time with other Sibs who “get it”.

Sib Camp is outfitted and guided by experienced DC Adventure Center staff. The camp session at Peninsula State Park features sleeping in tents and is limited to 10 campers.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO AND ONLINE REGISTRATION

** Camper brings their own bike.

Health and Consent Forms will be sent to you after Registration is received. Enrollment is complete once all paperwork and payment have been received.

Nov
12
Sat
Sibshop at Syble Hopp @ Syble Hopp School
Nov 12 @ 9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Jan
14
Sat
Journey Forward Fox Valley @ WisconSibs Office
Jan 14 @ 8:30 am – 1:00 pm

JF Call OutAre you a sibling whois concerned about the day your parents no longer can care for your sibling?  Or you’ve become responsible for your sibling and are unsure about the future and need some answers?

For adults who have a sibling with developmental disabilities or long-term illnesses, the journey together is lifelong. You may already be in a care giving role or expect to in the future. This program helps you clarify your role, get the planning tools to move forward, and connect with other siblings and local resources that will change your future.

 

JF header photo

 

Journey Forward has one main goal— to help you as an adult sibling move forward with peace of mind. 

 

 

When you are finished with both workshop sessions, you will have a written document which describes your sibling’s desired future living arrangement, community role, and lifestyle preferences.  You will have a plan that includes practical directions and information for maintaining continuity in your sibling’s daily life and needed supports to achieve these outcomes.  Some call this peace of mind. 

This is the first session of a two-session program.  Adult siblings are encouraged to invite parents, siblings (including any with disabilities), and other family members as their guests. The program includes all materials and lunch for adult siblings and their guests (spouse, other siblings, parents, and any other significant members of their family or team) for both sessions.

If you wish to register yourself, your sibling, or your parents or you have questions about Journey Forward in general, contact us at the WisconSibs office.

Mar
11
Sat
Peeps Sibshop in Oshkosh @ Oshkosh Community YMCA
Mar 11 @ 12:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Save the date for this Sibshop for children ages 6-12 who have siblings with disabilities. More information soon.

Mar
25
Sat
Journey Forward Fox Valley Workshop #2 @ WisconSibs Office
Mar 25 @ 8:00 am – 12:30 pm

JF Call OutWorkshop #2 of Journey Forward

This is the part 2 of the 2-part Journey Forward program. It is open to adult Sibs and their guests who attended Workshop #1 or would like a refresher after having attended any Journey Forward workshop in the past.

Topics will include:

  • Letter of Intent progress and how to use it to get what you and your sibling with disabilities need and want.
  • Housing for people with disabilities – Assessing needs and interests, options and challenges
  • Employment Options or Day Program options – Assessing skills, interests, and navigating local options.

Who benefits from Journey Forward workshops? Directed at adults who have a sibling with developmental disabilities or long-term illnesses, the journey ultimately benefits you AND your sibling with disabilities AND others in your family, even your community. You may already be in a care giving role or expect to in the future. This program helps you clarify your role as a sibling, get the planning tools to move forward, and connect with other siblings and local resources that will impact your future.

 

JF header photo

 

Journey Forward has one main goal— to help you as an adult sibling move forward with peace of mind. 

 

 

When you are finished with both workshop sessions, you will have a written document which describes your sibling’s desired future living arrangement, community role, and lifestyle preferences.  You will have a plan that includes practical directions and information for maintaining continuity in your sibling’s daily life and needed supports to achieve these outcomes.  Some call this peace of mind. 

This is the second session of a two-session program.  Adult siblings are encouraged to invite parents, siblings (including any with disabilities), and other family members as their guests. The program includes all materials and lunch for adult siblings and their guests (spouse, other siblings, parents, and any other significant members of their family or team) for both sessions.

If you wish to register yourself, your sibling, or your parents or you have questions about Journey Forward in general, contact us at the WisconSibs office.

May
11
Thu
Circles of Life Sibshop 2023 @ Wilderness Convention Center
May 11 @ 9:00 am – 12:00 pm

Sibshop for ages 8-12 at Circles of Life conference

Circles of Life is Wisconsin’s annual conference for families who have children with disabilities. This event brings together families and the providers who support them to learn, connect, and become more knowledgeable about programs and services for their children.

This year’s conference will be held on May 11-12, 2023. WisconSibs will be offering a Sibshop on Thursday, May 11 from 9 am – noon.

To learn more about the conference go to CirclesofLifeConference.com