For the Tomahawk Leader
LINCOLN COUNTY – The Aging and Disability Resource Center of Central Wisconsin (ADRC-CW) is currently seeking two members from Lincoln County to join its Advisory Committee.
ARDC-CW’s website says the goal of the Advisory Committee is to “ensure advocacy and community representation for older adults and adults living with disabilities.”
The composition of the committee is dictated by the Wisconsin Elders Act.
Committee composition, term limits
ADRC-CW said Advisory Committee members are “those of recognized ability and demonstrate an interest in services for older individuals and adults with disabilities,” and older individuals constitute at least half of the committee membership.
“Representatives from other populations served by the ADRC-CW, those with disabilities, shall constitute the remaining membership,” ADRC-CW stated.
The Wisconsin Elders Act places limits on the terms of representation by committee members.
“This ensures that the aging network continues to develop new leadership and benefits from new ideas,” ADRC-CW said.
Committee members serve for three-year terms, and no member may serve more than two consecutive terms.
Advisory Committee’s role
The role of the Advisory Committee is to “advise the ADRC-CW staff and board on all matters related to developing the aging plan, administration of the plan, and ADRC-CW operations conducted under the plan,” according to ADRC-CW’s website.
“The ADRC-CW board of directors establishes policy, procedures and has ultimate decision-making authority,” ADRC-CW said. “The individual advisory committee member brings unique information and perspective from his/her local communities to the committee.”
Advisory Committee members are responsible for assisting with identifying service needs in the community; providing and soliciting feedback regarding existing programs and services; facilitating community partnerships; providing the ADRC-CW board with recommendations in making policy decisions; acting as ambassadors for the ADRC-CW in the community; acting to advocate for older adults and adults with disabilities; attending meetings regularly and participating in other events as availability allows; and assisting in community outreach regarding ADRC-CW services.
Meetings, application forms
The ADRC-CW Advisory Committee meets on the fourth Wednesday of every other month at the ADRC-CW office, 2600 Stewart Ave., Suite 25, Wausau, from 10 a.m. until noon. Meetings are open to the public. A video conferencing option is available.
Individuals interested in aging or long-term support issues, including legislation affecting adults who are aging and/or have disabilities, and the provision of services for residents and their families living in Langlade, Lincoln, Marathon, and Wood counties are encouraged to apply for committee membership online at www.bit.ly/3EjzACs or download a printable application form at www.bit.ly/3V3zF3X.