If there’s one thing we all know about serving people with disabilities, it’s that change is constant. New legislation, evolving regulations, and shifting funding priorities all have the potential to affect the individuals and families we serve. Keeping up with those changes isn’t easy—but it’s something we can do better together.
That spirit of collaboration was on full display at this year’s Wispact Leadership Summit, where nonprofit leaders from across Wisconsin came together to learn from one another and hear directly from state and national experts. One of those presenters was Amanda Dreyer, Medicaid Director for the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, who shared insights into Wisconsin’s evolving Medicaid landscape.
For Marci Boucher, President and CEO of Independence First, one of the greatest benefits of the Summit happened after the event.
“The Wispact Leadership Summit was an excellent investment of time and one of the most valuable leadership events I have attended. The presentations were insightful and relevant, but what stood out most was the opportunity to build meaningful connections.
Through an email introduction from Eric the day after the summit, I was able to connect with presenter Amanda Dreyer, Medicaid Director for the Wisconsin Department of Health Services. She generously shared important information about upcoming Medicaid guidelines that will help our organization better prepare for future changes. That connection alone demonstrated the lasting value of the summit. It was a great reminder that when nonprofit leaders come together to learn and collaborate, the benefits extend well beyond the event itself. I cannot wait to attend again next year.”
Marci’s experience captures exactly what we hope to accomplish. While expert presentations provide valuable information, the conversations, introductions, and relationships that continue after an event often have an even greater impact.
What We’re Watching Together
Several federal policy changes are beginning to shape the future of healthcare and disability services. While implementation will take time, they’re worth following as organizations plan for the years ahead.
One significant change is the implementation of new Medicaid work requirements for certain adults enrolled in Medicaid expansion programs. Wisconsin is expected to implement these requirements beginning in 2027. Individuals who qualify based on disability are expected to be exempt, but many organizations anticipate questions from clients and families as details become available.
The legislation also includes changes affecting Medicare, including adjustments to provider reimbursement and other healthcare financing provisions that may influence how services are delivered over time. While most Medicare beneficiaries will not experience immediate changes to their coverage, nonprofit organizations serving older adults and people with disabilities will want to stay informed as federal agencies and the Wisconsin Department of Health Services release additional implementation guidance.
Learning Together
Policy updates are only one part of the story. Just as important are the relationships that help us interpret those changes, solve problems together, and share what we’re learning.
At the Wispact Foundation, we believe our role extends beyond grantmaking. We are committed to creating opportunities for nonprofit leaders to connect, learn from one another, and build partnerships that strengthen Wisconsin’s disability community. As Marci’s experience demonstrates, sometimes a single introduction can become one of the most valuable outcomes of an event.
As new guidance on Medicaid, Medicare, and other disability-related policies continues to emerge, we’ll continue sharing resources and highlighting expertise from across our network. If your organization has developed tools, educational resources, or successful approaches that could benefit others, we’d love to feature them in a future newsletter.
After all, when one organization learns, we all become stronger—and together, we can better serve the people and families who rely on all of us.