Independence First

Address: 540 S 1st Street
Milwaukee, WI 53204 Phone: (414) 291-7520 Fax: (414) 291-7525 Email: llane@independencefirst.org Website: https://www.independencefirst.org/

Independence First is Metro Milwaukee’s first resource for people with disabilities.

Independence First offers more than 40 programs and workshops and services of all kinds, and for various age groups. They provide programs on disability awareness, independent living skills, and recreation. They work with individuals and families for whatever someone needs to successfully live in the community, helping with resources from assistive technology to home modification, to personal care or supportive home care services.

Independence First also provides programming, whether it’s art classes or cooking classes, peer support, and even adaptive video gaming. More than 50% of staff, managers, and Board have disabilities themselves and this peer-approach leads to excellent outcomes.

Services include benefits counseling and Personal Care Support. Independence First advocates for change and inclusivity, helping people who want to stay or move into an independent living situation in their own home instead of institutions.