Welcome to Choices for Indpendent Living, a demonstration model accessible house that is open to the public daily, in Wausau, Wisconsin.

Hours
As of June 30th, the model home hours will be 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. and 5 - 7 p.m. Monday thru Friday.
The house will also be open the third Saturday of each month from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
There will be a tour and demonstration guide person from Midstate Independent Living Consultants there during these times (Amy, Becky and Jim during the day and Jessica in the evenings and on Saturday).

Purpose
Its purpose is to demonstrate accessibile house modifications and related furniture, fixtures, appliances, equipment and technology in a true residential living environment where visitors can obtain take home information about everything in the house. See the Features page for specific information about the accessible features for each room.

The house utilizes as many elements of UNIVERSAL DESIGN as can be practically included.
Note: the Universal Design file is a very large pdf.

Functions

• A hands-on model home setting for persons with physical disability or limitations (mobility, hearing, sight, paralysis, muscle deterioration, old age) to see and get information about practical independent living options.
• A resource for architects and builders to consult regarding construction specifications for wheelchair accessibility as mandated by the Federal Fair Housing Amendment Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act.
• An education and training laboratory for nursing and architecture students.
• A resource for medical providers to consult regarding construction modifications and equipment available for patients with mobility limitations and other impairments that can limit or prohibit independent living.
• A continuous search for new products, new designs and technology, which will benefit the elderly population and persons with disability who are living independently.
• A forum for educating media, politicians, and taxpayers on the dollar savings resulting from independent living versus nursing home confinement.

Mission: Educate about accessibility through example

Location: 415 W. Campus Drive, Wausau, WI 54401
Phone: 715-675-7600

Help operate this showcase model accessible house
We are in need of cash contributions to cover operating costs.
Chairs & Cares Model Accessible House, Inc is a Wisconsin licensed, IRS approved 501c3 corporation

Thanks to our many contributors for helping us reach the amount we needed to break ground in August, 2006, and start construction. Construction was completed and we opened our doors to the public with a grand opening event on October 27, 2007.

Special thanks to:

• Judd S. Alexander Foundation for a $250,000 matching fund challenge grant
• Northcentral Technical College for a location, support, and resource access
• Abby Bank's Abby Storey Foundation for financial advice and funding assistance

Participating Organizations

• Northcentral Technical College: Providing location, architectural expertise, general assistance, board of directors and advisory board participation
• Midstate Independent Living Consultants: Will operate the house, expertise about accessible construction, furniture, fixtures, appliances, and equipment.
• Aging & Disability Resource Center: Collaborating with MILC, expertise and resources related to old age and disabilities.

For more information contact Wayne Geurink, President.