Oklahoma Work Incentives Planning and Assistance Project

The Oklahoma Work Incentives Planning and Assistance Project (OWIPA) is funded by the Social Security Administration to assist individuals with disabilities who are receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), Medicare or Medicaid benefits.  OWIPA provides information on employment and work incentives. 

OWIPA has certified Community Work Incentives Coordinators (CWIC's)located throughout Oklahoma.  CWIC's are available for individual consultation, technical assistance and training.  They are located at two Centers for Independent Living (Progressive Independence and Ability Resources), the National Center for Disability Education and Training and the Oklahoma Chapter of the National Alliance for the Mentally Ill.

" What are Community Work Incentives Coordinators?"

CWIC's are individuals who have taken specialized training so they are able to assist you in understanding SSI and SSDI benefits.  They will give you the most up-to-date information regarding employment.  They will specifically be able to help you determine how your employment will affect your benefits.

"Why Contact a Community Work Incentives Coordinator?"

You should contact a CWIC because they act as a liaison between you and the local Social Security Administration office.  Also they can:

• Provide information about work incentives and how they will affect your benefits. 

• Give accurate information regarding your current situation. Identify problems you may be having with your benefits and look for solutions.

• Provide continuous benefits management including informing you of upcoming changes in benefits status, crisis management, problem solving, and support in achieving your employment goals.

• Assist you and your support team in making informed choices when establishing employment related goals.

"How Do I Contact a Community Work Incentives Coordinator?"

Northeast Oklahoma -- 918 area code

contact--

Amanda Roe - 918.592.1235                      aroe@ability-resources.org

Central, South  and Western Oklahoma -- 405 and 580 area codes

contact--

Jimmy Roberts - 405.325.1065                jamesroberts@ou.edu

Vickey Dudgeon - 405.325.4084              vdudgeon@ou.edu

Janice Oak - 405.321.3203                      joak@progind.org

Toll free number - 866.608.8873

For more information about the above programs and services

Contact Jill Burgess at 405.325.8130

FAX (405) 325-1632

e-mail:  jburgress@ou.edu