March, 2016

In 1987 President Ronald Reagan passed a proclamation declaring March National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month. This month let's spread the message that individuals with developmental disabilities are significant members of society.  Share stories on social media, help us spread the word about the importance of people first language, or volunteer for one of The Arc's events. Whatever you do, let's make sure everyone is #DDAware. 
Stars of The Arc Style Show Tickets Now Available
Every spring The Arc of Greater Beaumont's program participants dress to   impress and walk the runway at the Stars of The Arc Celebrity Style Show & Dinner.  This year's event will be held Friday, April 29th at the Holiday Inn & Suites Beaumont Plaza. In addition to the style show, The Arc is proud to honor Brenda Sullivan and First Financial Bank for their contributions to the disability community in Southeast Texas. Self-Advocates Nathaniel Burkett and Gentry Lovett will be honored for their excellence in leadership and self-advocacy.  Tickets are $100 per person or $1,000 for a reserved table for 10. Tickets can be purchased online or by calling (409)838-9012. We are also looking for companies who would like to promote their business while supporting The Arc by becoming a Star Sponsor of this year's style show. 
~ Learn More ~ 
Join The Arc & B.P.D. for an Autism Safety Presentation
The Arc of Greater Beaumont Autism Support Group is excited to have partnered with Beaumont Police Department Detective Mike Nixon for an Autism Safety Presentation.  Detective Nixon is passionate about the safety of people with autism.  He has given numerous presentations to law enforcement and wants to share this invaluable information with parents. Join us Sunday, April 17th at 4:00 pm at St. Stephens Church to receive information about community safety programs, resources on how to prepare for an emergency, swim and water safety lesson information, and tools to keep your child safe.  Childcare will be provided for those in need.   ~Learn More~
New ABLE National Resource Center
Have you heard about the ABLE Act?  The act aims to ease financial strains faced by individuals with disabilities by making tax-free savings accounts available to cover qualified expenses such as education, housing, and transportation. The act supplements, but does not supplant, benefits provided through private insurances, the Medicaid program, the Supplemental Security Income program, the beneficiary's employment, and other sources. Each state is responsible for enacting and implementing this law. Legislation can be confusing and the new ABLE National Resource Center is here to help.  The goal of the ABLE National Resource Center is to provide consistent, reliable information concerning the benefits of an ABLE account. Check out their easy to use website to learn more about all things ABLE.  ~ Learn More ~
Now Accepting Summer Education Grant Applications
The purpose of the Summer Education Grant is to provide assistance to parents and guardians of children with intellectual and developmental disabilities to continue education and development. It is to benefit those students not eligible to receive the service through an extended school year program. Grants are awarded up to $500 to help fund summer services.  Applications must be received by Monday, April 18th to be considered.  ~Learn More~
SETX Self-Advocates Elect Officers for 2016-2018 Term
It's election season and the SETX Self-Advocates officer nominees ran some strong campaigns.  In January, self-advocates nominated members they thought to be leaders in the organization.  After some great speeches and campaigns the SETX Self-Advocates have elected Matthew Bloodsworth- President, Katie Sheffield- Vice President, Lisa Simmons- Treasurer, Rebecca Alford- Secretary, Todd Gilbeaux- Chaplain, and Brandi Herron- Communications Officer.  Each officer has his/her assigned duties to ensure the organization runs as effectively as possible. This summer officers will attend the Texas Advocates conference to learn how to become even better advocates and leaders.   ~Learn More About SETX Self-Advocates~
Self-Advocate Spotlight
Gentry Lovett has been an active member of the SETX Self-Advocates since 2010.  Gentry is the life of the party and loves spending time with family and friends. Her vibrant and outgoing personality is one those who meet her won't soon forget. Gentry has shown exceptional leadership by ensuring her friends at The Arc always know what activities are coming up and that they have RSVP'd to events they want to attend.  Join us on Friday, April 29th in honoring Gentry for her Excellence in Leadership & Self-Advocacy at the annual Stars of The Arc Celebrity Style Show &Dinner. 
Video of the Month
 
Special Education Teacher Spreads Disability Awareness
Special Education Teacher Spreads Disability Awareness