By: Sharon Levine, Director of
Governmental Affairs and Communication
Every year, The Arc of New Jersey publishes a Get Out the Vote (GOTV) Guide in advance of Election Day so that individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families have a better understanding when it's time to cast a vote. This year, New Jersey residents will choose a new Governor and will elect 120 members to the State Legislature. This includes 40 State Senators and 80 Assembly members. Our GOTV Guide will include important information about finding your polling location, registering to vote, and accessibility accommodations for those who need it. In addition, you will find submissions from Self-Advocates and a Family Member about why voting is such an important right and one you should be sure to exercise on
November 7, 2017. When the guide is complete it will be available on our website:
www.gotvnj.org. There you will also find additional information and resources.
EdgeUcation
New Facilitated Individualized Education Program (FIEP)
Parents and districts now have access to a new program offered by the New Jersey Department of Education called facilitated IEP. It has two main purposes, as follows:
To promote student-centered IEP meetings that are conducted in a respectful and collaborative manner. and
To maximize district-level capacity to develop student-centered IEPs and minimize state-level procedural protections and interventions which often result from ineffective IEP meetings.
How to Help those with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families affected by Hurricane Harvey
The catastrophic flooding inundating Texas and surrounding areas has had a devastating impact on the children, adults and families our chapters serve, as well as our staff and volunteers. Now forecasts are predicting that Louisiana is in Hurricane Harvey's path. Through your support, The Arc of the U.S. will be able to help chapters of The Arc in Texas and if needed any impacted chapters in Louisiana. Your gift will ensure that we will be able to continue to provide supports and services for individuals with disabilities and their families during this trying time. Help those affected by the hurricane today:
Calling all students with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families
Did you know that in New Jersey there are 8 College Programs designed specifically for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities? Too often students with intellectual and developmental disabilities aren't encouraged to consider college for their future. The Arc of New Jersey Family Institute wants to change that. With the appropriate services and supports in place, many young adults can successfully attend college and graduate with a certificate and/or possibly a degree.
The Arc of New Jersey Family Institute invites you and your student to tour the different college programs offered throughout the state for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
The role of a sibling in the life of a person with an intellectual and developmental disability (I/DD) is as complex as it is meaningful. Many of us at The Arc of New Jersey and our local county chapters know firsthand what it's like to grow up with a family member with I/DD. We understand and share the vision you have for a healthy independent life for your sibling.
The Arc Mercer forms possibly first special needs LGBTQ group in country
Ray Truitt, a 31-year-old gay man who has a dual diagnosis of a mental health and intellectual developmental disability, says it "wasn't easy growing up." "It was very hard when I came out to my parents because I didn't really have a support group to go to," Truitt said Wednesday. "There are not really any outlets out there."
Up until recently, there may have not been a support group in the entire U.S. for LGBTQ people with disabilities like Truitt.
New Resource on Health Coverage Options now available
This guide was created for parents and professionals who need to understand health coverage options for the treatment of autism and other developmental disabilities. It describes different types of health coverage plans, what federal and state laws apply to these types of plans, how those laws affect what benefits are covered, and tips on accessing benefits.
Are you a caregiver, individual or professional in need of help navigating the system? The Arc of New Jersey Family Institute can assist you.
Looking for a speaker to attend your next meeting, professional day or parent group?
The Arc of New Jersey Family Institute provides
FREE presentations for families and professional staff looking to learn more about developmental disabilities and available supports and services. All of our presentations are customizable to fit your group's needs.
Visit our "Request a Speaker" page for more information and for a list of topics.
Road to Employment
Americans with Disabilities Act: A Guide for People with Disabilities Seeking Employment - FAQ
If you are seeking a job or are new to the workforce, you should become familiar with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA), a federal civil rights law designed to prevent discrimination and enable individuals with disabilities to participate fully in all aspects of society. One fundamental principle of the ADA is that individuals with disabilities who want to work and are qualified to work must have an equal opportunity to work.
Calling all students with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families
The Arc Mercer forms possibly first special needs LGBTQ group in country
