Hello!
This week, Leo reflects on the passion of professionals in our industry; Maura outlines the next steps we need you to take on Nicky's Law; a new webinar on Adult Family Care; and more!
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Celebrating the Passion of Professionals
On Monday night, LifeLinks brought together some board members, families, staff, and the people they support to celebrate the achievements of individuals and the agency. It was a heartwarming night led by CEO Jean Phelps and Board Chair Pamela Anastasi.
Michael Gandi received the LifeLinks Staff Recognition Award and his remarks moved many of us.
Continue reading.
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The latest plan of action for Nicky's Law advocacy
On Monday, October 15, The Arc of Massachusetts met with Speaker DeLeo to discuss Nicky's Law. He was very engaged around the bill, with questions regarding appeals and consistency across agencies. We were able to answer clearly, outlining the opportunities for appeal and advocating that our registry is “best practices” which other agencies will hopefully follow in the future.
The speaker gave us ample time and we know review work is now happening
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Given the number of times many of us have reached out to our legislators and asked them to bring this bill to the Speaker as a priority, we are asking you to do it ONE more time and this time ask your legislator to follow up with you to let you know whether she or he made contact and to give you feedback about that contact.
In the last week, over 150 letters have gone out to State Representatives. Add your letter to this growing list today!
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The Arc at the 25th Annual Shared Living and AFC Conference
The Arc’s Government Affairs Director, Maura Sullivan, led a training at the 25th Annual Shared Living and AFC Conference in Marlborough on October 16. There were 500 attendees at the conference and a highly engaged group learning about Legislative Advocacy. The training session focused on the power of advocacy, the process and scope of legislative advocacy - including learning about the budget that supports people with I/DD and autism, and the steps involved with passing legislation. The participants learned about the importance of connecting with their legislator, getting his or her support, and holding the legislator accountable to take action on behalf of our community.
The Arc looks to our community to build strong relationships with their elected officials. When it comes to our priority bills and budget asks, those relationships are key.
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What’s Out There? An Overview of Community Based Supports and Publicly-Funded Services
Tuesday, November 6, 2018 | 12:00PM, Free
Presenter:
O. Sophia Johansson, Co-Chair Mass Families Organizing for Change and Northeast Regional Coordinator
An overview of publicly available services and supports that exist for families of children with special health care needs, developmental disabilities, and/or chronic illnesses. Learn how to access community supports and government services.
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Adult Family Care: Is It the Right Choice for my Loved One?
Wednesday, December 5, 2018 | 12:00PM, Free
Presenter:
Yvette Jones, Director of Adult Family Care, Charles River Center
Adult Family Care (AFC) is a MassHealth program that provides a 24/ 7 supervision and training for adults with disabilities that need assistance with their Adult Daily Living (ADL) skills. Caregiver homes provide a supportive environment that provides and the care and supervision needed. In return caregivers receive a tax free stipend. Learn about eligibility, the benefits of AFC, and the different situations that can enhance a person’s ability to stay in a home environment.
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Give Online to The Arc of Massachusetts through a Donor-Advised Fund (DAF) such as Fidelity Charitable or Charles Schwab
Do you have a Donor Advised Fund? You can now quickly and easily recommend a gift to The Arc of Massachusetts through your Fidelity Charitable, Schwab Charitable, or BNY Mellon Charitable Gift Fund
via The Arc of Massachusetts website
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Select the financial institution that manages your fund and enter the dollar amount you would like to contribute. Then click "next" to proceed to the sponsoring organization's website to complete your gift. The donor-advised fund sponsor handles the record-keeping, disbursements, and tax receipts.
Neither you nor The Arc of Massachusetts pay any transaction fees.
Once your request has been approved by your DAF, your gift goes directly to The Arc of Massachusetts. You can also remain anonymous, if you choose.
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Join the Massachusetts Sibling Support Network (MSSN) for a gathering for adult siblings of people with disabilities on November 5, 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. at 6B Lounge, 6 Beacon Street, Boston. There is no charge to attend and light appetizers and soft drinks will be provided.
Share a relaxing evening with other adult-siblings while learning about the Massachusetts Sibling Support Network and about current sibling related research and policy trends. RSVP's are appreciated but not required; drop-in's are welcome. RSVP to
info@masiblingsupport.org
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