November 21, 2019 | Issue #19
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The Latest On Nicky's Law Heading Into 2020
Many of you may have seen that the Massachusetts House of Representatives has been busy working on the passage of a $1.5 billion education bill. Timing is now such that we won’t get another session for Nicky’s Law until after the holiday break. The House is now in recess. Read more.
Featured
Join The Arc for the 2019 Sensitive Santa at the Prudential Center
On Sunday, December 8, join us at the Prudential Center, Boston for sensory-friendly photos with Santa, holiday crafts, delicious treats, and more. Space is limited, so register today!
The Fall 2019 issue of Advocate is now available
In this issue, hear from Leo about Nicky’s Law, learn how you can make good news possible in the coming months, find out how you can sponsor an Operation House Call student, and much more from our affiliates and programs.
Support The Arc of Massachusetts
65 Years of Advocacy Wouldn't Have Been Possible Without You, Friend

The Arc of Massachusetts will soon be celebrating our 65th Anniversary. Life for someone with an intellectual or developmental disability was very different seven decades ago as compared to today. Through their dedication, belief, and will, mothers, fathers, self-advocates, volunteers, siblings, attorneys, legislators, human service providers, donors, and many others powered The Arc movement, changing the future for thousands of people.

While there is still work to be done, the future for people with I/DD and autism is bright and every day we are getting closer to their full participation in all aspects of community and life. We – you, The Arc, and our entire community – have to be vigilant to ensure that the challenges ahead do not reverse the forward progress we all have fought so hard to achieve.

You can make the future even better. By giving to The Arc of Massachusetts, you can give hope and opportunity.
Government Affairs
This Thanksgiving, give thanks to Governor Baker for the excellent FY20 budget
For the Thanksgiving holiday, we want to thank the Governor for the increases in his original budget for programs at the Department of Developmental Services and other state agencies that provide supports and services.
Upcoming Webinars
Chapters of The Arc
The Arc of the South Shore is seeking a Chief Operating Officer (COO)

The Arc of the South Shore (Hingham office) is seeking a strong and creative experienced professional for the COO position. This is a 40 hour per week salaried position.  The COO oversees operations and administration of the agency including planning, directing and monitoring all general business operations of the agency.  See job listing here for more info on responsibilities and requirements
The Arc of Opportunity is seeking a Vice President of Home Supports

This full-time position at The Arc of Opportunity (Fitchburg office) is responsible for the overall management of the continuum/range of Home Support programs that uphold The Arc’s mission and meet qualitative and regulatory standards. Ensures that divisional leaders are implementing key objectives, maintains high standards of direct care and conducts ongoing monitoring and management of operations.  Learn more.
Department of Developmental Services
The Department of Developmental Services (DDS) is conducting an online survey to hear from families about their experiences using Family Support services, what services and supports have been most helpful, and if there are ways we can make these services more beneficial to families. The survey is anonymous and will only take you about 10 minutes to complete.

Please try to complete this survey by December 10 if possible, though it will remain open through the month of December. The survey will be translated into several other languages (Spanish, Portuguese, Chinese, and Vietnamese) and these will be forwarded on as soon as they are available, likely within the next two weeks.
Sponsor Spotlight

The work of The Arc of Massachusetts is made possible by generous donations from people like you, friend. None of our advocacy, education, and outreach would be possible without your continued support. Please consider giving today.