August 29, 2019 | Issue #7
Webinars
Our first Fall 2019 webinars are here! Scroll down for more.
Celebrating The Direct Support Workforce This Labor Day
In this week’s vlog, Executive Director Leo Sarkissian discusses the need to recognize and fairly compensate the important work done by Direct Support Professionals (DSPs), especially in light of Labor Day. Watch now.
Featured
The Summer 2019 issue of Advocate is here!
The latest issue of our quarterly print newsletter Advocate is now available to read online. In this issue, learn more about the FY2020 budget; an update on Widening the Circle (Pathways to Friendship); meet new key members of The Arc in Massachusetts; and much more!
A special thank you to Bradford Willenbrock for organizing a Facebook fundraiser for The Arc of Massachusetts in honor of his parents, Paul and Lynn' s, 50th wedding anniversary, as well as his sister, Megan . The Willenbrocks have been longtime members of The Arc, and passionate advocates. We're grateful for their continued support, and the generosity of all who donated.
Government Affairs
Nicky's Law: the latest progress update
A meeting was held on Monday, August 26 to convene all parties involved with determining the final language of the Abuse Registry/Nicky’s Law. This meeting was held by the House Chair Kay Khan and we are pleased to report that the meeting was successful.
The Arc announces collection of Labor Day workforce stories
Over the next few days, The Arc of Massachusetts will be sharing a collection of stories that demonstrate how the current DSP workforce shortage is hurting individuals and families. The full collection, entitled “Supporting the Direct Support Workforce,” will be released on Monday, September 2 – Labor Day itself.
Updates from The Arc
Future Planning training for professionals 
Join The Arc’s Center for Future Planning for a three-part, live, online training series that will be offered this September. Participants who attend all three training sessions will receive a certificate of completion.  This training is not open to families at this time.
New resource for chapter job openings
The Arc of Massachusetts now features a directory of career opportunities currently open at our 17 chapters across the state. If you are interested in learning more about these job postings, please follow the instructions of the chapter.
2019 Transition Conference
Thank you to our first group of sponsors!
Gold
Bronze
Bronze
Bronze
Webinars
September 25 | 12PM

Discover how to combat caregiver stress by learning about the available resources and support for caregivers as well as in-home support services for older adults.
October 8 | 12PM

Participants will learn about philosophies on inclusion, tips for accessing community recreation, understanding different program models, overcoming barriers, and exploring benefits.
Sponsor Spotlight