Hello!

This week, Executive Director Leo Sarkissian discusses The Arc's recent advocacy work and ways you can get involved; join us for our 2019 Annual Meeting; a recap of the Nicky's Law hearing; and much more!
Leo's Letter
Bringing Our Communities Together With Your Support

What a positive few weeks we’ve had in budget and policy!

We received a very positive budget to address the needs of constituents from the House of Representatives led by Speaker Robert DeLeo. On Tuesday, April 30, the Committee on Children, Families and Persons with Disabilities held its first hearing led by Chairs Kay Khan and Sonia Chang-Diaz.

The Arc is not only a vigorous advocate, but a convener and an educator. We always want to bring our communities together. Learn how you can get involved.
Featured
Join us for The Arc of Massachusetts 2019 Annual Meeting

We are pleased to invite you to the The Arc of Massachusetts' 2019 Annual Meeting, which will be held on Thursday, May 9 at 5:30PM at The Verve (Crowne Plaza Hotel) in Natick. The Annual Meeting is an excellent opportunity to socialize with representatives from all parts of the Commonwealth, and to learn more about the inner workings of The Arc of Massachusetts.

The evening will feature a reception, dinner, recognition of prominent Human Services leaders, and remarks by guest speaker Representative Denise Garlick. Don't miss out: register today!
Government Affairs
Nicky’s Law: A recap of the April 30 hearing

On April 30, the Committee on Children, Families and Persons with Disabilities held its first hearing of the session which focused mainly on bills related to the Department of Developmental Services (DDS).

The hearing was well-attended by both legislators and families. Chairs Khan and Chang-Diaz led the hearing, which marked the first one with the new Senate Chair of the committee. Powerful testimony from bill sponsors Sen. Michael Moore and Rep. Linda Dean Campbell, as well as Cheryl Ryan Chan, Nicky’s mother, led the session. Learn more about the hearing, and view media coverage.
The Arc of Massachusetts shares House FY20 Budget analysis

The House of Representatives passed a strong budget for persons with disabilities in April. We thank and appreciate House Speaker Robert DeLeo and Ways and Means Chair Aaron Michlewitz for their responsiveness as well as Rep. Ron Mariano and other House leaders. Thank you to House members who shared their priorities with fellow members and leadership. Learn more.
Giving
Support The Arc of Massachusetts with an Instagram fundraiser!

We have some exciting news! As a supporter of The Arc of Massachusetts, you can now use a sticker in Instagram Stories to raise funds that will help our advocacy and programs. The Instagram donation sticker lets you tell the story of why you support us and fundraise. 100% of gifts given via Instagram go directly to The Arc of Massachussetts.

Programs of The Arc
6-Week Transition Support Group (Western MA)
May 14, 21, 28 - June 4, 11, 18 | 10:00AM - 12:00PM
South Hadley Public Library, Trustees Room, 2 Canal Street, South Hadley

The Arc of Massachusetts is pleased to offer a 6-week transition support group for family members of people with intellectual and development disabilities. Parents with youth aged 14 to 26 years will find this most helpful. The group will include information about available supports and services; a dialogue of needs and solutions; opportunities for problem solving and planning; and relevant legislative or funding issues.

The group will provide family members a place to share and learn in a safe, non-judgmental environment. Attendance is limited, so don’t miss this wonderful opportunity. Light refreshments will be served. Please let us know if childcare is needed.

To register or for questions or more information, please contact Robbie Rubet at rrubet@arcmass.org or 413-535-9958.
Webinars
Agency Spotlight