Hello!

This week, Leo has a personal story about the crisis in the workforce in our field; #GivingTuesday success; the latest plans for the ongoing vigil to Pass Nicky's Law; and more!
Leo's Letter
Where Can Paul Be Safe?

This week, Executive Director Leo Sarkissian uses the example of a man with I/DD named Paul, who was subjected to abuse in both community living and a state operated home, in order to clarify why we need to make progress on valuing our workforce - and ensuring that the best people are chosen for the job.

Featured
#GivingTuesday: Thank you!

Thank you to everyone who donated to our 2018 #GivingTuesday campaign. Thanks to all of your generosity, we improved upon last year's #GivingTuesday results by nearly 40%! Your support makes all of our work possible, and we look forward to continuing on our journeys together.
Family Medicine Residents benefit from Operation House Call

At UMass Medical School on Tuesday, November 27, Operation House Call’s Parent Instructor Kim Walsh provided didactics for a dozen Family Medicine doctors. The doctors were also fortunate to learn directly from a teenager with autism. They had a great time with their co-teacher, Tyler Buckley, and learned the best ways to communicate and support him in regards to his medical care. Continue reading.

OHC is looking forward to beginning our newest program with 45 graduate-level nursing students at UMass Worcester in 2019. Please be in touch with Kim Walsh at walsh@arcmass.org if you would like to provide home visits for the students.
Government Affairs
Nicky’s Law Vigil at the State House continues

The Arc is grateful to all who have helped us continue our advocacy through daily visits to legislators at the State House. Our presence drives home our collective determination to pass Nicky’s Law before the end of the informal session. Continue reading.

Click on the visual above, which we created for Representatives who may want details on the appeals process for the caretaker. Stay tuned as we head into the final weeks of the informal session. Please contact Maura at Sullivan@arcmass.org if you would like to meet at the State House or if you have any questions
Training Center
Webinar: Adult Family Care: Is It the Right Choice for my Loved One?
Wednesday, December 5 | 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.
Outside The Arc


The Massachusetts Sibling Support Network (MSSN) is seeking a part-time Director of Development.  Learn more.
Agency Spotlight