Notes from The Arc | August 30: Older Caregiver Forums and More!

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Hello!

Happy Labor Day from The Arc of Massachusetts!

This week, read on for more information about our search for a new Policy Officer; the link to our Summer 2018 issue of Advocate ; details on community forums for aging caregivers; and more!

Featured

The Arc of Massachusetts is seeking a new Policy Officer

The Arc of Massachusetts is hiring a Policy Officer. This is a part-time position, reporting to the Executive Director. The position requires excellent organizational skills; strong communication and collaboration skills; some experience in government affairs, civic process, and/or a personal connection to disability services; proactive and resourceful at addressing tasks; and social media competency. Bachelor degree with professional background required; graduate degree preferred. Learn more.

The Summer 2018 issue of Advocate , our quarterly print newsletter, is now available to read online!

This edition includes a recap of our legislative progress and Get Out the Vote initiative; updates on Pathways to Friendship; info on our upcoming webinars and caregiver forums; and more!

The 2018 Spectrum for Hope Grant Program application is now available. The process has been moved online and families of multiple children with disabilities in Massachusetts are invited to apply for up to $5,000 in funding. Applications will be accepted through September 15, 2018.

Needs that are supported through this program include: Advocacy Fees; Medical; Education; Technology; Therapies; Respite Care; Safety Items; Transportation; Recreation/Sports Programs; Social Skills Training; and Summer Camp.

Direct Support Professional (DSP) Recognition Week

Governor Charlie Baker, Senator Ed Markey, and Senator Elizabeth Warren have proclaimed the week of September 9 through September 15 as Direct Support Professional Recognition Week . Are you interested in sharing your story about the important work that the DSPs in your life do? Whether you're a self-advocate or represent a family or a provider, individuals are invited to share their stories of recognition by submitting them to daley@arcmass.org .

Giving

Honor Someone Special

Have you ever wondered what you might do to honor a family member, friend, or colleague or to mark a special occasion? Perhaps you’d like to commemorate a significant birthday or anniversary, memorialize a loved one who has passed away, or express your gratitude to someone who has made a difference in your life.

One way to do this is by making a contribution to The Arc of Massachusetts. We will not only thank you for your gift, but will also advise the individual you wish to honor that a donation has been made in his or her name. Your gift will, of course, help The Arc accomplish its mission of enhancing the lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families across the Commonwealth.

Training Center

Is AAC The Right Choice? Alternative and Augmentative Communication (AAC) for Adults with Disabilities

Presenter: Paul Simeone

9/13/18, 12:00pm, Free

Paul will discuss strategies for successful adaption of AAC systems for adults with developmental disabilities. He will also cover current AAC technology, the evaluation and implementation process, and coordination in AAC treatment during transition from school to adult placement.

Aging with Autism: Learning from the Life of Donald Triplett

Presenter: Beth Zwick

9/19/18, 12:00pm, Free

This webinar will discuss issues related to aging with autism by considering the life of Donald G. Triplett, a man with autism who turns 85 this year. We will look at his life course and quality of life as he ages, as described by journalists John Donvan and Caren Zucker.

Are you an older caregiver? Join us for a Community Conversation!

As part of the Becker Center, The Arc of Massachusetts is planning community forums across Massachusetts this fall. The purpose is to examine the needs of older caregivers A recent publication, the Family and Individual Needs for Disability Supports (FINDS) 2017 Community Report, states that 2/3 of caregivers are aging. In Massachusetts, over 18,000 individuals are living with family caregivers. More than 9,000 of these family members are adults; 3,100 of the adults are age 40 and older and they live with a caregiver over the age of 60 years.

Older caregivers, elder and disability professionals, policy makers and interested community members are welcome to attend and learn:

What older caregivers need to feel supported
Where they experience gaps
What is most important for service providers to know and understand?

Stay tuned for other dates and locations! For more information, contact Kerry Mahoney .

Agency Spotlight

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