Pathway to the Future
Thanksgiving is right around the corner. This year seems to have flown by, and everyone at The Arc Mid-South are reflecting about all the things for which we are thankful.
First and foremost, the Board and staff are most appreciative of YOU and your ongoing support of our mission, purpose, and vision.
We could not be more thankful that you and all our generous supporters are dedicated to our mission, helping us continue to ensure that those with intellectual and developmental disabilities live fully inclusive lives.
What are we asking for? Only that this holiday season you will please accept a big THANK YOU for your commitment, support, and generosity to The Arc throughout the year. We could not have made the progress we have this year without you!
Whether you stay home or travel, have a safe and happy Thanksgiving from all of us here at The Arc.
With the outcome of the election and a new Congress, The Arc Mid-South will continue to partner with all elected officials, advocating and educating that disability is a part of our shared human experience—one that touches every family, every community, and every generation regardless of political party. When people with disabilities have the support they need to live, learn, work, and participate fully in their communities, all Americans benefit.
We will still continue to advocate. Every day, people with disabilities and their families face remarkably challenging circumstances. Children with disabilities are being denied educational supports that will ensure they get a strong foundation for their lives ahead. “We will continue to advocate.” The unemployment rate of adults with disabilities is 2 times higher than the rate for people without disability. And still, nearly 700,000 people are stuck on years-long waiting lists for home and community-based services, which allow them to live independently in their communities. Caregivers are stretched to the breaking point, balancing work, financial stability, and the fight to secure essential services. These aren’t insignificant policy issues—they are daily realities that affect families in every neighborhood, town, and state across America. The pathway for me is the same. Let’s continue to work together and advocate for change. As in the past, I need you to join me and The Arc to continue this fight.
We have work to do, and The Arc will never stop advocating for the policies that people with disabilities need to thrive.
The Arc has deep roots in communities nationwide. For 75 years, and The Arc Mid-South for 74 years, our strong network of self-advocates, families, and professionals has shared their expertise with elected officials to ensure policy decisions reflect the pressing, serious needs of everyday Americans. We’ve seen firsthand that the most enduring progress comes when all leaders recognize disability rights as human rights.
We could not have accomplished all that we did this year without you, so this holiday season we wanted to THANK YOU for your commitment, support, and generosity to The Arc.
From all of us here at The Arc Mid-South, we wish you a safe and happy Thanksgiving.
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