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The Arc of New Jersey Family Institute provides caregivers with the necessary resources and education to access the appropriate supports and services for their loved ones with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
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2023 Camp Guide from The Family Institute
The Arc of New Jersey Family Institute has developed a checklist and guide to help families navigate the Children's System of Care (CSOC) camp application process. Completed applications must be postmarked or received by PerformCare by June 30th.
CSOC provides Summer Camp Services to eligible youth with IDD under the age of 21. These services include financial support for summer camp and one-to-one aide services for camp. For more information, visit the Family Institute's summer camp webpage by clicking the button below.
Honoring Family Advocates
As an organization founded by families, The Arc of New Jersey is always proud to honor individuals who support a loved one with an intellectual or developmental disability (IDD). Family members play a vital role in the lives of children with IDD, often becoming advocates for education, inclusion, and services. Every month, we will feature a parent or family member who has shown incredible advocacy skills related to special education. Our April Education Advocate of the Month is Don Daye! We asked Don about his experience as an advocate for his son, and included his responses below.
In The News
Education Department earmarks $224 million to improve transition for students with disabilities
"The U.S. Department of Education’s Rehabilitation Services Administration said that $224 million in grants is available for innovative demonstration projects 'focused on the creation of systemic approaches to improve access to pre-employment transition services for children and youth with disabilities.'” Read more here.
N.J. teacher charged with abuse of special needs student, authorities say
"An elementary school teacher was arrested Monday for allegedly abusing a special needs student, Middlesex County Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone said in a statement released Tuesday." Read more here.
Virtually Awesome
Mondays with Michael on Facebook Live
Our Facebook Live series continued this month with episodes about supported employment, extended school year (ESY), and out-of-district placements. Our upcoming episodes will include discussions about college programs, summer plans, and the Family Institute's 2023 Camp Guide.

All of our episodes are recorded and can be viewed in the new Mondays with Michael archive on our website. Click the button below to visit the archive.

If you're new to the series, every episode is a quick 10-minute chat about a different topic related to special education. No registration is required to attend, just visit our Facebook page every Monday at 10 am to watch. Remember to leave a comment!
Mission to Transition
College Programs for Students with IDD
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With the right services and supports, many students with disabilities attend college and achieve their goal of obtaining a degree. College has never been more accessible for students with IDD, and more programs are opening every year at colleges across New Jersey.

Learn more about the college programs in New Jersey for students with disabilities by clicking the button below.
Reality Tech
Hackaday Starts Contest to Develop Assistive Technology
For the tenth anniversary of the contest, Hackaday is calling on their community to develop pieces of assistive technology that will help people with disabilities live fuller and more comfortable lives. According to their website, "It doesn’t matter what kind of impairment it focuses on - so long as it helps somebody work, learn, or play, it’s fair game to us." Contestants have until May 30th to submit their assistive technology project for a chance at more than $100,000 in prizes.
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The Arc of New Jersey Family Institute | 732.828.2022 | thearcfamilyinstitute.org
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