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.
The Arc of NJ Supports Bills at the State House
Last month, The Arc of NJ had the privilege of attending a Holiday Reception hosted by Governor Phil Murphy and First Lady Tammy Murphy. The reception took place at Drumthwacket and it gave us the opportunity to thank the Governor for all he does for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities throughout the year. In legislative news, The Arc of New Jersey supported legislation in the Senate Education Committee last month that would require, among other things, all students to fully participate in fire or school security drills and staff training for school personnel on the unique needs of students with disabilities during these drills or emergencies. In addition, The Arc of NJ supported legislation in the Senate Health, Human Services, and Senior Citizens Committee which would increase the Medicaid reimbursement rates for private duty nursing services by $4. To continue reading, click here.
The Arc of NJ's Senior Director of Governmental Affairs, Sharon Levine, is pictured centered with First Lady Tammy Murphy (left) and Governor Phil Murphy (right)
31 Winter Activities For Individuals With IDD
College Tours and Information Sessions

Our first session is scheduled for Thursday, January 26th from 9:30 am - 11 am at Camden County College.
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New Webinar

Understanding The NJCAT Assessment
Wednesday, February 22, 2023
6 to 7:00 pm

Join us as Maria Fischer, Esq. from Hinkle, Prior and Fischer gives us an overview of The NJCAT Assessment. The NJCAT evaluates the need for support in three main areas: self-care, behavioral, and medical. The results also establish the individual's tier, which determines the annual budgets that will be available for services with the Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD).
Supports Brokerage
People who self-direct some or all of their services may choose to use Supports Brokerage services to assist with arranging, directing, and managing their self-directed services. Supports Brokerage is only available to people who self-direct some or all of the services in their Individualized Service Plan (ISP). Supports Brokerage is different than, and does not replace, the person's Support Coordination services. Supports Brokerage services can be provided by an agency approved by DDD and Medicaid or by a Self-Directed Employee.
Medicaid Unwinding
Chat with Beverly Roberts about what families should know about Medicaid Unwinding and how to prepare for it.
New Fireside Chat
Wednesday, February 8
from 6:00 pm 7:00 pm
Kids Corner
HorseSense Therapeutic Center is a 501c3 nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of those in our community challenged by special needs. Our funding is used for providing scholarships to those with disabilities, updating our farm so all can enjoy a safe experience, and to care for our horses who lovingly support our riders. In addition, our funding enables us to rescue animals. 

The program is designed to enhance the overall well-being of children, teens and adults with a wide range of physical, mental and emotional challenges through equine-assisted therapeutic riding programs.
Navigating the System
Schools Must Report Seclusion and Restraint Data
In December, the Department of Education sent out a memo to public school districts and private schools that that they have to begin reporting data about how many times they:
  • Restrain students and
  • Lock students in seclusion spaces or "quiet rooms"

This will be the first time that this data will be reported and made public. The data reported to the state must include the:
  • Type of restraint (mechanical vs physical)
  • Duration of the restraint
  • Duration of seclusion
From Our Local Chapters of The Arc
Stepping Stones

The Arc of Essex County’s early intervention and education services provide a foundation on which the growth and development of children can thrive. Early access to additional supports in the areas of communication, motor, learning, social, and emotional skills will prepare your child for lifelong learning. Stepping Stones has long been a pioneer in Down syndrome education. Decades of experience have shaped their philosophy and curriculum resulting in an innovative and tailored approach for each of their students. 
The Arc of New Jersey Family Institute | 732.828.2022 | thefamilyinstitute@arcnj.org