Representatives from The Arc of New Jersey connected with members of the state's congressional delegation on April 27, as part of the Fly-In Hill Day hosted by The Arc of the United States. During these meetings, The Arc of New Jersey advocated to protect Medicaid against cuts or work requirements, pushed for needed reforms to the SSI program, discussed the need for a variety of disability-related funding, and talked about legislative initiatives that would improve outcomes when members of law enforcement interact with people with IDD. This was an important chance to connect with our federal representatives. Pictured from left to right is Self-Advocate Barbara Coppens, Congressman Rob Menendez, The Arc of NJ's Senior Director Sharon Levine and Executive Director Tom Baffuto. To view additional photos, click here.

Also in April, Executive Director Tom Baffuto testified before the Senate Budget Committee. Tom urged the Legislature to maintain funding priorities proposed in the Governor’s FY24 Budget while also asking Committee members to increase the across the board rate increase by an additional 2.5%, to match our original ask of 5.5%, as well an increase to the DDD fee-for-service behavioral rates. Also testifying at the hearing was Pam King, a Self-Advocate from Council 4 of the NJ Statewide Self-Advocacy Network. Pictured in the top left-hand corner is Tom Baffuto.

Department of Human Services Commissioner Sarah Adelman delivered an update to families, self-advocates and local county Chapters of The Arc, when she attended The Arc of New Jersey's Annual Meeting on April 6. This was a great opportunity to hear more about the funding included in the Governor's proposed Fiscal Year 2024 Budget and the Department's plans, as it relates to individuals with IDD. Following the Commissioner's remarks, members of the Board of Directors were sworn in for their two-year terms. Pictured from left to right is The Arc of New Jersey's Executive Director Tom Baffuto, DHS Commissioner Sarah Adelman, and The Arc of New Jersey's Board President Kevin Sturges.

Even the wet weather couldn't deter Chapters of The Arc and local supporters from participating in the Step Up For The Arc initiative this past weekend. These events, held throughout the State, are a fun, healthy and easy way to support people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Pictured top is The Arc of Somerset County's Associate Executive Director Sandee Miller, The Arc of NJ's Executive Director Tom Baffuto, and The Arc of Somerset County's Executive Director Chris Corvino. The walk took place at Duke Island Park in Bridgewater. Pictured bottom left is The Arc of Essex County's Chief Operating Officer Kathy Hinnigan Cohen, Senior Director of Development and Communication Heather Comstock, The Arc of NJ's Associate Executive Director Celine Fortin, and The Arc of Essex County's Chief Executive Officer Linda Lucas. The event took place at the Clipper Pavilion in West Orange. Pictured bottom right is The Arc of Middlesex County's Chief Executive Officer Frank Adu, Board President Heidi Bell, and The Arc of NJ's Executive Director Tom Baffuto. The event took place at Woodlot Park in South Brunswick. Congratulations to all three Chapters on hosting these fun Step Up For The Arc Walks!

Congratulations to The Arc of Camden County on the opening of their newest group home - The Englebert Home - named in honor of the Chapter's former Executive Director Peggy Englebert. The Arc of New Jersey's Executive Director Tom Baffuto was on hand for the ribbon cutting as was New Jersey Department of Human Services Assistant Commissioner Jon Seifried to help the Chapter celebrate this wonderful occasion! Pictured from left to right is The Arc of NJ's Executive Director Tom Baffuto, The Arc of Camden's Executive Director Tom Mannion, former Camden Executive Director Peggy Englebert, and DHS Assistant Commissioner Jon Seifried.

The Arc of New Jersey congratulates Executive Director Tom Baffuto on his upcoming honor from The Arc of Essex County. On June 15, Tom will receive the Legacy of Advocacy Award during the Chapter's 75th Anniversary Gala. This is a well-deserved recognition of Tom's dedication and commitment to people with IDD and their families. The event will take place at The Grove in Cedar Grove. For more information about the event or to purchase tickets, click here.