Massachusetts Advocates Standing Strong

05/20/2026

05/14/2026

ACT NOW: The next phase of state budget advocacy is here and we need you to take action again.

Contact your Senator and ask them to cosponsor The Arc's FY27 Senate budget amendments:

https://thearcofmass.quorum.us/campaign/162369/

05/03/2026

With Special Olympics Massachusetts – MASS just got recognized as one of their top fans! 🎉

05/02/2026

“Your voice is important! The Massachusetts Developmental Disabilities Council (MDDC) is doing a survey to learn what is important for people in the developmental disabilities (DD) community living in Massachusetts. We want to hear from people with developmental disabilities, family members, professionals, and others. We will include information from the survey in our new Five-Year State Plan. This plan will guide our future work and how we support people with developmental disabilities (DD) and their families in Massachusetts.” -MDDC

Take the MDDC survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/CGSXQKF

Your voice is important!

The Massachusetts Developmental Disabilities Council (MDDC) is doing a survey to learn what is important for people in the developmental disabilities (DD) community living in Massachusetts.

We want to hear from people with developmental disabilities, family members, professionals, and others.
We will include information from the survey in our new Five-Year State Plan. This plan will guide our future work and how we support people with developmental disabilities (DD) and their families in Massachusetts.

Take the survey: surveymonkey.com/r/CGSXQKF

05/01/2026

What do you like to do for self-care? May is Mental Health Awareness Month. This month is a time to raise awareness of those living with mental health challenges and to help shine light on what so many experience. Here are some ideas for self-care:
1) Listen to music. 🎶
2) Watch a funny video online.▶️
3) Play [or watch] a sport.🏀🏒🥅
4) Take the time to make yourself a special cup of coffee or tea.☕️🫖
5) Look at pictures of cute dogs [or cats].🐶🐱
6) Hang out with your friends.👍

04/18/2026

“Join the Guardianship Alternatives and Innovation Network (GAIN) on Wednesday, May 20th from 6 to 7:30 p.m. EST for an online panel discussion ‘Unraveling the Mysteries of Guardianship Alternatives.’

This discussion will feature the stories and expertise of lived-experience advocates, clear and accessible explanations about topics related to guardianship and alternatives, and a supportive space for learning.” —Massachusetts Developmental Disabilities Council

Registration is required, visit: https://bit.ly/gainpanel

04/15/2026

“Registration is officially open for the Massachusetts Developmental Disabilities Council’s Positive Me: Self‑Esteem Series!

If you’re a student with a disability between 18–22, this 6‑class program is a great chance to build confidence, connect with others, and learn important skills like advocacy and boundary‑setting.

WHEN: Runs May 19 – June 4, 2026 Tuesdays & Thursdays, 10–11 AM

WHERE: On Zoom

WHAT TO EXPECT: Includes participation, pre‑assignments, and a graduation

APPLICATION DEADLINE: Don’t wait, applications are due May 8, 2026.” -MDDC

Register here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/cczc383/lp/0ebbab60-79fd-49dc-8026-395237152b16

Registration is officially open for the MDDC's Positive Me: Self‑Esteem Series!

If you’re a student with a disability between 18–22, this 6‑class program is a great chance to build confidence, connect with others, and learn important skills like advocacy and boundary‑setting.

WHEN: Runs May 19 – June 4, 2026 Tuesdays & Thursdays, 10–11 AM

WHERE: On Zoom

WHAT TO EXPECT: Includes participation, pre‑assignments, and a graduation

APPLICATION DEADLINE: Don’t wait, applications are due May 8, 2026.

Register here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/cczc383/lp/0ebbab60-79fd-49dc-8026-395237152b16

04/09/2026

Check out the MASS Flash April Newsletter https://conta.cc/4tCnz3d to stay up to date on everything happening this month, including Autism Acceptance Month and National Deaf History Month, along with key events, opportunities, and community updates. From exciting opportunities like our open Operations and Bookkeeping Manager role https://wearemass.applicantpro.com/jobs/4032958-770469 to important conversations at the upcoming Massachusetts Developmental Disabilities Council (MDDC) Policy Committee meeting on federal Medicaid changes, there are many ways to get involved, stay informed, and make your voice heard. Do not miss the Heroes of Adult Protection film premiere on April 29 with DPPC and our statewide drop ins where you can learn, connect, and have fun with the community.

We are also celebrating big milestones and inspiring stories like Kamisha’s incredible journey to college and Brian Kremer’s recognition for his leadership and dedication to inclusive progress. With regional meetings, community events, and the upcoming MDDC State Plan survey, April is full of opportunities to engage, share your perspective, and shape the future. At MASS, your voice matters. Join us, get involved, and be part of a community that is building change together. https://www.wearemass.org/subscribe

04/09/2026

Massachusetts Advocates Standing Strong and Director, Brian Kremer were recognized at The Arc of Massachusetts 2026 Gala! ▶️View and listen to Brian Kremer's acceptance speech as one of the 2026 Partners in Progress.

04/04/2026

“April isn’t just Autism Acceptance Month, it’s also National Deaf History Month! As we continue to promote autism acceptance and advocacy, we also encourage people to take time to learn about Deaf history this April. Look Deaf-led organizations like National Association of the Deaf - NAD to learn more!” —The Autistic Self Advocacy Network

April isn’t just Autism Acceptance Month, it’s also National Deaf History Month! As we continue to promote autism acceptance and advocacy, we also encourage people to take time to learn about Deaf history this April. Look Deaf-led organizations like National Association of the Deaf - NAD to learn more!

03/30/2026

“A special night to celebrate the strength, unity and progress in the effort to improve the lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and autism and their families - together in Boston at the Arc of Massachusetts Progress and Possibility Gala!
Thank you for inviting me to be your emcee - it was an honor.” —Karen Anderson WCVB

A special night to celebrate the strength, unity and progress in the effort to improve the lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and autism and their families - together in Boston at the Arc of Mass Progress and Possibility Gala!
Thank you for inviting me to be your emcee - it was an honor.