SpArc

10/10/2025

World Mental Health Day reminder: people with IDD deserve calm, skilled responses in crisis. SpArc helps families, providers, and first responders find a safer path.
Need support or want to make a referral? arcservices.org/sparc

09/22/2025

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) just turned 35 years old — a milestone in advancing accessibility and civil rights. 🧡

In a recent Macomb Daily article, Lisa Lepine, Executive Director of The Arc of Macomb County, shared how far we’ve come — and how much more there is to do to ensure true inclusion.

At SpArc, we know accessibility and justice go hand in hand. We’re proud to stand alongside The Arc in pushing for systems that support people with disabilities every day.

People with disabilities and advocates for civil rights weigh in on the virtues and shortcomings of the ADA signed into law 35 years ago.

09/18/2025

Michigan is at a crossroads on pretrial justice. Too many people are jailed before trial due to missed court dates driven by barriers like transportation, childcare, or simply not getting a reminder—and the state still lacks good, statewide data to see what’s working. Practical fixes (court reminders, easier sign-ups, and supports at intake) can improve safety and reduce overcrowding. SpArc stands for diversion and the least-restrictive options—especially for people with IDD.

https://www.rstreet.org/commentary/michigans-criminal-justice-crossroads-pretrial-issues-in-the-great-lakes-state/

R Street Institute

This is part of a series on crime and justice in Michigan. Read the other posts here: Pre-Arrest, Post-Conviction. This year began with newly elected Michigan House Speaker Matt Hall (R-Richland Twp.) preemptively killing criminal justice reform bills, declaring them dead before discussions could e...

09/17/2025

Michigan kids deserve a fair shot in court. Bridge Michigan reports that too many youth still face the system without a well-trained defense attorney—sometimes even signing diversion agreements without counsel. Setting statewide standards for juvenile defense (like Michigan did for adults) would help kids and families understand their rights and connect to supports sooner. For youth with IDD, early, effective counsel can be the difference between diversion and deeper system involvement.

https://bridgemi.com/michigan-government/michigan-kids-left-behind-in-indigent-defense-system-its-absolutely-critical/

Michigan funds and oversees free attorneys for adults accused of crimes. Kids are left out, but advocates are pushing for change.

09/17/2025

Everyone has rights. If stopped by police: stay calm, ask for a support person, and share communication needs. We can help families plan ahead.

https://arcservices.org/sparc-referral/

09/16/2025

We celebrate Latino families and self-advocates leading change in disability and justice. Need resources in Spanish? SpArc can connect you. https://arcservices.org/sparc-referral/

09/15/2025

Macomb County’s $229M jail project just hit the halfway mark. The plan includes a new Central Intake Assessment Center focused on medical, behavioral health, and substance-use evaluations at intake—connecting people to care sooner and planning for safer reentry. At SpArc, we’ll keep advocating for upstream diversion and supports for people with IDD so jail is the last resort.

https://correctionalnews.com/2025/09/10/229-million-macomb-county-jail-project-hits-halfway-mark/

Macomb County Jail Macomb County Sheriff's Office

Project managers working on the $229 million Macomb County Jail project in Mount Clemens, Mich., recently told the county Board of Commissioners that the project is on time and under budget at the halfway point.

09/13/2025

September is Recovery Month. Recovery is real, and support saves lives. If you or a loved one with IDD needs help navigating services, SpArc is here. Start at arcservices.org/sparc

09/12/2025

Cash shouldn’t decide who waits in jail. The Bail Project’s op-ed in USA TODAY breaks down why modern bail reform promotes fairness and keeps communities safe—using proven tools like court-date reminders and supportive services. Worth the read:
https://www.usatoday.com/story/opinion/2025/09/11/trump-cashless-bail-reform-jail-defendants/85954666007/

Independent research across dozens of cities continues to find no link between bail reform and higher crime. SpArc supports evidence-based approaches that reduce unnecessary detention, keep families stable, and prioritize safety for everyone in our community.

Trump calls bail reform 'cashless bail.' But tens of thousands of people remain jailed not because they are dangerous but because they are poor

09/10/2025

You are not alone. Call/text 988 for the Lifeline. SpArc works with families navigating mental health and justice systems. Resources: https://arcservices.org/community-resources/

09/01/2025

🛠️ Everyone deserves the dignity of meaningful work — including people with disabilities and those rebuilding after involvement with the justice system.

At SpArc, we believe in second chances and supportive pathways forward. Whether it's through diversion, housing, or connection to community services, we're working toward a future where everyone can thrive — not just survive.

This Labor Day, let’s honor the workers, the dreamers, and the doers — and fight for a world where no one is left behind.

The Arc of Macomb County