The Arc of Massachusetts

09/08/2025

Have you ever wondered what advocacy really means? Next Monday, join CEO Maura Sullivan and Director of Government Affairs and Strategic Partnerships Nora Bent for an inside look at The Arc's work as an advocacy organization.

Register: thearcofmass.org/webinars

09/05/2025

Thank you to members of Rep. Jake Auchincloss's office for visiting The Arc of Bristol County in Attleboro today!

We took this opportunity to share the stories of families and staff, highlighting how crucial The Arc's services are for community members. By shedding light on these stories, we are able to show directly how cuts to Medicaid, SNAP, NIH, housing services, and more will harm the lives of people with IDD and autism and their families.

Thank you to Angela, Ida, and Heather for sharing your impactful stories and to Michael, Donna, Emily, and Ben for your work and perspectives.

09/05/2025

BREAKING: Governor Healey has announced immediate steps to ensure vaccine availability in Massachusetts amid rollbacks, including first-of-its-kind action to guarantee insurance coverage of vaccines recommended by the state.

Read more: https://www.mass.gov/news/governor-healey-announces-immediate-steps-to-ensure-vaccine-availability-in-massachusetts-amid-trump-rfk-rollbacks

09/05/2025

NEW from WBUR: "The point is to not get them out of a ticket. The point is just to help them get through that interaction with the police officer safely, with less trauma or less anxiety." - CEO Maura Sullivan

Getting pulled over by police is never fun — and it can be extra nerve wrecking for drivers with autism. The Blue Envelope program can signal to officers that a driver is on the spectrum and might need more help.

09/04/2025

The Arc of Massachusetts is excited to welcome Emilia Niyangoda as our new Government Affairs Associate!

Through advocacy, programs that promote inclusion, and engaging the community, The Arc creates tangible changes in the community and in the lives of people with disabilities.

09/04/2025

TODAY: This fall is set to be a busy and pivotal season for advocacy. Join The Arc of Massachusetts' Government Affairs team for a recap of recent state and federal updates, a preview of what's on the horizon, and guidance on how you can make your voice heard.

Register: thearcofmass.org/webinars

09/03/2025

Our Operation House Call team was hard at work this past month, educating students at Harvard Medical School, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, and kicking off the academic year at UMass Chan Medical School.

Through advocacy, programs that promote inclusion, and engaging the community, The Arc creates tangible changes in the community and in the lives of people with disabilities.

09/02/2025

"Federal officials are looking to walk back a decade-old rule designed to compel businesses to employ people with disabilities in greater numbers."

Federal officials are looking to walk back a decade-old rule designed to compel businesses to employ people with disabilities in greater numbers.

09/02/2025

Join MA21 for this important meeting and learn about appealing decisions and actions by the Department of Developmental Services (DDS). Experienced Attorney Anne Grenier of Fletcher Tilton PC will discuss rights, process, timelines, and best practices for making an appeal.

Register: thearcofmass.org/webinars

09/01/2025

Happy Labor Day from The Arc of Massachusetts!

Today and every day, we are so grateful for the direct support professionals who make it possible for people with IDD and autism to live fully realized and inclusive lives in the community.

09/01/2025

Join CEO Maura Sullivan and Director of Government Affairs and Strategic Partnerships Nora Bent for a conversation about all of the important work that goes on behind the scenes at The Arc of Massachusetts. Learn what makes advocacy happen and how your advocacy makes ours possible.

Register: thearcofmass.org/webinars

08/31/2025

For several years, The Arc has been working to support the families of those who lived in state institutions to access their records. The Arc helped to establish the Special Commission on State Institutions, which led a lengthy and emotional process to bring clarity and justice to these families.

That Commission released their recommendations several weeks ago and Governor Healey recently filed a supplemental budget proposal, which includes language that aligns with the Special Commission's recommendations. Notably, this includes a proposal to make state institution records that are over 75 years old public. This makes records easier to access for families and historians, while also respecting privacy concerns.

As this supplemental budget bill moves through the legislature, we look forward to advocating for these important provisions to finally become law. Thank you to Governor Healey and to the Special Commission on State Institutions for your tireless work to help right the historical wrongs of our past.