Advocating for the Future Group

09/06/2026

With major changes happening in Washington, families are increasingly turning to states to help resolve special education disputes.

09/04/2026

09/04/2026

We want to hear from you! We invite parents and caregivers to be part of the new Ohio Family Voice Workgroup. Members of the workgroup will examine topics through the lens of families, participate in discussions, and provide feedback on policy.

Find more details and apply: https://education.ohio.gov/Media/Ed-Connection/Aug-4-2026/Encourage-families-and-students-to-apply-for-Depar

09/04/2026

🎻A lollipop concert that will be sensory-friendly, interactive, engaging and memorable for all! Explore the "Family Fun Zone" before the concert with community friends.

See link in comments for ticket link.

Questions: Madelyn McArthur
[email protected]

07/17/2026

We need your help! We are planning our webinar series for the 2026-2027 school year and would like to know what kinds of questions you have for our team of attorneys and advocates.

A few past webinar topics we have done (which are recorded and always accessible on our website) include:
🔹 Going Back to School Strategies
🔹 Autism - Myths, Realities and Advocacy Strategies
🔹 Building Effective Home-School Communication Strategies
🔹 Bullying: When Your Child/Student is Being Bullied
🔹 And more!

Please comment below or direct message us with ideas about webinar topics you would like to see!

07/14/2026

🚨 The Massachusetts Senate is expected to vote this week on legislation that could have serious unintended consequences for people with IDD and autism.

While protecting healthcare workers is essential, the bill must also recognize that disability-related behaviors should not be criminalized.

✅ Support Amendment #5 to exclude group homes and other IDD/autism service settings.
✅ Support Amendment #8 to prioritize de-escalation and community-based alternatives.

📢 Contact your State Senator today: thearcofmass.org/action Maura Sullivan Nora Bent Emilia Niyangoda

07/14/2026

When Kentucky underfunds itself, Lee Specialty Clinic isn’t an anomaly, it’s a warning. Kentucky faces hundreds of millions in budget gaps, more closures will follow unless lawmakers work together. A special session would let the state address urgent gaps before cuts get worse.

07/14/2026