Leo’s Letter: Family Acceptance

In the past few weeks, I’ve focused on inclusion by sharing Ryan’s success story and the outpouring of community recognition and affection at the passing of Andrew Lawson (local paper).
In the past few weeks, I’ve focused on inclusion by sharing Ryan’s success story and the outpouring of community recognition and affection at the passing of Andrew Lawson (local paper).
Sometimes we just need resources to take advantage of opportunity. That’s true of all of us. Last week, I shared some of Ryan Horrigan’s story. He and his parents persisted at building avenues for success. Similarly, Jonathan Huggon, one of our six “Expect Success” Achievers, worked throughout his youth with the support of his family to achieve. Ryan, Jonathan, and their families did their homework, sometimes sacrificed, and learned what they could about opportunities.
Yes, you read that right. The Washington Examiner reported: “Arizona, Kansas, Maine, Wisconsin and Utah are applying for waivers under Medicaid that would limit how long certain enrollees can remain on the program.” The Portland Press Herald already has published an editorial opposing such a change.
The Arc of Massachusetts will be publishing a series of Transition or Turning 22 articles in our newsletter and on our website, over a period of several months. Our goal is to help adults and families make the best of the transition from special education to adult life. These stories and lessons may be applied to older adults as well. A successful transition requires planning, understanding your non-negotiables, an awareness of what’s possible at the moment, and the ability to negotiate.
Governor Baker’s proposed budget for FY 2019 again keeps pace with the DDS Turning 22 program as more than 1,000 students graduate into adult services. In addition, a $5 Million increase is budgeted for Autism Omnibus which addresses those newly eligible with autism[i].
This week we celebrate the life of Martin Luther King, Jr. His legacy is great: expanding civil rights for all citizens and the initiation of a Poor People’s Campaign shortly before his death. Today’s efforts to establish equity for many groups, including those with disabilities, can be traced to his efforts.
Join us at our Expect Success: Celebrating Achievers Gala on Wednesday, April 25, 2018! We will be recognizing six people with disabilities who are successful in the arts, classroom, business, and beyond. They set high expectations for themselves, work to achieve despite challenges, and inspire others. Learn more about this exciting event, these inspiring achievers, and how to take part today.