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In Loving Memory of Collette Walkington
From All of Us at The Arc of Illinois
It is with heavy hearts that we share the heartbreaking news of the passing of Collette Walkington, beloved daughter of Greg and Lisa Walkington and cherished sister to Luc.
Greg has served as the Director of our Family Transition Program here at The Arc of Illinois, dedicating his life and work to supporting families across the state. Collette, in her bright spirit and quiet strength, has long been a reminder of why we do this work - and why it matters so deeply. Her life touched many, and her light will not be forgotten.
As we grieve with the Walkington family, we also honor the beauty and resilience found in the words of her brother Luc. His words are more than a tribute; they're a testament to the profound bond between siblings, the depth of love that exists within families navigating disability, and the enduring power of memory. The Walkington family has asked that donations in Collette’s memory be made to The Arc of Illinois in lieu of flowers. We are humbled and honored, and we will carry her memory forward in every step we take.
Luc’s voice shines with wisdom, courage, and heart - and we are grateful to share it with you here:
For those that knew Colette, you know that she lived a life mired in challenges. But Colette was never defined by what held her back. At every turn possible, the world tried to limit her, but Colette had other plans. She was a miracle, gift, and symbol of hope to all around her.
Being Colette’s brother is the greatest honor I could’ve ever imagined. I don’t know what to do with myself now that she’s gone, but I’m at peace knowing that she no longer has to fight against the world’s limits. She gave me a sense of duty and purpose when I needed it the most.
Colette may have left this earth, but her light is not gone. It’s scattered, only now carried deeply in the heart of every person she touched.
Thank you to all who loved Colette like she deserved. She wouldn’t have lived such a fulfilling and hopeful life without you.
What the “One Big Beautiful Bill” Means for Our Community - And Why We’ll Keep Pushing Forward
Dear Fellow Advocates,
On July 3, Congress passed the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act”, a major shift in our country’s approach to healthcare and public support systems, including Medicaid.
While this new law has been framed as a tool for reducing waste and improving efficiency, the reality is that it introduces significant changes that will directly affect millions of people - especially those with disabilities, their families, and the providers who support them.
Here’s what we know:
Medicaid Changes: The law includes $1 trillion in Medicaid spending reductions over the next 10 years - the most significant structural shift the program has seen in decades.
Work Requirements: Many adults under 65 who gained Medicaid through expansion will now need to work, volunteer, or participate in job training 80 hours a month to maintain coverage. This could affect 4.8 million people, including individuals with disabilities who don’t qualify for federal disability programs but still rely on Medicaid.
Eligibility Reviews: Coverage will now be reviewed every six months instead of yearly, increasing the risk of people losing coverage due to paperwork or life circumstances.
Cost Sharing: Some Medicaid recipients may now face doctor visit copays as high as $35, which can present a real barrier to needed care.
State Funding Rules: The law limits the financing tools states have used for decades, placing added pressure on state budgets - and potentially impacting services across the board.
Rural Impact: Many rural hospitals could face reduced funding, which may result in higher levels of uncompensated care and strain on already-limited resources.
At The Arc of Illinois, we want to be clear: we are with you. We will continue to educate, advocate, and elevate the voices of people with disabilities and their families through every twist and turn of this process.
Tomorrow, we hope you’ll join us for a conversation with Congresswoman Delia Ramirez. This is one of many opportunities we’re creating to speak directly with elected leaders, share your experiences, and push for the systems and supports our communities need and deserve.
We know moments like this can feel uncertain. But please - do not be discouraged. Even in the face of big change, what’s clear is that our community has come together, lifted each other up, and made itself heard. That is powerful. That is progress.
And that’s exactly what we’ll keep doing - in every way, shape, and form.
With gratitude and solidarity,
Samantha M. Alloway Executive Director, The Arc of Illinois
Join Us for a Vital Discussion on Medicaid with Congresswoman Delia Ramirez!
July 9, 2025
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
VIRTUAL MEETING
We are excited to invite you to a live conversation focused on Medicaid with Congresswoman Delia Ramirez on Wednesday, July 9, from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM. This event will provide a platform for Congresswoman Ramirez to discuss the latest developments in Washington, D.C., specifically related to Medicaid and its impact on our communities.
As advocates for equitable healthcare, we believe it's crucial to stay informed and engaged. Following Congresswoman Ramirez's insights, our Family to Family Director, Susan Agrawal, along with the staff from The Arc of Illinois, will join the conversation to explore ongoing advocacy efforts.
Don't miss this opportunity to learn more and share your thoughts! Space is limited to ensure a meaningful dialogue, so please register as soon as possible. We look forward to seeing you there!
This July, we honor the strength, diversity, and resilience of the disability community.
This year’s theme “We Belong Here and We’re Here to Stay” reflects both the power of unity and the growing urgency to protect disability rights and services.
Wear your pride — Click here to shop our Disability Pride apparel
Together, let’s make it loud and clear: We belong. We are visible. We’re not going anywhere.
Walk or Roll with Us for the 22nd Annual Chicago Disability Pride Parade!
Saturday, July 26, 2025 Parade Start: 11:00 AM (Line-Up: 10:30 AM) Location: 401 S. Plymouth Ct., Chicago, IL 60605
Celebrate Disability Pride Month by showing up, standing proud, and moving together in solidarity at the 22nd Annual Chicago Disability Pride Parade! This powerful event uplifts disability culture, community, and pride. Let’s make some noise and show our strength together!
This is a final reminder that our Going Home Coalition meeting will take place today, Tuesday, July 8th at 4:00 pm, and we look forward to your participation.
If you have not yet registered, there is still time to do so using the link below. We kindly ask that you register as soon as possible to ensure we have an accurate participant list.
"I want to work!
How do I work and not lose my benefits?"
with Abby Gunther, CWIC
This is one of the most frequently asked questions from self advocates and people who provide support for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. This presentation is an introduction to the Work Incentives Planning & Assistance (WIPA) Program. WIPA is funded by the Social Security Administration and provides free, individualized counseling to those receiving a Social Security disability benefit who are working or want to work. Participants will learn how working and earning income affect their Social Security and other benefits, including Medicare, Medicaid, SNAP, and others. Most importantly, participants will learn how to get connected to the WIPA Program and a Community Work Incentive Coordinator (CWIC), who can provide them free, individualized counseling so that they don’t need to navigate the benefits system alone.
Abby Gunther, our presenter, is a Community Work Incentives Coordinator (CWIC) at the Illinois Assistive Technology Program (IATP) and a Partners in Policymaking Graduate.
Only registrants will receive notes and a recording of the meeting, so be sure to register!
Thank you!!!
Carole
A Space Just for You—Because You’re Not Alone
July 22, 2025
5:00-6:00 PM
The Arc of Illinois is excited to continue our Family Support Group series, creating a welcoming space for parents, caregivers, and family members to connect, share, and support one another.
This group offers an opportunity to engage in open conversations, ask questions, and build community with others who understand the journey of supporting loved ones with disabilities.
Have a question? Click here to complete a form to let us know the topics you want to discuss.
Preparing for Adulthood – A Roadmap for the Future
Presented by Claire Cook (DSCC Title V Transition Specialist) and Suzanne Aaron, Northern Illinois Outreach Specialist for Illinois Life Span at The Arc of Illinois.
Live Spanish translation available.
Recordings and slides will be posted afterward on DSCC’s Family Education Webinars page.
For questions, contact Claire Cook at clairer3@uic.eduor call (800) 322-3722.
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