Dear Fellow Advocates,

As we continue our vital mission of empowering persons with disabilities to achieve full participation in community life through informed choices, I am excited to share a wonderful reminder of our 'why' that we had the honor of experiencing yesterday evening.

Last night marked the inaugural gathering of our Family Support Group, an event that brought together individuals and families, each with their own unique stories and journeys. Out of 88 registrants, approximately 40 were able to attend, and I cannot express how heartwarming it was to witness the connections made and the support shared among attendees. 

What made this gathering particularly special was the diversity of participants. We had parents from St. Louis, Missouri, who discovered us through our outreach efforts, as well as individuals who found us on LinkedIn. It was inspiring to see former state workers joining us, able to provide guidance on navigating essential services. This is the power of community, and it reinforces why we work tirelessly on our outreach initiatives.

This year, we have made significant strides in connecting with families, advocates, and leaders across Illinois and beyond. Here’s some insight on just how hard we’ve been working at building our community:

• 25,000+ miles traveled to engage with families and partners.
•  540 individuals in 42 counties throughout Illinois participated in our recent Medicaid advocacy call, demonstrating our collective strength.
• 79 outreach events had to forge connections and build relationships within our communities.
• 28 webinars delivered, sharing crucial resources and knowledge.
• 20 digital literacy trainings provided to enhance access and confidence.
• 2–3 "Know Your Options" sessions each month, empowering individuals and families.
• 6 major statewide conferences hosted, including our Convention and QIDP events.

Leading such a dedicated team is an honor, and our efforts are resonating throughout the community! The healing moment I experienced last night, sharing stories with fellow parents, reminded me of my own journey. When my son faced the challenges of autism, I had no idea who The Arc of Illinois was. I often think of my past self - Sam from 2015 - who would have done anything to connect with others in our community, to know that she was not alone in this journey. 

As we move forward, I want to emphasize that you are not alone. We are here to support you, to listen, and to empower you. Our next event will be announced soon, and I wholeheartedly hope you will join us. Together, we can create a community that not only uplifts but also inspires.

Thank you for being an integral part of The Arc of Illinois. Your strength and resilience are what make our mission possible.

With gratitude,

Samantha M. Alloway
Executive Director, The Arc of Illinois 

We Belong Here. We're Here to Stay. 

As we gear up for Disability Pride Month 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.

 Show your support this July!

• Click here to use our Facebook frame
• 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 in July by showing up, standing proud, and moving together in solidarity! This powerful event uplifts disability culture, community, and pride. Let’s make some noise and show our strength together! 

Interested in joining us? Email at Becca@thearcofil.org.

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.edu or call (800) 322-3722.

Open Call for ART

Click here to submit your artwork.  Submissions due by June 30, 2025.

 

Make sure to use code "Arc50" at checkout to save 50% on the registration.

Recruitment for the Online "eHealth Parents Taking Action" Curriculum Has Begun for the Latinx, Black, and Chinese Communities!

Recruiting for has begun for Latinx, Black, and Chinese families of children with or at risk of autism for an online curriculum called “eHealth Parents Taking Action”. This curriculum has been proven to be effective among Latino families of children with autism in improving both family and child outcomes. We have culturally adapted it for Chinese and Black families. 

You are eligible if:

• You have Spanish or Chinese (Cantonese or Mandarin dialects) as your primary language if from the Latinx and Chinese community, or identify yourselves as Black/African American
• You have a young child at risk or with a diagnosis of autism ( you can be a parent or the primary family caregiver taking care of the child
• Your child is between 2-8 years old
• You reside in Illinois

If interested, click here to fill out this interest indication form so we can reach out to you to screen for eligibility.

[Note: English groups for Black African American families will start soon, Chinese and Spanish groups will start data collection in the summer, but won't start till Fall]

Community Outreach

Alcance Communitario de los Programas

This event is tailored for Spanish speaking families but all are welcome.

Este evento es día de los Hispanos pero todos son bienvenidos.

Recently Received an Early Notification Letter or a PUNS Selection Letter? 

Join us to learn about your options under the Medicaid Home and Community Based Waiver for Adults with Developmental Disabilities in Illinois.

Webinar is free; registration is required.