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Hello Fellow Advocates,
Family caregivers play an indispensable role in our communities, providing the care and support that helps loved ones with disabilities, chronic illnesses, or aging-related needs live with dignity and independence. At The Arc of Illinois, we understand the vital contributions of caregivers and the challenges they face daily. November is National Family Caregivers Month, and it offers an important opportunity to recognize their efforts, raise awareness, and advocate for the resources and respect they deserve.
Caregivers in Illinois face numerous barriers, from the lack of paid family leave to limited respite care options and uneven access to services in rural areas. Existing programs, like the Illinois Family Caregiver Act and the Home and Community-Based Services Medicaid Waiver, provide some relief but don’t go far enough to address the realities of caregiving. The result is a system where too many caregivers are overburdened, under-supported, and left to navigate complex systems on their own.
To address these gaps, Illinois must take bold steps forward. Proposals like an Illinois Family Caregiver Tax Credit could help offset the costs of caregiving, while expanded funding for respite care programs would allow caregivers to take much-needed breaks. Workplace protections, including flexible scheduling and paid family leave, are essential to ensuring caregivers can balance their responsibilities without jeopardizing their financial stability. These initiatives represent not just policy improvements but an investment in the well-being of caregivers and the individuals they support.
Community support is equally important. Public education campaigns, caregiver training programs, and healthcare provider collaboration can ease caregiving challenges while reducing stigma. Local resources, including community-based respite services and support groups, create networks of assistance that help caregivers feel less isolated and more empowered.
The economic value of caregiving is undeniable. Family caregivers save Illinois billions annually in healthcare costs. But beyond the dollars, the contributions of caregivers hold immeasurable value in maintaining the strength and stability of our families and communities. Supporting them through thoughtful policies and community-based solutions is not only the right thing to do; it’s essential for the health and future of our state.
At The Arc of Illinois, we are dedicated to uplifting and celebrating the unwavering strength, compassion, and resilience of family caregivers. This November, let’s recognize their invaluable contributions, amplify their voices, and stand united in ensuring they feel seen, appreciated, and supported every step of the way. Caregivers are the heart of our communities, and their dedication deserves our deepest gratitude and respect - not just this month, but every day.
Truly, Samantha Alloway Executive Director, The Arc of Illinois
The Arc of Illinois 75th Annual Convention
Brochure and Registration information coming soon!
This year’s focus is a celebration of all that we have accomplished together, but embrace the future with excitement, determination, and a renewed commitment to creating positive change.
Nominate Your Hidden Hero at The Annual Convention Awards Reception!
Do you know a person who makes a difference every day in our community? How did the person, organization, or program support The Arc of Illinois mission? How did they enhance the lives of persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities? If you do, celebrate your hidden hero with a nomination to recognize their extraordinary dedication and achievements!
It's time to pass Dignity in Pay in Illinois and finally eliminate subminimum wage for people with disabilities!
The hearing on Dignity in Pay was moved to thisWednesday, November 20th at 1pm.
To recap, the Dignity in Pay Act would phase out the use of the disability subminimum wage in the state of Illinois. Rather than being paid less for having a disability ormissing out on the opportunities our non-disabled peers have, Dignity in Pay would move our state's disability services forward to build an inclusive workforce. To read more about the bill and see who has signed on as a supporter, please click here.
What can we do now?
We need your help to call your State Senator to ask that they support the Dignity in Pay Act, HB 793. To find your State Senator, click here. If your Senator is already a co-sponsor, please make sure to thank them for their support!
Pleasere-submit witness slips in support of Dignity in Pay by this, Wednesday, November 20th, at 1pm! Witness slips are ways for Illinoisans across our state to show their elected officials where they stand on various bills. When legislators look at these slips, it helps them understand the level of support (or opposition) a bill might have. Even if you submitted a witness slip last week, pleasesubmit another one for the upcoming committee!
To file a witness slip in support of Dignity in Pay, click here.
For more information on the Dignity in Pay Act, clickhere.
For instructions on how to file your Witness Slip, click here.Check out the video created through The Arc of Illinois' Speak Up Speak Out and Going Home Coalition and ICDD, click here.
Please like and follow Going Home Coalition's Facebookand InstagramPages!
Under "II. Representation," put "Self." This way, when legislators see the support, it looks more organic than from one organization.
Under "III. Position," select "Original Bill" and choose "Proponent";
Under "IV. Testimony," select "Record of Appearance Only"
REV UP stands for Register. Educate. Vote. Use Your Power!
While the general election on November 5th is behind us, empowering the disability vote remains as important as ever.
And, there have been tremendous strides in this area.
Thank you all for your outstandingsuccesses this year. I am tremendously moved by your passion, advocacy, and all the innovative, collaborative, work you have accomplished! Thank you, for all of the time, effort, and heart you put into this year-round work.
REV UP Illinois members attended a National REV UP Election Outcomes Debrief call on November 13 with REV UP Coalitions Coordinator, Alexia Kemerling. The call wasrecorded and the transcript is available here.
National participants discussed an overview of election results and initial voter turnout data. Additionally, attendees shared reports from their Election Day work.
We also discussed reports of trends from disability/accessibility-related calls we saw through the National Election Protection hotline.
If your voting rights were not respected, you can file a complaint with the following organizations:
Are you passionate about creating a world where everyone can lead a fulfilling life grounded in equity and inclusion?
We invite you to consider joining The Arc of Illinois Board of Directors!
We are seeking dedicated individuals who share our mission: The Arc of Illinois is committed to empowering persons with disabilities to achieve full participation in community life through informed choices.
Applications are now open until December 1, 2024. This is your opportunity to make a meaningful impact by expanding our advocacy, services, and accessibility throughout the state of Illinois. If you have the drive to help individuals with disabilities thrive and promote an inclusive community, we want to hear from you!
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