Dear Circles of Support,



It’s hard to believe summer is already winding down.


We’ve had a busy few months at The Arc SF. Early this summer, we focused on advocacy as we worked alongside self-advocates, families, providers, and community partners to protect disability services during the state budget process.


Thanks to those collective efforts, funding for Department of Developmental Services programs was preserved.


That’s a big win for our community and a reminder that advocacy matters. We’ll continue sharing updates and opportunities to make your voice heard throughout the year.


We’ve also welcomed 18 new participants, 12 new staff members, and 3 new employer partners this summer. Each new participant, staff member, and partner makes our community stronger and helps us create more opportunities for people with developmental disabilities across the Bay Area.

Friends Like Me Is Now Five Days A Week


One thing we’ve heard consistently is that people want more opportunities to connect with one another. In response, our Friends Like Me program expanded to five days a week in August.


Participants can now join classes, learn new skills, share meals, and spend time with friends Monday through Friday. We’re excited to see more people connecting and building community throughout the week.

Help Shape Next Year’s Advocacy Priorities


Our partners at The Arc California are gathering feedback from people with disabilities, families, and supporters to help guide their advocacy priorities for next year.


If you have a few minutes, please complete the 2026 Disability Community Impact Survey and share the issues that matter most to you.


The survey takes approximately 10 minutes and closes at noon on Friday, September 18.

Schedule Reminder


On Friday, September 25, all The Arc SF campuses will be closed for services so our staff can participate in an organization-wide training and professional development day.


Support teams will reach out with information about essential services, transportation, and planning for the closure. If you have questions, please contact your Service Manager.

A Final Thought


Thank you for being part of this community. Every day, I'm reminded that the strongest thing we have at The Arc San Francisco is the way we show up for each other.


People with disabilities make our Bay Area communities stronger, and together we can continue building a future where everyone is valued, included, and has the opportunity to thrive.


Be well,

Kristen Pedersen

Executive Director

The Arc San Francisco

Our Mission: To partner with adults with developmental disabilities as they design their futures and transform our communities through lifelong learning and self-determination.