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Make sure to follow us on Facebook and X for all the latest news and updates! | |
Tell Governor Murphy: No Funding Cuts that Will Impact People with IDD in FY26 | |
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The State of New Jersey is up against a fiscal cliff and all signs indicate there will be reductions in the State Budget and less spending in Fiscal Year (FY) 2026. State Departments are preparing for up to 5% cuts in their operating budgets. With this in mind, Governor Murphy needs to hear from you. Funding cuts could result in many devastating impacts for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. Cuts could result in fewer available services, and cuts would make it harder to hire and keep Direct Support Professionals in our workforce. It could also result in longer wait times for people with IDD and their families to access the care they need. Send Governor Murphy an email and let him know that there can be no cuts to disability funding in the Fiscal Year 2026 Budget. Click here to take action.
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Wings for All Program Gives Individuals with IDD a Run-Through of the Flying Experience | |
The Arc of NJ was proud to co-host a Wings for All program on December 7, at Newark Liberty International Airport. This incredible event provides a simulated run-through of the airport experience to assist individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families in navigating the air travel process. The event included a pseudo-rehearsal of the airport experience, including a simulated security screening, a terminal walkthrough, and the boarding process. Thanks to all of our partners who were integral in making the event such a success, including our co-host, The Arc of Essex County. | |
Pictured above are some of the many families who participated in the Wings for All Program and who had the chance to see the airport, and learn more about the flying process. | |
The Arc of NJ Wraps Up 2024, Looks Ahead to New Year | |
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As we start 2025, we want to take this opportunity to wish you a happy and healthy New Year! We've accomplished so much in the past 12 months, and none of it would be possible without you. Our network of individuals, families, and fellow professionals is critical to the work we do each and every day. With that said, we know challenges lie ahead. This year we are facing possible cuts to state funding and on the federal level, potential changes to the Medicaid program.
Whatever the New Year brings, we know we can count on you and your continued advocacy. Thank you for all your help in 2024, and we look forward to great things in the coming year! Pictured above is the staff of The Arc of New Jersey photographed on December 20, in Edison.
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In the Final Month of 2024, Chapters Host Celebrations | |
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The Arc of NJ congratulates The Arc of Monmouth on their Winter Glow Gala which was held at The Addison Park in Aberdeen on December 6. Executive Director Tom baffuto was honored to attend and toast the Chapter in their celebration of 75 years of serving people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families in Monmouth County.
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The Arc of NJ's Executive Director Tom Baffuto had a wonderful time celebrating at the Holiday Dinner Dance hosted by The Arc of Bergen and Passaic Counties on December 11. The event took place at The Venetian in Garfield. It was a wonderful way to close out 2024 and enjoy the holidays.
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It's Time for the Combined Federal Campaign | |
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The Combined Federal Campaign (CFC) is one of the world’s largest and most successful annual workplace charity campaigns. Its mission is to promote and support philanthropy through a program that is employee focused, cost-efficient, and effective in providing all federal employees the opportunity to improve the quality of life for all. CFC reaches nearly 10 million potential donors — active and retired federal and military employees and contractors. CFC opened on September 1, 2024, and runs through January 15, 2025.
How to Give and Support The Arc of New Jersey
Federal civilian, postal and military donors can support The Arc of New Jersey by going to the campaign website and using The Arc of NJ’s CFC code - 92741. Thank you for your support! More info here.
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Upcoming Webinars with the
NJ Self-Advocacy Project
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Stay Healthy at Home webinars and Healthy Lifestyles Project LIVE! events are hosted throughout the month by the New Jersey Self-Advocacy Project. Registration links for Stay Healthy at Home can be found here. This webinar series covers a variety of topics related to advocacy, life skills, employment, and civic engagement. Sessions are designed to be accessible to self-advocates, parents, and support staff. Live viewers can share comments, ask questions, and access resources. Live transcription is available. Healthy Lifestyles Project LIVE! events can be found here. This interactive series of events is hosted by the NJ Self-Advocacy Project and focuses on activities to promote health and wellness education for students and adults with IDD. Live viewers will be able to share comments, ask questions, and participate in activities led by professionals in real time.
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Upcoming In-Person & Virtual Events
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Check out what's happening this month or visit our calendar to see upcoming virtual and in-person events.
Wednesday, January 8, at 6 pm - State of Inclusion Presentation with Michele Gardener
Thursday, January 9, at 6 pm - Virtual Tour With REED Autism Services PATH Transition Program in Partnership with Felician College
Tuesday, January 14, at 10 am - Human Trafficking and Individuals with Disabilities: Understanding, Identifying and Addressing Vulnerabilities
Wednesday, January 15, at 1 pm - My Child Just Turned 18! What Do I Need to Do?
Wednesday, January 15, at 6 pm - PFAL Webinar Wednesday Series: Navigating Support Coordination in New Jersey's Adult Service System
Wednesday, January 22, at 6 pm - Educational Impact of Brain Injuries
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