News to Use features important information and resources for self-advocates, parents, and professionals to use now!
Around The Arc Maryland
Appendix K Family Survey Report
You spoke, and we are listening! Appendix K has impacted the lives of countless Marylanders with IDD, their families, and staff during the current health crisis. Last week, we hosted a listening session with the Self-Directed Advocacy Network of Maryland on Appendix K flexibilities before releasing a family impact survey. Survey findings were shared with Maryland decision-makers to provide insight on what service flexibilities are still needed going forward. Check out the report below!
Meetings with Secretary Schrader, Secretary Carol Beatty, and Deputy Secretary Simons Continue
Since early July, the Developmental Disabilities Coalition has met twice weekly with key members of the Maryland Department of Health and Department of Disabilities to share information about the needs of people with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, families, and providers while we work together to recover from the ravages of the pandemic.

We are currently reviewing timelines and developing needed action plans to ensure that people supported through DDA are not negatively impacted as Appendix K waiver flexibilities unwind.
Now Hiring: Project Manager at The Arc Maryland
We are looking for someone to join our small but mighty team at The Arc Maryland. The key position, Project Manager, will have primary responsibility for the Partners in Policymaking® grant program and will be an important part of our other organizational projects and events. Read more, apply, or share the link below with anyone who may be interested.
Download Our Together We're Better Coloring Book!
Unleash your inner artist with our Together We're Better Coloring Book, featuring artwork from Maryland high schoolers highlighting the values of inclusion in schools and the community. Click the button below to download the coloring book to print, color, and enjoy!
This project was supported, in part by grant number CFDA 93.630, from the U.S. Administration for Community Living, Department of Health and Human Services, Washington, D.C. 20201. Grantees undertaking projects with government sponsorship are encouraged to express freely their findings and conclusions. Points of view or opinions do not, therefore, necessarily represent official ACL policy.
Taking Action
Learn About ABLE Accounts During #ABLEToSave Month
August 13th at 2 pm
The ABLE National Resource Center (NRC) is holding a Q&A session on August 13th to share information on the keys to success in opening and managing ABLE accounts! You can register for the free webinar below! You can also learn more about ABLE Accounts through a helpful video series from ABLE NCR, The ABLE Act and ABLE Accounts: 10 Things You Should Know, available through the button below.
Take Charge of the School Year: Back-to-School Tips for Parents
A new school year means a new grade, new teachers, new goals, and maybe even a new school! Learning Disabilities Online compiled eight helpful back-to-school tips to make the transition into a new school year a little easier for you and your child!
Share Your Story: How Does Having A Disability Affect Your TSA Screening Experience?
A variety of drawn talking heads surrounding the text We're Listening
Does having a disability affect your experience with TSA screening at the airport? With airport travel picking up, NPR wants to hear from you! Do you feel agents treat you respectfully and have the training they need to screen people with disabilities? Let NPR know and you could be featured in their reporting!
Local Chapters of The Arc: Bring Inclusive Volunteering to Your Community with The Arc US's MLK Day of Service Grant
Applications Due End of Day August 27th
The Arc US is offering grants to local chapters for inclusive MLK Day of Service projects on January 17, 2022! If you are a local chapter of The Arc looking to host a service opportunity for people with and without disabilities, there is funding available to help serve the community. Read more and apply by August 27th through the button below.
In the News
On ADA Anniversary, Biden Recommits to Disability Rights
During a celebration of the 31st anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act on Monday, July 26th, President Biden emphasized his stance to end subminimum wage across the US, a practice ended in Maryland through 2016's Ken Capone Equal Employment Act. President Biden also used this time to mention plans to invest $400 billion into HCBS. Read the full article below!