The Arc of New Jersey Family Institute provides caregivers with the necessary resources and education to access the appropriate supports and services for their loved ones with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
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Direct Support Professionals Deserve Our Thanks

Last month, The Arc of New Jersey and The Arc of Union County had the pleasure of celebrating Direct Support Professional Recognition Week. This annual celebration is an opportunity to pause and show appreciation for the incredible DSP workforce that does so much to support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. DSPs wear so many hats. At times, they are teachers, friends and confidants. Other times they are the bridge that allows individuals to succeed safely in the community. And sometimes they are the cheerleader pushing someone to reach their full potential. But no matter what role they are playing in a person's life, their importance can never be underestimated and should never be diminished or forgotten. When The Arc of NJ was formed by families 75 years ago, the need for services in the community became clear. Our DSPs are as critical today as they were then. I hope you carry your DSP appreciation beyond the Recognition Week. They deserve our thanks now, and always.


Thomas Baffuto - Executive Director, The Arc of NJ


Pictured above is Wendy Yosco, Chief of Staff at the Division of Developmental Disabilities, with The Arc of NJ's Executive Director Tom Baffuto, The Arc of Union's Executive Director Edwin Asuta, board members from the Chapter and Direct Support Professionals. To read the proclamation from the Governor in honor of DSP Recognition Week, click here.

31 Fall Activities For Individuals With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

Download The October Calendar Here

Fireside Chats

Fireside Chat with Alex Encarnacion - Assistant Director, Office of Constituent Affairs (DCF) 

Wednesday, October 16, 2024

1:00 pm - 2:00 pm


This chat will give an overview of PerformCare, Children's System of Care (CSOC) Summer Camp Services, and the Transition from the Department of Children and Families (DCF) to the Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) and Medicaid Eligibility.

Register Here

Fireside Chat with Mike Marotta - DRNJ ATAC

Thursday, December 12, 2024

1:00 pm - 2:00 pm


Learn more about The Richard West Assistive Technology Advocacy Center (ATAC) with Mike Marotta from Disability Rights New Jersey. Mike will give us an overview of services available through ATAC.

Register Here

Medicaid Monday

Our second Medicaid Monday event will take place virtually with The Arc of Essex! Check out the flyer for more details and click the button below to register!

Register Here

It's Not Too Late to Support The Arc of New Jersey

Thank you to everyone who supported The Arc of New Jersey through our 75th Anniversary Gala and Ad Journal. The funds raised enable us to make tremendous progress as we continue to grow and expand our advocacy and support services for people with IDD and their families.


But the need still exists. From now until December 31, 2024, The Arc of New Jersey's 75th Anniversary Campaign is looking to raise $75,000 to support our information, resources and advocacy for individuals with IDD and their families. Your donation, no matter the size, will contribute greatly to our ability to help the increasing numbers of individuals and families who call upon us for assistance. Click here to donate today and thank you for your support!

Kids Corner

Autumn Magnetic Tile Ideas


Check out these autumn themed magnetic tile ideas from Adventure in a Box.

Learn More Here
Navigating the System

Housing Development Guide

With the ongoing need for safe, affordable community-based housing options for New Jersey citizens with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), the Division of Developmental Disabilities released a new guide, Innovation in Housing: Developing HCBS Compliant Settings. This resource was developed to support innovation in housing and services that reflects an understanding of and compliance with the statutes and spirit of the HCBS settings rule.

View Here
From Our Local Chapters of The Arc

The Arc of Union County: 75th Anniversary Casino Night


Join us for dinner and cocktails as we celebrate the vibrant lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Don’t miss out on the fun and festivities! Play with Funny Money. Win Prizes. Hop in the Photo Booth. Celebrate our Honorees. Have Fun!


When: Friday, October 18, 2024

6:00 PM - 10:00 PM

Where: The Westwood - 438 North Avenue, Garwood, New Jersey 07027

More Details Here

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The Arc of New Jersey Family Institute | 732.828.2022 | thefamilyinstitute@arcnj.org
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