August 2026

The Arc Connection

It’s More Than School Supplies

When I was a child, getting ready for school was one of my favorite times of the year. There was something special about picking out a new pair of shoes, filling a backpack with fresh supplies, and wondering what the first day would bring. Those simple traditions are memories many of us still carry with us.

As I visit with families today, I'm reminded that back-to-school season doesn't look the same for everyone. For parents of children with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD), August often means preparing for IEP (Individual Education Program) meetings, talking with teachers, establishing new routines, and making sure the supports are in place for a successful year. Along with those preparations comes the added expense of clothing, shoes, school supplies, and other necessities.

Recently, a family stopped by our office after spending the day getting ready for school. Their visit reminded me how grateful I am for the generosity of our donors. Because of your kindness, we're able to help families with those back-to-school essentials, easing just a little of the stress that so many parents carry this time of year.

We're also proud to support families in other ways. Through our educational advocacy program, we help parents navigate the special education process, understand their rights, and work alongside schools to ensure every child has the opportunity to succeed.

As we prepare for our Leaves of Change fundraiser on September 23, I'm reminded that every act of generosity truly changes a life. Whether you attend the event, become a sponsor, make a donation, or simply share our mission, you are helping children and families in our community begin each new school year with hope.

Thank you for believing in our mission. Together, we're making a difference—one child, one family, and one act of kindness at a time.

Linda McDaniel, Executive Director

P.S - If you missed it last month, be sure to ▶️ Watch Our New Video “Empowering Lives, Strengthening Communities.”

📝 Wish List Form (for families)

🎁 Volunteer Shopper Interest Form (for volunteers)

❤️ Donate to Operation Santa (for donors)

We hope you’ll join us for Leaves of Change, our annual fall fundraiser, on September 23 from 6–9 PM at Highland Brewing Company. Enjoy an evening of food, music, and live and silent auctions while supporting The Arc’s crisis assistance, advocacy, and community programs for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. Every act of generosity helps change a life.

Thank you to our Spring Fling Supporters!

As summer comes to a close, we've been hearing from many of our Camp Scholarship families about the incredible experiences their children had this year. Campers and parents alike have shared just how meaningful these opportunities have been, and it wouldn't have been possible without everyone who supported our Spring Fling fundraiser.

One parent shared:

"Thank you so much again for the scholarship! It helped us so much! My son got to learn social skills, routines, and got lots of physical exercise! He loved the trampoline!"

Stories like this remind us that camp is about so much more than summer fun. It's about building friendships, gaining confidence, learning new skills, and giving families a much-needed opportunity to rest and recharge.

This summer, many of our scholarship recipients attended Camp Lakey Gap, We Rock the Spectrum, and Second Recess. We are incredibly fortunate to live in a community that offers such outstanding programs for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

To everyone who attended Spring Fling, sponsored the event, donated, or volunteered—thank you. Your generosity created opportunities, memories, and moments of joy that will last long after summer has ended.