Thank you for showing up with us in 2025. We didn’t get every outcome we wanted, but we built strength and momentum across the chapter network and within the national office for what comes next. Across every issue, here’s what we know: progress is stronger when people with intellectual and developmental disabilities lead the way.
That’s why I was proud to see The New York Timescenter advocates Nicole LeBlanc and Jill Eglé in its reporting on the return of the R-word.
That standard is shaping our priorities in 2026. We’re pushing on three fronts: protect Medicaid, defend special education rights as the protections from the Department of Education remain vulnerable, and protect the right of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to register and vote without barriers.
This year, we’re also holding elections for The Arc’s Board of Directors, with all officer roles and several director seats open. If you’re interested in serving, or nominating someone who should help lead this movement, review the Board prospectus and submit an application by April 1, 2026.
Katy Neas CEO, The Arc of the United States
Advocacy in Action
In December, The Arc joined disability leaders in a meeting with Education Secretary Linda McMahon on the future of federal offices that protect students with disabilities. Many details are still unresolved, but we made one point unmistakable: families and educators need real oversight, clear guidance, and a place to turn when schools don’t follow the law.
Also in December, we met with Dr. Mehmet Oz and staff at the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services about Medicaid work reporting. We pushed for safeguards so people who should be exempt aren’t cut off because of confusing paperwork.
One minute on why The Arc joined a major lawsuit. Our legal lead explains what’s at stake: “The Department of Education makes a good education and future possible for students with disabilities. That includes children like my daughter Bella.” Followus on Instagram for more updates and actions.
In Case You Missed It
Disability Policy Seminar: Registration is open, and we need you with us. March 23–24 in Washington, DC, is where the disability community comes together in 2026. Get clear briefings on the top issues and meet with your members of Congress to advocate for change. No policy experience needed!
Forbes named The Arc #21 on America’s Top 100 Charities. We’re the highest-ranked nonprofit focused on disability issues. This independent recognition signals what people with disabilities and families know every day: The Arc shows up, and we stay.
How We’re Making Headlines
When national news covers disability and policy, it can either add confusion or bring clarity. Here’s how we ensured coverage led with facts and real life.
Darcy Milburn helped The New York Times and Yahoo Finance understand ABLE accounts, including what expanded eligibility means in 2026 and how people can save without risking SSI or Medicaid.
Kim Musheno and the Gainers, a family connected to The Arc, spoke with U.S. News & World Report on Medicaid eligibility changes and why new reporting rules and repeat paperwork can cut people off even when they still qualify.
Shira Wakschlag was quoted in USA Today about a Supreme Court case and why it matters when intellectual disability is defined by a single IQ score instead of a full picture.
Resources of the Month
Medicaid work reporting, in plain language. Some states may add new paperwork requirements for certain people on Medicaid. Missing a form or deadline can put coverage at risk. This explainer breaks down who could be affected, what to watch for, and the steps to take now.Read the Medicaid work reporting explainer.
Individualized Education Programs (IEPs): know your rights. An IEP is a written plan that spells out the special education services and supports a student must receive. This guide explains what schools are required to do, how to ask for help, and what options families have when a school says no.
For people with intellectual and developmental disabilities The Arc promotes and protects the human rights of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and actively supports their full inclusion and participation in the community throughout their lifetimes.
The Arc of the United States, 2000 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Suite 500, Washington, DC 20006
