Strategic Storytelling for Disability Advocacy
Monday, January 12 | Monday, January 26 @ 12:00PM

Are you looking to use your lived experience to push for change in the disability community? Join us for “Strategic Storytelling for Disability Advocacy,” a practical and interactive webinar series for parents and professionals on Monday, January 12 and Monday, January 25.

In Part One, we’ll work on building a solid foundation for your story. We’ll dig into story mapping, where you’ll learn how to lay out the shape and structure of your story in a way that helps you move from experience to action. We’ll cover ethical storytelling, which means being honest without crossing lines around privacy and consent. We’ll also talk about cultural humility and how power, privilege, and where you’re coming from matter in advocacy stories.

Part Two is about action. You’ll practice turning lived experience into stories that drive audiences to do something, whether that means changing minds, policies, or outcomes. We’ll cover how to pare your story down to its essential core, so you’re ready for everything from a two-minute testimony to a compelling op-ed. And we’ll push beyond just the words, exploring how your voice, tone, and presence help you truly connect with listeners.

Across both sessions, you’ll get practical tips to grab your audience, explain what needs to change, make your ask clear, and communicate with confidence and respect. Whether you are speaking up for your child, your community, or your profession, you will leave with skills you can use right away and a story that is ready for action.

We hope you will register and join us to build your voice for change.

Why the State Budget Matters and How You Can Help
(A Two-Part Webinar Series)
Thursday, January 15 | Monday, February 2 @ 12:00PM

The state budget isn’t just a list of numbers; it’s a reflection of our Commonwealth’s priorities and it funds the services that support the IDD and autism communities. This year, the stakes are higher than ever, as the budget is where we will see the impacts of federal cuts and changes most acutely.

Join The Arc of Massachusetts for a two-part webinar series to go behind the scenes of the budget process and learn how to make your voice heard.

Part 1: Demystifying the State Budget | Thursday, January 15 at noon:
Understand the budget and the process. We’ll walk through the timeline, key line items, and show you where advocate intervention makes the biggest difference.

Part 2: The Governor’s Proposal & Next Steps | Monday, February 2 at noon:
Shortly after the Governor releases her budget, we’ll break down what it means for you. We will share our top priorities and give you a clear roadmap for advocacy in the months ahead.

DDS 101: An Overview with Transition Focus
Wednesday, January 28 @ 12:00PM

Start the new year learning more about the Massachusetts Department of Developmental Services (DDS), the lead agency supporting people with intellectual and development disabilities and autism.

Led by Rebecca Anderson, DDS Family Support Director for the Northeast Region, the presentation will include an overview of DDS with special focus on the transition to adult services. Join us and learn best practices for working with DDS to strengthen your loved one’s experience at all life stages, but especially during the often-challenging transition to adult services. Individuals and their families benefit when they understand the system and how to develop strong connections with their DDS Area Office and Family Support Center.

Three Evenings of Friendship: Video Screening Series

Friendships matter, bringing joy and comfort during good times and bad! These short, friendship stories each tell the story of a pair of friends–one with and one without a disability. They highlight the simple beauty and possibility of friendship. Join Pathways to Friendship over three Tuesday evenings to watch these uplifting videos and virtually meet the friends after each screening.

Friendship Has No Age Limits
Tuesday, February 3 @ 7:00PM

• • Warren and Velvet: Like Peanut Butter and Jelly
  • Seth and Evan: A Friendship Match Made in Heaven
  • Third friendship pairing to be confirmed!