Autism NOW is a new national information and resource center created by The Arc and funded by the Administration on Developmental Disabilities specifically for individuals on the autism spectrum or with other developmental disabilities, their families and professionals in the field.

Through a comprehensive website and various projects such as free webinars and summits across the country, the center aims to empower individuals on the autism spectrum by offering them high-quality information in a central location which they can use to make better choices about how they live their lives.

The website, www.autismnow.org, is a unique joint venture of The Arc and several organizations dedicated to serving people on the autism spectrum and with other developmental disabilities. They combined their expertise to deliver basic information and education about issues related to autism in areas such as employment, home support, education support, inclusion and government assistance from several different perspectives.

Autism NOW also provides information and links to local, state, and national groups that can help provide people on the autism spectrum or with other developmental disabilities, their families, and professional. By providing information about contacts in people’s own community, Autism NOW encourages people to develop connections and discover information tailored to their specific community or individual concern.  If you know of a group in your own community that you would like to share with others, please visit www.autismnow.org to spread the word.

Autism NOW invites anyone to go online to sign up for their newsletter or free weekly webinars on a variety of topics related to autism spectrum disorders.

 

The Arc

announces new Medicaid Reference Desk

The Arc of The United States is announcing the launch of the new Medicaid Reference Desk.

This resource is intended to help individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) and their families as they navigate the complexities of Medicaid benefits, services and supports.

The Medicaid Reference Desk is an accessible, detailed, state-by-state information source about Medicaid benefits, which includes a glossary of terms, answers to frequently asked questions, person-centered planning resources and a blog from The Arc’s training specialist about issues related to Medicaid, self-advocacy and person-centered planning.

“This website helps individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and others access and gain knowledge about Medicaid, which is an essential lifeline for millions of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. As the largest organization defending the civil rights of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, we are excited about the opportunities the Medicaid Reference Desk can provide to families across the country,” said Peter V. Berns, CEO of The Arc.

For people with disabilities and for those who provide their care, Medicaid serves as a valuable safety net. Often the only source of financial assistance for health care, Medicaid plays a critical role for people with disabilities in providing coverage and access to care.

At least half of the funds for Medicaid programs come from the federal government with the remainder coming from state funds. Federal law contains detailed requirements and limitations on eligibility, services, and financing, but state laws vary.

This project was made possible by a grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Administration on Developmental Disabilities. Explore the Medicaid Reference Desk at www.thedesk.info.

 

Upcoming Events

Monday: Newsletter Assembly, 2 to 4 p.m.

Tuesday: People First Aktion Club meeting, 6:30 to 8 p.m.

Wednesday: Mower County Special Olympics Bowling, 4 to 5:30 p.m.

Thursday: Creative Arts, 6:30 to 8 p.m.

Friday: Halloween Spooktacular Party, 6 to 8:30 p.m.

Saturday: Austin Bruins Game, 6:30 p.m.