The role of sibling to a person with an intellectual and developmental disability (I/DD) is as complex as it is inspiring.

Many of us at The Arc know firsthand what it is like to grow up with a family member with I/DD. We understand and share the vision you have for a healthy and full life for your sibling.

The Arc brings together people with disabilities, their families and dedicated professionals to create hope, growth and positive change. We strengthen people with I/DD, their parents and family members by connecting them across our national network of 700 community based chapters and through programs developed specifically for them.

The Arc’s National Sibling Council welcomes all siblings and those who support siblings who are members of The Arc either at the local, state or national level. The Council will offer opportunities for:

•Networking — meet other siblings — face to face and online.

•Support and resources for those needing guidance in situations unique to their family (e.g. introducing your sibling to your girlfriend and their family or caring for your sibling after your parents are not able to do so).

•Celebrating the sibling relationship.

•Supporting the advocacy and programmatic efforts of The Arc at all levels (local, state, national).

•Leadership development and training through involvement in standing committees, ad hoc committees and task forces

Join the Council. Your membership in The Arc at the local, state or national level allows you to join The National Sibling Council for no additional cost.

Not a member yet? Join The Arc.

You must be a member of The Arc to join the Council.

Next week I will be sharing some history of The Arc and what The Arc of Mower County will be doing this year to celebrate our 60th Anniversary.

 

Plan to attend

a fundraiser

The People First Chicken Dumpling Soup and Chili Supper and Fudge Sale Fundraiser will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 27. Tickets are $6 per adult 13 and over and $5 per child, 6-12 in advance and $7 per adult 13 and over and $6 per child, 6-12. Children 5 and under eat free.

All proceeds will benefit People First of Mower County.

Call (507) 433-8994 to purchase tickets. Fudge from Walnut Grove Mercantile will be available to purchase. Fudge samples will be available.

Fudge is currently on sale through Jan. 27 and will be available for pick-up before Valentine’s Day.

Upcoming Events

•Monday: Health and Wellness Exercise Class, from 4 to 5 p.m.

•Tuesday: Cooking for Comfort, from 5:30 7 p.m.

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

•Thursday: Diners Club at Culvers

• Friday: Chicken Dumpling Soup and Chili Supper and Fudge Sale Fundraiser from 4 to 7 p.m.

•Saturday: Community Connections TwinsFest 2012, from 9 to 5 p.m.