March Is Our Month
Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month

President Ronald Reagan officially declared March to be

Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month in 1987. While we work to foster respect, opportunities and access for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD), it's time more people became aware of the challenges faced by more than 7 million Americans and their families as they strive to be fully included in society.

 

Join us this month to help raise awareness: volunteer, donate or simply speak up and help enlighten those around you. Watch our blog, Facebook page and Twitter profile for messages all month about things you can do as an individual to help raise awareness then spread the word...share and re-tweet and let's raise awareness, so we can make a BIGGER difference. 

Change is on the Way
New Logo for The Arc Launching Nationally

The Arc of the Capital Area will continue to be on the front lines of change for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD), advocating for changes in the law, schools, health care systems and communities.

 

We will continue our work -- but with a new look that will better reflect what The Arc is all about as an organization: at the national, state and local level.

 

It starts with a dynamic new logo, which represents a comprehensive brand identity and unites a like-minded group of more than 700 affiliated chapters nationwide who are embracing, determined and experienced in promoting and protecting rights of people with I/DD.

A Poem
By Liz M., an Artist at The Arc of the Arts

The head of a turtle pokes out from his hiding place and finds something both natural and beautiful.  

He finds the earth so divine and gazes at his surroundings.

He notices the wiggly worms everywhere among the darkest grass. 

Above the grass, brightly colored flowers form a line.

Up high in the sky, there's a lot going on because it is a day to celebrate.

A small bell rings and there's love all around and so is peace.

A whole galaxy shows small stars, a red and yellow sun for the Indians and different color clouds form from the heavens.

One of these days, I will step out and free dance.

CharityBash Check: $25,000 
Local Non-Profit Organization Continues to Raise Money for Others

November's CharityBash Date Auction benefiting The Arc of the Capital Area, and two other non-profits, was a huge success. With more than 400 attendees, $88,000 was raised, with $25,000 being donated back to The Arc. Pictured right: 2011 Building Bridges Chair Jessica Spann, Director of Development Randi Knight, Executive Director Susan Eason and Volunteer Coordinator Genessee Klemm

 

CharityBash was founded in 2008 to help Austinites understand the needs in the community. Without knowledge of issues or opportunities to give, the idea of donating is not a priority. A study conducted by Grizzard Communication Group found that if an individual has not become a donor by the age of 44, they will continue to be a non-donor no matter what their financial status becomes.

 

CharityBash wants to guide the community in creating the habit of giving through fun and accessible fundraisers among people ages 24 to 44 years of age. To date, $243,000 has been donated in two years to 23 beneficiaries.