February, 2015
The ABLE Act and Tax Tips Webinar
On Tuesday, February 10th from 1:00 - 2:00 pm The Arc of the United States is hosting a free webinar.  This webinar will  offer information about ABLE Act accounts by addressing questions relating to requirements, eligibility, qualifying expenses and more. Participants will also receive useful tips on how to prepare for the upcoming tax session. To register click here.  ~Learn More ~
Information provided by The Arc of the United States Fusion Newsletter.
5th Annual Arc's Got Talent Show to showcase talents of individuals with IDD.
Get ready for some singing, dancing, and lots of smiling faces at the The Arc's Got Talent show on February 26, 2015! The annual Arc's Got Talent show gives individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities ages 3 and up a chance to showcase their special talents. Friends and family are encouraged to attend and cheer on talent show participants. The event is free of charge and a whole lot of fun to watch. ~Learn More~ 
Support The Arc while you Shop! 
What better way to show your support of The Arc of Greater Beaumont than by registering your Kroger's Card & Amazon account to donate a portion of your purchases to The Arc?  It's easy to sign up and every time you use your account it will help The Arc continue to provide programs and services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Southeast Texas.  ~ Learn More ~
Social Security Administration Expands Field Office Hours Nation Wide

Social Security announces as a result of Congress' approval of the fiscal year 2015 budget, the agency will expand its hours nationwide and offices will be open to the public for an additional hour on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, effective March 16, 2015.  A field office that is usually open from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. will remain open until 4:00 p.m. Offices will continue to close to the public at noon every Wednesday so employees have time to complete current work and reduce backlogs. ~ Learn More ~ 

Article from Social Security Administration News Release 
Mardi Gras Ball Breaks Attendance Records
The Arc hosted a Mardi Gras Ball on Friday, January 23rd at the Knights of Columbus Hall.  The dance had over 250 individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in attendance. "The best part about the turnout was everyone was making new friends and reconnecting with friends they hadn't seen in a long time. This is exactly why we host events like the Mardi Gras Ball" said Director of Programs Teri Hawthorne. Click here to view photos from the 2015 Mardi Gras Ball. 
Calling all Models!
The Arc of Greater Beaumont is looking for for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities of all ages who would like to model in the 2015 Stars of the Arc Celebrity Style Show.  This year's style show will be Friday, April 24, 2015 at the Holiday Inn & Suites Beaumont Plaza.  You can register online or print a model application packet. We are currently looking for sponsors for the 2015 Stars of The Arc Celebrity Style Show and Dinner.  Click here for more information.   
Self Advocate Spotlight
Katie Sheffield is Secretary of the Southeast Texas Self Advocates and a great advocate for individuals with IDD. Katie has gone to the Texas Advocates Conference and learned how to speak up for herself and how to advocate for others with IDD.  "My favorite part about Self Advocates is all the friends I have made"  said Katie Sheffield. "I really like being Self Advocates' Secretary and love helping others."  Katie Sheffield will be honored for her hard work and dedication on Friday, April 24th at the Holiday Inn & Suites Beaumont Plaza.  She will be receiving The Arc's Excellence in Self Advocacy Award. 
Video of the Month 
Anthony Ianni-Game Changer
Anthony Ianni-Game Changer
The Arc of Greater Beaumont is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization affiliated with The Arc of the United States and The Arc of Texas. All donations are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law.