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The Arc of Massachusetts

@thearcofmass.org
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Enhancing the lives of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities through advocacy of community supports and services. #AchieveWithUs linktr.ee/thearcofmass

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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 04/08/2026
The Department of Developmental Services (DDS) is currently developing policies regarding the use of cameras in group homes. To ensure these policies reflect the needs and perspectives of those they affect most, DDS and The Arc of Massachusetts are collaborating to host
The Department of Developmental Services (DDS) is currently developing policies regarding the use of cameras in group homes. To ensure these policies reflect the needs and perspectives of those they affect most, DDS and The Arc of Massachusetts are collaborating to host a virtual Town Hall specifically for families.
This session is an opportunity for you to share your feedback, voice your concerns, and ask questions directly to DDS leadership. Your input is vital to this process.
To reach a wide audience, we are hosting two identical Zoom sessions:
- Tuesday, September 15, 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM
- Tuesday, September 15, 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Register for these sessions at https://thearcofmass.org/webinars
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 01/08/2026
TWO WEEKS LEFT: Early bird pricing for The Arc's 2026 Transition Conference ends on August 15. Until August 15, general admission (without CEUs) is $95. After August 15, prices will increase to $125. Don't miss out on early bird pricing. Secure your spot today at thearcofmass.org/conference
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 31/07/2026
NEW: Nora Bent is just leaving the State House now, and unfortunately, we have to share the disappointing news that neither the Healthcare Standards nor Tommy's Law amendments to the Primary Care bill were accepted.
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 30/07/2026
NEW: Nora Bent speaks with Representative Christine Barber about The Arc's Healthcare Standards priority. Take action NOW for this amendment and Tommy's Law: thearcofmass.quorum.us/campaign/167...
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 30/07/2026
NEW: CEO Maura Sullivan speaks with Representative Sean Garballey about The Arc's Healthcare Standards priority. Take action NOW for this amendment and Tommy's Law: thearcofmass.quorum.us/campaign/167...
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 30/07/2026
NEW: Nora Bent is back at the State House this morning for another full day of advocacy - and here's what you need to know. ✅ Exciting news on vital protections secured in the PROTECT Act ✅ A reminder: only a few hours left to take action here: thearcofmass.quorum.us/campaign/167...
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 29/07/2026
BREAKING: Nora Bent is back from the State House with an URGENT call to action. We have LESS THAN 24 HOURS to take action for Healthcare Standards and Tommy's Law. This may be our last opportunity for this legislative session to advance these priorities.
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 29/07/2026
NEW: It's all hands on deck for the Government Affairs team at the State House this week! It's the end of the formal session on July 31... but what does that mean? How does that shape our work, this week and beyond?
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 26/07/2026
NEW: CEO Maura Sullivan reflects on the 36th Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) - including how far we have come, the progress we have made, and how much further we have to go - and why we need you to stand alongside us more than ever.
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 11/07/2026
"This acknowledgment of my work, doing my best to tell the awesome story the writers on The Pitt gave Becca to tell, also seems like an acknowledgment of me and that it's OK to be autistic, di... www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-fea…
hollywoodreporter.com
Tal Anderson on Her First Emmy Nomination: “It’s OK to be Autistic, Disabled and Different”
The 'Pitt' star received a nod for best guest actress for her portrayal of Becca King in the HBO drama.
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 02/07/2026
We are excited to welcome Leela Uppaluri to our Operation House Call (OHC) team for the summer. Leela will be working with our family engagement team on the OHC Sibling Network, a place for sibli... thearcofmass.org/post/introducing-o…
thearcofmass.org
Introducing Our New Operation House Call Intern: Welcome Leela Uppaluri - The Arc of Massachusetts
Through advocacy, programs that promote inclusion, and engaging the community, The Arc creates tangible changes in the community and in the lives of people with disabilities.
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 01/07/2026
On June 30, 2026, the Conference Committee released their final version of the FY27 State Budget – and it included all of The Arc of Massachusetts' budget priorities across th... thearcofmass.org/post/the-arc-of-ma…
thearcofmass.org
The Arc of Massachusetts Analysis: Conference Committee and Final FY27 State Budget Wrap-Up - The Arc of Massachusetts
Through advocacy, programs that promote inclusion, and engaging the community, The Arc creates tangible changes in the community and in the lives of people with disabilities.
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 26/06/2026
On Thursday, June 25, The Arc of Massachusetts announced the appointment of Monica Garlick as the organization's first director of external affairs. In this role, Garlick will oversee the organizat... thearcofmass.org/post/the-arc-of-ma…
thearcofmass.org
The Arc of Massachusetts Appoints a New Director of External Affairs - The Arc of Massachusetts
Through advocacy, programs that promote inclusion, and engaging the community, The Arc creates tangible changes in the community and in the lives of people with disabilities.
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 23/06/2026
Last week brought 2 devastating updates from Washington, but we are already fighting back. Keep reading to learn what you can expect from The Arc as we navigate this.. thearcofmass.org/post/how-the-arc-i…
thearcofmass.org
How The Arc Is Responding to Recent Changes to the Department of Education, DOJ Olmstead Opinion - The Arc of Massachusetts
Through advocacy, programs that promote inclusion, and engaging the community, The Arc creates tangible changes in the community and in the lives of people with disabilities.
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 21/06/2026
Happy Father's Day to all of the incredible dads in The Arc of Massachusetts community!
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 19/06/2026
On top of the Trump Administration’s reckless dismantling of the Department of Education, the Department of Justice has issued a legal memo that attacks the core right of disabled people to live independently in their communities.
On top of the Trump Administration’s reckless dismantling of the Department of Education, the Department of Justice has issued a legal memo that attacks the core right of disabled people to live independently in their communities.

It claims that long-standing federal laws (the ADA and Section 504) never actually guaranteed disabled people the right to receive services in the community instead of institutions.

It tries to hollow out Olmstead v. L.C. – the landmark Supreme Court ruling securing community living rights – just days before its 27th anniversary.

It declares decades of federal disability regulations “unlawful,” signaling that the government plans to roll them back. This gives states a green light to defund community services and push people with severe mental illness or disabilities back into institutions.

This memo changes how the federal government enforces the law – meaning the DOJ will stop fighting for integration. However, the ADA itself has not changed and federal courts are still bound by Supreme Court precedent. We know that our leaders in Massachusetts will stand with us.

For nearly 75 years, The Arc has fought against the isolation and institutionalization of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. We fought for the ADA, we fought for Olmstead, and we will fight to protect them today.
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 16/06/2026
Today, the Trump administration dismantled the foundations of educational equity. By stripping the Department of Education of its authority over the Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services and the Office for Civil Rights,
Today, the Trump administration dismantled the foundations of educational equity.

By stripping the Department of Education of its authority over the Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services and the Office for Civil Rights, they have gutted the critical oversight that protects students with disabilities.

This is not a reorganization; it is an abandonment of the laws and expertise designed to ensure every child has access to an equal education.

The Arc will continue to work with our national partners to fight for the educational rights of students with disabilities.

Here in Massachusetts, we must strengthen special education services and compliance with Individualized Education Plans as we navigate changes to the systems of oversight and appeal.
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 16/06/2026
We have a full slate of webinars this month at The Arc, covering topics including legislative advocacy, succession planning, autism policy, and Turning 22. Can't make it live? Register and you'll receive a recording. Register: thearcofmass.org/webinars
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 13/06/2026
On June 1, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services released their "interim final rule," detailing Medicaid work requirements. Check out our new fact sheet for the full breakdown. thearcofmass.org/post/fact-sheet-up…
thearcofmass.org
Fact Sheet: Update on Federal Medicaid Work Requirements - The Arc of Massachusetts
Through advocacy, programs that promote inclusion, and engaging the community, The Arc creates tangible changes in the community and in the lives of people with disabilities.
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 11/06/2026
On Tuesday, June 9, The Arc of Massachusetts hosted a first of its kind, statewide Mobile Crisis Training Symposium. thearcofmass.org/post/the-arc-of-ma…
thearcofmass.org
The Arc of Massachusetts Hosts First of Its Kind, Statewide Mobile Crisis Training Symposium - The Arc of Massachusetts
Through advocacy, programs that promote inclusion, and engaging the community, The Arc creates tangible changes in the community and in the lives of people with disabilities.
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 04/06/2026
NEW: On June 1, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) issued their interim final rule regarding how states are to implement Medicaid work requirements. thearcofmass.org/post/the-arc-of-ma…
thearcofmass.org
The Arc of Massachusetts Statement on Medicaid Work Requirements Included in New Interim Final Rule - The Arc of Massachusetts
Through advocacy, programs that promote inclusion, and engaging the community, The Arc creates tangible changes in the community and in the lives of people with disabilities.
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 24/05/2026
Voting is a fundamental right. However, new federal proposals and ongoing changes to voting policies are raising concerns about whether voting will remain truly accessi... thearcofmass.org/post/fact-sheet-un…
thearcofmass.org
Fact Sheet: Understanding Voting Rights and Current Threats to Access for the Disability Community - The Arc of Massachusetts
Through advocacy, programs that promote inclusion, and engaging the community, The Arc creates tangible changes in the community and in the lives of people with disabilities.
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 23/05/2026
"The loss of these trusted caregivers 'would likely result in service disruptions and a reduced ability for individuals with IDD and autism to live safely and with dignity in community-based programs,' The Arc of Massach... www.bostonglobe.com/2026/05/19/metr…
bostonglobe.com
Patient care will face ‘crisis’ if Trump ends TPS for Haiti, new report from Mass. lawmakers says - The Boston Globe
Haitian health care workers provide crucial services in Massachusetts, especially to older adults and people with disabilities.
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 22/05/2026
NEW: The results from Senate Budget week are here. Here's a quick summary of what you need to know. Read more: thearcofmass.org/post/fy27-state-bu…
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 22/05/2026
ICYMI: This week, the Massachusetts House of Representatives passed The Arc's priority Blue Envelope bill! Learn more: thearcofmass.org/post/massachusetts…
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 15/05/2026
"4 of the 5 episodes released so far include use of the R-word in casual dialogue. It gets lobbed as an easy insult that turns disability into something worth mocking. Those lines could have been rewritten in seconds. The h... www.teenvogue.com/story/euphoria-se…
teenvogue.com
Euphoria Season 3 Is Normalizing the R-Word Again. Young People Deserve Better.
When a slur becomes casual, exclusion can also slowly become casual.
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 14/05/2026
The Arc of Massachusetts is proud to hold a Mobile Crisis Training Symposium focused on adults with autism. This idea came directly from our Government Affairs Committee, who shared their own experiences about adults with profound autism,
Flyer for Responding to Adults with Autism: A Mobile Crisis Training Symposium
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 14/05/2026
Whether in HBO's Euphoria (one of the channel's most watched series of all time), or the highly viral Roast of Kevin Hart on Netflix, the r-word is being used with devastating frequency in media recently, reaching millions of viewers around the world every time it is uttered.
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 13/05/2026
ACT NOW: Nearly 500 of you have taken action so far. Let's keep it going! Ask your Senator to cosponsor The Arc's FY27 Senate budget amendments. TAKE ACTION: thearcofmass.quorum.us/campaign/162...
ACT NOW 📣

Ask your State Senator to cosponsor The Arc of Massachusetts’ FY27 Senate budget amendments supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and autism.

As the Senate debates the state budget, advocacy is more important than ever — especially amid looming federal funding cuts. These amendments help protect critical services and strengthen support for our community.

Your voice makes a difference. Contact your Senator today and urge them to support The Arc’s amendment priorities.

Questions? Contact nbent@arcmass.org
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 11/05/2026
ACT NOW: The next phase of state budget advocacy is here and we need you to take action again. Contact your Senator and ask them to cosponsor The Arc's FY27 Senate budget amendments: thearcofmass.quorum.us/campaign/162...
TAKE ACTION

Ask Your Senator to Cosponsor The Arc's FY27 Senate Budget Amendments

Amendment #710: DESE/DDS Residential Placement Prevention Program (Filed by Sen. Kennedy)
Amendment #816: Operation House Call (Filed by Sen. Lewis)
Amendment #442: Workforce Training Funds for Complex, Challenging Behaviors (Filed by Sen. Keenan)
Amendment #499: Adult Foster Care (Filed by Sen. Jehlen)

There are also two policy amendments that we are supporting:

Amendment #504: Tommy’s Bill (filed by Sen. O’Connor)
Amendment #646: Alternative and Augmentative Communication Professional Development (filed by Sen. O’Connor)

thearcofmass.org/action
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 09/05/2026
On Tuesday, May 5, Executive Office of Health and Human Services (EOHHS) Secretary Dr. Kiame Mahaniah announced the appointm... thearcofmass.org/post/executive-off…
thearcofmass.org
Executive Office of Health and Human Services (EOHHS) Announces Appointment of Allison Bovell-Ammon as Acting Undersecretary for Human Services - The Arc of Massachusetts
Through advocacy, programs that promote inclusion, and engaging the community, The Arc creates tangible changes in the community and in the lives of people with disabilities.
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 09/05/2026
"Maura brings the urgency of social change to life. She challenges students to understand the systemic barriers faced by individuals with disabilities and underscores why advocacy is essential ... www.suffolk.edu/news-features/suffo…
suffolk.edu
Advocating From The Heart - Suffolk University Magazine: Spring 2026
As CEO of The Arc of Massachusetts—and as a parent—Maura Sullivan, MPA ’10, is an impassioned advocate for people living with autism and intellectual and developmental disabilities.
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 08/05/2026
SAVE THE DATE! The Arc of Massachusetts will be hosting our 2026 Transition Conference - Transition Journeys 2026: Tools for Today, Hope for Tomorrow - on Saturday, October 24. Visit thearcofmass.org/conference to learn more - and stay tuned: registration opens soon!
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 07/05/2026
NEW: The Senate Ways and Means FY27 State Budget Proposal is here. Here's what you need to know. Read the full analysis and see the budget charts here: thearcofmass.org/post/the-arc-of-ma…
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 06/05/2026
Over 550 of you have contacted your Senator in support of Amendment #6 (DDS Facilities) to the PROTECT Act. Let's keep the momentum going. We have one more day to take action. ACT NOW AND SHARE: thearcofmass.quorum.us/campaign/162...
Wow! In less than 24 hours, over 550 of you have taken action to support Amendment #6 to the PROTECT Act. Let's keep it up! Contact your Senator and spread the word.
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 05/05/2026
Happy Teacher Appreciation Day from The Arc of Massachusetts! Our incredible self-advocate co-teachers and parent instructors in Operation House Call are changing the future of healthcare for people with IDD and autism. Over 8,000 future medical professionals trained - and counting!
Four photos of self-advocates with disabilities, parents, and medical students with HAPPY TEACHER APPRECIATION DAY! across the middle
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Reposted by The Arc of Massachusetts
Gravel Influencer @gravelinfluencer.bsky.social · 05/05/2026
Massachusetts friends: Please urge your State Senator to support a PROTECT Act amendment that will include disability programs as “sensitive spaces” where ICE is unable to access without a warrant. It takes less than a minute using @thearcofmass.org tool: thearcofmass.quorum.us/campaign/162...
[TIME SENSITIVE] Act Now: Ask Your Senator to Support Amendment #6 to the PROTECT Act
68 actions taken
32 needed to reach next goal
Dear Advocates,

Please take action today and urge your State Senator to support amendment #6 to the PROTECT Act, which the Senate will be voting on this Thursday. This is a crucial bill that aims to protect immigrants through a variety of means, including by restricting civil arrests in state courts, child care facilities, public schools, houses of worship, and health care providers.

The Arc has worked closely with Senator Robyn Kennedy to file amendment #6, to include disability programs as “sensitive spaces” where ICE is unable to access without a warrant.

By including DDS-licensed facilities and Day Habilitation programs in the list of places where civil arrests are restricted, we can add a layer of protection for this key workforce and prevent destabilizing enforcement actions that would adversely impact individuals with IDD and autism.

Please reach out to your State Senator before Thursday to urge them to support this amendment.
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 05/05/2026
𝗧𝗜𝗠𝗘-𝗦𝗘𝗡𝗦𝗜𝗧𝗜𝗩𝗘: 𝗖𝗢𝗡𝗧𝗔𝗖𝗧 𝗬𝗢𝗨𝗥 𝗦𝗘𝗡𝗔𝗧𝗢𝗥 𝗕𝗘𝗙𝗢𝗥𝗘 𝗧𝗛𝗨𝗥𝗦𝗗𝗔𝗬 The Arc has worked closely with Senator Robyn Kennedy to file Amendment #6 to the PROTECT ACT, which would add DDS-licensed facilities and Day Habilitation programs as “sensitive spaces” where ICE is unable to access without a warrant.
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 30/04/2026
#ICYMI: The results of House budget week are in. Here's what you need to know. Read our full recap: thearcofmass.org/post/fy27-state-bu…
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 30/04/2026
NEW: The results of House budget week are in. Here's what you need to know. - This is a tough budget year; relatively few amendments were accepted - 1 of The Arc's 7 amendments was accepted - Over 850 of you took action – thank you! - Our advocacy will continue with the Senate
thearcofmass.org
FY27 State Budget Update: House Budget Week and Amendment Recap - The Arc of Massachusetts
Through advocacy, programs that promote inclusion, and engaging the community, The Arc creates tangible changes in the community and in the lives of people with disabilities.
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 16/04/2026
Today, the House Ways and Means Committee unveiled its FY27 budget proposal, following the Governor's version which was released in January. Our team is currently conducting a thorough analysis of the proposal to determine the impact on our community.
Today, the House Ways and Means Committee unveiled its FY27 budget proposal, following the Governor's version which was released in January. Our team is currently conducting a thorough analysis of the proposal to determine the impact on our community.

Our initial assessment is that while the proposal includes vital investments, gaps remain that will demand powerful advocacy. As the House prepares for debate, your voice will be critical. 

Stand by for our full briefing and amendment priorities - we are ready for the work ahead. Make sure you are signed up for our action alerts to stay engaged with upcoming advocacy opportunities!

thearcofmass.org/action
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 14/04/2026
ICYMI: CEO Maura Sullivan's new editorial for MassLive discusses how HBO Max's #ThePitt shines a light on "how far our actual medical system is from the 'gold standard' portrayed on screen" when it comes to care and accommodations for people with autism.
ICYMI: CEO Maura Sullivan's new editorial for MassLive discusses how HBO Max's #ThePitt shines a light on "how far our actual medical system is from the 'gold standard' portrayed on screen" when it comes to care and accommodations for people with autism.

Read more from Maura on advancing healthcare standards, Supported Decision-Making, and more: https://www.masslive.com/opinion/2026/04/what-the-pitt-gets-right-and-where-massachusetts-health-care-falls-short-maura-sullivan.html
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 14/04/2026
NEW from CEO Maura Sullivan: "The Pitt has opened a door to public awareness. It’s time for Massachusetts officials to walk through that door and turn fictional portrayals into offscreen reality." www.masslive.com/opinion/2026...
masslive.com
What ‘The Pitt’ gets right and where Massachusetts health care falls short | Maura Sullivan
As CEO of The Arc of Massachusetts, and a mother of two adult sons with autism and intellectual disabilities, watching Dr. Mel King on the TV program is a revelation.
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 12/04/2026
Happy Orthodox Easter from The Arc of Massachusetts to all who celebrate! 🐇
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 11/04/2026
We've got a full slate of webinars coming up at The Arc, covering subjects like healthcare, the transition to adulthood, and self-direction. Learn more about these sessions and register at thearcofmass.org/webinars.
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 06/04/2026
Jayden Christian is a dedicated self-advocate and an incredibly compelling speaker who shares her lived experience to advocate for individuals with IDD and autism. Learn more about Jayden: thearcofmass.org/post/advocacy-spot…
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 05/04/2026
Happy Easter from The Arc of Massachusetts to all who celebrate! 🐇
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 04/04/2026
Start your weekend with a new podcast: listen to CEO Maura Sullivan in conversation with The New England Council President and CEO James Brett o... www.newenglandcouncil.com/news-arti…
newenglandcouncil.com
Now Available: Episode 37 of “Inside the Corner Office” with Maura Sullivan, CEO of The Arc of Massachusetts - New England Council
This month’s episode of “Inside the Corner Office” is now available!
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 03/04/2026
ACT NOW: Please take action and reach out to your Representative about two critical bills! The Nicky's Law Expansion bill and the Blue Envelope bill have both passed the Senate and are currently in the House Ways and Means Committee.
ACT NOW: Please take action and reach out to your Representative about two critical bills!



The Nicky's Law Expansion bill and the Blue Envelope bill have both passed the Senate and are currently in the House Ways and Means Committee.



We need to keep up the momentum and get these bills to the floor of the House for a vote!



Both bills are common sense, cost-effective, and ready to go. Use this action alert to contact your Representative today.



https://thearcofmass.quorum.us/campaign/159833/
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The Arc of Massachusetts @thearcofmass.org · 02/04/2026
Happy World Autism Acceptance Day from The Arc of Massachusetts! Autism acceptance is more than awareness. It's a commitment to action, respect, and belonging. Today and every day, we reaffirm our belief in inclusion, dignity, and opportunities for all. 🧡
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