Katherine and I were invited to Access Livings Annual Gala where Governor Quinn was going to make a speech about the importance of the Employment First legislation he is about to sign. The Arc wrote the legislation, Access Living and many others worked very hard to pass the Employment First legislation and new we are about to become an Employment First state!

Here is a picture of Katherine Hamann and me talking about Employment First before his presentation to the 600 people at the Gala.

Wednesday Director Casey joined the Executive Forum to discuss the new state budget which is very similar to what had been introduced by the Governor. The Governor on Wednesday did sign the Supplemental Appropriation so you’re billings through June 30, 2013 should be sent to you soon. Funding is there to move 500 people off the waiting list because of the Ligas Consent Decree and more. There were no new funds for any rate increases including direct care support wages. Most grants including respite care will see a no more than 1% cut. Lastly, there is however some conflicting information about what has changed in the recent bedhold policy for ICFDD’s. We will follow up on this.

At the Executive Forum one of our Past Presidents Joe Straka said good bye because he will be retiring at the end of the month. We are all going to miss Joe and his leadership for individuals with disabilities over his career. Farewell good friend!


Pictured here are Exec Forum President Deb Sheppard, Joe Straka, Arc President Brian Rubin and Tony.

New Executive Director announced! I am please to share with you that Steve Boisse will be the new Executive Director at PACT Inc after Joe Straka retires. We have enjoyed working with Steve on many levels of The Arc and look forward to his leadership at PACT for many years. Congratulations Steve!

Tomorrow The Arc Board of Directors meets to discuss our positions on managed care and flexible day services. Director Romano will also do a presentation on the Blueprint for Systems Redesign – Illinois At The Tipping Point.


Tony Paulauski
Executive Director
The Arc of Illinois
20901 S. LaGrange Rd. Suite 209
Frankfort, IL 60423
815-464-1832 (OFFICE)
815-464-1832 (CELL)
Tony@www.thearcofil.org