Check out our upcoming trainings!  

1) Supported employment trainings through SEAT with Divisions of DD and Rehabilitation Services – flier here, register online.
2) Self Advocacy and Legislative Advocacy trainings (registration coming soon)
3) Healthcare Conference – Sept 12 – registration online
4) Autism Conference – Oct 3 (registration coming soon)

State Legislative Update
IL Department of Human Services released their summary of the budget highlights here.

As you know, we have worked to advocate for the passage of bills throughout the spring that will help improve the lives of people with disabilities.  Now these bills are going to the Governor to be signed or vetoed.  The Arc has shared our support for certain bills with the administration but if you also feel strongly about a bill that was passed and will go to his desk.  Feel free to contact his office with that information here.  

Rate increase implementation – We continue to wait for the release of emergency rule language from DDD regarding the implementation of the 3.5% rate increase.  The bill language offered flexibility for the application of the rate increase to include but not require wage increases.  We will share as soon as we hear.

Administrative Update
ISC Transition – Beginning July 1, with the exception of one area (Metro East, currently served by DDSME), the ISC transition under the new NOFO will take place.  Earlier this week, the federal judge declined to put an injunction on the implementation of the NOFO.  Please check out the Illinois Life Span website for more information starting July 1.  We know this has and continues to be a very confusing and challenging process for all involved and we continue to call on the Division to communicate clearly to individuals and families who are affected by these changes.  After July 1, please email me (Meg@thearcofil.org) if you see concerns with the transition.    

Federal
Get Ready for National Disability Voter Registration Week!
Did you know the voter turnout rate for people with disabilities is 6 percent lower than that of people without disabilities? Let’s work to change that! Each year, the REV UP campaign, through the American Association for People with Disabilities, organizes National Disability Voter Registration Week to promote registration and civic engagement among people with disabilities. This year’s campaign is July 15-19. So — are you ready to get involved and increase our community’s voting power? Here are a few easy ways:
 

  • Make sure YOU are registered to vote.
  • Encourage your friends and family to register!
  • Find out if your local chapter of The Arc is hosting any events during the week that you can support.
  • Spread the word on social media by sharing this post during the week: “Are you registered to vote? Support National Disability Voter Registration Week by registering today at vote.gov! #REVUP”

News
Emergency services and court system training for families of people with disabilities
WIFR, 6.25.19
The Arc of Winnebago, Boone and Ogle Counties sat down with families of people with disabilities for a training on emergency services and the court system. The Rockford Police and Fire Department’s co-hosted, teaching attendees about what to do in the event of an emergency as well as what to expect if a loved one with a disability interacts with the criminal justice system. 

QIDP Conference
The clock is ticking – early registration for our 24th annual QIDP Conference ends on July 1st!  Registering early provides you with incredible discounts.  And, with this lineup, how can you possibly go wrong?  The combination of the pre-Conference session, keynote speakers, 40 diverse breakouts, outstanding exhibitors, and CEUs make our annual conference a nationally celebrated event.  Join us in August to Learn, Connect, and Share!
Learn More!
Register Now!

Chicago Leadership Institute
Imagine a powerful network of people with disabilities changing what leadership looks like in the region. ADA 25 Advancing Leadership is making that vision a reality. Join us by applying to the Leadership Institute today!

Early Bird Deadline – September 9, 2019*
*If you submit an application before September 9, you’re guaranteed an interview
Final Deadline – October 9, 2019

To learn more about eligibility and the application process, visit our website. For more information or questions contact Robin Burnett, rburnett@cct.org or (312) 616-8000 x 262