“Lets get this party started!” Board Member Ashley Callahan cheered at The Arc of Roanoke’s meeting this evening. This new chapter’s energy and commitment to affect change in their community was inspiring and exciting to witness. Along with sharing with me the story of how they have come together to form a new chapter of The Arc, the group spent a lot of time telling me their thoughts on the state of the service system in Virginia, where they would like the system to be, and ideas for helping us get it there. The only thing that was not positive about this visit is that I was so moved by the grassroots effort that is taking place in Roanoke that I forgot to take pictures!

I joined, Ashley, Ed McGrath, Sue Vail, Didi Zaryorning, and Tawana Rankin for this meeting, where they described how a creative approach and a commitment to improve services are the foundation of what this group envisions for their chapter. I told them that this could not be a better time to be joining The Arc! There is a strong network of chapters out there to connect with, learn from, and join in leading Virginia to improve services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in the community!

When the group began to brainstorm how this chapter of The Arc can enhance community-based services in Roanoke, Sue, a parent of a 27-year old with an intellectual disability, shared that she felt the waiting lists for services are the best place to start. Sue also discussed her frustration in trying to access services in the community due to a lack of providers. Ed shared that there are currently 146 individuals on Blue Ridge BHA’s Waiting List, 65 of which are categorized as having an Urgent Need. However, there will only be 13 new slots for the group this year. I commented that both waiting lists and reimbursement rates are two of the reoccurring themes that we are hearing from chapters across the Commonwealth.

The group explored some possible ways to move forward with the development of this brand-new chapter of The Arc. Ideas suggested included reaching out to organizations of similar interests, such as the Autism Society of America Chapter and the Down Syndrome Association of Roanoke-while also reaching out to ones that might not yet be familiar with The Arc, such as the YMCA. Another suggestion was to start holding trainings for transition-age students and their families on what services are available, explaining to them what is (or is not) out there. Didi noted that “we have to educate before we advocates”, suggesting the group utilize information booklets and pamphlets that have already been written by organizations that are also familiar with the current service system so the group does not “reinvent the wheel”.

The group was in agreement with many other chapters that now is the time for younger families to get involved and they feel that this a priority for this chapter in order to reflect the needs and interests of the younger generation that is seeking services. The chapter also expressed excitement about being part of a “united voice”. “It is so needed”, one member said, “Now is the time when we as The Arc need to be stronger than ever”.

It is an exciting time to be at The Arc! As we heard from other chapters, new membership helps to bring new ideas and fresh perspectives. Congratulations Roanoke on your new 501C3 status and your new affiliation! Welcome to the family!