The Arc of Northern Virginia

06/05/2026

Noreen Vance watched her mother refuse to plan for her sister Angela's future - until a stroke made the decision for her. What followed were years of family chaos while her sister's care went unsettled.

NPR shared their story this week, and it's a powerful reminder of something we believe deeply: the families who love someone with a disability deserve a plan, not a crisis.

Our Director of Trust Ana Hughes says it best:

"Future planning can feel overwhelming, but you don't have to navigate it alone. Through free webinars, educational guides, handouts, and other resources, we help families in Virginia, Maryland, and D.C. learn about future planning options for loved ones with disabilities. For families considering a Special Needs Trust as part of their estate plan, we also offer an affordable Pooled Special Needs Trust option and are always happy to answer questions."

The hardest part is often just starting the conversation. We're here when you're ready.

People who care for an adult child, partner or sibling have to face the reality that their loved may outlive them. Planning ahead is key but it's not easy.

06/04/2026

With just 2 days to go until the 2026 Community Challenge 5K Race & 2K Walk & Roll, we're taking a moment to recognize the incredible sponsors who help make this event possible.

Their support helps bring our community together and advances opportunities for people with disabilities and their families throughout Northern Virginia.

Swipe through to meet the community partners helping power race day. Thank you for standing with The Arc of Northern Virginia and making every mile matter.

There's still time to register: https://thearcofnova.org/team-challenge/

06/04/2026

Behind every family we support, every workshop we host, and every person we advocate for is a community of donors who make it all possible. Last month, we celebrated those champions at our Champions Circle Donor Reception. Thank you for your continued commitment to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities across Northern Virginia.

06/03/2026

Join Arlington VA Public Library this Saturday, June 6th, and more dates throughout the summer for Sensory Storytime! This story time is designed for kids ages 2-11 with sensory processing needs, including neurodivergence, autism, and/or disabilities.

June 6th , June 27th, August 8, and August 29
10:15 AM - 10:45 AM at Central Library
No registration needed. Space is first-come, first-served.

https://arlingtonva.libcal.com/event/15993272

06/02/2026

Mark your calendars! AccessAbility Fairfax: Navigating Fairfax Services Together is a FREE in-person event for people with disabilities and their families.

Thursday, July 30, 2026 | 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Fairfax County Government Center, Fairfax, VA

Come connect with Fairfax County agencies and partners to explore transportation options like MetroAccess, benefits, financial assistance, housing support, mental health resources, emergency preparedness, and more.

Plus, don't miss hands-on features like a Sensory Friendly Wellness Room, a 911 Simulator Experience, an Unclaimed Property Search, and on-the-spot library card sign-up (bring a photo ID!).

Qualifying attendees can enter to win a $50 transportation gift card- limited availability!
Learn more and pre-register: https://bit.ly/AccessAbilityFairfax

05/31/2026

Today's the last day to join The Arc of Northern Virginia's Sustainers Society and receive a free tote bag as our thank-you!

When you become a monthly donor, you're helping ensure families and individuals with disabilities have access to advocacy, resources, and support all year long. The tote is a bonus. The impact lasts much longer.

Join today and carry your commitment with you wherever you go. Learn more at https://thearcofnova.org/sustainers2026/

05/29/2026

Congratulations to our Chief Advocacy and Policy Officer, Lucy Beadnell!

We are incredibly proud that Lucy has been awarded the Eleanor Sue Finkelstein Award for Service to the Disability Community by the Pozez JCC of Northern Virginia - a recognition she so deeply deserves.

Delegate Holly Seibold recently said it best: "She does incredible work advocating for the developmental disability community and making sure individuals and families have a strong voice in Richmond and beyond."

Thank you, Lucy, for your tireless leadership and dedication to our community.

05/27/2026

☀️ Summer Fridays are here! Now through Labor Day, the Arc of Northern Virginia office will be closing at 12 Noon every Friday so our incredible staff can soak up a little sunshine and recharge.

If you're planning to stop by the office on a Friday afternoon, please note we'll be closed. We'll be back and ready to go bright and early Monday morning. Wishing everyone a happy and safe summer!

05/22/2026

In respectful observance of Memorial Day, the offices of The Arc of Northern Virginia will be closed on Monday, May 25th. We will resume regular business hours on Tuesday, May 26th.