The Arc - Washington State

06/05/2026

Pride Month is a time to celebrate diversity, inclusion, and the many experiences that make up the LGBTQ+ community. That includes LGBTQ+ people with disabilities.

People with disabilities who are also LGBTQ+ often face additional barriers in areas like healthcare, education, employment, and community life. Their experiences and perspectives are an important part of the disability and LGBTQ+ communities.

Creating a more inclusive world means recognizing and valuing the full diversity of our communities. It means making sure all people have opportunities to be heard, included, and supported.

This Pride Month, we celebrate the contributions, advocacy, and resilience of LGBTQ+ people with disabilities.

06/04/2026

On June 4th, 1936, 90 years ago today, The Children’s Benevolent League of Washington, the organization that would become The Arc of Washington State, was officially formed and incorporated by the State of Washington. For 90 years, The Arc has remained committed to supporting the inclusion of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. Although the times and the language are different, there is still as strong a need as ever for self-advocates, families, and community members to come together to support one another in our efforts.

These historical artifacts are being shared as part of The Arc of Washington State’s ongoing celebration of the organization’s 90th anniversary in 2026 and were originally curated and collected by former board member Larry Jones.

06/04/2026

You may notice our logo across social media has changed!

This year, The Arc of Washington is celebrating 90 years of advocacy and community, so we are updating our logos with a special anniversary version.

For 90 years, we have worked alongside people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families to advocate for inclusion, rights, services, and opportunities in communities across Washington.

We are proud of our history and grateful to everyone who has been part of this work over the years. 🧡

05/27/2026

Planning for the future is ongoing - and sometimes it’s hard to know where to start.

We are sharing this free future planning guide from The Arc of the United States for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. The guide can help organize important information like routines, preferences, support needs, goals, and more in one place.

It’s designed to grow and change over time and can be a helpful tool whether you are starting fresh or revisiting existing plans.

To access the guide visit https://futureplanning.thearc.org/planning-basics/making-a-future-plan/. 🧡

05/27/2026

05/19/2026

The Arc of the United States is the nation's leading nonprofit advancing the rights and inclusion of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Explore our programs, advocacy, and resources that promote community participation, equality, and opportunity for all.

05/15/2026

Access to technology matters. People with disabilities are still far less likely to have access to the internet and digital tools - creating barriers to connection, employment, independence, and more.

That’s why The Arc of the United States, AT&T, and The Arc San Francisco partnered to create free digital skills training designed specifically for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Topics include:
- Using computers, phones, and video conferencing
- Staying safe from scams and fraud
- Navigating websites and search engines
- Building healthy online relationships
- Finding credible information online

Resources are available anytime online, with some in-person workshops available as well.

Learn more at

The Arc and AT&T have joined forces on a nationwide program that is bringing digital skills training to people with disabilities and their families

05/14/2026

Looking for information about working while receiving SSI or SSDI?

Join the Social Security Administration’s free WISE webinar on May 27: “Ticket to Work: Support on Your Employment Journey.” Learn about employment supports, available resources, and how work may fit into your future goals.

This free webinar is open to adults ages 18–64 receiving SSI or SSDI.

Learn more and register through the Ticket to Work program: https://choosework.ssa.gov/wise/

05/06/2026

Thank you. 🧡

Because of your support, The Arc of Washington State continues to advocate alongside people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families across Washington.

If you didn’t get a chance to give yesterday, it is not too late to be a part of this work. Donate here: https://www.wagives.org/organization/arcwaorg

If a financial gift is not possible right now, you can still support The Arc of Washington State! Becoming a member today is free and helps strengthen our collective voice. Become a member at: https://arcwa.org/membership/