Advocating for the Future Group

10/17/2026

New federal DOJ guidance deemphasizing independent living skills could affect special education transition plans.

09/18/2026

👨‍🚀Dare to explore MORE! Don't miss the Journey Into Adulthood Expo on November 17! Interact and engage with a variety of vendors/experts, informational panel sessions and network with the disability community throughout the day.

FREE! Registration is required. See link in comments.

Questions:
[email protected]
[email protected] for interest in participating as vendor or sponsor

09/15/2026

Federal protections for students in special education don’t apply to private schools, but parents aren’t always informed.

09/14/2026

👨‍💻Ready to become a CtLC Ambassador? Applications close November 27.

See link in comments.

Our UCCEDD is a partner in the Family Resource Network of Ohio (FRNOH).

09/06/2026

With major changes happening in Washington, families are increasingly turning to states to help resolve special education disputes.

09/04/2026

09/04/2026

We want to hear from you! We invite parents and caregivers to be part of the new Ohio Family Voice Workgroup. Members of the workgroup will examine topics through the lens of families, participate in discussions, and provide feedback on policy.

Find more details and apply: https://education.ohio.gov/Media/Ed-Connection/Aug-4-2026/Encourage-families-and-students-to-apply-for-Depar

09/04/2026

🎻A lollipop concert that will be sensory-friendly, interactive, engaging and memorable for all! Explore the "Family Fun Zone" before the concert with community friends.

See link in comments for ticket link.

Questions: Madelyn McArthur
[email protected]

07/17/2026

We need your help! We are planning our webinar series for the 2026-2027 school year and would like to know what kinds of questions you have for our team of attorneys and advocates.

A few past webinar topics we have done (which are recorded and always accessible on our website) include:
🔹 Going Back to School Strategies
🔹 Autism - Myths, Realities and Advocacy Strategies
🔹 Building Effective Home-School Communication Strategies
🔹 Bullying: When Your Child/Student is Being Bullied
🔹 And more!

Please comment below or direct message us with ideas about webinar topics you would like to see!

07/14/2026

🚨 The Massachusetts Senate is expected to vote this week on legislation that could have serious unintended consequences for people with IDD and autism.

While protecting healthcare workers is essential, the bill must also recognize that disability-related behaviors should not be criminalized.

✅ Support Amendment #5 to exclude group homes and other IDD/autism service settings.
✅ Support Amendment #8 to prioritize de-escalation and community-based alternatives.

📢 Contact your State Senator today: thearcofmass.org/action Maura Sullivan Nora Bent Emilia Niyangoda