We are thrilled to honor the Handley Family of Katy, Texas, with the 2025 Virginia Eernisse Legacy Award, which celebrates advocates who emulate Virginia's unyielding commitment to the rights of Texans with disabilities. (Learn more about Virginia below.)
Born of a desire to help their daughter Caytlin, the Handley family’s tireless advocacy has touched thousands of Texas families who, until now, were not informed of available intellectual and developmental disability (IDD) resources until their child’s 14th birthday—years beyond helpful intervention timing. Thanks to their idea, and their persistence
and collaboration throughout the legislative process, The Caytlin Handley Act (House Bill 1188) became law on May 29, 2025!
“Multiple years in the making, true to grassroots advocacy, Carey, Boyd and Caytlin remained steadfast, building relationships with lawmakers, educating staffers about avoidable barriers students with disabilities face, and testifying with their
story,” said Sabrina Gonzalez Saucedo, Director of Public Policy and Advocacy.
The Caytlin Handley Act:
Requires schools direct parents to Local Intellectual and Developmental Disability Authority when child becomes eligible for special education due to intellectual disability/developmental delay
Informs families how to
enroll their child in a Medicaid waiver program and interest lists, and makes them aware earlier about other long-term services/supports and community resources
Rep. Christian Manuel authored bill; Sen. Judith Zaffirini sponsored
About the Virginia Eernisse Legacy Award
Known for her passionate pursuit of equity and justice for people with disabilities, Virginia led with trademark courage, speaking truth to power about disability rights and fiercely supporting grassroots self-advocates in voicing their lived experience. She compassionately supported and zealously advocated for people to have access to the
supports and services needed to live well in the community.
Among her accomplishments, she was appointed to the board that oversaw the closure of two state-supported living centers (SSLCs), and spearheaded the establishment of The Arc of the Gulf Coast. She also served on The Arc of Texas’
Board of Directors and Public Policy & Advocacy Committee. Virginia was a founding member of Imagine Enterprises, a nonprofit focused on the delivery of services to promote self-determination through employment and authority over one’s resources.
“Virginia’s indelible
legacy guides our cultivation of advocates,” said Jennifer Martinez, Chief Executive Officer. “Virginia believed people with disabilities deserve the same dignity and opportunity afforded to everyone else, and we wholeheartedly agree.”
This is an excerpt from The Arc of Texas 2025 Impact Report.See the full report, including personal stories, policy progress, resources, and lots of hope. It's a celebration of Texans with IDD!
As a nonprofit, our work relies on generous support from donors like you. Make a gift today that makes a difference in the lives of Texans with IDD.
