Our new blog series features conversations with leaders of our local chapters across the state. Get to know our chapters' regional offerings helping people with IDD live and engage in their communities, and hear directly from chapter leaders about current initiatives, what's working, what's surprised them about this work, what they're most proud of, and why the work is personal to them. 

⭐ First up, an interview with Julia Chalker, Executive Director of The Arc of DFW Area, in which she discusses the chapter's information and referral services, new "ACE" advocacy trainings offered in-person and virtually, her experience as a special education teacher and transition specialist, and how her brother, Bobby, who is 57 and has autism, continues to fuel her commitment to disability rights. A great read!

Sesame Street in Communities has simple resources to help families and communities understand Autism and support different ways of connecting and communicating.

The Texas Education Agency's Parent-Directed Special Education Services Program is providing one-time online accounts of $1,500 to parents/guardians of eligible students served by special education and who are enrolled in a Texas public school. Grant money can cover the cost of a student's materials, technology, therapies, and more.

Submit this quick form! Many people with disabilities must schedule paratransit rides 24 hours in advance, making it difficult to handle last-minute medical appointments, work changes, or errands.

People with IDD are sexually assaulted at alarming rates (seven times more than people without disabilities), and often don't get appropriate, timely support. 

• Resources from Disability Rights Texas
• The Arc’s Transforming Health Care Project
• Report Suspected Abuse to the Texas Abuse Hotline

Our friends at Disability Rights Texas say, "Be ready for the runoffs. The winners of this spring's primary runoff elections will advance to the general election in November. Make a voting plan now so you're ready to vote in the runoff elections." The last day to register to vote is April 27!

Texas' Speaker of the House and Lieutenant Governor have tasked committees in the House and Senate with study topics so lawmakers can learn about key policy areas prior to the upcoming session (January 2027).