The Arc’s Family Fund provides critical financial support in the form of small grants to local families with children who have intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). This year, the Family Fund granted a record-breaking $113,600 in funding to 96 families—our largest distribution to date.  

What is The Family Fund?  

The Family Fund is a grant program established by The Arc in 2017, designed to provide access to financial assistance and essential resources to families navigating the complexities of raising children with IDD. Many of the effective resources, therapies, and services make an incredible difference in the quality of life for children with IDD, but they are not covered by insurance and are out of reach financially for the families who need access to them the most. 

Grants from the Family Fund cover a range of resources that improve quality of life, including respite care, assistive technology, medical equipment, therapeutic services, and inclusive recreational activities and camps.   

The Family Fund is made possible through generous donations, grants, and community partnerships. By easing the financial burden on families, the Family Fund ensures that children with disabilities can be a part of their communities with the support they need and deserve.  

The Fund’s Impact in 2025  

Since its founding, the Family Fund has awarded $382,000 in grants to hundreds of children with IDD, including funding specifically for children with autism through a partnership with The Bowen Foundation for Autism. Each year, the Family Fund expands its reach and serves more families with more funding, reflecting both the growing needs within our communities and the generosity of those who support this vital program.  

This year, the Family Fund awarded 62 fully funded grants and 34 partially funded grants, ensuring that children with disabilities have the resources they need to grow, learn, and thrive. These grants provide access to essential communication tools, specialized therapies, and inclusive recreational experiences, allowing children to develop crucial skills, build confidence, and participate in activities like summer camp alongside their peers.  

“Each application is carefully reviewed by a committee consisting of employees from across The Arc’s enterprise. We consider the details of each application and make award decisions based on the life-changing impact we anticipate the grant funding would have on the child and their family,” said Sara Pease, Assistant Director of Children, Youth, & Their Families. “Our goal is to ensure that every dollar awarded directly enhances a child’s ability to communicate, grow, and participate fully in their community. Whether it’s funding for therapy, assistive technology, or camp experiences, these grants open doors that might otherwise remain closed.”  

Top requests this year included specialized therapies and IDD-focused summer camps, highlighting the ongoing demand for both structured developmental support and inclusive recreational opportunities.  “The impact of these funds goes beyond financial assistance—it provides opportunity and inclusion for so many families,” said Caroline Slobodzian, Director of Development. ” These grants bridge critical gaps in care and services, offering children with disabilities enriching experiences to support their growth and development. We are grateful to everyone who contributed to the $113,600 raised and made this possible.”   

Support the Family Fund Through Our 50/50 Raffle  

While funds for the 2025 grant cycle have been distributed, the need for support doesn’t end there. The Arc continues to raise money for the fund year-round, as the demand for these life-changing resources is ongoing and ever-present.   

In conjunction with our annual golf tournament, “Tee It Up for The Arc,” we hold a 50/50 raffle benefiting the Family Fund. You can support the Family Fund by participating in The Arc’s 50/50 raffle!  With your entry, you not only get a chance to win a cash prize, but you also help provide life-changing resources for families in your community. All funds raised from the raffle go directly to the Family Fund. 

We are proud to share that Ross Benincasa, Senior Vice President of Community Development, and Brandy Stephens, Vice President of People & Culture, have been named 2025 New Leaders Honorees by Leadership Anne Arundel (LAA). This honor recognizes professionals who have recently stepped into new leadership roles and demonstrate outstanding leadership, vision, and commitment to the Anne Arundel County community. 

As part of this recognition, Ross and Brandy will be honored at the New Leaders Breakfast Celebration on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, at Carrol’s Creek Café in Annapolis. 

“Ross and Brandy are exceptional leaders whose work supports our teams and communities to evolve and thrive,” said Jonathon Rondeau, President & CEO of The Arc. “Through their bold leadership, dedication to our mission, and expertise in their fields, they create profound impacts in hundreds of lives across Anne Arundel County.” 

Ross leads strategic community development projects that advance inclusive housing and development across the region. Since joining The Arc’s enterprise in 2024, Ross has played a key role in the rapid growth of the organization by identifying development opportunities, securing property acquisitions, and fostering strong community partnerships.  

Brandy is a dynamic leader who fosters a culture of appreciation and connection across The Arc’s enterprise. Since joining in 2023, Brandy has launched key initiatives like the Direct Support Professional Career Ladder and consistently works to enhance the employee experience. Her leadership is grounded in supporting organizational development, championing diversity, equity, and inclusion, and empowering employees to lead with authenticity. 

Ross and Brandy join leaders from every sector who are actively shaping the future of Anne Arundel County through innovative programs, strategic development, and collaborative partnerships. 

About Leadership Anne Arundel 

Since 1993, Leadership Anne Arundel (LAA) has served as the nexus of leadership in Anne Arundel County as a professional development and networking program for the county’s most impactful leaders. LAA facilitates opportunities for diverse leaders from for-profit, nonprofit, governmental, and community organizations to come together and gain the education, resources, and networks necessary to become the strategic, forward-thinking leaders their communities need. Learn more about LAA at www.leadershipaa.org.

The Arc is pleased to announce that Cody Skacan has joined the enterprise as the Vice President of Strategy. In this role, Cody will lead the implementation of The Arc’s strategic plan and growth initiatives, ensuring alignment with the enterprise’s mission and long-term vision. He joins The Arc at a key moment as it continues to expand its impact and services throughout the region.

Cody brings nearly a decade of leadership experience in strategy, program development, and organizational growth. He joins The Arc from Elevance Inc., where he held key leadership roles and spearheaded large-scale initiatives in mergers and acquisitions, stakeholder engagement, and team leadership. Cody’s expertise in executing complex programs while fostering collaboration and innovation will help him to drive The Arc’s strategic objectives forward.

“We are excited to welcome Cody to The Arc and look forward to the expertise and leadership he brings,” said Jonathon Rondeau, President & CEO of The Arc. “His strategic mindset, ability to build strong partnerships, and deep commitment to fostering meaningful change will be important as The Arc continues to grow to meet the needs of the people and communities around us.”

As Vice President of Strategy, Cody will work closely with leadership to align enterprise priorities, drive expansion efforts, and facilitate high-level initiatives that enhance The Arc’s reach and impact. He will play a critical role in fostering collaboration across departments to ensure forward momentum in advancing inclusion, equity, and opportunity for people with disabilities and the community.

Cody holds a Master of Business Administration in Healthcare Management from Western Governors University and a Bachelor of Science in Management and Marketing from Salisbury University.

On Monday, May 12, 2025, Tee It Up for The Arc will return to Queenstown Harbor in Queenstown, MD. This annual golf tournament is more than just a day on the greens; it’s an opportunity to support children with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and their families while enjoying a premier golf experience. With breathtaking waterfront views, top-tier hospitality, and an incredible after-party, Tee It Up for The Arc is an event you won’t want to miss. 

Registration for the tournament includes breakfast, lunch, unlimited drinks throughout the day, exciting activities on the course, and a ticket to our highly anticipated after-party. The after-party will feature delicious local food, craft beverages, live music by the Timmie Metz Band, and the much-anticipated 50/50 raffle drawing. 

Making an Impact Beyond The Course  

Tee It Up for The Arc is celebrating its 27th tournament this year and has seen remarkable growth in recent years, raising over $225,000 last year. The tournament’s evolution has been driven by passionate leadership and unwavering community support. 

“Tee It Up for The Arc has grown so much in recent years,” said Ben Harries, Past Tournament Chair. “We expanded to Queenstown Harbor and have consistently sold out both courses year after year. The demand and enthusiasm from our community has been incredible, and it directly impacts the lives of so many children and families.”  

All proceeds from Tee It Up for The Arc benefit The Arc’s Children, Youth, & Their Families program, which ensures that children with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) have access to resources, support, and opportunities that empower them. Funds raised from the tournament directly support the program’s key initiatives and infrastructure, including Project Learn and Family Navigation. 

“This event is about more than golf—it’s about making a difference,” said Steve Smollon, Tournament Chair. “Every year, we see firsthand how the funds raised through Tee It Up for The Arc provide life-changing support to children with disabilities and their families. Whether it’s helping a child access critical therapies, ensuring a family gets the advocacy they need, or bringing joy during the holidays, the impact is real. That’s what keeps us coming back, seeing the tangible impact on families and knowing that each sponsorship and donation contributes to building a stronger, more inclusive future.” 

Opportunities to Support Tee It Up for The Arc 

Last year’s tournament saw a sold-out event with 72 foursomes and a waitlist of eager participants. Tee It Up for The Arc consistently sells out, and this year is no exception, with only a handful of foursomes remaining.  

If you are interested in sponsoring or golfing in this year’s tournament, email events@thearcccr.org. Foursomes are sold on a first-come, first-serve basis. 

If you’re not able to golf, you can still support the tournament by joining The Arc for the after-party or purchasing a 50/50 raffle ticket. All proceeds from the raffle go directly to the Family Fund. 

April is National Community Development Month, a time to recognize the impact of building inclusive and vibrant communities. Across the country, organizations and local leaders come together to invest in housing, infrastructure, and public spaces that support opportunity and connection. Community development isn’t just about constructing buildings—it’s about creating environments where people of all backgrounds and abilities feel welcome and supported.  

National Community Development Month kicks off with Community Development Week, April 1-5, celebrating the projects, partnerships, and policies that strengthen our neighborhoods and make them more accessible for everyone.  

Why We Build Communities that Welcome Everyone  

At our core, The Arc is driven by our vision of creating communities where people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) are included and empowered. This work goes beyond supporting individual people – it’s about reimagining neighborhoods, cities, and towns as accessible spaces where everyone belongs.   

“Community development isn’t just about building structures—it’s about building a future where everyone has the opportunity to live, work, and play in an inclusive environment,” said Ross Benincasa, Senior Vice President of Community Development for Chesapeake Community Development. “The work we do is a reflection of our commitment to ensuring that every person has a space where they feel valued and supported.”  

Through innovative development projects and prioritizing the voices of local communities, Chesapeake Community Development is building the foundation for a future where people with IDD can live in inclusive, welcoming environments designed to support their needs and choices.   

With more than 180 units slated for completion by 2030, we anticipate that in the next five years, well over 200 families will live in homes built by Chesapeake Community Development.   

What’s Next for Chesapeake Community Development: Easton Crossing & Beyond  

Chesapeake Community Development is actively working on multiple projects that align with our vision of building more accessible, inclusive communities. As we celebrate National Community Development Month, we’re excited to share updates on one of our most transformative developments in the heart of Easton, MD—Easton Crossing.  

In February, Easton Crossing reached a significant milestone, receiving partial approval from the Planning Commission for the 6.5-acre mixed-use development that will breathe new life into a former grain silo site. This project is designed to foster connection and opportunity, featuring 140 residential units—30% of which will be affordable housing—alongside commercial spaces and open areas for public use. Demolition of the site is underway, clearing the property and preparing the space for construction, starting with 407 Brookletts.  

Slated to open in August 2025, 407 Brookletts is the first completed building in the Easton Crossing master plan and will serve as a preview of the craftsmanship, design, and attention to detail that will define the entire development. The building will house Chesapeake Community Development’s new marketing and leasing office. It will be a direct link to the community throughout the development process, offering a space for engagement, information, and connection as Easton Crossing continues to take shape.  

Chesapeake Community Development’s Easton, MD pipeline also includes:   

• Silo Court: Construction will begin in Fall 2025 on the 28-town home community. Silo Court will offer a mix of 4-bedroom units with garages and 3-bedroom units, appealing to diverse family sizes. Communal spaces like a gazebo, green areas, and direct access to Rails-to-Trails will encourage outdoor activity and connection. With 25% of units designated as affordable for households earning 85% or below of the area median income (AMI), Silo Court strikes a balance between affordability and modern living.  

• The Primrose House: Construction is in the final stages for Phase One, which involved rebuilding two outbuildings to provide three new housing units. The project continues The Primrose House’s legacy as a historic boarding house while contributing to Easton’s balanced growth.  

• The Laura House: Construction will begin soon near downtown Easton. This 5,500-square-foot property will be converted into seven two-bedroom apartments, incorporating both affordable and market-rate housing. Scheduled to open in Fall 2025, The Laura House exemplifies Chesapeake Community Development’s commitment to scattered-site, small-scale solutions that foster inclusive communities.  

In Anne Arundel County, Chesapeake Community Development will soon begin construction on two properties – WB&A North and Nursery Road.  

• WB&A North: The expansion of an existing property in Severn, MD, is scheduled to begin construction in early 2026. This project will expand an existing duplex into a quadplex, adding two additional 2-bedroom units, one of which will be fully accessible.   

• Nursery Road: Chesapeake Community Development will construct a fully accessible 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom single-family home that will support people with IDD served by The Arc. Supported by Arundel Community Development Services (ACDS), this project prioritizes accessibility and independence, with construction starting in Summer 2025.  

A Growing Vision  

Looking ahead, The Arc is set to break ground on several new developments in 2025, with more than 180 units total in the pipeline. This ambitious growth ensures that we’re not just meeting the needs of today’s communities but building the foundation for a more inclusive and equitable future.  

“As we continue to grow and expand, our focus is always on accessibility, sustainability, and creating communities that reflect the diverse needs of those we serve,” said Ross. “We’re not just developing housing—we’re developing opportunities for people to live the lives they choose.” 

Since its launch in April 2024, almost 30 Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) have completed at least one certification level through The Arc’s DSP Career Ladder program. This program is based on national standards and provides in-depth professional development opportunities for DSPs to enhance their skills and knowledge, grow professionally, and support people with disabilities in new, innovative ways.  

After one year, The Arc currently employs 3 DSPs, having achieved Certification Level I, 3 at Certification Level II, and 20 earning Certification Level III. The 26 career ladder participants include DSPs from every department across the enterprise.  

The success of this program means more DSPs at The Arc are growing and excelling in their roles, and more people we support are receiving the highest possible quality services. 

What is the DSP Career Ladder Program? 

The Arc’s DSP Career Ladder Program uses in-person trainings and the National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals E-Badge Academy to provide professional development, career advancement, and financial incentives to The Arc’s DSPs.  There are three levels, DSP-I, DSP-II, and DSP-III, each requiring more than 50 hours of online, hybrid, and in-person training in addition to the standard professional development already required for DSPs at The Arc. 

Upon acceptance into the program, DSPs start with a foundational session on the NADSP Code of Ethics, which serves as the program’s guiding framework. Participants then work through various learning activities and earn badges via the NADSP E-Badge Academy. As participants accumulate badges, they progress toward earning a DSP Certification for DSP-I, II, or III. These badges accumulate towards earning a DSP Certification, reflecting both professional growth and hands-on experience in the field. 

“The Arc has put many resources in place to make sure employees who seek to further advance their careers are as successful as possible,” said Brandy Stephens, Vice President of People & Culture at The Arc. “The existing training required of all DSPs at The Arc count toward earning these badges, meaning that all DSPs start 25% of the way toward achieving DSP-I.” 

Celebrating Career Mobility 

The Arc’s NADSP Career Ladder Program is more than just a professional development opportunity—it’s a pathway to personal and career growth. By providing a structured, flexible, and rewarding framework for career advancement, The Arc is empowering DSPs to deliver the highest standards of care while achieving their own professional goals.  

“Part of our strategic plan, Leading Boldly, is providing career mobility opportunities for employees, especially DSPs,” says Jonathon Rondeau, President & CEO. “This DSP Career Ladder increases our employees’ skills, recognizes them for their knowledge and experience by increasing their compensation, and means the people we serve will receive even higher quality support.” 

Helen Ayomobi, a DSP III, shared her experience in the program, saying: 

DSPs also enjoy increases to their hourly wages for each certification level they complete. With 3 DSPs at Certification Level I making an extra $1 per hour, 3 DSPs at Certification Level II making an extra $2 per hour, and 20 DSPs at Certification Level III making an extra $3.50 per hour, over the course of the next calendar year, those 26 DSPs will earn around $160,000 more collectively. 

“Over the last seven years, the Board of Directors and I have been unwavering in our commitment to professionalizing DSP roles and increasing pay for DSP positions,” said Jonathon. “We value the experience and expertise of our DSPs bring to their work, and are excited to reward those employees who choose to go above and beyond so they can continue providing the highest quality support to the people we serve. 

The DSP Career Ladder is a significant investment in the professional development, career mobility, and financial security of The Arc’s DSPs. 

Supporting the Future of DSPs 

The success of this program reinforces The Arc’s commitment to investing in our people so they can do their best work. By providing structured career growth opportunities and financial incentives, The Arc ensures that DSPs have the support they need to advance in their roles while continuing to make a meaningful impact.  

The Arc remains dedicated to offering resources, training, and recognition to our DSPs, empowering them to build long-term, fulfilling careers. 

Check out our current DSP openings here.

On Friday, March 21, following tireless advocacy from the disability community, the House Appropriations Committee for the State of Maryland released its proposed budget decisions for Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26), significantly restoring funding to the Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA).  

Early in the legislative session, the DDA budget faced significant cuts in funding that would have had a significant impact on people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) throughout the state. Earlier this month, Governor Moore announced his supplemental budget, which included nearly $300 million in additional funding for DDA for FY25 and FY26 to address deficit spending and to reinstate the Low-Intensity Support Services program for FY26.  

Key Budget Updates 

The initial FY26 budget included a proposed cut of $457 million; however, $292.48 million has been restored.  

The updated funding breakdown includes the following: 

• Rate and Program Adjustments: A 1% rate increase for all DDA community providers.  

• Dedicated Hour rates will decrease slightly from 87% to 86% funding, but no actual service hours will be cut.  

• The DDA will not consider Shared Hours when approving Dedicated Hours for individuals with specific behavioral or medical needs.  

• Funding has been increased to support approximately 600 transitioning youth, emergencies, and children aging out of foster care.  

• Geographic differential rates remain in effect, maintaining a 10% higher rate for community providers in certain areas.  

• Wage exceptions will be capped at 15% above reasonable and customary wages statewide and 10% above the state rate in geographic differential areas.  

• The Low-Intensity Support Services (LISS) program was reinstated, with $2 million allocated to the program and a new cap of $500 per recipient. 

• In partnership with the Maryland General Assembly, the Moore-Miller Administration has also worked to restore 94% of the planned cost containment measures for DDA in FY25, ensuring that vital services remain accessible for people with disabilities across the state. 

Why This Matters for People with Disabilities 

For Marylanders with disabilities and their support systems, the increased funding for developmental disabilities services is a critical step forward. These funds support essential programs such as residential services, day programs, and employment initiatives that support people with disabilities to live independently and participate fully in their communities. 

More importantly, this is evidence that advocacy makes a difference and that everyone’s individual and collective efforts matter. It was because of the stories, testimonies, and the collaborative efforts of everyone in the IDD community that these changes took place. 

As the budget process moves forward, continued advocacy will be essential to ensure that these commitments to the disability community remain a priority. 

“This additional funding is a major victory for the disability community, but our work is not done,” said Rylie Shewbridge, Director of Government Relations for The Arc. “We must continue to advocate for the resources and policies that empower people with disabilities to live with dignity, independence, and opportunity.” 

The Maryland Legislative Session will remain open for the next several weeks, and we must continue working for this critical funding to remain intact, for essential services to be expanded, and for the rights of people with disabilities to be prioritized in policy decisions. 

How You Can Get Involved 

• Attend a Hearing: Many budget discussions are open to public testimony, providing an opportunity to share personal stories and advocate for continued funding. To find information on upcoming public hearings, visit the Maryland General Assembly website. 

• Engage on Social Media: Use social media platforms to spread awareness and encourage others to reach out to their legislators. You can keep up to date with important events by following The Arc. 

• Join Advocacy Groups: Organizations like The Arc Maryland and Disability Rights Maryland, and The Arc’s Living Boldly provide resources and coordinated advocacy efforts to support disability funding. 

Observed every March, Developmental Disability Awareness Month (DDAM) celebrates people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and highlights how people with and without disabilities come together to form strong communities while continuing to advocate for greater inclusion, accessibility, and opportunities.  

The Arc Central Chesapeake Region (The Arc) joins organizations across the country to celebrate DDAM. This year’s theme: We’re Here All Year, emphasizes that community, accessibility, and opportunities for people with IDD should be recognized and championed every day – not just in March. People with IDD are essential members of our communities and deserve both choice and full participation in all aspects of life. DDAM is a powerful reminder of why we do this work—not just to provide services, but to transform communities and create a world where people with IDD are valued, supported, and empowered. 

The History and Evolution of Developmental Disability Awareness Month 

Developmental Disability Awareness Month DDAM was first recognized in 1987 when President Ronald Reagan called on all Americans to promote more opportunities for people with IDD to live independently and fully participate in society. Since then, DDAM has grown into a nationwide effort to raise awareness, advance policy changes, and celebrate the achievements of people with IDD. 

National campaigns, notably those spearheaded by the National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities (NACDD) amplify the voices of people with IDD through storytelling, social media engagement, and public events that challenge outdated perceptions.  

Initiatives like DDAM support disability rights groups to advocate for legislation that enhances access to housing, healthcare, employment, and education for people with IDD. These concerted efforts have historically led to significant reforms, such as the enactment of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in 1990 and increased investments in inclusive programs. 

While DDAM provides an opportunity for heightened awareness, true awareness happens when we commit to creating opportunities for inclusion year-round. 

A Legacy Rooted in Advocacy 

The Arc was founded in 1961 by a group of parents who wanted a different life for their children with IDD. While people with IDD faced systemic exclusion from education, employment, and community life, these parents took a stand, demanding change. Their determination was part of a larger national movement, which saw the creation of Arc chapters across the country, each working toward a common goal: ensuring that people with IDD have the same rights, opportunities, and quality of life as anyone else.  

Over the last six decades, The Arc has grown and expanded in ways far beyond our founders’ expectations. Yet, our focus on community, constant innovation, and the connection between services, housing, and community development are exactly what they set out to do.  

They knew more was possible, and we’re proud to say that today, our work continues their legacy of knowing that we can always do more to create equitable communities. Our work is fueled by creativity, innovation, opportunity, and their original vision of a community where everyone – including people with IDD – is welcome, included, and empowered. It inspires us to continue to reimagine what communities can and should look like and prompts us to ask: what else can be done, and what else is possible? 

As we celebrate Developmental Disability Awareness Month DDAM, we reflect on the ways we live the theme: We’re Here All Year. The Arc supports and advocates for people with IDD every day, empowering people to live the lives they choose for themselves. That means:  

• Creating Inclusive Housing Opportunities: The Arc works to create accessible housing options for people with IDD, ensuring they have stable living environments that foster independence and community integration. 

• Ensuring Access to Employment: Through our Workforce Development program, The Arc helps people with IDD access meaningful employment, providing training and job placement services to break down barriers in the workforce. 

• Advocating for Disability Rights: The Arc actively advocates for policies and legislation that protect and enhance the rights of people with IDD, such as increasing access to healthcare, education, and community services. We also encourage self-advocacy through Living Boldly, a public group open to anyone with an intellectual or developmental disability.   

• Community Integration and Support Services: The Arc provides a variety of services to help people with IDD live independently and participate fully in their communities, including Living Options and Services, Day Services, Behavioral Health, and support for families. 

Be a Part of the Movement 

DDAM is not just a celebration; it’s a call to action. While incredible progress has been made, true inclusion requires bold thinking, persistent advocacy, and a commitment to removing barriers. 

As we reflect on our history and look toward the future, we invite you to be part of this movement: 

• Engage in conversations about inclusion in your workplace and community. 

• Support policies that promote equity and accessibility for people with IDD. 

• Donate to The Arc to help build a more inclusive future. 

• Join our Newsletter or engage with us on social media to stay up to date on IDD news and events.  

The work we do today is part of a legacy that started over 60 years ago. And just like our founders knew then, we know that more is possible.