Every year, advocates from across Maryland eagerly anticipate Developmental Disabilities Day at the Legislature (DD Day), the state’s largest advocacy event dedicated to advancing the rights and opportunities of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). The Arc Central Chesapeake Region (The Arc) joined self-advocates, families, and service providers on Thursday at The Graduate Annapolis to ensure that the perspectives of people with IDD are heard and represented at the highest levels of government. 

What is Developmental Disabilities Day? 

DD Day is an annual event that brings together hundreds of advocates, service providers, legislators, and state officials to discuss policies and initiatives that impact the lives of people with IDD and their families every day. Hosted by the Maryland Developmental Disabilities Council, DD Day is an opportunity to engage directly with lawmakers, learn about key legislative issues, and build momentum for policies that promote inclusion, accessibility, and opportunity. Thursday’s event focused on proposed legislative changes and budget cuts, addressing the critical challenges faced by the IDD community.  

Despite fog and snow, more than 1,000 people gathered in Annapolis to advocate against steep budget cuts. This year’s event carried a particular sense of urgency as attendees voiced concerns over the impact the proposed budget cuts will have on services, inclusion, and opportunities for people with IDD. 

Rachel London, Executive Director of the Maryland Developmental Disabilities Council, welcomed everyone and acknowledged the concerns on everyone’s minds, stating, “I want to start by acknowledging the fear and frustration we are all feeling.” However, she offered a note of hope, sharing the effect of the emergency rally on Feb 3, 2025. “We’ve gotten the governor’s attention. I am happy to report that members of the DD Coalition have met with high-level members of the governor’s team, and they very much want to work with us to try and find a path forward.”   

Following the speakers, a review of the proposed cuts was given, along with the impact the cuts would have on Marylanders both with and without IDD. Advocates then walked to the State House to meet face-to-face with legislators and their staff, ensuring their voices were heard and the needs of people with IDD were prioritized through legislation that promotes inclusion and equity.  

Why Advocacy Events Matter 

The Maryland General Assembly plays a crucial role in shaping policies that affect Marylanders with IDD. Advocacy events – like DD Day – play a critical role in connecting advocates and lawmakers, providing a platform for people to share their lived experiences directly with decision-makers. With the entire state facing significant budget cuts, the advocacy taking place at events like DD Day is more important than ever. 

“Grassroots advocacy works—this year’s Developmental Disabilities Day proved that,” said Rylie Shewbridge, Director of Government Relations for The Arc. “When people with disabilities, families, and advocates come together to share their stories, it creates momentum and drives real change.” 

Through advocacy, The Arc strengthens its partnerships with legislators and community leaders, reinforcing the collective effort to achieve greater inclusion and equity. Advocacy doesn’t stop after one day—it is an ongoing commitment to ensuring that people with disabilities have access to affordable housing, employment opportunities, quality education, healthcare, and the resources they need to live the life they choose for themselves. 

Join the Movement 

DD Day is more than just an event—it’s a call to action. Whether attending in person, tuning in to the live stream, or engaging with legislators throughout the year, every advocate plays a crucial role in shaping the future of disability rights in Maryland.  

The Arc encourages all supporters to get involved, stay informed, and continue advocating for policies that empower people with disabilities. To stay on top of legislative events like this, please join The Arc’s Newsletter and follow us on social media.

Governor Moore’s FY26 budget includes several significant cuts to services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), which will negatively affect their access to opportunities, their support systems’ financial security, and home- and community-based organizations like The Arc. 

Action Alert: The Arc encourages all Marylanders with IDD, their families, support systems, and fellow community-based organizations to attend the Developmental Disabilities Coalition rally: 

Emergency Rally to Protect Developmental Disability Services 

📅 Date: Monday, February 3, 2025 

⏰ Time: 7:00 – 8:15 PM 

📍 Location: Lawyers Mall, Annapolis, MD (Directly in front of the State House, 100 State Circle) 

👥 Who Should Attend? People with disabilities, families, service providers, and all who care about the future of Developmental Disability services in Maryland. 

Get More Details About the Rally Here.

Over the last several years, Maryland has made historic investments in services for people with IDD to improve the quality, flexibility, and customization of those services. People’s lives are complex, and these investments brought greater self-determination and autonomy for people with IDD to live the lives they choose for themselves. Simply put, reducing funding for these key services now is unacceptable. 

The proposed revision of the Dedicated Hours Policy to require providers to exhaust Shared Hours in Community Living first will significantly impact the day-to-day lives of people with IDD. Being able to provide Dedicated Hours means people with IDD living with housemates don’t always have to do everything together. Withholding access to Dedicated Hours also goes against the spirit of the federal Community Rule that requires people to have choice in their daily activities. 

The governor’s budget doesn’t only involve revisions and reductions; it also includes eliminating entire services like the Low Intensity Support Services (LISS) Program. This change would negatively impact hundreds of people seeking a chance at support. The lottery for support through LISS is a lifeline for people and families who deserve access to quality-of-life-enhancing services they can’t get elsewhere. 

Cutting funding now means Community Living will become less person-centered, and LISS will cease to exist. Even if there are some cost-containing measures that are necessary, The Arc recommends a slow ramp to implementing any changes with opportunities for discussion and community input to ensure continuity of services.  

The Arc remains opposed to the proposed budget cuts in Governor Moore’s budget related to services for people with IDD as they currently are. 

We are pleased to announce that our President & CEO, Jonathon Rondeau, has been elected Vice President of the Board of Directors for the Anne Arundel County Affordable Housing Coalition (AAAHC). As a strong advocate for equitable and inclusive housing, Jonathon brings a wealth of experience to the board and a deep commitment to expanding affordable housing opportunities in Anne Arundel County.

“Housing is more than a basic need – it’s the foundation of opportunity, stability, and inclusion in everyone’s life,” said Rondeau. “The AAAHC’s work creating meaningful solutions to the housing problems in our communities has profound impacts in people’s lives, and I am eager to work alongside them in creating equitable access to high-quality housing for all residents of Anne Arundel County.”

Founded over 30 years ago, the AAAHC plays a vital role in advocating for policies and funding that enable the creation of affordable housing throughout Anne Arundel County. The Coalition encourages innovative programs and zoning flexibility while supporting both public and private efforts to develop smarter, affordable communities.

“Jonathon’s leadership and passion for community development will be a tremendous asset to our Board,” said Trudy McFall, Chair of the AAAHC. “He has demonstrated a strong commitment to affordable housing and brings a visionary approach that aligns with the Coalition’s mission to expand affordable housing options and create thriving communities across Anne Arundel County.”

As a self-sustaining membership organization, the AAAHC brings together a diverse range of stakeholders, including nonprofit organizations, developers, builders, advocates, public officials, and other professionals, to share ideas, network, and advance innovative, affordable housing strategies.

Jonathon’s service on the Board aligns with The Arc’s work developing affordable, accessible, and inclusive housing throughout the region. Jonathon’s leadership marks an exciting step for the Coalition as it continues to champion policies and programs that ensure affordable housing is accessible to all.

The Arc Central Chesapeake Region (The Arc) is excited to announce the Family Fund will begin accepting applications on February 1, 2025. This year, The Arc plans to distribute $113,000, setting a new record for the most money distributed by the Family Fund since its founding in 2017.

What is the Family Fund?

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

“Too many families struggle to afford the resources their children need,” said Sara Pease, Assistant Director of Children, Youth, & Their Families. “We founded the Family Fund, so families don’t have to choose between meeting their child’s basic needs and accessing the critical resources and support they deserve. In the eight years we’ve awarded these funds, we’ve seen incredible outcomes from the children it has supported.”

The Family Fund has grown from distributing $14,000 in its first year to awarding nearly $95,000 to 107 children in 2024 for therapies, respite care, educational assistance, camps, and more. To read more about some of the families the fund has supported in the last year, click here.

What will the Family Fund Support?

The Family Fund supports life-enriching opportunities that are not covered by insurance, including specialized speech therapy, equine therapy, customized leg braces, swimming lessons, music lessons, and more.

What matters most is the impact on your child’s quality of life. Applications that clearly demonstrate impact on the child (and family) are more likely to be funded. Please note: The Family Fund will not support requests for home improvements or renovations, bill or utility payments, groceries, personal care items, debt repayment, or prior funded services.

Who Is Eligible & How Can I Apply?

The application for the Family Fund will open on February 1 and close on February 21. To be eligible, families must:

• Have a child with IDD under the age of 21 as of January 1, 2025.
• Live in one of the nine counties supported by The Arc Central Chesapeake Region (Anne Arundel, Caroline, Dorchester, Kent, Talbot, Queen Anne’s, Somerset, Wicomico, Worcester).
• Complete and submit the online application before February 21, 2025.

The Arc’s team is committed to ensuring every eligible family has the opportunity to receive the support they need. If you require assistance completing the online application or English is your second language, please contact our Family Navigator at resources@thearcccr.org prior to February 21, 2025.

Tips for a Strong Application

Once received, applications are reviewed by a committee, and applicants will be notified of a decision (including no funding) by March 22, 2025.  Applications should be as complete and detailed as possible, highlighting the impact requests will have on the child and family. To view a sample application, please click here.

When completing your application, we strongly recommend you:

• Be thorough: Provide detailed and accurate information about your request.
• Share costs: Include specific costs that support your request – like exact model numbers, cost per session, etc. These details will help the committee determine an appropriate award amount if you are awarded partial funding.
• Share impact: Use the application to explain how the grant will make a difference in your family’s life and for your child in particular.

A Growing Legacy of Support

Since 2017, the Family Fund has granted more than $250,000 to hundreds of children with IDD, including dedicated funding for children with autism provided by The Bowen Foundation for Autism. Each year, the Family Fund serves more families and distributes more funding, reflecting both the increasing needs within our community and the generosity of those who support the program.

“We are incredibly grateful that the community sees the need for this program and understands the importance of ensuring that children and families have access to these critical resources,” said Caroline Slobodzian, Director of Development. “The Family Fund has grown tremendously every year, including the creation of an endowment fund with the goal of ensuring these supports continue in perpetuity.”

Every dollar raised for the Family Fund is granted back to the community.

For more information on how to support the Family Fund, contact give@thearcccr.org or visit Other Ways to Give

The Arc Central Chesapeake Region’s award-winning Total Rewards program is a cornerstone of our investment in our employees, highlighting the transformational changes we’ve made over the last five years, prioritizing quality and affordability. In 2024, The Arc earned three national awards from Health Rosetta for our innovative, cost-effective, and high-quality healthcare for employees.

One of the most innovative and strategic additions to The Arc’s Total Rewards package is Health at Work. Launched in February 2024, Health at Work provides on-site primary and urgent care health services to all employees free of charge, regardless of whether they are enrolled in The Arc’s medical insurance plan. Employees’ spouse/partner/dependents who are enrolled in medical insurance through The Arc also have full access to Health at Work.

“Health at Work reflects our commitment to putting employees first,” said Brandy Stephens, Vice President of People & Culture. “By bringing high-quality, accessible healthcare directly to our team, we’re investing in their well-being and building a healthier, more empowered workplace.”

February 1 marks the one-year anniversary of Health at Work. This milestone represents a significant achievement in providing more convenient and compassionate healthcare for The Arc’s employees and their families.

What is Health at Work?

Launched in partnership with ModRN Health, Health at Work offers free on-site urgent and primary care with same-day in-person and virtual appointments available every Monday through Friday with some early hours and late hours during the week.

Health at Work clinics are located in The Arc’s Severn and Easton offices; employees and qualified dependents can also access this vital service virtually, removing any barriers to care.

In addition to the health suites, a 24/7 Registered Nurse (RN) is available by phone, text, and email and acts as an immediate healthcare consultant to help determine the severity of medical situations and determine what next steps are needed.

Through Health at Work, Arc employees and qualified dependents can access:

• Convenient, on-site primary and urgent care
• Same-day appointments and testing for illnesses like strep, flu, and COVID
• Routine well visits and preventative care
• Telehealth appointments with a doctor from ModRN Health
• Chronic health management
• Prescriptions that can be filled at any major pharmacy
• Insurance review, prior authorization & claims assistance
• Care coordination – finding a doctor or specialist, navigating referrals, follow-up appointments, and more.

Why Health at Work?

Over 100 million Americans – nearly one-third of the nation – do not have access to a primary care provider (PCP). Not having a PCP means that many people rely on costly urgent care or emergency room visits when they have a standard medical issue or they go without treatment. The lack of access to primary care also means people don’t have the ongoing support they need to manage chronic health conditions like diabetes.

In a healthcare landscape where so many are without essential health services, Health at Work is making a tangible difference. With convenient access to both urgent and preventative care, employees no longer have to rely on costly urgent care and can avoid the long wait times they would experience with a typical provider. 

Over the past year, Health at Work has conducted over 500 appointments for employees and their dependents for a wide variety of health needs. From preventative check-ups and routine bloodwork to chronic condition management and same-day testing for illnesses like strep and COVID, the program has shown both versatility and value.

Sayyed Hussain, RN from ModRN Health, is a key part of the program’s success. Valued by employees for his compassionate approach, Sayyed takes time to get to know employees, hear their concerns, and educate them about their health, ensuring they feel heard and cared for during every visit.

“Being part of Health at Work has been incredibly rewarding,” said Sayyed. “The opportunity to build trust with employees and support their health in a meaningful way has been an honor. Seeing the positive impact on their lives and well-being motivates me every day.”

Health at Work Success Stories

The program’s impact is evident in the experiences shared by employees and their qualified dependents. Many describe how Health at Work has not only improved their health but also removed the stress and frustration of navigating traditional healthcare systems.

One Direct Support Professional (DSP), Tammy Minarik, shared:

“It was so convenient. I had to have bloodwork done, and not only did Sayyed see me early since he was available, but it was also quick and gentle. I was in and out… that wouldn’t happen at a typical doctor’s office.”

Another DSP, Amber Banos, highlighted the personalized care:

“I’ve been there for a couple of things, and Sayyed is so patient. He spent two hours with me once because I’m a hard stick, haha. It’s a wonderful service to have. I’ve even texted him after hours, and he’s responded.”

Ashaundi Spencer, DSP, emphasized the program’s efficiency and accessibility:

“This is one of the best benefits The Arc has. It’s been better than going to my own doctor’s office. Sayeed checks up on me, reminds me of appointments, and gives referrals when needed. It’s so easy to communicate with him, and he responds right back. I can get appointments the next day or even the same day.”

A Model for Employee-Centric Care

As Health at Work enters its second year, it stands as an example of how organizations can prioritize the health and well-being of their teams while fostering a supportive, inclusive workplace culture. Health at Work demonstrates The Arc’s commitment to employee-centric care by removing barriers and ensuring that employees have access to the resources they need.

To learn more about Health at Work or start accessing this benefit today, review our Total Rewards Guide.

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. That work extends beyond supporting individual people – it’s about reimagining neighborhoods, cities, and towns as accessible spaces where everyone belongs.

The communities we envision are possible, and Chesapeake Community Development is a critical partner in making these communities a reality.

Through innovative development projects and a commitment to listening to the needs of local communities, Chesapeake Community Development is building the infrastructure for a better future, one where people with IDD can live the lives they choose in communities that are inclusive and welcoming.

“Our work began with providing affordable and accessible housing to people with IDD in communities across the region where everyone feels like they belong,” said Ross Benincasa, Senior Vice President of Community Development for Chesapeake Community Development. “We are proud to bring the same energy and vision around inclusion, access, and belonging to all of the residential, retail, and commercial spaces we are developing in 2025 and in the years to come.”

Building for the Future

Like all aspects of The Arc’s enterprise, Chesapeake Community Development has grown exponentially in recent years, with a robust portfolio of development projects, including Port Street Commons, which opened in 2024. With more than 180 units slated for completion by 2030, we anticipate that well over 200 families will be living in a home built by Chesapeake Community Development within the next 5 years.

“As community leaders, we listen to the families in our neighborhoods when they tell us about wanting to live somewhere safe and affordable that is also close to community resources, amenities, transportation, and their workplaces,” said Benincasa. “With the success of Port Street Commons in Easton and our years of experience creating housing for people with IDD, we have a reputation for creating exactly what our communities need and want for themselves.”

What’s Next for Chesapeake Community Development

Chesapeake Community Development has numerous properties in various stages of development, all of which are part of the vision for building more accessible communities that provide housing, resources, and opportunities for economic self-sufficiency.

2025 marks the beginning of demolition and site work for two transformative projects in Easton, MD – Easton Crossing and Silo Court.

Easton Crossing is located on a 6.5-acre former agribusiness site in the heart of Easton, MD. Demolition is anticipated to begin in February, with Phase One construction beginning in 2026. The mixed-use development was designed with input from the community and will feature over 120 residential units. Approximately 30% of the units will be affordable, with the remaining 70% offered at market-rate. Additionally, 20,000 square feet of commercial space will line the Rail-to-Trails, promoting economic growth while creating a vibrant community hub. With green spaces, a fishing pond, and a dog walking trail, Easton Crossing blends residential, commercial, and recreational elements to reflect the aspirations of Easton’s residents.

The construction of Silo Court will begin in Fall 2025. The 28-townhome community 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.

Chesapeake Community Development continues Phase One construction of The Primrose House, located in Easton’s Historic District, anticipating the completion this spring. This phase of construction involves 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.

Construction of The Laura House will start 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.

The WB&A North Expansion 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. 

At 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 Vision of Inclusive Growth

As Chesapeake Community Development launches these ambitious projects, it’s clear that the future holds more inclusive opportunities for communities across the state. These developments are more than just buildings—they are vibrant spaces designed to foster connection, opportunity, and growth. By blending affordable and market-rate housing, incorporating thoughtful design elements like green spaces and accessibility features, and engaging local communities in the planning process, Chesapeake Community Development is setting a new standard for what housing can achieve.

We are proud to announce that Jonathon Rondeau, our President & CEO, has been appointed to the Board of Directors of the Waterfowl Festival. The Waterfowl Festival is a highly anticipated annual event that highlights art, conservation efforts, and the rich heritage of the Eastern Shore. Jonathon’s appointment underscores his exceptional leadership and commitment to advancing inclusive, community-focused initiatives that address the diverse needs of the region. 

“I am honored to join the Waterfowl Festival Board of Directors and contribute to a tradition that exemplifies the spirit of the Eastern Shore,” said Jonathon.  “Part of advancing the Waterfowl Festival’s mission is advocating for greater inclusion and accessibility, bringing people with disabilities to the table, and supporting the vast economic impact the event has on the region. I am excited to be a part of it.” 

The Waterfowl Festival has been a fixture on the Eastern Shore for over five decades, attracting tens of thousands of visitors annually and providing a significant economic boost to Talbot County and beyond. Recognizing the impact of the Festival, The Arc has been a major sponsor of the Community Impact Breakfast for nearly five years. The breakfast, hosted in partnership with Waterfowl and Talbot County Economic Development, brings together leaders from all sectors. 

“We are thrilled to welcome Jonathon to the Waterfowl Festival Board of Directors,” said Deena Kilmon, Executive Director of the Waterfowl Festival. “His passion for fostering meaningful connections and building inclusive communities is what we need as we work to make Waterfowl accessible and impactful for all.”

Jonathon’s work with The Arc emphasizes the importance of building inclusive communities, exemplified through projects like the recently opened Port Street Commons in Easton. Jonathon’s vision aligns with Waterfowl’s commitment to community and impact, and his presence on the board marks an important step toward integrating broader perspectives into the planning and execution, paving the way for a more inclusive and accessible future for this time-honored event. 

On Tuesday, The Baltimore Banner hosted its second annual Inside the Legislative Session event at the Graduate Annapolis, bringing together Maryland’s top policymakers, business leaders, and community advocates to address the state’s most pressing policy challenges. Among the key discussions was The Debate over Housing and Community Development: The Rise of YIMBYism, which included Jonathon Rondeau, President & CEO of The Arc Central Chesapeake Region (The Arc). 

This panel delves into the growing “Yes in My Backyard” (YIMBY) movement, which champions new, creative housing development initiatives as a solution to Maryland’s housing affordability crisis. With Maryland facing increasing demand for diverse, affordable, and inclusive housing options, this conversation could not come at a more critical time. 

Why YIMBYism Matters 

The YIMBY movement seeks to break down barriers to housing development, advocating for thoughtful policies that increase housing supply and address affordability. The YIMBY movement is a direct response to the “Not in My Backyard” NIMBY movement where people admit the need for more resources in their communities but have significant reservations about implementing the solutions near their own homes. 

The YIMBY approach aligns with The Arc’s vision to create inclusive communities where everyone, including people with disabilities, has access to safe and affordable housing. 

Jonathon brings a wealth of experience, drawing on The Arc’s successful community development portfolio, such as the recently opened Port Street Commons in Easton, which combines affordable housing, office space, and community resources in one innovative development.  

About The Panel 

The Inside the Legislative Session event offered a unique platform to hear from state leaders and policy experts about issues shaping Maryland’s future. The housing and community development panel was moderated by Hallie Miller, housing reporter for The Baltimore Banner, and included other distinguished speakers such as: 

• Jake Day, Maryland Secretary of Housing and Community Development 

• Krish O’Mara Vignarajah, President & CEO of Global Refuge 

• Michael Sanderson, Executive Director, Maryland Association of Counties 

• Vaughn Stewart, Maryland State Delegate 

Attendees gained valuable insights into how Maryland can address housing affordability, encourage sustainable development, and foster inclusivity in growing communities. Inside the Legislative Session also featured a conversation with Governor Wes Moore about the state’s budget.  

The Arc’s Role in Building Inclusive Communities 

At The Arc Central Chesapeake Region, community development is about more than constructing buildings—it’s about creating opportunities and empowering people. Projects like Port Street Commons and upcoming Easton Crossing exemplify The Arc’s commitment as an enterprise to addressing the diverse needs across the communities we serve.  

Through these efforts, The Arc is shaping the conversation around housing affordability and demonstrating the positive impact of inclusive, community-focused development. 

As Maryland grapples with housing affordability and accessibility challenges, discussions about YIMBYism and the topics covered during the panel are essential for crafting effective solutions. By participating in events like Inside the Legislative Session, The Arc continues to advocate for policies and projects that benefit everyone in our communities. 

On Thursday, January 9, 2025, 33 members of The Arc Central Chesapeake Region and The self-advocacy group, Living Boldly, joined other chapters of The Arc from across Maryland at Calendar Day 2025. Held annually on the second day of the Maryland Legislative Session, advocates and members of The Arc gather at Lawyers Mall in Annapolis, equipped with calendars and enthusiasm, to advocate for the rights and well-being of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). 

What is Calendar Day? 

Calendar Day is an annual tradition that brings together The Arc community from all across Maryland to raise awareness and advocate for people with IDD, honoring the grassroots spirit and legacy of The Arc. Advocates and supporters visit their legislators and members of the administration to distribute calendars highlighting the impact of each chapter of The Arc. These calendars showcase personal stories from people with IDD and their families, and includes important legislative dates, special chapter events, and even birthdays of lawmakers—helping to build relationships and keep key issues top of mind throughout the legislative session. 

Calendar Day is about much more than just distributing calendars. It’s about making connections and ensuring the voices of people with IDD are heard.  

“Calendar Day is a celebration of the power of advocacy and connection,” says Rylie Shewbridge, Director of Government Relations at The Arc Central Chesapeake Region. “It’s about bringing people together—advocates, families, and legislators—to ensure that the needs of people with IDD remain a priority in our state.”  

Calendar Day provides a platform to influence public policy and ensure that important issues such as behavioral health, access to services, and disability rights remain at the forefront of legislative agendas. 

The Importance of Legislative Engagement 

The Maryland General Assembly plays a crucial role in shaping laws that affect Marylanders with IDD, and the annual 90-day session gives lawmakers the opportunity to create policies that can improve the lives of people with disabilities. By meeting directly with elected officials, events like Calendar Day help connect advocates and lawmakers, ensuring the needs of people with IDD are prioritized and that policies continue to promote inclusion and equity. 

In preparation for the event, the 33 advocates who attended also participated in a Legislative Advocacy Training on January 7, which equipped participants with the tools to effectively communicate with legislators and members of the administration and provided insights into the critical legislation for the 2025 session. Armed with these skills, advocates are confident and ready to make a real impact on issues that affect people with IDD. 

A Unified Voice for Change 

Calendar Day 2025 serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of collaboration and advocacy. By coming together as a community, The Arc Central Chesapeake Region, alongside other chapters across the state, is working tirelessly to champion policies that support inclusion, opportunity, and equality for all. As calendars are shared and conversations unfold, The Arc is steadfast in its commitment to ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to live the life they choose.