We are lucky to collaborate with Texans with intellectual and development disabilities (IDD) and their families, and to see how their lived experience can shape a world where they are included in their communities, schools and workplaces with services and supports that meet their needs and choices. As the end of 2023 nears, please donate to help us continue our critical work.

Your donation will be DOUBLED thanks to 

Providence First's matching challenge sponsorship!

Take, for example, our public policy and advocacy efforts. “People with disabilities deserve better and I’m working to be a part of that,” says Veronica Ayala, President-Elect of The Arc of Texas Board of Directors, and a self-advocate with Cerebral Palsy. As someone who spent time in a Texas state-supported living center, Veronica has seen what can come from exclusionary policies – and as someone who has been in the workforce for 20 years, she knows what’s possible for people with disabilities when given the opportunity to shine! 

From holding the line against attacks on community integration for people with IDD, to standing tall against discriminatory schemes that sideline students with disabilities in our education system, we've seen hard-earned victories, yet there’s still a whole lot to be done to ensure Texans with IDD can thrive.

“When I am asked about The Arc of Texas, I feel a sense of pride," says Veronica. "I’m honored to work among a dedicated group of people as committed to community inclusion as I am. The Arc of Texas has given me a voice, a purpose, and a community where I belong. Embracing my identity as a self-advocate, I've found strength in my disability.”

Ashley Ford, Director of Public Policy and Advocacy for The Arc of Texas, shares, "Working alongside hardworking self-advocates and community members like Veronica across our great state, we're fostering a movement that champions the rights of individuals with IDD." We cannot do it without you.

Gratefully,

Jennifer Martinez
Chief Executive Officer
The Arc of Texas

P.S. – Your donation is tax-deductible (EIN 74-1342667). If you prefer to donate via check, please make it out to “The Arc of Texas” and mail it to 8001 Centre Park Drive, Suite 100, Austin, TX 78754. Donations post-marked by December 31 are tax-deductible in 2023.

If you already donated this year, thank you. 

Please consider a year-end gift (or contact us to increase your recurring donation amount) to help us meet our 2023 fundraising needs.