The Arc, Upper Valley

09/04/2026

Be sure to stop by our booth! We look forward to seeing you all on September 29th!

09/02/2026

CPR and National Disability Rights Partners Condemn DOJ’s Proposed Elimination of the Integration Requirement in Federal Rule

On August 31, 2026, the Department of Justice (DOJ), on behalf of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), along with Texas, Florida and Alaska filed a proposed resolution of Texas v. Kennedy. These states challenged the HHS 2024 regulations implementing Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability by recipients of federal funds. The lawsuit focuses on the regulations’ provisions regarding community integration for people with disabilities. The resolution asks the court to enter an order vacating references to community integration throughout the Section 504 regulations, including the entirety of the integration provision. The resolution does not impact other portions of the 2024 HHS Section 504 Rule.

We strongly and unequivocally condemn the actions of DOJ and HHS. This resolution continues the federal government's abandonment of its duty to enforce the right of people with disabilities to live in their own homes and communities. The resolution relies on the June 18, 2026 memo from the DOJ’s Office of Legal Counsel. That memo reflects the federal government's reversal of its longstanding interpretation of the law and of its own authority. The federal government’s Section 504 regulations have included integration provisions since 1977.

To be clear, this resolution does not and cannot change longstanding legal precedent interpreting the requirements of Section 504 or the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Nor does it change the ADA or Section 504 themselves. Only Congress can change the law.
DOJ's new interpretation of the Supreme Court’s decision in Olmstead v. L.C., the ADA, and Section 504 is simply wrong and inconsistent with 50 years of law. DOJ itself admits that its interpretation is "out of step" with the interpretation of the law by courts across the country.

The disability community opposes any effort to turn back the clock on disability rights and community integration or to strip disabled people of their dignity and autonomy. We join together against discrimination and segregation of people with disabilities.

This statement was created by The Arc of the United States, Bazelon Center for Mental Health Law, Center for Public Representation, Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund, Justice in Aging, the National Health Law Program, and American Civil Liberties Union, with contributions by Alison Barkoff, Hirsh Health Law and Policy Associate Professor, George Washington University.

09/01/2026

Shop for a Cause: The Arc Upper Valley Online Store

We are excited to introduce The Arc Upper Valley’s new online store!

Our merchandise is designed to amplify the work we do in the community and remind others that “Your Voice Matters.” Wearing and sharing merchandise featuring our messages and logo helps spread awareness about The Arc Upper Valley, our mission, and the importance of advocacy and inclusion.

When you shop for a cause, you are doing more than purchasing merchandise. All proceeds from our online store directly support The Arc Upper Valley’s advocacy efforts in our community and help us continue making a difference for individuals with disabilities and their families.

Shop our online store and help us spread the message that Your Voice Matters!
More information will be added to our website soon. Until then, use the link below to start shopping today!

https://www.bonfire.com/store/the-arc-upper-valley/?utm_source=copy_link&utm_medium=store_page_share&utm_campaign=the-arc-upper-valley&utm_content=default

Thank you for supporting The Arc Upper Valley and helping us make a difference in our community!

We promote and protect the human rights of people with disabilities and support their inclusion in the community throughout their lifetime.

09/01/2026

09/01/2026

Celebrating Carla Hanson: 37 Years of Dedication

After 37 years of dedicated service to The Arc Upper Valley, Carla Hanson retired this past January, leaving behind a legacy of hard work, kindness, positivity, and meaningful connections.

In our latest blog, Carla reflects on her remarkable career, the relationships she built along the way, and the experiences and supports that helped her build greater independence throughout her life. She also shares her thoughts on meaningful employment, workplace inclusion, and the importance of believing in each person’s abilities.

As Carla enjoys this new chapter of retirement, we are grateful for the many years she shared with The Arc Upper Valley and the lasting impact she has made on our organization and community.

Read the full blog to learn more about Carla’s journey and help us celebrate her incredible 37-year career!

https://www.thearcuppervalley.org/post/a-life-of-service-a-legacy-of-joy

08/24/2026

ND HHS is notifying families after a phishing attack this July exposed protected health information for some Developmental Disabilities service recipients — including name, DOB, medical and service details, and, in some cases, guardian information.

If you get a letter, check whose info is actually listed — it may not be just the service recipient's. Standard fraud-alert steps apply: monitor your accounts and be wary of unexpected calls or emails requesting personal info.

If you have questions about the incident or your letter, please contact HHS directly at (800) 755-8529.

https://www.hhs.nd.gov/news/media-notice-security-notice-unauthorized-access-phi

08/19/2026

🎉 Join us for the 2026 Inter-Agency Picnic!

Check out our event page for all the details. We are looking forward to a fun evening of food, activities, and community connection. We hope to see you there!

📣 View the Event: https://www.facebook.com/share/1CAwJ1m2zS/

08/11/2026

It is time for our membership drive!

Join The Arc Upper Valley and add your voice to a growing community committed to stronger advocacy, greater inclusion, and more opportunities for people with disabilities and their families.

Join us. Add your voice. Make a difference.

➡️ Learn more and become a member: https://www.thearcuppervalley.org/membership

08/11/2026

🎒 Check out our latest blog and let us help you prepare for back to school!

Back-to-school transitions can take a little extra planning for children with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. Jade McGuire, former MSW intern with The Arc Upper Valley, shares practical tips families can use to prepare for the school year, including creating an "All About Me" page to help school staff get to know your child from the very beginning.

➡️ Read the full blog: https://www.thearcuppervalley.org/post/back-to-school-guide-for-children-with-intellectual-and-developmental-disabilities

Have questions as you prepare for the new school year? The Arc Upper Valley is here to help. We work alongside individuals with disabilities and their families to navigate education, understand their options, prepare for important conversations, and advocate for what they need.

07/28/2026

Just a reminder that we will be online tonight offering support for caregivers. Please register by following the link below. We can't wait to visit with you this evening, as we walk beside you on your journey.

Follow the link to RSVP.
https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/UR8v9CBUTmuPuwOg47qvBg

💙 We heard your requests and are continuing to offer our Walking Beside You Caregiver Support Group. Join us tomorrow night to connect with other caregivers, share experiences, and find support, resources, and encouragement. 🤝

🔗 Follow the link to RSVP. https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/UR8v9CBUTmuPuwOg47qvBg

We hope to see you there! 😊