Our Services
Personal Representation
The Arc of Midland serves as advocates, assisting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families in managing their finances. Together, The Arc of Midland and the individual develop a budget to manage their monthly SSI, SSDI payments and earned income. Such work includes assisting them with paying their bills, budgeting, and planning for achievement of personal goals such as purchasing a house, living independently, or having the funds for a vacation or special class. This support allows those with intellectual and developmental disabilities to live independently, but also insures the unbiased support and guidance of an intermediary as necessary. In addition, through this program we serve as guardian of person, guardian of estate, conservator or payee for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities as requested or required by law.
People First
People First is a group of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities that advocate for positive change in the community. The members seek to be seen as people, first; rather than by their disability.
The People First mission is to promote equal opportunity for all citizens, including those with intellectual and developmental disabilities. People First currently meets virtually on Zoom. Please email arcadmin@thearcofmidland.org to join today!
Sibling Support
The Arc of Midland provides support to siblings of people with disabilities through a variety of programs. Sibling ROOTS is offered to school-aged siblings, and is provided in two sessions, one for young siblings (K-5) and one for teen siblings (6-12). Sibling Roots meets once a month during the school year, and is a welcoming environment for siblings to share a story.
We provide informative programs for young adult siblings to learn about how to support their siblings in the future, should they become a primary caregiver. For older adult siblings, we offer assistance navigating the many supports available to their sibling, as well as systems advocacy.
Educational Advocacy
Our primary goal is to educate and or inform parents/guardians about their children’s right to a free and appropriate public education in the Least Restrictive Environment. The Arc of Midland offers educational advocacy services to parents/guardians and encourages students to be involved in the educational process and become stronger advocates for themselves.
We listen to parents/guardians and gather valuable information related to the current situation.
We review Individualized Education Programs (IEP) and other pertinent documents.
We assist with the navigation of the special education process and effectively partner with the school team.
We work as part of the team to resolve issues, advocating for the best educational opportunity and outcomes.
Public Policy Advocacy
The Arc of Midland advocates for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), preserving and protecting their fundamental rights through advocacy and action in support of legislation for civil rights, employment, housing and supports. We advocate to create hope, growth, and change at the local, state, and federal levels.
Healthy Relationships
The Arc of Midland provides education about healthy relationships to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The course addresses many types of relationships; co-workers, friends, parents and significant others. The class teaches about different types of relationships, positive and negative signs in relationships and how to recognize and maintain a healthy relationship.
