If you’ve been following The Arc’s work this year, you’ve already felt Meredith Sadoulet’s steady influence. She stepped into the role of Board President in January, and while she’s not new to the job anymore, many in our community may still be getting to know her. Meredith is thoughtful, values-driven, and deeply committed to creating a future where disability doesn’t limit opportunity. She’s a member of the disability community herself, a family member to people with disabilities, and a professional with years of experience leading workforce strategy and inclusion at Fortune 100 companies.

Before she officially took the helm, Meredith shared a powerful message at our National Convention—part reflection, part vision-setting, and a reminder of why The Arc exists in the first place. We’re sharing her message here with you. If you haven’t met Meredith yet, now’s your chance to get to know her.

“Having assumed the role of National Board President for the 2025-2026 term, I am deeply honored by the privilege and responsibility to serve an organization with a rich history of advocacy and a steadfast commitment to protecting and advancing the rights of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. For 75 years, The Arc has been a driving force for inclusion, and I am in awe of the collective impact of our nearly 600 chapters, their leaders and staff, and the communities we serve every day.”

“I imagine that each of us on this journey of advocacy with The Arc has a personal story about when our advocacy began. I can pinpoint the moment when the advocacy flame was lit inside of me. I recall being presented with a diagnosis and a fact sheet from the World Health Organization that accompanied it. The facts remain nearly the same as the ones I read over a decade ago: people with disabilities have poorer health outcomes, experience stigma, discrimination, poverty, and exclusion from education and employment, and more. This information being presented to me as fact—as a certain future—was the moment that lit my fire. Not just as an advocate for one, but as an advocate for all. I became someone who wanted to dedicate as much of my energy and skills as possible toward changing these outcomes.”

“As a person with disabilities (OCD and anxiety disorder), I’m a proud member of the disability community, and I’m grateful that my journey brought me to The Arc.

I’d like to imagine a new set of facts for the disability community.

What if a new fact sheet said:
‘Welcome to your community. You are part of one of the most powerful, connected communities on the planet. Your future is bright. Why? Because people with disabilities are likely to experience inclusive education, employment with robust pay and benefits, personal growth, security, and joy. Oh, and not just that. You’re more likely to help solve big, gnarly problems because this world wasn’t designed with you in mind, and yet you know how to navigate it. You’re more likely to spark innovation with products, services, and spaces—not just for yourself, but for everyone—because YOU bring value and insight to this world. Because you’re a person with a disability, you’re more likely to be a changemaker, both through the work you do and through the insight you bring to others.’

This is the world I wake up to every day trying to help build. And I’m honored to be on the journey with all of you.

So, how will we get there?

I’ve chosen three guiding values for my term as President:

1. Leadership by People with Disabilities
   We must ensure more people with disabilities, including those with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), are in positions of leadership and influence at a local, state, national, and global level. People with disabilities should not only have a seat at the table, but at the head of it, making decisions, influencing outcomes, and leading. We need systems shaped by lived experience, and we must commit to moving self-determination from theory to practice.
2. Strategic Focus to Make Meaningful Change
   From my time in large Fortune 100 companies, I’ve seen how easily priorities competing for attention can pile up and momentum gets lost. I hope we don’t try to tackle 50 things over the next 2 years. I hope we stay focused where we can make meaningful change, so that 2 years from now, we can point to real, permanent change we made together on a nationwide level. With one voice, one consistent and memorable introduction of who we are and what we do, one aligned strategy and focused set of priorities, I know we can make impact together.
3. Many Chapters & Constituents of The Arc, Yet One Community
   Across nearly 600 chapters, The Arc represents diverse communities, geographies, beliefs, and needs. We will honor those differences, yet try to seek commonality, knowing that we are stronger as one community. The Arc is strongest when we advocate as one voice for and with people with IDD.

Thank you for the chance to share my story, and my vision for our shared work. I’d love to hear your advocacy story, too. You can connect with me on LinkedIn. Together, let’s keep building a world where people with disabilities live with dignity, respect, and opportunity—and where the facts finally reflect that.“

What does a perfect day look like for a family that’s often navigating a world that excludes them? On July 9, families connected to The Arc of Ohio found out, thanks to our national partnership with Lids and the Lids Foundation.

It was a day full of joy, connection, and the kind of belonging that too often feels out of reach. And it all happened because a company chose to step up and demonstrate their commitment to valuing people with disabilities.

The day began at the Lids store in Kenwood Towne Center, where each family was paired with a Lids team member. Together, they picked out hats and shirts, added personal touches with custom stitching, and got to know one another. Lids gave each child a $250 gift card to shop, and it quickly became more than just a shopping trip. It was a chance for kids to feel seen, valued, and empowered.

Then came the main event.

At Great American Ball Park, families got VIP treatment from the moment they arrived. They watched batting practice from the field, met Cincinnati Reds pitcher Brent Suter, and felt welcomed by every staff member they encountered. Before the first pitch, families received gift cards to buy food, thanks to the Reds Community Fund. That small act made it even easier to just enjoy the moment. Then everyone settled into an accessible seating area and watched the Reds take home a win against the Marlins.

It was an evening full of energy and unforgettable moments:

• Logan, who has autism and is non-verbal, lit up as he explored the stadium with his parents and sister
• Noah, who has cerebral palsy and is non-verbal, beamed as his aide cheered alongside him
• Coralie, who has Williams syndrome, wore her new Reds cap proudly while enjoying stadium snacks with her mom and brother
• Daniel and Evie, siblings with autism and Down syndrome, chanted in the stands with their parents
• And Lids staff laughed, danced, and even went down the giant slide—because the kids asked them to

Jen Powers Alge, a mom and staff member at The Arc of Ohio, shared:
“The families were thrilled to have such an exciting experience. The employees at the Lids store were so warm and fun to shop with. Batting practice had the kids smiling from ear to ear, and the moms and dads were in awe of such a cool, inclusive experience. The Lids Foundation thought of everything to make the day safe, fun, inspiring, and engaging. We are so grateful for the ‘best day ever,’ as one of the kids exclaimed.”

Ted Harton, Senior District Sales Manager at Lids who joined the outing, reflected:
“This experience reminded me what really matters. Spending the day with these families, seeing their love, joy, and strength, was truly inspiring. It was a chance to step outside of the everyday and just be present with people who show us what community and family should look like.”

And while this was a single day, it reflects something bigger. Lids continues to grow its partnership with The Arc, from supporting The Arc@School program to launching an in-store campaign that brings our mission to life in more than 1,000 stores.

Katy Neas, CEO of The Arc of the United States, said:
“At a time when too many companies are quietly stepping back from diversity and inclusion, Lids is stepping up and making a real impact. Their support is reaching families nationwide, fueling vital programs, raising awareness, and creating moments of true connection. But this partnership is so meaningful to The Arc and the millions of people with disabilities and their families with whom we advocate. It deepens Lids’ ties to the communities they serve, energizes their employees, and shows their customers what authentic commitment to our shared values looks like. We need more partners who lead with such purpose. Lids is helping to build a more inclusive future for people with disabilities, and we’re proud to move forward together.”

Starting this August, Lids will once again feature The Arc in stores across the country. Shoppers will be invited to round up their purchase to donate to The Arc and customize their gear with The Arc’s logo—another chance to stand with people with disabilities in a meaningful way. See what’s coming this August.

To every family who joined us, and to every Lids employee who made the day so special: thank you. This is what inclusion feels like. And this is what’s possible when we build it together.

What makes a great dad or father figure?

For some, it’s a quiet kind of support that needs no spotlight. For others, it’s encouragement, guidance, a sense of safety, or someone who listens without judgment.

Sometimes that person is a biological father. Other times, it’s a stepdad, grandfather, mentor, teacher, or chosen family member. What matters isn’t the label—it’s how they show up and what they make possible. It’s not about being a perfect dad. It’s about being present, flexible, and fiercely in your corner.

This Father’s Day, we asked people with disabilities: How has your dad—or a father figure—shaped your life?

Here are six real stories about strength, support, and showing up.

Jonathan and his dad

“When I was 18, I was diagnosed with Ewing’s sarcoma, a rare and aggressive cancer. I also have autism, so I experience sensory things like touch and routine differently. When I found out I needed a port placed in my chest for chemotherapy, I was overwhelmed and scared. But my dad knew exactly what I needed. He gave me a Cookie Monster plush, one of my favorite characters, that had a real chemotherapy port sewn into his chest—just like mine. My dad made sure it looked exactly the way I would look, with tape and bandages too. Being able to feel the port on Cookie Monster helped me understand what was going to happen to my own body. That Cookie Monster, who we named Patient Cookie, came with me to every single appointment. It was like having a piece of my dad with me, especially on the days he couldn’t be there because of work. I am now 3 years Cancer Free and use Patient Cookie to teach medical students through Operation House Call with The Arc of Massachusetts. I use him to show future doctors and nurses that caring for someone with a disability means more than just treating their illness, it means taking the time to understand the whole person. My dad is the perfect example of that. He gave me comfort, safety, and a way to face something scary. He turned my fear into understanding, and that’s just one of the many reasons why my Dad is so important to me, and why I love him so much.”
— Jonathan Gardner lives in Massachusetts and has autism

Veronica and her stepdad

“My stepdad, Charlie, never tried to replace my father—he wanted to be my friend. I don’t call him Dad, but he’s been more of one than anyone else. He is very reserved but shows his love by being in my corner constantly and occasionally in my apartment with a wrench or a screwdriver. I often hear about how proud he is or how amazing he thinks I am from others. He doesn’t define me by the things I don’t have or can’t do because I have disability. He always just waited for me to tell him what I needed rather than assuming anything about what I couldn’t do. It feels great to know that someone as strong as he thinks that you are just as strong but in a different way. I recently lost my purse with my phone and ID in it before boarding a plane. I was able to contact my sister to let her know I might be stuck at the airport overnight. My mother went into a panic and wanted to jump in the car and bring me back home. Not Charlie. He calmly tells my mom not to worry. “She is a smart girl, she’s going to get herself on the plane and get herself home.” He was right. I talked to the right people, I explained my situation, I got through an extended TSA security check, and I made it on to my flight home. What did Charlie say? “I told you she would do it.” Thank you, Charlie, for always being there and believing in me.”
— Veronica Ayala lives in Texas and has cerebral palsy

Marina and her dad

“My dad helped me through my traumatic brain injury [following a car accident]. I was in inpatient therapy and my dad would help me read the Harry Potter books. I lost my ability to read, but it was through practice and hard work and love that I was able to regain my reading ability. When I was discharged to outpatient therapy, he took me home and [my mom and dad] took turns driving me to therapy every day of the week.”
— Marina Agerter lives in Virginia and has a traumatic brain injury and aphasia

Ray’s grandparents

“I was adopted and raised by my grandparents when I was very young. I called them mom and dad growing up. My dad, George, was and always will be my best friend. He taught me how to play piano, and we would sit on the bench together and play our favorite tunes. My dad was a priest for the episcopalian church most of his life. Although his faith was strong in his religion, he never judged anyone’s beliefs or culture. He welcomed discussions about life and the world. My dad taught me how to be responsible and independent with finances and to always be prepared. When he passed away in my early twenties, it left a hole in my heart. Each year on Father’s Day, I light a candle and tell him how much he meant to me.”
— Ray Simpson lives in Minnesota and has anxiety, sensory processing disorder, chronic nerve damage, and complex regional pain syndrome

Taylor and her dad

“My dad has been my constant rock throughout my life. He continues to show unconditional love regardless of how old I get. He has been my number one coach and cheerleader—but also the one who teaches me to be tough in times of hardship. My autism and different support needs have never stopped him or prevented him from being the best father he can be. He is the dad that will help me face my fear and insert my dignity of risk because he believes in me and believes I deserve happiness and success. He has gone above and beyond for me, showing me what tough love and unconditional love is like. I also want to recognize my stepdad. From day one, he has been supportive and there for me. I am not only lucky to have one dad, but to have two dads to celebrate.”
— Taylor Crisp lives in Washington state and has autism

Mark and his dad

“My father served as an advocate by attending IEP meetings, reading books about the special education regulations, and making sure I had the right services to receive a free and appropriate education. He also served on a lot of boards to help people with disabilities. When I graduated from high school, my father made sure services were available so I could live in the community as independently as possible. Having watched my Dad advocate for me through the years gave me the desire to advocate for others.”
— Mark Dixon lives in Virginia and has cerebral palsy

These Father’s Day stories from the disability community show how deep an impact dads and father figures can have.

To the fathers and father figures: thank you for listening, encouraging, adapting, and advocating. Your impact is lasting.

To the people who shared their stories with us: thank you for your honesty and vulnerability.

And to anyone for whom Father’s Day brings up mixed emotions—whether because of loss, distance, or difficult experiences: you’re not alone. We honor all the ways love and support can take shape.

Moms—or the people who love us like moms—are often the ones who just get us. They keep life moving. They see potential where others see limits. And for people with disabilities, that love can take many forms: hands-on care, fierce advocacy, deep listening, and unshakable belief.

Some moms manage feeding tubes, therapy schedules, and school meetings—while also working, caregiving for others, and managing their own health. Others cheer their adult children on as they build careers, push for justice, and live life on their own terms.

There’s no one path. No single story. But what many moms share is the everyday power of showing up.

This Mother’s Day, we asked people with disabilities: What impact has your mom—or a mother figure—had on your life?

Here are six reflections on love, strength, and support.

Ashley and her mom

“When I was born with cerebral palsy, my mother didn’t panic. She prepared. She understood the meetings that would come. The assumptions. The coded language. The way people talk about disabled children in lowered tones, as if to soften the blow of a life they’ve already decided won’t go far. She didn’t wait for the world to believe in me. She built the foundation herself. She became a speech-language pathologist—not just to help me speak, but to ensure I would never be spoken for. She pulled together a support system—therapists, educators, and friends who worked with me after hours, without compensation, because we didn’t have time to wait for permission. She created access where there was none. She raised me to speak, to move, to lead—regardless of whether the system was ready for me. She is still doing the work. Still mentoring. Still reshaping how public schools serve children with disabilities. Still protecting futures—because she understands what’s at stake.”
— Ashley Glears lives in Maryland and has cerebral palsy with right hemiplegia

Chloe and her mom

“My mom is always there for me. Over the years, she has taken me to hundreds—probably thousands—of appointments. She has helped advocate for the services and supports I’ve needed to succeed. She has attended numerous conferences, advocacy trips for board meetings, and other events with me over the past 10 years because she knows how important it is to me to participate in these events. My mom has helped encourage self-advocacy skills in me starting at a young age as she made sure that I was involved in my IEP meetings in some capacity starting at a young age. Even during the harder moments, my mom has always been there by my side. My mom is one of my biggest advocates and supporters.”
— Chloe Rothschild lives in Ohio and has autism

Russell and his mom

“I cannot overstate the impact my mom has had on my life. She has always taken the time to enter my world and meet me where I am, something society rarely does. Autistic individuals are often pressured to fit in so they don’t stand out, to avoid bullying, social rejection, and exclusion. But in doing so, we risk losing ourselves. My mom never let that happen to me. She loved me when it felt like no one else did. She held me, and still holds me, through meltdowns. She sits beside me when I feel lost in a world that doesn’t make sense. Most of all, she truly sees me. She validates my struggles and recognizes the immense effort I put in every day just to achieve what others take for granted. Because of her, I am who I am today. She nurtured within me the belief I so desperately needed as a child; the belief that led me to create my own career. Thank you, Mom. I love you so much.”
— Russell Lehmann lives in California and has autism, OCD, depression, and anxiety

Johanne and her mom

“My mom is my best friend and I couldn’t imagine my life without her. I wouldn’t be who I am and where I am now if it wasn’t for her influence. She always encourages me to go after things I want and her expectations for me have never been lower than my sisters’. She has always made me feel like I’m capable of more than I know. I always try to reach for the stars because of her belief in me. She is the best light in my life.”
— Johanne Mayer lives in New Jersey and has Down syndrome

Sydney and her mom

“My mom has helped me grow over the years. Growing up, we spent a lot of time together, and she would frequently visit my schools if classes weren’t going well. She also attended all of my IEPs from kindergarten to senior year of high school. She made sure that I saw her advocating for me so that one day I could advocate for myself! She always puts others first and makes sure that everyone has everything they need to succeed.”
— Sydney Badeau lives in Wisconsin and has dyspraxia, a nonverbal learning disorder, and a sensory processing disorder

Sarvesh and his mom

“My mom is my biggest supporter. She believes in me and she gives me the confidence to believe in myself. My mom loves me unselfishly and she does her best every day to help me to live a happy and worry-free life. She encourages me to be brave and try new things. My mom advocates for me everywhere. I am very thankful for her. I feel safe and comfortable because of my mom.”
— Sarvesh Chandran lives in Arizona and has autism and severe apraxia

These stories remind us: the best relationships are built on respect—for each other’s journeys, struggles, growth, and dreams.

To the moms of people with disabilities: Thank you. For your tireless hearts, unwavering belief, and all the ways—loud and quiet—you lift up your children.

To the people who shared their stories: Your lives and leadership light the way, whether guided by a mom or forged on your own.

And to anyone for whom “mom” means something different: We honor your story, too. Not everyone has a mom—or a safe relationship with their mom. This day can be complicated. If that’s true for you, we see you. Love doesn’t always follow one path. Whether your “mom” is a friend, a relative, a caregiver, or chosen family—or whether you’re still figuring it out—we honor the people who show up, stand by you, and believe in your worth.

Every March, we celebrate something powerful: Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month. It’s an opportunity to honor the diverse talents, dreams, and achievements of people with developmental disabilities. Whether it’s autism, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, or learning disorders, these disabilities are part of the human experience – and the people living with them have stories that need to be heard.

The big picture: Here’s what drives us at The Arc: the fundamental belief that everyone deserves to write their own life story. That means real access to education, meaningful employment, quality healthcare, and genuine community connections. Right now, too many barriers stand in the way of these basic rights. This month, we’re turning up the volume on voices calling for change.

History: The roots of Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month can be traced back to 1987 when President Reagan first declared March as a month to raise awareness and “according to our fellow citizens with such disabilities, both encouragement and the opportunities they need to lead productive lives and to achieve their full potential.”

This year’s theme from the National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities is We’re Here All Year, emphasizing that community, accessibility, and opportunities for people with developmental disabilities should be recognized and championed every day.

What we’re doing: Change happens when people come together – and that’s exactly what The Arc’s nationwide network is doing. Want to meet some of the incredible individuals leading the way?

There’s Marcus, whose job search shows how talented, dedicated workers face discrimination. Lawrence, who’s showing the world what’s possible for athletes with disabilities. Ashley, who’s revolutionizing how we think about diversity and inclusion. Steve, who shows us that people with disabilities thrive when they can live independently in their communities, not institutions. Carlos, who persevered through immigration, bullying, and discrimination to graduate college and build his accounting career. And Mitch, whose voice on our board helps shape how we support people with disabilities.

Ready to be part of this movement? Here are three powerful ways you can help create change:

🧡 Donate to The Arc to support our advocacy and services, making inclusion possible.
⭐ Volunteer with your local chapter of The Arc to empower people with developmental disabilities.
📣 Share stories uplifting diverse perspectives using #DDawareness and #DDawareness2025.

“Segregation and discrimination still cast an ugly shadow over the lives of millions of people with disabilities. This month, we must amplify the voices calling for true inclusion—in our schools, workplaces, and communities. When we listen to self-advocates and remove unfair barriers, incredible contributions shine through.” – Katy Neas, CEO of The Arc