Local Happenings

Thanks to everyone who helped make Gilligan’s Island of Death a successfull fundraiser for The Arc!  Click here to view photos from the event.

The Arc, Upper Valley has a used MiniMerc communications device and keyboard to give away to a good home.

The MiniMerc is a compact Windows XP computer that has been specially designed for use as a communication device.  It is housed in a durable, aluminum case, has a built in moisture-resistant, sealed touch screen, a shock mounted hard drive, jacks for connecting access devices such as switches and joysticks and improved speakers suitable for communicating in noisy environments.

If you know of anyone who can use this assistive technology device, call Pam at 772-3148.

The Arc Thrift Store needs donations of women’s clothing, handbags, shoes and jewelry. Your donation helps support The Arc’s programs and services for children and adults with intellectual disabilities.

Publications

Download the latest edition of Fusion, the official newsletter of The Arc of the United States.

The Social Security website now has the “higher income beneficiaries” Medicare Part B rates for 2012..

Social Security Information and Updates Area Voices website.

Disablognd is a blog providing information about SSI/SSDI, benefits planning

Think College Newsletter: College options for people with intellectual disabilities.

The Region IV Transition Committee has developed a brochure about Lifelong Learning opportunities in Grand Forks and the surrounding area.  Download the brochure here.

Around the State

Applications for 2012 Camping Sessions at Elks Camp Grassick are  available to parents, teachers, and referring agencies.  Download download them from the Camp Grassic website or call the camp at 701- 327-4251.

BISMARCK, N.D. – Tax Commissioner Cory Fong today reminded low-income senior citizens and disabled persons to file for the Renter Refund. Eligible renters may be able to receive a refund for part of the money they paid as rent for their home or apartment. The deadline to file for the refund is May 31, 2012.

The Tax Department administers the Renter’s Refund program. Low-income senior citizens and disabled persons might be eligible to receive a refund, up to $400, through the Homestead Credit Renter Refund program. The Tax Department offers the refund to renters who are 65, or older, or permanently and totally disabled.

Fong encourages people who think they might qualify to contact the Tax Department in Bismarck at 701.328.3127 or 877.328.7088 (select option 6) for more information.

National News

The Arc has formed a new partnership with the national Sibling Leadership Network (SLN) and formed The Arc’s National Sibling Council to foster the active involvement of siblings of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD).

We invite you to find out more about this new partnership and join the National Sibling Council today.

Bet he first to know about unique programs and resources as they become available from the Sibling Leadership Network, network with and find support from other siblings who share your concerns, attend events designed just for siblings and contribute to the leadership of The Arc with your valuable perspective.

Public Policy

Take a moment to download and read the May 14, 2012 issue of the Capitol Insider. Its a great source for your weekly news and information on disability public policy related to mental retardation, cerebral palsy and other disabilities.

The Arc Legislative Agenda for the 112th Congress is now online.

2011 Disabilities Related Legislation for the state of North Dakota. Updated 4/25/2011

The Arc, Upper Valley
2500 DeMers Avenue   PO Box 12420
Grand Forks ND 58208
(701) 772-6191 Phone
(701) 772-2195 Fax