Read what others have experienced
“Thanks again for the wonderful info. I've learned more concrete info from you today than I have in 10 years of attending info sessions. You have greatly put my mind at ease and given me a clear game plan moving forward.”
“Over the past few months, I’ve had the privilege of getting to know extraordinary humans from The Arc of Northern Virginia. Their mission? To help individuals with intellectual disabilities gain independence and ‘live a life like yours.’
What they bring goes far beyond skill. Every day, they show up with love, compassion, and deep respect. The way they speak with dignity, never condescension, is refreshing to witness.
They radiate joy. You feel it when they walk into a room. You see it when they connect with my daughter and her peers, empowering them in ways both big and small. Watching them light that spark and nurture it, it’s nothing short of beautiful.”
In 2018, a parent named Dennis reached out to The Arc of Northern Virginia. His son, Stirling, was graduating from high school and eager to work—but he was receiving SSDI death benefits after losing his mother. That income placed him just below the limit for critical public benefits, meaning he couldn’t work without risking the services he depended on.
With support from our team, Dennis didn’t give up.
Over several years, through persistent advocacy, collaboration with state partners, and a formal study through Medicaid, this issue gained attention. Legislation was passed in 2024 to disregard SSDI survivor benefits when determining Waiver eligibility.
The policy was implemented in 2025, and almost immediately, it made a difference. Our services team was able to help another family who was at risk of losing their Waiver use this new law to preserve their services.
And in 2026, the bill was made permanent.
