From Beaufort County Developmental Center

On May 16, MARC members from across North Carolina, self-advocates and their family members gathered at the Capitol to educate their members of Congress. During their “Day on the Hill,” the North Carolina advocates met with numerous members of Congress and legislative staff to tell their stories and express their concerns about current laws and regulations that limit or restrict government supports for services and employment options. Family members and self-advocates strongly expressed the need for legislation that ensures personal choice with a full array of service options and opportunities.

“MARC members, self-advocates and family members all agreed that the trip to the Capitol was a significant opportunity to have a positive impact for North Carolina’s citizens with disabilities — they deserve the same choices of where, how and with whom they work and spend their time as all other citizens do,” said Sandra Buckman, a parent and the executive director of The Arc of Beaufort County.

Chris Kiricoples, CEO of Beaufort County Developmental Center, which is a member of MARC, added, “We were pleased that Congressman Walter B. Jones, and Senators Thom Tillis and Richard Burr, ­­­­­­took time from their busy schedule to visit with us during our ‘Day on the Hill’ event. We look forward to working with them in the days ahead and encourage all self-advocates and families across North Carolina to join us as we work to restore this freedom of choice.”

The contingent from North Carolina offers a special thanks to ACCSES, a Washington, D.C.–based national association for community rehabilitation programs that facilitated the “Day on the Hill” effort, as well as The Porter Group, a team of professional advocates that aligned legislative participation.

MARC, and its 16 member organizations, are all 501(c)3 not-for-profit organizations. MARC members across North Carolina provide services, supports, vocational development and employment for people with disabilities and disadvantages. For more information about MARC and its members, please visit us at www.marcinc.com.