The Arc’s Family Fund provides critical financial support in the form of small grants to local families with children who have intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). This year, the Family Fund granted a record-breaking $113,600 in funding to 96 families—our largest distribution to date.
What is The Family Fund?
The Family Fund is a grant program established by The Arc in 2017, designed to provide access to financial assistance and essential resources to families navigating the complexities of raising children with IDD. Many of the effective resources, therapies, and services make an incredible difference in the quality of life for children with IDD, but they are not covered by insurance and are out of reach financially for the families who need access to them the most.
Grants from the Family Fund cover a range of resources that improve quality of life, including respite care, assistive technology, medical equipment, therapeutic services, and inclusive recreational activities and camps.
The Family Fund is made possible through generous donations, grants, and community partnerships. By easing the financial burden on families, the Family Fund ensures that children with disabilities can be a part of their communities with the support they need and deserve.
The Fund’s Impact in 2025
Since its founding, the Family Fund has awarded $382,000 in grants to hundreds of children with IDD, including funding specifically for children with autism through a partnership with The Bowen Foundation for Autism. Each year, the Family Fund expands its reach and serves more families with more funding, reflecting both the growing needs within our communities and the generosity of those who support this vital program.
This year, the Family Fund awarded 62 fully funded grants and 34 partially funded grants, ensuring that children with disabilities have the resources they need to grow, learn, and thrive. These grants provide access to essential communication tools, specialized therapies, and inclusive recreational experiences, allowing children to develop crucial skills, build confidence, and participate in activities like summer camp alongside their peers.
“Each application is carefully reviewed by a committee consisting of employees from across The Arc’s enterprise. We consider the details of each application and make award decisions based on the life-changing impact we anticipate the grant funding would have on the child and their family,” said Sara Pease, Assistant Director of Children, Youth, & Their Families. “Our goal is to ensure that every dollar awarded directly enhances a child’s ability to communicate, grow, and participate fully in their community. Whether it’s funding for therapy, assistive technology, or camp experiences, these grants open doors that might otherwise remain closed.”
Top requests this year included specialized therapies and IDD-focused summer camps, highlighting the ongoing demand for both structured developmental support and inclusive recreational opportunities. “The impact of these funds goes beyond financial assistance—it provides opportunity and inclusion for so many families,” said Caroline Slobodzian, Director of Development. ” These grants bridge critical gaps in care and services, offering children with disabilities enriching experiences to support their growth and development. We are grateful to everyone who contributed to the $113,600 raised and made this possible.”
Support the Family Fund Through Our 50/50 Raffle
While funds for the 2025 grant cycle have been distributed, the need for support doesn’t end there. The Arc continues to raise money for the fund year-round, as the demand for these life-changing resources is ongoing and ever-present.
In conjunction with our annual golf tournament, “Tee It Up for The Arc,” we hold a 50/50 raffle benefiting the Family Fund. You can support the Family Fund by participating in The Arc’s 50/50 raffle! With your entry, you not only get a chance to win a cash prize, but you also help provide life-changing resources for families in your community. All funds raised from the raffle go directly to the Family Fund.