The Arc of Indiana, the state’s leading advocacy organization for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), is committed to empowering people with disabilities and their families to become leaders in their lives and communities. In 2025, this vital mission will receive significant support through a generous grant from the CareSource Foundation focused on growing The Arc Advocacy Leadership Network.
Launched in 2023, the Advocacy Leadership Network began with 12 advocacy fellows who completed a 12-week curriculum to enhance their leadership and advocacy skills. After its initial success, the program expanded to include over 180 participants. This year, four senior advocacy consultants—graduates of the previous year’s program—will train and mentor four new fellows. These new leaders will then recruit and guide 100 additional participants, broadening the reach of self-advocacy efforts across Indiana.
Kim Dodson, The Arc of Indiana CEO, shared, “A key goal of The Arc of Indiana is to foster leadership and advocacy that empowers individuals with disabilities to actively engage in their communities and drive meaningful policy change. CareSource Foundation’s generous support will help expand this mission and empower more individuals to take charge of their own lives.”
“We believe that empowering individuals with disabilities through advocacy and leadership not only amplifies their voices but also fosters healthier lives,” said Dr. Cameual Wright, president of CareSource Indiana. ”By supporting The Arc of Indiana and the Advocacy Leadership Network, we are nurturing a future where individuals with disabilities can engage fully in their communities and access the resources essential for their well-being and success.”
“Each March, Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month offers the opportunity to reflect on the progress that’s been made and the work that remains to ensure full inclusion and opportunity for people with IDD. Since its inception in 1987, this month has served as a powerful reminder of the need for advocacy, awareness, and action. It’s only fitting that we recognize and express our gratitude to the CareSource Foundation for their support in expanding The Arc of Indiana’s Advocacy Leadership Network,” Dodson said.
CareSource Indiana, a nonprofit managed care entity, serves Hoosiers with health insurance through the Healthy Indiana Plan, Hoosier Healthwise and Health Insurance Marketplace.
The Arc of Indiana is a state-wide organization that advocates for and with people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and their families. Founded in 1956 by parents seeking a better and more accepting world for their children, today, the combined efforts at the local, state and national levels make The Arc the largest national community-based organization advocating for and with people with IDD and their families.
Top photos: Cameual Wright, CareSource Indiana President; and William Hawkins, The Arc of Indiana President. Lower photos: The Arc of Indiana and CareSource teams. Kim Dodson, The Arc of Indiana CEO; Noah Upchurch, The Arc of Indiana Advocacy Specialist and SAI Administrator; Cameual Wright and William Hawkins.