Accessible Resources for Independence

06/14/2026

TOMORROW! Don't miss the next I AM...

Join us on Monday, June 15, from 2:00–3:30 p.m. for Exploring the Attendant Care Plus Program, an informative discussion about a program that helps Marylanders with severe chronic or permanent physical disabilities direct their own care and choose their own service providers.

We're excited to welcome Maxine Morris, Program Manager with the Maryland Department of Disabilities, who will share information about eligibility, services, and how to apply for this valuable independent living resource.

Register today: https://buff.ly/ep83Jbk

IMAGE: Promotional graphic for the I AM Sessions presented by the Maryland Statewide Independent Living Council and Maryland Centers for Independent Living. The graphic announces Session 8: Exploring the Attendant Care Plus Program on Monday, June 15, from 2:00–3:30 p.m. It features the Maryland Department of Disabilities logo, a QR code for registration, and contact information for Shannon Minnick. The design uses a red background with abstract Maryland flag-inspired elements.

06/11/2026

The Maryland Statewide Independent Living Council (Maryland SILC), in partnership with Centers for Independent Living (CILs) across the state, is inviting Marylanders to help shape the future of disability advocacy, services, and independent living supports.

Maryland SILC has launched a statewide Needs Assessment Survey and a series of Community Town Halls to ensure the voices of people with disabilities, family members, caregivers, and service providers are reflected in future planning and advocacy efforts across Maryland.

Take the Survey
Maryland SILC encourages individuals with disabilities, caregivers, family members, and service providers to complete the statewide survey to help identify service gaps, community priorities, and barriers to independent living.

Survey: https://buff.ly/McUw6Pw

Join a Virtual Independent Living Table Talk
Community members are also invited to participate in upcoming virtual discussions with Maryland SILC leadership and Maryland’s Centers for Independent Living.

August 26, 2026 at 2:00 PM
Register: https://buff.ly/PuLyzNm

September 21, 2026 at 7:00 PM
Register: https://buff.ly/KKVVsUD

Upcoming In-Person Town Halls

Baltimore Town Hall
The League for People with Disabilities
October 14, 2026
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Bay Area Town Hall
Week of October 5, 2026
Additional details coming soon.

About Maryland SILC and Maryland’s CILs
Maryland SILC works alongside Maryland’s Centers for Independent Living to advance disability rights, independent living, and systems advocacy throughout the state. CILs are community-based, cross-disability organizations led by and for people with disabilities.

Learn more: https://buff.ly/PrjwWN3

06/10/2026

❗ DEADLINE IS FAST APPROACHING!

Accessible Resources for Independence (ARI) can help low-income renters in Howard County make home modifications so they can live safely and independently.

Examples may include grab bars, ramps, accessible showers, and other safety improvements. Approved modifications are covered at 100%.

Eligibility:
- Must live in a Howard County rental property
- Must meet income guidelines
- Must have written landlord approval

❗ Learn more or apply before June 30, 2026: https://buff.ly/4OSI8ph

Questions? Contact Betsy Hein at [email protected] or 443-713-3910.

IMAGE: Graphic promoting home modification assistance from Accessible Resources for Independence. Text reads “Get Help Paying for Your Home Modifications” for low-income renters in Howard County. Includes ARI logo, icons for safety improvements (grab bars, ramps, accessible showers), a QR code to apply, and notice that the program ends June 30. Background image shows an accessible walk-in shower with grab bars and a fold-down bench.

06/10/2026

The Maryland Primary Election is coming up on June 23, 2026, and we encourage all eligible voters in Anne Arundel and Howard counties to participate.

Before Election Day:
- Check your voter registration status
- Know your polling location
- Explore accessible voting options available in your community
- Make a plan to vote

Voting is an important way to have a say in decisions that affect our daily lives, including transportation, housing, healthcare, education, and disability services.

Helpful resources:

Howard County Board of Elections:
https://buff.ly/7XwsaPR

Anne Arundel County Board of Elections:
https://buff.ly/gAq7CdI

Maryland State Board of Elections:
https://buff.ly/uQWez3f

Make your plan. Know your options. Make your voice heard on June 23!

IMAGE: Graphic from Accessible Resources for Independence promoting the Maryland Primary Election on June 23, 2026. The graphic features the ARI logo, a ballot box illustration, and the message "Your Voice. Your Choice. Our Community. Our Future." It encourages voters to check their voter registration, know their polling location, and explore accessible voting options. Resources for the Howard County Board of Elections, Anne Arundel County Board of Elections, and Maryland State Board of Elections are listed at the bottom.

06/09/2026

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 10!

Join Accessible Resources for Independence (ARI) for a free hybrid community webinar designed for young adults with developmental disabilities and those who support them.

Learn how Centers for Independent Living help people with disabilities build confidence, make informed decisions, strengthen self-advocacy skills, and gain greater independence at home, in the community, and beyond.

This interactive session will also feature a young adult with lived experience who will share their personal journey toward greater independence, along with practical advice and encouragement.

📅 Wednesday, June 10, 2026
🕓 4:30–5:30 PM

Attend in Person:
Central Library – Cen Studio
10375 Little Patuxent Parkway
Columbia, MD 21044
Register: https://buff.ly/CsjHkL3

Or Join Virtually
Join Zoom: https://buff.ly/KSLKcyQ

Questions or accommodation requests? Contact Nikki Savoy at [email protected] or 443-713-3915.

We hope you'll join us for this empowering conversation about building confidence, independence, and a stronger voice for your future.

IMAGE: Flyer promoting ARI's free hybrid webinar, Empowering Young Adults with Developmental Disabilities, featuring four young adults outdoors, including a wheelchair user, with event details, key learning topics, registration QR code, and ARI contact information.

06/09/2026

Don't miss the next I AM Session!

Join us on Monday, June 15, from 2:00–3:30 p.m. for Exploring the Attendant Care Plus Program, an informative discussion about a program that helps Marylanders with severe chronic or permanent physical disabilities direct their own care and choose their own service providers.

We're excited to welcome Maxine Morris, Program Manager with the Maryland Department of Disabilities, who will share information about eligibility, services, and how to apply for this valuable independent living resource.

Register today: https://buff.ly/ep83Jbk

IMAGE: Promotional graphic for the I AM Sessions presented by the Maryland Statewide Independent Living Council and Maryland Centers for Independent Living. The graphic announces Session 8: Exploring the Attendant Care Plus Program on Monday, June 15, from 2:00–3:30 p.m. It features the Maryland Department of Disabilities logo, a QR code for registration, and contact information for Shannon Minnick. The design uses a red background with abstract Maryland flag-inspired elements.

06/08/2026

Summer can bring new challenges and added expenses for many families. This free webinar is a great opportunity to learn about available resources, including health coverage, food assistance, mental health supports, and other programs that can help individuals and families stay healthy and connected.

Summer is here! As families juggle work and kids home from school, we’re highlighting all the free help and assistance to support our neighbors.

Join us for a free webinar on June 9 at 12 p.m. to learn what resources are available for you and your community members from several state agencies and nonprofit organizations.

You’ll get access to free food and nutrition programs, health care coverage and support programs, mental health resources and more.

Experts will also answer your questions live. Join us to stay informed and get connected.

Register here: https://maryland-gov.zoomgov.com/meeting/register/vjm_WKnZSge2-Mb98xE4TA

06/04/2026

Let’s Explore AT! ☀️

Did you know a beach tent can be more than just beach gear?

These portable shelters provide shade from prolonged sun exposure while creating a cool, private space for sensory regulation, rest, or managing medical needs. They can be especially helpful for people with autism, POTS and other chronic health conditions, anxiety, migraines, fatigue, or mobility-related concerns.

Beach tents can be used at the beach, park, outdoor events, or anywhere a little extra comfort and protection is needed. Depending on size and features, prices typically range from about $20 to $200+.

Want to see assistive technology in action before you buy? ARI’s Assistive Technology Community Demonstration Library is available to anyone interested in learning more and trying out devices. Contact Betsy Hein at 443-713-3910 or [email protected] to learn more.

IMAGE: Graphic featuring a blue beach tent with text explaining that beach tents provide shade, cooling, and a private space for sensory regulation or medical needs during outdoor activities. ARI logo displayed in the bottom corner.

06/04/2026

Thank you to the Anne Arundel County Commission on Disability Issues for sharing this important information. ARI joins in recognizing PTSD Awareness Month and encouraging anyone who is struggling, or who knows someone who may be struggling, to explore the resources and support available below.

PTSD can affect people in many different ways, and access to information, treatment, and community support can make a meaningful difference. No one should have to navigate these challenges alone.

June 2026 is PTSD Awareness Month

Approximately 12 million individuals in the United States are currently living with PTSD. Although there are effective treatments available, many individuals still do not receive the support they need. It is essential for everyone affected by PTSD to have access to treatments that can relieve symptoms and significantly improve their quality of life.

There are various options for treating PTSD, and for many, effective therapies can reduce symptom intensity or even
eliminate them entirely. This June, we are committed to raising awareness about PTSD and advocating for equal access to treatments.

For resources or If you or someone you know is struggling, visit aamentalhealth.org or www.ptsd.va.gov/understand/awareness/index.asp.

06/02/2026

The June edition of ARI's Take 5 to Learn 5 newsletter is here!

This month:
- 100% funding available for home accessibility modifications in Howard County rental properties through June 30
- Maryland SILC's statewide Needs Assessment Survey and upcoming town halls
- Benefits planning resources for people with disabilities
- An assistive technology spotlight on beach tents
- A research opportunity for Black individuals with disabilities

Read the newsletter and stay connected with resources, opportunities, and programs that support independent living: https://buff.ly/85TFsgD