The Arc Michigan

04/03/2026

Have you heard of the Michigan Assistive Technology Program (MATP)?

MATP helps people with disabilities of all ages access tools and devices that make everyday life and community participation easier. Think of them as your guide to trying assistive technology in the places you actually live.

How MATP Helps:
• Free demonstrations
• Device loans
• Statewide support
• By people with disabilities, for people with disabilities: MATP staff use assistive technology themselves, so they know what works.
• Guided by the Assistive Technology Act: MATP programs are designed to increase access, choice, and independence for people with disabilities.

MATP does not sell devices nor promote one device over another. Their focus is on helping you explore options, try them out, and make informed decisions.

Contact MATP:
800-578-0280
Email: AT@mi-at.org
Facebook
Reach out to us on Facebook
Request a demonstration or device loan online

04/02/2026

Assistive Technology (AT) is everywhere. 2.5 Billion people use AT globally, by 2050 the number is expected to grow by 3.5 billion. Source: World Health Organization. Most people use more than one assistive technology device as well.
Assistive technology includes simple tools like a jar opener!
Small solutions can make a big impact on independence.

04/02/2026

We’re excited to kick off 30 Days, 30 AT Ways!
All month long, we’ll be highlighting how assistive technology helps people across Michigan live, learn, work, and participate more independently.
Follow along for daily tools, tips, and resources that support independence, accessibility, and opportunity.

04/02/2026

04/02/2026

Behind every strong community is a direct care worker helping someone live safely at home, go to work, or stay connected to the world. But too many of these workers are leaving for higher-paying jobs. Michigan can change that. FY27 is the moment.

03/27/2026

Gov. Affairs March 27, 2026 -

The Michigan House and Senate are on legislative spring break and will return to Lansing on Tuesday, April 14. We expect that appropriations subcommittees will begin releasing budget recommendations soon after returning.

03/26/2026

I believe Michigan’s direct care workers make dignity, independence, and stability possible for people with disabilities and the families who rely on consistent care. I’m worried low wages are pushing workers out, leaving families scrambling and vulnerable Michiganders without support. I’m sha...

03/26/2026

A new guidance document from Michigan Department of Education Office of Special Education gives an overview of the roles and responsibilities of the IEP Team participants.

Meaningful participation by all IEP Team members, especially families, is important to ensure IEPs promote access to a free and appropriate public education (FAPE) in the least restrictive environment (LRE).

By deepening understanding of each participant’s role, this document supports equitable, student-centered decision-making and fosters strong partnerships, helping every student thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

The document is available here:https://www.michigan.gov/mde/-/media/Project/Websites/mde/specialeducation/iep/IEP-Roles_Responsibilities.pdf

03/17/2026

On this day, March 12, 1990, many Disabled activists marched from the White House to the U.S. Capitol to demand that Congress pass the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). At the Capitol, many left their wheelchairs and mobility aids at the base of the stairs and crawled up the steps in a powerful act of civil disobedience, calling out the discrimination and inaccessibility that impacts Disabled Americans.

Later that year, on July 26, President George H.W. Bush signed the ADA into law — a milestone won through the leadership and persistence of the disability community.



[ID: A yellow graphic titled “Disability Rights Fun Fact” features four circular photos arranged around centered text. The top-left photo shows Disabled activists gathered at the base of the U.S. Capitol steps. The top-right photo shows several people beginning to crawl up the stone staircase. The bottom-left photo shows a larger group of activists moving up the steps on their hands and knees. The bottom-right photo shows a crowd of Disabled protesters assembled near the Capitol. Centered black text reads: “March 12, 1990, over 1,000 people marched from the White House to the U.S. Capitol to demand that Congress pass the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Casting their wheelchairs and mobility aids aside, they crawled up the Capitol stairs.”]

03/17/2026

8.2 million students now receive special education services under federal law.

That’s 8.2 million students with unique needs, goals, and rights in school.

But do families and educators fully understand what those rights actually are?

That’s where an Individualized Education Program IEP) comes in.

An IEP is the written plan that makes sure a child gets the support and services they need to learn, make progress, and be included in school. With more students relying on these protections, understanding how IEPs work and what they guarantee has never mattered more.

We break down everything you need to know about IEP's in our new blog.

Get the link in the comments below ⬇️

03/17/2026

Meeting the mental health needs of students is important for their success at home and at school.

Our partners at are joining us on April 22 for a free webinar on Supporting Student Mental Health.

Learn about school-based mental health initiatives, family approaches, and helpful resources. Register at https://tinyurl.com/2h9ymupd

Visit our website calendar for full details, more learning opportunities, and easy registration https://www.michiganallianceforfamilies.org/upcoming-events/