Now that it is time to determine the budget I am writing to ask for your support for a rate increase to support community based programs.  My daughter is a recipient of some of that funding that provides  her with a better standard of living and a more healthy home environment.  She has a significant disability.  She is, however, able to get around well and can communicate in an acceptable manner. 

It is through Supported Community Living services provided by the Arc of Eastern Iowa that she has been given the opportunity to enjoy life.  It is through Respite services that I have been given a much needed release at times.

She is happy, less agitated and feels more self confident since she has received those services.  I whole heartedly feel that our family would never have made it had the help not been available.  Our family is a single parent household and I have maintained a full time job. I received Respite.... a time badly needed for mental well being for times not at work.  It is quite difficult to find someone qualified to take care of my daughter. 

I also feel that an employee needs to be compensated appropriately, or compassionate and qualified individuals will seek jobs elsewhere.  I hope that working with someone with a disability is not a job someone takes only if they can find nothing else.

It is my hope that Ali will continue to be given services that are supportive of her needs.  A healthy community supports its weakest members who are unable to do things for themselves.

Ali will never be able to hold down any type of job that will make her self supportive.  It is my wish that she live in a community based home and that she be allowed the dignity to be a respected community member.  It makes good sense that all individuals with disabilities be provided with this opportunity throughout the state of Iowa.  From what I hear it is also very cost effective considering institutional costs. 

Although I do not know all the budget formulas... I have been informed that  those areas have had funding shortages.  I believe in my heart that the right thing to do is to speak for those who can't.  Please keep those individuals in your mind and support the budget recommendations from the ARC of Iowa.  I know they do not misspend funds.   Our family could not have done it without the help from them and other community based service providers!  Ali has become a better citizen because of it.  Her future is in your hands. Please find it in your heart to make people with disabilities a priority.

Thanks for your time and advocacy,

Pam