http://www.arcnm.org/index.php/rebecca_blog/ Weblog authored by Rebecca Shuman, Executive Director en rshuman@arcnm.org 2008-07-23T13:12:02-07:00 http://www.arcnm.org/index.php/rebecca_blog/article/195/ In May 2008, the delegates at the annual business meeting of The Arc of New Mexico adopted an important position statement.  The reason for taking this position was to do something about the waiting list.  The Arc is committed to advocating for people who don’t receive services.  We cannot tolerate a system that serves only half of those in need, as is the case in the developmental disabilities waiver program.  The Arc does not think that just more money is the answer; there will never be enough money to provide the services New Mexico currently offers to everyone.  And therein lies the issue; how to create a service system that is more responsive to more people.  We have to change the way things are done now.  Here is the position statement that was adopted in May, 2008: Rebecca Shuman 2008-07-23T13:12:02-07:00 http://www.arcnm.org/index.php/rebecca_blog/article/171/ Rebecca Shuman, Executive Director First, what is Mi Via?  It means “my way” or “my path.” It is a new Home & Community Based Services Medicaid waiver (HCBS) that blows many of our assumptions about serving people out of the water.  Mi Via changes fundamental ideas about public policy and funding for long term services for people with a variety of disabling conditions.  Rebecca Shuman 2007-09-21T23:01:18-07:00 http://www.arcnm.org/index.php/rebecca_blog/article/7/ Rebecca Shuman, Executive Director - It is so affirming and wonderful to know that you are part of a group of people who share a common interest with you.  The participants of the first Institute on Self-Determination have developed an incredible bond with each other… Similarly, the spirit of shared lives and dreams was very strong at The Arc annual conference in early November.  Rebecca Shuman 2004-11-15T13:57:55-07:00