Clinton Twp., Mich. — April 16, 2024 — The Arc of Macomb County is proud to announce the first anniversary of its groundbreaking program, SpArc, previously known as Diversion Intervention Boundary Spanners. Over the past year, SpArc has made significant strides in supporting individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) who are entangled in the criminal justice system, providing a beacon of hope and a pathway to empowerment for countless individuals and their families.
SpArc, with its team of dedicated Navigators, offers specialized support and advocacy ensuring that individuals with IDD receive the understanding, representation, and resources they need when working through the criminal justice system. The program focuses on creating a robust support network, enhancing access to essential services, and fostering a more inclusive and just community.
Key Milestones and Impact
Since its inception, SpArc has:
• Successfully navigated complex legal and social service landscapes to assist over 30 individuals.
• Founded a 24-hour referral hotline available to legal professionals and other social workers.
• Curated an online database of community resources for residents to address emergency needs like food pantries, shelters, transportation, and emergency housing.
• Launched educational initiatives aimed at raising awareness about the unique challenges faced by individuals with IDD within the criminal justice system.
• Established partnerships with key community stakeholders, including legal entities, social service agencies, and advocacy groups, to ensure a collaborative and holistic support system.
• Actively engaged in social initiatives like Advancing Macomb, Macomb County Pride, and Safe and Healthy Macomb initiative, while contributing to the broader goal of ensuring everyone lives a healthy and fulfilling life. Through collaboration, SpArc fosters a more inclusive and supportive community.
Looking Ahead: The Future of SpArc
As SpArc embarks on the second year of its journey, we are excited to announce plans for expansion and innovation that will further our mission. In addition to our ongoing commitment to provide comprehensive support and advocacy services, SpArc is poised to introduce new initiatives aimed at fostering self-advocacy skills for individuals with IDD.
One of the key developments on our horizon is the establishment of temporary housing as part of the continuum of care. This facility will provide transitional housing and support services for individuals with IDD with criminal justice issues, who are transitioning from more restrictive settings, such as group homes or institutions, to greater independence in the community. By offering a supportive and structured environment, this housing will empower residents to develop essential life skills, pursue personal goals, and build meaningful connections within their communities.
In addition to the introduction of temporary housing, SpArc is committed to expanding our network of partnerships with local and national organizations dedicated to justice and equality. By collaborating with like-minded organizations, we can amplify our impact, share resources, and advocate for systemic change that benefits individuals with IDD and their families.
As we look ahead to the future, SpArc remains steadfast in our commitment to creating a more inclusive and equitable society for individuals with IDD. We invite you to join us on this journey as we continue to advance our mission and empower individuals with IDD to live their best lives.
Quotes from Leadership
Lisa Lepine, Executive Director of The Arc of Macomb County, expressed, “SpArc is more than just a program; it's a movement towards creating a society where every individual, regardless of their abilities, is treated with dignity and respect, and has the support they need to navigate the challenging situations within the criminal justice system. As we celebrate this milestone, we are reminded of the work that lies ahead and the lives we aim to transform.”
Sue Lind, Program Director of SpArc and Director of Quality of The Arc of Macomb County said, “Our ultimate goal is to ensure that individuals with IDD who become involved in the criminal justice system have access to a continuum of care in the community, allowing them to be more successful once their legal issue are appropriately addressed.”
About SpArc
SpArc, a program under The Arc of Macomb County, is dedicated to supporting individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities navigate the criminal justice system. Through advocacy, support, and education, SpArc strives to dismantle barriers and promote a society that recognizes the rights and potential of all its members.
For more information about SpArc and how you can support or benefit from this program, please visit ArcServices.Org/SpArc online. And, follow us at facebook.com/SpArcMacomb on Facebook.
About The Arc of Macomb County
A group of parents formed The Arc in 1953 because they wanted better lives for their children with disabilities. The Arc of Macomb County is one of over 700 chapters nationally committed to securing — for all people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) — the opportunity to choose where and how they learn, live, and work throughout their lifetimes in the community we share.
“The Arc of Macomb County, Inc. (“The Arc”) is a 501(c)(3).
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