Advocate With Us
Change doesn’t happen on its own—it happens when people speak up, show up, and take action together.
At The Arc of Virginia, advocacy is at the heart of what we do. Our Action Center is your go-to space for learning about key issues, tracking legislation, and finding simple ways to make your voice heard—whether you're a self-advocate, family member, provider, or ally.
What is General Assembly?
The Virginia General Assembly is where state lawmakers decide laws and budgets that affect people with developmental disabilities and their families.
During the session, The Arc of Virginia helps people get involved by organizing the DD Rally, regional Advocacy Days, public testimony, and action alerts to contact legislators.
Together, this makes sure the voices of people with disabilities and their families are heard when decisions are being made.
We Are Getting Ready!
Our whole team is getting ready for the upcoming General Assembly!
This section is where you will find urgent updates and action alerts.
Keep scrolling to learn about upcoming advocacy events...
What We Are Advocating For
Advocacy Events
Upcoming Events
DD Advocacy Day Training
You asked and we listened! The Arc of Virginia will have training to help anyone who wants to prepare for DD Advocacy Days learn about our legislative agenda, storytelling, and etiquette for meeting with legislators. Training date options include:
November 17th at 12 PM and 6 PM
January 12th at 12 PM and 6 PM
DD Advocacy Days
Our regional advocacy day are back! Our DD Advocacy dates are available, and you can sign up today! If you are not sure what region best represents you, email lgerken@thearcofva.org, and she will help you get signed up.
January 21: Tidewater
January 28: Central
February 2 Northern
February 4: Blueridge
February 11: Southwest
Past Events
Developmental Disabilities
Advocacy Rally 2026
On January 22nd, around 120 Virginians gathered at The Bell Tower with a clear message: "Make the Promise Real!" Amazing speakers like Alex, Nick, Christina, and more shared the importance of continuous community-based services. And we felt the absence of speakers who could not attend because of unreliable services. Homemade signs were held high with The Arc of Virginias', advocating for voting rights, raising nursing rates, and respecting the disability community. It was a morning of frustration, celebration, and motivation!
Stay tuned for updates about the 2027 rally!
Thank you, Rally Partners!
K/now is The Arc of Virginia’s digital newsletter—your quick, trusted source for advocacy alerts, policy updates, and action opportunities. Know what’s happening now so you can help shape what happens next.
