Leadership for Empowerment and Abuse Prevention (LEAP)

LEAP (Leadership for Empowerment and Abuse Prevention) provides engaging, accessible training on healthy relationships and abuse prevention—led by people with disabilities, for people with disabilities.

The Arc of Virginia and VCU’s Partnership for People with Disabilities are bringing LEAP to Western Virginia, and we’re looking for new trainers to join the team.

We’re seeking adults with and without disabilities who live in Western Virginia and want to make a difference. Trainers are paid to complete certification and to co-lead future sessions.

Partnering to Advance Health Equity: CREATE-CHA

Led by the Partnership for People with Disabilities at VCU, CREATE-CHA—Combining Research, Engagement, and Art To Enhance Community and Health Advocacy— uses theatre-based training and mentorship to improve health care experiences for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).



The program empowers people with IDD to advocate for themselves in medical settings and trains future doctors by pairing them with mentors who have lived experience.

The Arc of Virginia proudly supports CREATE-CHA by connecting people with disabilities to this opportunity—placing their voices at the heart of health care change.

Together, we’re helping build a more inclusive and equitable system.

Smart Support at Home: Free Amazon Devices & Training

Thanks to a grant from Amazon and The Arc of the United States, The Arc of Virginia is offering free Amazon smart devices and training to help people with developmental disabilities build skills, increase independence, and make everyday life easier at home.

We’ve developed a practical, beginner-friendly curriculum to show how these devices can support things like routines, reminders, communication, entertainment, and safety—all tailored to each person’s needs.

If you or someone you support could benefit from using a smart device at home, we’d love to help connect you.

Shared Living

Last year, The Arc of Virginia explored how Shared Living is working across the state—and what could make it stronger. We heard from individuals, families, and providers about both the promise of this model and the barriers that limit its use, like delays, confusion, and a lack of support to get started.

Now, in partnership with DBHDS, we’re working to develop training, outreach tools, and resources that will help more people understand and access Shared Living. Together, we aim to unlock its full potential and make this inclusive, community-based option a reality for more Virginians.

More information coming soon!