Happy Holidays and Best Wishes for 2026
Tallahassee, FL (December 12, 2025) As we close out 2025, many of our member agencies and the individuals they serve are celebrating the holiday season. The staff of Florida ARF and RESPECT of Florida wish each of our member agencies, Employment Centers, and stakeholders a happy holiday season and a prosperous 2026. The Association is totally committed to assisting the community agencies we represent to achieve their mission to provide quality services and supports to individuals with disabilities. While we experienced a rate increase for certain services in VR, an ICF funding increase, and modifications to ADT billing in 2025, we still have areas we need addressed in 2026. We will be continuously working to ensure that our members needs and messages are communicated to policy and lawmakers. Florida ARF and RESPECT thank each of you for allowing us the opportunity to represent your interests over the last year. We look forward to serving you in 2026!
Florida ARF Plans Member Gatherings
Tallahassee, FL (November 20, 2025) As we make plans to gather with our friends and family to celebrate Thanksgiving, Florida ARF plans to begin gathering with our membership more frequently.
Beginning in December, we will host a monthly meeting with members via Teams. Our first monthly meeting will take place on Monday, December 1st. This event marks the launch of a new initiative aimed at fostering greater engagement among our members. Moving forward, we will be meeting on the first Monday of every month to provide a consistent opportunity for connection and conversation. The primary goal of these monthly gatherings is to offer members additional opportunities to connect, interact, and discuss topics that are currently influencing your agencies. These meetings are designed to create a space where you can share experiences, express concerns, and support one another in addressing relevant issues.
In addition to our monthly meetings, we will begin holding weekly meetings every Friday during the Legislative Session. These meetings are intended to keep everyone updated and engaged with legislative developments as they unfold.
Florida ARF is also working on organizing additional meetings and events throughout the year that will focus on specific Forum topics. These targeted meetings are designed to further strengthen our membership and ensure that all members have the opportunity to participate in meaningful discussions relevant to their interests.
Be on the lookout for invitations to these upcoming meetings on Teams.
Florida ARF Observes National Disability Employment Awareness Month
Tallahassee, FL (October 23, 2025) Observed each October, during National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), we celebrate the value and talent workers with disabilities add to our workplaces and economy. October 2025 marks the 80th Anniversary of NDEAM - a milestone in recognizing the achievements and impact of people with disabilities in the American workforce. This awareness showcases supportive, inclusive employment policies and practices that benefit employers and their employees. This year's theme, "Celebrating Value and Talent” recognizes the important role people with disabilities play in a diverse and inclusive workforce.
On October 21st, Florida ARF participated in the Exceptional Employment Awards hosted by APD, Vocational Rehabilitation, Blind Services, and other partners. We were happy to be a part of the celebration of the accomplishments of 5 businesses across the state as well as 5 employees.
Florida ARF was also pleased to kickoff the month with a celebration of the 21st birthday of the Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD). During the celebration, former APD Directors were recognized and spoke about their fondest memory during their tenure as Director.
The Association looks forward to celebrating National Disability Employment Awareness month and recognizing the work our members and Employment Centers are doing to assist individuals with disabilities in achieving their employment goals.
Florida ARF and the Florida Alliance for Direct Support Professionals (FADSP) Celebrate 2025 Direct Support Professional Week
Tallahassee, FL (September 8, 2025) September 7-13 is Direct Support Professional (DSP) Recognition Week. In celebration of ROC CELEBRATES DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONALS (DSP) WEEK BEGINNING ...this event, Florida ARF and the Florida Alliance for Direct Support Professionals (FADSP) hereby recognize DSPs who make a meaningful difference in the lives of the people they serve. Their stories clearly communicate the loving attitude and dedication of DSPs who give so freely of themselves to serve others. DSPs are the backbone of long-term supports and services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) in the State of Florida. We truly value and appreciate the services and sacrifices DSPs make to ensure that others needs are met.
During the week, the Association will feature a select number of DSPs who are making a difference across Florida; we also want to acknowledge there are many deserving DSPs that should be recognized for the outstanding work they do on a daily basis to care for loved ones served by our member agencies. To all the DSPs across Florida, we offer a hearty “Thank you for all that you do!”
