DELMAR, NY (02/14/2011)(readMedia)-- Paul Marchand, one of the foremost advocates in the nation working on behalf of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, has joined NYSARC as a consultant. For 38 years, Paul was one of the most ardent and successful disability policy advocates working on behalf of The Arc and United Cerebral Palsy Organizations. He is a nationally recognized expert on public policy and disability, having been extensively involved in the passage of many vital federal laws, including the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Education for All Handicapped Children Act and its successor, the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act.

Upon announcing Mr. Marchand's appointment, NYSARC, Inc. Executive Director, Marc N. Brandt, stated, "We are very fortunate that Paul has agreed to give us his time and knowledge. I cannot think of a better individual to provide our Organization the analysis and guidance regarding events taking shape at the national level than Paul Marchand."

Paul has played a major role in the enactment of legislation to provide supported employment for people with severe disabilities, to mandate preschool services for children with disabilities, and to establish state programs to serve infants and toddlers. He was also instrumental in the reshaping of Medicaid policy to move people from segregated and isolated institutions to home and community-based services and supports. He has made significant contributions to the tremendous expansion of the federal role in disability policy over the past three and a half decades.

Mr. Marchand has testified frequently before the Congress, spoken to national and state non-profit groups, and has appeared on NBC Nightly News, National Public Radio, Nightline, the Today Show, and Good Morning America.

Among his assignments with NYSARC, Mr. Marchand will be a regular contributor to Our Voice Today, NYSARC's official e-newsletter, providing members with not only the most current and relevant information on national issues but also his own commentary.

About NYSARC, Inc.

NYSARC, Inc. is the largest not-for-profit in New York and the United States serving individuals with intellectual and other developmental disabilities and their families. The 55 Chapters comprising the family-led NYSARC, Inc. provide services in every County in New York State. The Organization supports over 60,000 individuals, employs 30,000, and has a membership of nearly 82,000. For more information, please visit www.nysarc.org.

Posted Monday February 14, 2011 at 08:00 am by NYSARC, Inc.
Last Updated Tuesday February 15, 2011 at 09:16 am