According to the Coordinator of the 100 Families Initiative in Benton County, Carlos Garbutt, about 10% of Arkansas residents live with disabilities — but there are likely many more undiagnosed or unreported.
As part of ongoing efforts to collaboratively support families, the 100 Families Initiative hosted a community-wide meeting focused on supporting families impacted by disabilities.
“Not all disabilities are visible,” Garbutt challenged assumptions about what it means to live with a disability. That theme resonated throughout the discussion as panelists described the intricate systems designed to serve Arkansans with disabilities and the barriers that often stand in the way.
Amala Sista, Program Coordinator with the Division of Developmental Disabilities Services (DDS), opened with a personal reflection, recalling her experience caring for a loved one with dementia.
“At first, people couldn’t see it,” she said. “But I could, because I lived with it.”
With nearly two decades of service through Arkansas’s Department of Human Services, Sista detailed her work connecting individuals to the Community and Employment Supports (CES) Waiver — a program she emphasized can be accessed long before age 18, contrary to common misconception.
“One of the biggest challenges is lack of information,” she explained. “Families often don’t even know these services exist.” She encouraged families to apply early, despite long waiting lists, stressing that “the wait should not be a deterrent.”
Jim Mather, Executive Director of Sources for Independent Living, highlighted how his organization provides direct support across four Arkansas counties, including Benton.
“Our model is by and for people with disabilities," he said. "Over 51% of our staff identify as such — we live this.”
Mather outlined five core services: Information & Referral, Skills Training (including sign language and blind navigation), Peer Support, Advocacy, and Transition Services — including helping individuals move from institutions back into their communities. He also noted his work with “Money Follows the Person,” a program that uses federal dollars to help people live independently rather than in long-term care facilities.
One of their newest partnerships involves a Disability Innovation Grant, designed to empower youth and their families with transition resources.
“We want parents and students to know what supports are available,” Mather said. “Whether it’s social security navigation, job readiness, or life skills — we’re here.”
Ginny Ashcraft, a staff attorney with Legal Aid of Arkansas, brought a critical perspective on housing rights for individuals with disabilities.
“Discrimination in housing is still very real,” she said, “especially for those needing accommodations due to a disability.”
She explained how Legal Aid helps tenants facing eviction, supports those navigating Fair Housing Act violations, and collaborates with local agencies to provide wraparound services. One of their recent successes involves sealing eviction records, giving families a second chance at stable housing.
“Having an eviction on your record can close every door,” Ginny said. “Sealing it can be life-changing.”
The conversation also touched on the impact of shifting political and funding landscapes. Mather acknowledged the uncertainty created by executive orders and threats to agency funding. “Right now, it’s day-by-day,” he said. “But we’re still here. Still serving.”
When asked how the community could best support their work, the answer was unanimous: spread the word.
“The biggest thing you can do is let families know these resources exist,” said Sista.
Mather added, “Make referrals — informed referrals. Don’t just hand someone a number. Walk with them to the right door.”
In an era of fragmented services and limited awareness, the panelists offered a clear roadmap: early information, connected community partners, and persistent advocacy. For Benton County’s families, especially those navigating disability, that combination can be the key to stability, independence, and dignity.
For more information about the organizations featured:
Division of Developmental Disabilities Services: Contact Amala Sista at (479) 286-6186
Sources for Independent Living: www.arsources.org
Legal Aid of Arkansas: www.arlegalaid.org
Let families know. Help them get connected. That’s how we move forward — together.
Smart Justice is a magazine, podcast, and continuing news coverage from the nonprofit Restore Hope and covers the pursuit of better outcomes on justice system-related issues, such as child welfare, incarceration, and juvenile justice. Our coverage is solutions-oriented, focusing on the innovative ways in which communities are solving issues and the lessons that have been learned as a result of successes and challenges.
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