Community Connections-BERKS, Inc. and Vision for Equality to host the Medicaid Funding Cuts Forum on Monday, May 19, from 6-8 p.m., at the PLEX at Alvernia University.

Family members and individuals with disabilities will be sharing their personal stories regarding the importance of Medicaid-Home and Community-based funding. This funding is critical to provide services necessary to support individuals with disabilities daily living, quality of life, and independence. By empowering the voice of self-advocates and caregivers, all invited will listen, learn, and understand the impact Medicaid reductions will have on individuals, families, and communities. This event is dedicated to amplifying the voices of individuals with disabilities and fostering a more inclusive community through understanding of their challenges, values, and belonging.

All Berks County public officials, including the County Commissioners, members of Congress, and Pennsylvania state legislative members have been invited to attend and hear directly from this vulnerable constituency at risk from proposed cuts to Medicaid funding vital to maintaining their daily needs.

Community Connections-Berks, Inc., empowers young adults and families to create a life filled with friendship, value, and belonging within their own community.

Community Connections-Berks, Inc. was established in 2019. A vision became seeds planted in 2013 when founder Nicki Habecker, teachers, administrators, and students came together to discuss the importance of inclusion. Through a grant Nicki Habecker secured from The Arc of PA, Mikayla’s Voice came to Daniel Boone Area School District to share a message of friendship, kindness, and that there is always a way to include someone. A message that is the foundation of our Community Connections family. From the initial conversations, members continue to create what we want, need, and what works. We are Community Connections. Together, we ARE making a difference! Together, we ARE community! We continue to evolve and grow. We now have members from across Berks County and recently became a 501(c)(3).

Event details:

Alvernia University – Plex facility
465 Saint Bernardine St., Reading, PA 19607

May 19, 2025, at 6 p.m. EST

To assist and empower people with disabilities and their families to seek quality and satisfaction in their lives as well as equal access to supports and services.

We believe that all people have a right to live a happy and meaningful life, which include:

• The power, authority, and resources to control their own destiny.

• A sense of belonging and acceptance for who they are.

• Being treated with dignity and respect.

• The chance to participate as valued members of their community.

• Options, creativity, and security in their everyday lives.

• Meaningful and loving personal relationships.

• The opportunity to express their own spirituality.

• Access to good health care.

• A vision grounded firmly in community.