March 28, 2024

The Arc Celebrates 56 Years of Service

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“Over the years, I have been honored to hear from so many individuals and families… They share about how The Arc and proAbility created something different…a sense of community…a family…filled with joy, support and compassion, staff who listened and helped craft a future of possibilities – helping people achieve their dreams.”

These are the words from Michael Andrade, President and CEO of The Arc of Bristol County at their 56th Anniversary Celebration on June 10th at the Holiday Inn Taunton. In front of 150 supporters, families and staff, Andrade commented on the expanding of the organization in terms of region of range of services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families.

Chairman of the Board Richard Harwood spoke of the yearlong theme of The Arc, “Arc Strong: Achieving Dreams.” He thanked the many champions of The Arc’s cause including board members, staff and families.

Awards were presented in six categories, including Legislator of The Year, Representative Elizabeth Poirier who shared, “I’m so impressed by the work of The Arc and how they help individuals in our community. Thank you for this honor.”

Dinner and awards were followed by music from Domenic Cotoia for dancing, and photography was presented by Andrew Heller.

Award winners and their awards include:

Arc Spirit Award: Cassandra Notz, Meagan Robichaud & Kerri Sullivan (Mansfield)
The Arc Spirit award recognizes a volunteer and/or employee who have advanced the mission of the organization. An individual’s contribution must have a long standing impact for those supported by The Arc of Bristol County. Cassandra, Meagan and Kerri have been teaching participants from the Attleboro Extended Day program how to use Ipads and be comfortable with technology. They have stayed on all year, volunteering and enjoying time with the participants.

Community Excellence Award: O’Handley’s East Taunton Kenpo Karate (East Taunton)
The Community Excellence Award recognizes outstanding accomplishments by community members who embody practices that promote inclusion and integration. O’Handley’s East Taunton Kenpo Karate has hosted seven individuals from Project Rec Connect and helped them to master the basics of karate. O’Handley’s instructors have adjusted their classes as needed to meet the participants capabilities, and helped them reach their potential.

Family Leadership Choice Award: Sharon Lesage (Seekonk)
The Family Leadership Choice award honors the mission of our organization’s founders. The award honors an individual or group who has provided exemplary support and guidance to families.

Sharon Lesage is an active member of The Arc’s Family Advisory Council, and often assists families who need guidance with their loved ones with disabilities. Sharon has been a coach for Special Olympics, as well as other groups her son Jay becomes involved in. The Lesage family in part of AFC, and have been active supporters of The Arc of Bristol County.

Self Determination: Maggie Greene (Mattapoisett)
The Self Determination Award honors an individual with a disability who has demonstrated exemplary self-advocacy skills. Maggie Greene and her mother Amy are part of The Arc’s AFC program. Maggie volunteers for Soldier’s Helpers, the Acushnet Council on Aging, and the Fairhaven Animal Shelter. She has been a Special Olympics athlete and ambassador. She is an intern at New Bedford Artworks where she’s had exhibits. She enjoys helping others, and expressing herself with art and knitting.

Employment First Award: Dave & Buster’s (Providence)
The Employment First Award recognizes a company and employees who are welcoming and accommodating to employment for persons with disabilities, going above and beyond to create opportunities for potential employees who have challenges. Dave & Buster’s from Providence have been working with individuals from proAbility’s Day and Employment Services to help them reach full inclusive employment. Staff have helped to make individuals comfortable and attain a sense of accomplishment and pride.

Legislator of the Year: Rep. Elizabeth Poirier (North Attleboro)
The Legislator of the Year Award is presented to an elected official who has provided leadership in advocacy, community outreach, or in providing expanded opportunities for individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities. Rep. Elizabeth Poirier has been a strong advocate for The Arc and the issues of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. She has served in the House since 1999 and supported legislation to help families and individuals served by The Arc. Rep. Poirier is a very “hands-on” legislator eager to work with families throughout her district.

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