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2016Award Ceremony

Friday the 13th of MayThe Hotel at Arundel Preserve, 7795 Arundel Mills Blvd., Hanover, Maryland

CATALYST AWARD

Our honorees make outstanding contributions to The Arc’s Mission: To create a world where children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities have and enjoy equal rights and opportunities. Congratulations to this year’s honorees!

The Honorable Larry Hogan, GovernorThe Catalyst Award was created to recognize the leadership of Governor Hogan in making employment of people with disabilities a priority and for his FY 2017 Developmental Disabilities budget proposal, including for the first time in several years, funds for people in Crisis Resolution on the Waiting List. Governor Larry Hogan ensured The ABLE Program

has the startup funds it needs to enrich the lives of thousands of Marylanders with disabilities who can begin to save money without losing benefits. The Governor took time to meet with representatives of The Arc in Hagerstown to listen to employers, families and people with disabilities and pledged to make employment a personal priority.

People with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) and their families rely on strong policy and rights created by laws, as well as the funding needed for benefits and services. We are delighted to honor five legislative champions who led the way for inclusive, dignified and meaningful lives.

LEGISLATIVE LEADERSHIP AWARDS

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Senator Guzzone and Delegate Cullison were lead sponsors for legislation that would have mandated annual funding for the Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) Crisis Resolution Waiting List. These are children and adults with the most urgent needs as determined by DDA.

Senators Zucker and Feldman and Delegate Bromwell were lead sponsors of the Maryland ABLE Program. The ABLE Program was passed and signed into law.

The ABLE Program will enable thousands of Marylanders with disabilities to save money for a wide range of disability-related expenses without jeopardizing public benefits.

Senator Kelley and Delegate Waldstreicher were lead sponsors of the Equal Employment Opportunity Act that will phase out the use of subminimum wage in Maryland over four years. The bill passed the legislature and is awaiting the Governor’s signature. The Act requires engagement of

stakeholders, tracking, resources and recommendations to ensure persons with developmental disabilities are provided the supports they need.

Delegate Ludtke was lead sponsor of Special Education – Translations of Individualized Education Programs or Individualized Family Service Plans – Native Language. The IEP Translation Bill requires school systems to translate the Individualized Education Program (IEP) and IFSP into the family’s native language. In a state of cultural and linguistic diversity, this legislation passed the General Assembly and will significantly lead to improved rights of children with disabilities.

Senator Craig Zucker

Senator Brian Feldman

Delegate Eric Bromwell

Senator Guy Guzzone

Delegate Bonnie Cullison

Delegate Jeff Waldstreicher

Senator Delores Kelley

Delegate Eric Ludtke

LEGISLATIVE LEADERSHIP AWARDS

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PRESIDENT’S CUPThe President’s Cup is selected by the Maryland state president of The Arc. The award honors an individual, group or organization that has contributed to the mission and vision of The Arc by providing exceptional commitment to improve the quality of life of the people we represent.

Carol Beatty, Secretary, Maryland Department of DisabilitiesCarol A. Beatty was sworn in as Secretary of the Maryland Department of Disabilities on March 27, 2015. Appointed by Governor Larry Hogan, Carol is the former executive director of The Arc of Howard County, which provides advocacy and support services for more than 750 children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities along with their families.

“With more than 35 years working in the disability community, Carol Beatty brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the Department of Disabilities,” said Governor Hogan in regard to Beatty’s appointment. “Her experience will provide the Hogan-Rutherford Administration with an outstanding advocate on behalf of Marylanders with disabilities and their families.”

Carol is honored for her leadership in bringing together stakeholders across disabilities to improve the quality of life of children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. An experienced collaborator, Carol’s talent at the state level working with state agencies, legislators, and stakeholders is a true asset. This year, she provided leadership at the state government level on behalf of The ABLE Program, which passed during the 2016 Maryland General Assembly and has been signed by the Governor. Carol worked to further the progress of the Ethan Saylor Alliance. The Maryland Department of Disabilities was tasked with forming an alliance of self-advocates, family members, disability-related professionals, educators and members of law enforcement. The alliance will form the framework needed to support and facilitate self-advocates as educators for law enforcement and other public service entities. Committed to Employment First, Carol has been instrumental in making employment a priority of the Administration. Dignified lives in the community is dependent on affordable and accessible housing. Through the Maryland Partnership for Affordable Housing, Carol is working to ensure increased access to housing for Marylanders with disabilities. Carol was named to The Daily Record Top 100 women in 2016.

Carol Beatty

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The Legacy Award is presented on those occasions where the individual’s lifetime work leaves a legacy for the future and mission of The Arc.

Joyce Taylor, Executive Director (The Arc Montgomery County)After a lifetime career dedicated to the dignity of lives for children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, Joyce is retiring for a well-deserved next stage of her life.

For over 36 years, Joyce Taylor has been a champion for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. She started her career at The Arc Montgomery County as transportation manager and worked her way up to leading the entire Vocational & Day Services Division. During her 18 years in this position, Joyce grew the division 300% by connecting individuals with Montgomery County businesses and resources. She was also responsible for launching The Arc Recycling Solutions, which provides recycling services to small and medium-sized business in Montgomery County.

In 2008, Joyce was appointed executive director of The Arc Montgomery County. Over the past eight years, she has led the organization through several restructuring initiatives. She brought the agency out of a $1.5 million deficit to a budget surplus, and oversaw development of a new strategic plan and mission statement focused on inclusion. Joyce also completed a governance reorganization, which included drafting new corporate by-laws. Most recently, she helped launch the Transitioning Youth Retail Project, providing a pathway for youth with I/DD to learn about competitive employment in the retail sector.

The Arc Montgomery County supports approximately 650 children, youth and adults on a daily basis by providing inclusive child care, work skills training, employment, community living services, and respite care. The agency supports another 3,000 people annually with support groups, planned initiatives, advocacy, information and resources. We wish Joyce the best as she ventures into her next life stage.

Joyce Taylor

LEGACY AWARD

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EMPLOYER of the YEAR AWARDSThe Employer of the Year Award is presented to a private employer, business or firm with an exceptional record and ongoing commitment to provide competitive employment opportunities where people with I/DD are paid market wages and benefits.

MedStar Union Memorial Hospital (Baltimore)MedStar Union Memorial Hospital executives wanted to start a unique model of skill building and employment opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities known as Project SEARCH. They saw the program as a way to strengthen their own Human Resources and do something positive for the community. In 2012, after months of preparation and engagement of key stakeholders within the hospital and collaboration with The Arc Baltimore, Project SEARCH welcomed 11 adults as interns and professionals. The hospital outfitted a classroom where students could receive daily lessons. The curriculum complemented the interns’ work throughout the hospital, including sterilizing surgical instruments, clerical support, transporting patients and providing IT support.

Every year a new class of 10 interns enter the program; many of the graduates are hired by the hospital. Not only that, more and more departments have opened each year for internships and opportunities for employment. This is due in no small part to the way the employees at Union have embraced the interns. The hospital takes pride in mentoring interns and helping them grow. While Project SEARCH is well supported by the Hospital President Brad Chambers and all the senior management, the daily supervisors and colleagues at Union go the extra mile to help SEARCH interns succeed.

Harford County Sheriff’s OfficeIn February 2016, Harford County was shaken when two deputies tragically lost their lives in the line of duty. The community wrapped around the entire Sheriff’s Office and offered compassion, gratitude and condolences to those who protect us every day. Not in the news headlines is the Harford County Sheriff’s Office’s commitment to hire and support Jack Guercio. Jack had always dreamed of working for the police department. Through

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an initial grant, The Arc Northern Chesapeake Region supported Jack to get a job at the Sheriff’s Office. Thirty years later, Jack remains a respected employee, friend and coworker for the Sheriff’s Office. Jack graduated from the Harford County Sheriff’s Office Citizen Police Academy and continues as a valued janitorial services employee. He is invited and supported by his coworkers to attend employee events and has built real relationships with his coworkers. When his mother died, there was a large turnout of his brothers in blue at her services. Jack collects badges and many of the officers give their patches to Jack when they retire. They have helped Jack learn to relate to others and express himself. When you ask the Sheriff’s Office about Jack, they respond ‘He’s Family.’

The Gallup poll has been tracking employee engagement since 2000 and the latest numbers show only 32% of employees in the US are engaged; meaning they are enthusiastic about and committed to their work and workplace. The Harford County Sheriff’s Office is definitely part of the 32%. They recognize the importance of longevity and flexibility, while making reasonable accommodations. Jack was able to support his coworkers and the families of the fallen officers by participating in Deputy Dailey’s services. This allowed him the opportunity to be part of a moment that will never be forgotten. The Arc is thankful for this partnership in providing meaningful employment to those with differing abilities.

Once you become FeARLeSSLiFe becomeS LImITLeSS

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SCHOOL INCLUSION AWARDSThis award is presented to a school, teacher, educator, administrator, support personnel, or other education professional who has demonstrated excellence in providing quality educational opportunities (including early education, secondary education and higher education) for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities, reflective of The Arc’s position on quality inclusive education.

Crofton Woods Elementary SchoolCrofton Woods Elementary School knows how to provide outstanding supports to students with intellectual and developmental disabilities. A team of the principal, special educator and kindergarten teacher collaborate with general educators as well as related service providers to find ways to support all students. Here’s the team: School Principal Colleen Harris, Special Educator Amanda Prender and Kindergarten Teacher Susan Moskios. The team finds creative ways to support their students and adapt instruction. The kindergarten is open to ALL students, providing a classroom that is supportive of all students. Be Fearless is a great theme for the school as they try new strategies and ideas to provide a successful, inclusive classroom. The Arc believes inclusive lives starts with children – Crofton Woods Elementary School is making that mission become a reality.

Mary Pat Dye, Transition Coordinator for Carroll County Public Schools One of the most frequently used words in our field today is ‘transformative.’ Mary Pat Dye has transformed the education programs in Carroll County over the past 25 years. As program specialist for post-secondary with Carroll County Public Schools, she works to ensure each student is equipped to navigate opportunities in their community. Mary Pat advocated for and built education programs around inclusion before it became popular. She

designed one of Maryland’s first post-secondary programs in the early 1990s to support students 18-21 years old. Today there are several job internship programs including TE@CH that offers real work internships at the local hospital, the local college, and various local businesses. One of the unique aspects of the program is that students who acquire jobs during their transition years, keep their jobs upon exiting the school system. Mary Pat

Mary Pat Dye

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firmly believes the school system should not ‘own’ any job and that the best way for a smooth transition to adult life is to ensure jobs continue.

Mary Pat has implemented programs that provide students with self-advocacy skills. Students are expected to take an active part in their IEP meetings and Mary Pat has facilitated the training necessary for students, teachers and parents to make this a meaningful process. She is sought out by elementary and middle school teachers to provide guidance about services and supports. It’s never too early to start!

Mary Pat facilitated the creation of the Carroll County Transition Council, made up of representatives from adult agencies, local government, employment agencies, DORS, transportation and the school system. She developed committees on transportation, technology, employment and adult services.

Hundreds of students have gained competitive employment thanks to Mary Pat. Another hundred have spoken up during their IEP meetings. Another hundred have successfully and smoothly transitioned from educational to adult services. Hundreds of parents, teacher, employers and adult agency staff have worked together to provide support, employment options and self-advocacy skills – all thanks to Mary Pat Dye.

The QueSTion iSn’T who iS goIng To LeT me; iT’S who iS goIng To STop me.

- Ayn Rand

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THE WILLIAM OHGE, JR. AND STANLEY SIDLE MEMORIAL CITIZENSHIP AWARD

This award honors an individual with intellectual and developmental disabilities for outstanding participation in or contribution to the community. The award is presented to a person who has contributed fully in his or her community in some outstanding way, such as demonstration of leadership through community service or self-advocacy.

Alexander J. Barnes (Howard County)Alexander Barnes has a lifelong commitment to being involved with programs that help him and others with disabilities. From 2004-2008, Alex was a presenter in Howard County Public School’s Disability Awareness Program. Twice a month a team of people with a variety of disabilities went to elementary, middle and high schools in Howard County. The teams talk about what it is like dealing with having a disability. “We tried to open their minds and educate them so they could understand disabilities better. We also talked about what all we had in common.”

Alex has a part-time job in the dairy department at Wegmans Grocery and a few months ago moved into an apartment where he lives by himself with no state-funded supports. “I worked very hard to obtain my driver’s license almost 10 years ago even though people told me I would not be able to drive. But my parents encouraged me and my Dad worked and worked with me. Driving has allowed me to access many activities and has literally opened up my world.”

Alex belongs to many groups where he advocates for others and himself: The Arc Howard County Board of Directors, The Arc Maryland Board of Directors, People on the Go and president of People Power, DC Aspies, Cool Aspies of Northern Virginia, and Autism Ambassadors. In addition to competing as an athlete in Special Olympics, he has recently begun to volunteer in other sports.

“It is important for me to try to set an example for what people with disabilities can do.” He has testified on a number of disabilities issues at

Alex Barnes & Family

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the Maryland General Assembly. He served as master and co-master of ceremonies for Special Olympic events. He has been asked to play his saxophone at opening ceremonies and events for Special Olympics. He takes classes at Howard Community College, often with accommodations because it is not easy for him. Last year, he took a difficult creative writing class where he wrote about the challenges young people with disabilities face when learning to drive. “I think many of my non-disabled classmates could relate to that!”

“People often tell me that ‘putting yourself out there’ in the community can help people with disabilities strive to achieve their goals and also help the non-disabled understand more about our challenges. I hope that, by example, I am helping people understand that all of us have worth and have much to contribute.”

Presented for outstanding media efforts to help communities gain a better understanding of diversity.

Chase Cook, The CapitalOn May 9, 2015, Chase Cook’s story about the Developmental Disabilities Waiting List hit the front page and two more full pages featuring a family’s struggle with no supports for their 23-year old son. The timing was perfect – the Legislative had fenced off $3M for the Crisis Resolution Waiting List and advocates and families were pressing the Governor to release the funds. ‘Advocates hope Hogan releases funds for developmentally disabled’ featured the Marierose family of a single mom, her young adult daughter and her son with significant disabilities. The two women were working reverse schedules just to maintain someone at home to care for Joseph. After being on the DDA Waiting List for four years on the ‘urgent need’ list, all they wanted was an age and developmentally appropriate day program. For three years, Joseph had been at home with no ongoing habilitative or training support. Thanks to the leadership of the General Assembly and to the Governor’s release of these funds, the family has recently been contacted and Joseph will soon be starting services.

MEDIA AWARD

Chase Cook

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LORRAINE SHEEHAN/BERNARD GOULD VOLUNTEER LEGISLATIVE SERVICE AWARD

Presented to an individual who has demonstrated outstanding volunteer service in governmental affairs in one or more of the Association’s priority goals. The individual’s contribution should exemplify the work of Lorraine Sheehan and Bernard A. Gould: courageous, persistent work, persuasive and reasoned strategy, and analysis of legislative and regulatory activity benefiting persons with developmental disabilities and their families.

Laura Carr (Anne Arundel County)This legislative session was challenging and productive. Our work at the staff level is made possible by a very committed Governmental Affairs Committee with local chapters and our grassroots. Laura Carr, co-chair of the Governmental Affairs Committee, supported our policy work, testified at hearings and held weekly GA Committee meetings along with Co-Chair Bea Rodgers. Off session time, Laura volunteers her service representing The Arc

Maryland on statewide coalitions and workgroups including Employment First. Her indefatigable energy, courage and team effort have helped with some major victories in the legislature. Laura helped to achieve a crucially important legislative victory for individuals with developmental disabilities on the Waiting List by being a key advocate for the increase in the Alcohol Tax. She was also part of the outreach committee of the End the Wait Now! Campaign. She chairs her local Governmental Affairs Committee and is current past board president of The Arc Central Chesapeake. It is especially meaningful that Laura is the honoree of this award named in honor of her mother, Lorraine Sheehan.

Laura Carr

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This award recognizes a non-Arc executive or manager employed in a community service program or professional endeavor of direct relevance to I/DD who has demonstrated sensitivity and the ability to provide outstanding quality, which results in increased independence for people with I/DD. The recipient may demonstrate excellence in any of the following areas: residential supports, family support, individual supports, employment supports, behavior intervention or prevention.

Shelly Allred, Director of Safety Programs, Pathfinders for AutismShelly Allred is honored for her extensive work to train Law Enforcement Officials and individuals with I/DD on how to handle interactions vital to the safety of both the first responders and the people they will be interacting with. With a training partner and self-advocates, Shelly has trained over 900 first responders all over the state. Just this year in 2016, Shelly has provided training for Aberdeen Police, Anne Arundel Police Academy, Baltimore County Fire/EMS, Baltimore County Police Academy, English Consul Volunteer Fire Department, Frederick County Sheriff’s Office, Harford County Sheriff’s Police Academy, Havre de Grace Police, Maryland Police & Corrections Training Commission Academy, Maryland State Police Academy, Montgomery County Police Crisis Intervention Team, Multiple Eastern Shore Police agencies and Southern Maryland Police agencies. She also participated in a forum to review training materials created by the US Department of Justice for law enforcement.

In addition to the training to first responders, Shelly organized five screenings of BE SAFE – The Movie so that individuals with I/DD and first responders have the opportunity to interact and learn from each other. Screenings have been held in Montgomery, Carroll, Worcester, Anne Arundel and Harford counties. Over 20 young adults and 40 law enforcement officers participated. Among the support letters for Shelly’s nomination included the Carroll County Office of the Sheriff that states “A number of deputies/offices have advised me they have successfully implemented the skills taught in the classroom, which they encountered during calls for service. The training you provided law enforcement professionals serving the citizens of Carroll County enabled them to recognize the characteristics of autism, and understand the associate risks to intervene appropriately. Our sincere thanks for a job well done!” (Sargent Mark M. DeBord)

Shelly Aldred and son, Hunter

PROFESSIONAL of the YEAR AWARDS

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PROFESSIONAL of the YEAR FOR DIRECT SERVICE AWARDS

This award recognizes a professional engaged in direct supports to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The award is presented to a non-Arc professional employed in a community service program or professional endeavor of direct relevance to intellectual and developmental disabilities who has demonstrated sensitivity and the ability to provide outstanding quality that results in increased independence for people with developmental disabilities.

Christy Joy Shiloh, The Musical Autist (Annapolis)C.J. (short for Christy Joy) is owner and director of Annapolis Music Therapy Services. She is a classically trained pianist and has almost 20 years’ experience in music education. She earned a liberal arts music degree, with concentrations in both music performance and music education, from Colorado State University in 2003. She taught classical piano lessons and adapted music lessons for children with special needs while living in Colorado. CJ was also the elementary general music teacher and middle school choir director at Colorado Springs Christian Schools, before returning home to her native Baltimore/Annapolis area. After completing the Professional Studies Program for Music Therapy Certification Eligibility at Shenandoah University in 2013 and completing her internship at Kennedy Krieger Institute, she immediately launched into a thriving music therapy private practice. CJ is director of The Musical Autist, nonprofit, and is the curator and developer of Sensory Friendly Concerts™. She is passionate about disability rights, and is considered a friend and true ally by many self-advocates with autism within the Neurodiversity Movement. She has served on the Organizing Committee for the Online Conference for Music Therapy since 2011 and enjoys presenting in regional and national music therapy conferences on the topic of presuming competence in music therapy clients.

C.J. Shiloh and student

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Presented for advocacy leadership on behalf of persons with I/DD and their families, including systemic change, legal advocacy, and professional endeavors that increase the rights of persons with I/DD to inclusive lives.

Nancy Pineles, Managing Attorney, Maryland Disability Law Center Nancy Pineles is honored for her decades-long legal advocacy on behalf of children and adults with intellectual and development disabilities. As managing attorney for developmental disabilities at the Maryland Disability Law Center, she provides leadership in shaping the direction of the state Protection & Advocacy organization’s I/DD advocacy. In this role she provides essential legal and technical expertise to the Developmental Disabilities

Coalition. She devises creative strategies for addressing the myriad advocacy needs of individuals with I/DD and their families. For the past decade, many serious problems have emerged with systems established to serve people with I/DD. Nancy’s responsiveness to the changing advocacy needs of her clients is impressive, her advocacy continually vigorous, and she works unbelievable long hours, sacrificing her own needs for the needs of others. Through it all she maintains her characteristic good humor, is a thoughtful and giving colleague, and is respectful to all with whom she interacts in carrying out her work. She has played a key role in many important DD Coalition efforts. ‘Outstanding Advocate’ describes Nancy to a ‘T.’

Nancy Pineles

ADVOCATE of the YEAR AWARD

Be STRong.be BRAve.

be FeARLeSS.you are neveR aLone.

- Joshua 1.9

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THE ARC’S OUTSTANDING EMPLOYEE of the YEAR AWARDS

This award recognizes a professional engaged in direct supports to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The award is presented to a non-Arc professional employed in a community service program or professional endeavor of direct relevance to intellectual and developmental disabilities who has demonstrated sensitivity and the ability to provide outstanding quality that results in increased independence for people with developmental disabilities.

Kelly Kershaw, Becky Picking, Jennifer Rau, Philip Shaer, Cathy Smith (The Arc Washington County)

These staff comprise a team of Adult Residential and Day Services Direct Support Professionals at The Arc of Washington County. These staff accepted the challenge of assisting a person newly supported by the agency through an extremely difficult transition period. Experiencing acute anxiety of his new environment, there were many challenges faced by him and the staff trying to support him that were definitely outside the norm for the organization. Through their ability to see beyond the behaviors to the person inside, these staff worked as a team and came to understand his unique nature, gifts and ways of expressing fear. These professionals showed steadfast acceptance, commitment and compassion. In the midst of some people feeling that support was beyond their ability; these talented folks extended a kindness and respect to this man that has enabled him to finally find peace in his new home and community.

After putting the time in to build a meaningful relationship with him, these direct support professionals were able to get him involved in regular, consistent community activities when others said it could never happen. In spite of situations that truly tested physical and emotional wellbeing, they recognized this person was on a journey that is a challenge for him. They met him with respect and worked tirelessly to show him the acceptance and warmth he needed to build relationships. They concentrated on strengths instead of deficits. They focused on positive personality traits instead of a bad reputation. These staff expanded his opportunities and have done so with true compassion at every turn. He is now living in a home of his own and has an opportunity to be a part of his community.

Kelly Kershaw

Becking Picking

Jennifer Rau

Philip Shaer

Cathy Smith

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It takes a village, these staff honor that village and each person’s potential, humanity and gifts. They are the epitome of The Arc’s Mission of Building Bridges to Opportunities.

Gwen Anderson (The Arc Prince George’s County)

Gwen Anderson is honored for her transformative work in making a residence truly a home of respect and dignity. Anyone who knows Gwen can attest to her genuine kindness, love and dedication. From individuals to staff to coworkers, to family and friends of the individuals she supports no one is different than the other and everyone gets the same amount of respect and kindness.

For those professionals involved in residential supports, you know there can be that one house that seems to have a black cloud hanging over it. That’s where Gwen was assigned. Gwen turned it around completely. From a woman who was depressed as she faced frightening medical prognosis to another person who was overwhelmed with expressing herself through negative behaviors, the parents, roommates and direct support professionals in the home were frustrated and burning out. Today, as a result of Gwen’s amazing talents and inspiration, both people are thriving. The woman experiencing depression sings, laughs and is truly happy. The other person adores Gwen and can’t wait to talk to her when she gets home from work so she can tell her about her day. Gwen leads by example and expects nothing less than what she herself is willing to give. Known as ‘The Fixer’ and with 15 years of service to The Arc, Gwen is a mentor and friend to individuals, staff and coworkers.

The Arc of Frederick County Membership is key to The Arc’s vitality, strength, grassroots involvement, presence in the community, and financial stability. The Arc of Frederick County is top among local chapters for per capita membership.

Gwen Anderson

CHAPTER MEMBERSHIP AWARD

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VOLUNTEER of the YEAR AWARDSThe Arc’s mission relies upon generous volunteers at the local and state chapter levels. Each chapter was invited to nominate their volunteer for this year. This award is presented for individuals demonstrating dedication to The Arc’s mission through volunteer service to The Arc and persons with I/DD.

Danielle Ford (The Arc Baltimore)Danielle Ford joined the Board of Directors of The Arc Baltimore in 2010 and is currently the board secretary and serves as chair of The Arc’s Quality Enhancement Committee, a role she has been in for two years. Danielle is an enthusiastic chair and to The Arc and the individuals we support. Her role as chair of the Quality Enhancement Committee helps ensure safe and respectful lives of individuals supported by The Arc Baltimore.

Erica Wheeler (The Arc Carroll County)Erica Wheeler is an amazing person and volunteer! Selected to serve on The Arc Carroll County’s Board of Directors a year ago, she led a session about her involvement with the Ethan Saylor Alliance. Erica served as co-chair for the Saylor Alliance based upon her strong advocacy and commitment to improving the lives of people with I/DD. This past year she was the keynote for the graduation exercise for the local Crisis Intervention Team (CIT). CIT is a local initiative that trains local law enforcement officers on intervening with individuals with I/DD and individuals with mental health needs. Erica is active in her community volunteering at her church and has served on the board of directors for Special Olympics. The Arc Carroll County is honored to recognize Erica Wheeler as their volunteer of the year for her commitment to The Arc and other causes that support people with I/DD.

Dave Wheeler (The Arc Central Chesapeake Region)Dave Wheeler is a valued member of The Arc Central Chesapeake Region’s Board of Directors. He actively supports events, fundraising and initiatives of The Arc through his commitment of time, donations and energy. As a board member, he serves on the Development Committee to ensure that our services grow stronger and more self-directed. Although Dave does not have a family member with developmental disabilities, his commitment to The Arc’s vision and mission come shining through. His knowledge, understanding and dedication to the people and families that we support are exemplary. A strong ambassador for The Arc, Dave tells countless community members of The Arc’s work and recruits board and new committee members. Always leading by example, Dave also serves as the board vice president and has worked on the Finance Committee. We are honored to have Dave as part of our board and The Arc family.

Dave Wheeler

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The Church of Jesus Christ of the Latter-day Saints (The Arc of Frederick County)

Over the past year, The Church of Jesus Christ of the Latter-day Saints – Braddock Heights Ward has done so much for a multitude of families. The Ward has gone above and beyond by providing support such as moving (including locating boxes, packing a truck and the actual move), provided financial assistance to a man who was in transition from one home to the next, completed maintenance and repairs on a much needed home for a family while additionally connecting many other people to community opportunities and assisting them with skills such as grocery shopping. On behalf of The Arc of Frederick County and the people with disabilities and the families we serve, we thank the members of the Braddock Heights Ward of the Latter-day Saints for their devotion, unselfish support, thoughtfulness, generosity and involvement in our community.

Michael Veach (The Arc Montgomery County)Words used to describe Michael Veach as a volunteer include terrific, awesome and valuable. Michael volunteers three times each week at The Arc Montgomery County’s administrative office. He works under a variety of supervisors, performing tasks large and small with exceptional care and attention to detail. In 2015, Michael contributed over 500 volunteer service hours to support The Arc’s mission.

Michael always takes his work to the highest level. It’s not enough just to file papers correctly; he organizes every file folder so information is consistently placed where it’s needed. It’s not enough to register staff for training classes; he takes the time to explain how they should compete their stipend request so it’s processed quickly. It’s not enough to stuff hundreds of envelopes for an important mailing; he carefully folds each piece and places each label so the overall look is completely professional. Michael never leaves a job half-finished. Every day, he gives 100% to his volunteer effort. He is diligent, focused, self-directed and capable. We would be lost without him!

VOLUNTEER of the YEAR AWARDS

Michael Veach

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VOLUNTEER of the YEAR AWARDSPotter Heating & Electric (The Arc Southern Maryland)

The Potter family, owners of Potter Heating & Electric, stepped up to the plate this past October to host The Arc Southern Maryland’s first 5K Run at their business. They consistently availed themselves to ensure the event’s success. The day of the race, the Potter family was up early on a cold Sunday morning to open their building for The Arc and were part of the day. They were one of our key sponsors and provided goody bags for each participant. This day was a great success thanks to the Potter family’s generosity!

Ruth Miller (The Arc Washington County)Ruth Miller has been a part of The Arc family for 50 years. She joined The Arc when her beautiful daughter Cecilia began receiving supports. Ruth was a homemaker and mother for five children. She has demonstrated her commitment to The Arc mission by serving as a member of our Critical Incident Review Committee for many years and continued to serve The Arc until her retirement in 2016 at 83 years old. Ruth was a dependable member of this committee. She attended meetings regularly and assured that quality was always considered in review of the incidents. Ruth analyzed the situations from each perspective and was never afraid to seek clarification or ask questions. She has been an inspiration to the rest of the committee with her commitment, gentle kindness and wonderful sense of humor.

Eugene Mark (The Arc Maryland)Since retiring from The Arc Maryland Board of Directors in 2015, Gene Mark has continued to be a faithful and generous volunteer. Gene continues to serve on the Finance Committee, where he contributes his financial and legal expertise on matters such as leases, real estate taxes and titling, and endowment fund issues. This past year, Gene provided invaluable legal counsel and real estate market information as The Arc Maryland pursued

and ultimately entered into a new office lease. He reviewed three different properties, provided legal counsel and amendments to the lease, and guided us through the process. Gene was available weekends, nights and while out of state at a conference to make the lease work. His down-to-earth and practical advice is always spot on. The Arc Maryland is grateful to Gene’s ongoing leadership and contributions.

Eugene Mark

The Arc Maryland130 Lubrano Drive, Suite 212

Annapolis, MD 21401Phone: 410-571-9320

Email: info@thearcmd.orgWeb: www.thearcmd.org

BE FEARLESS