Message from The Executive Director | |
2023 – The Year in Review | |
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As we approach the end of the year, we find ourselves reflecting on the incredible journey we’ve shared in fostering a community where everyone is embraced, valued, and empowered. Your involvement has been instrumental in helping The Arc Mid-South achieve remarkable milestones in our mission to serve individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) of all ages and their families.
The spirit of the holidays is not only about the twinkling lights or the joyous melodies. It’s about coming together—as family, friends, and a community—to embrace each other’s uniqueness and to champion the rights of those who need our support the most. Today, I invite you to join us as we prepare for a new year filled with hope, inclusivity, and endless possibilities.
Support our continued progress in the fight for inclusion and self-determination. By making a pledge to become a volunteer, you are pledging to give hope and opportunity.
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First day work at Teleflex!
At The Arc Mid-South, we believe in the power of unity to create lasting change. Your generosity enables us to:
- Expand Access – Through your contributions, we can reach more individuals with IDD, ensuring that they have access to the information, educational opportunities, and specialized resources they deserve.
- Foster Inclusion – Together, we break down societal barriers and promote inclusive environments where everyone feels a sense of belonging. Your support fuels initiatives that challenge stereotypes and create a community where diversity is celebrated.
- Empower Dreams – Our educational initiatives, support services, and independent living programs empower individuals to discover their talents, pursue their passions, and contribute meaningfully to society. Your belief in their potential makes dreams become a reality.
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L.E.T.S. program students | |  |
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Thank you, Teleflex!
Orientation completed!
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This season is a reminder that, just like the candles that light the darkness on a winter night, each one of us can shine brightly, advocating for the rights of people with IDD—people who are too often discounted or simply overlooked. With your support, we’ll continue to show the world the endless value of believing in everyone and their potential.
Will you join us in assuring that these important services continue? Please donate a year-end gift to The Arc Mid-South.
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This parent’s expression of gratitude so poignantly illustrates why we do what we do. The measure of our success is not only in the milestones we achieve but also in the lives we touch and the hearts we inspire—by joining together. It’s about collectively creating an environment where every individual, regardless of their abilities, is empowered to thrive.
Parent Statement:
The Arc Mid-South was very helpful during a time when my family did not know where to turn. They helped with my child's IEP and behavioral issues at school. They went with my family to IEP meetings and were able to assist us with getting the services and updated IEP. We are so happy to have them on our side and working with our family to make sure our child gets the education they need.
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As we come together to celebrate the achievements of the past year and look ahead to the possibilities of the future, we thank you for being an integral part of our community. Your support is a beacon of hope for those who need it the most and is a catalyst for positive change. Together, we are creating a world where everyone, regardless of their abilities, is not only included but also embraced and valued. | |
Happy Work Anniversary with The Arc Mid-South!! | |
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You are a gift to this organization. Your dedication and passion for your work make you who you are: one in a million. Thank you for sticking around all these years!
Looking forward to many more years together!
Happy Anniversary!
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Chandrika Prahalathan
21 years
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Welcome Aboard, New Staff! | |
Rich Macy lived most of his life in the Dallas, Texas, area. He moved to Memphis 2 years ago. After working as a part-time volunteer with The Arc Mid-South for 4 months, Rich was hired as a full-time staff member at the beginning of December. Rich is excited to be here, stating this is the most fulfilling work he has ever done. In his spare time, he watches movies, hangs out with his boyfriend, and plays computer games. | | |
Amanda Opara was born and raised in Memphis. She went to East Tennessee State University to get a bachelor's degree in education. She taught for 5 years, then was introduced to this administrative assistant position. She feels like this position was meant for her all along. In her spare time, she likes to watch movies and hang out with her husband and 2 children. She is excited to help The Arc Mid-South achieve their mission. | | |
Disability Day on the Hill | |
March
Each year, The Arc partners with local organizations on a bus trip to the Capitol in Nashville, Tennessee. This gives families and self-advocates a chance to speak to legislators about issues important to individuals with disabilities.
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The Arc Mid-South chartered a bus full of self-advocates, students and their families, and friends from Shelby County to advocate for a better Tennessee for people with disabilities. Together, we walked the halls of the Capitol, advocating for change. We enjoyed talking to legislators about what really matters and being apart of the future for individuals with disabilities. | |
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Weekend Retreats are back! | |
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Once a month, we host a weekend retreat for our clients, giving them the opportunity to experience time away with their peers and giving their caregivers some much needed time to rejuvenate and have a rest from the constant demands of caregiving.
During our first weekend retreat since the pandemic started, our clients enjoyed the petting zoo, outdoor games, and a nature hike while also enjoying some arts and crafts indoors. One of our clients in particular loved the sensory room.
Camp Conquest did a great job making everything accessible and providing outdoor activities for our clients. We are thankful for our volunteers and Direct Support Professionals who created engaging games, activities, and crafts for our clients to enjoy together. Without your help, we wouldn't have been able to provide this retreat.
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Camp Conquest Petting Zoo | | |
Board Member volunteering | | |
"I Matter" Disability and Health Summit | | | |
This workshop provided information on obtaining conservatorship, alternatives to conservatorship, special needs trust, the Able Act, and more. Participants came seeking knowledge and left feeling empowered. | |
This event was a huge success with over 80 participants. We are very grateful for our speakers who took the time to provide this important information and the resources needed for our clients to feel confident about the future ahead. | |
Deborah Cunningham Access Awards | |
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Advocate of the Year!
Disability Connection Midsouth hosted the 2023 Deborah Cunningham Access Awards. Sandra Hawkins received the honor of being named Advocate of the Year. Sandra has worked for The Arc Mid-South for 13 years as our Community Advocate. She is dedicated and passionate about what she does, and this award was well deserved. Congratulations, Sandra!
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"Awareness is the Key to Change" Conference | |
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Brad Turner
Commissioner
Tennessee Department of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
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The "Awareness is the Key to Change" Conference is about providing the resources needed to support someone with intellectual or development disabilities. Topics for this year's conference were Conservatorship, Transitioning Services, DIDD, Mental Health, Self-Advocacy, and Assisted Living. We also invited service providers to be part of a vendor fair, where they could provide first-hand information. Attendees were delighted with the speakers and the other information they received. |
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Annual Awards and Benefits Gala | |
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November
This year's Gala, themed "Mardi Gras in November", saw over 200 attendees and raised over $64,000 in ticket sales, ad sales, auction sales, sponsorships, and donations. We gave awards to several members of our community to recognize their contributions to our mission. Ron Childers was our host and auctioneer. We had delicious food from Heart and Soul Catering and danced the night away with Antonio Hobson on the saxophone.
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Antonio Hobson on the saxophone | |
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Nakitha, family, and Direct Support Professional | |
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Award Winners:
Community Service Award- Sophia C.
Self-Determination Award- Robyn E.
Inclusive Employer Award- Teleflex
Inclusive Employer Award- Homewood Suites
Direct Support Professional Award- Linda B.
Direct Support Professional Award- Charol H.
Outstanding Meritan Volunteer- Richard M.
Most Dedicated Volunteer- Moses Woods
Thank you Gala Committee Members!
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L.E.T.S. Holiday Party &
Ron Childers Classroom Dedication
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We held a holiday party for our L.E.T.S. students. The Arc Angelic Choir, composed entirely of our students, sang two beautiful songs for us. There were gifts, food, and Christmas goodies. The students also made wreaths to display for the party. Everybody had a wonderful time! |
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During the holiday party, we gave a special honor to Ron Childers, who has given so much to The Arc Mid-South over the years. Our L.E.T.S. classroom now has a new name: "Ron Childers Literacy & Life Skills Classroom". The WMC Action News 5 team was on hand to report the event, and Mr. Childers was completely surprised and overwhelmed with emotion. | |
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Ron Childers with L.E.T.S program students. | |
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Handmade wreaths made by students. | |
Webinar – Accessibility Features of Devices
Tuesday, 9 Jan 2024, 9:00-10:30am
Being included on the Internet is more important than ever for people with disabilities. Avoid being left behind by attending this weekly series by Technology for All. This week, learn about the accessibility features of smartphones and tablets.
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Webinar – Voice Assistants: Alexa, Siri, and Google Assistant
Tuesday, 16 Jan 2024, 9:00-10:30am
Being included on the Internet is more important than ever for people with disabilities. Avoid being left behind by attending this weekly series by Technology for All. This week, learn about using different voice assistants.
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Caregiver Peer Support Group
Monday, 22 Jan 2024, 6:00-7:00pm
A monthly support group online meeting for caregivers across the state. Caregivers enrolled in our program often speak to us about their feelings of isolation and desire for more connection with other caregivers. We are excited about this next step in creating greater bonds in the caregiving community.
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Webinar – Assistive Technology
Tuesday, 23 Jan 2024, 9:00-10:30am
Being included on the Internet is more important than ever for people with disabilities. Avoid being left behind by attending this weekly series by Technology for All. This week, learn about using assistive technology.
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Webinar – Social Media (YouTube, Instagram)
Tuesday, 30 Jan 2024, 9:00-10:30am
Being included on the Internet is more important than ever for people with disabilities. Avoid being left behind by attending this weekly series by Technology for All. This week, learn about social media apps such as YouTube and Instagram.
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We Are Hiring!
The Arc Mid-South is currently hiring Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) to join our growing team. If you are caring and compassionate and have a passion for helping those with physical and/or mental disabilities live more fulfilled and happy lives, please call us at (901) 327-2473.
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3485 Poplar Ave, Ste 210
Memphis, TN 38111
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