September is here and it's proving to be a very busy month for The Arc. We are happy to report that Phase 1 of The Arc's Day Services Reopening Plan is going smoothly, and we're encouraged by a number of successful and safe transitions back to in-person services. While we look forward to welcoming more people back in the near future, we are aggressively expanding existing, non-traditional, support services that do not rely so heavily on in-person, brick and mortar resources and are driven by the theories of self-direction and person-centered supports. Stay tuned.

September also means it's back-to-school time. For many families and individuals we support, this school year will be vastly different. We were fortunate to be able to continue our Backpack Giving Program this month and we recently held a Remote Learning Raffle, complete with a folding desk and a Chromebook that will surely prove useful for the lucky recipient. Please stay tuned via our website for webinars and expanded support services for families including fostering meaningful community experiences and engagement in the time of Covid-19, ongoing Support Groups for families and caregivers, and a variety of social and recreational virtual opportunities.

Our ABI (Acquired Brain Injury) services are continuing to grow even during this difficult time. After opening a home inMarshfield last month, we are thrilled to announce that our Lakeville home has opened as well. Our new home under construction in Sandwich is readying completion and we have procured an additional lot in Sandwich to begin building a sister home.

Lastly, we're gearing up to roll out our One-Year Strategic Plan on October 1st. After months of careful planning we are confident that we have a solid roadmap to responsibly guide us through the next 12-months.

I hope your Autumn season is off to a great start - we will be in touch again soon.

Sincerely,
Mary Valachovic
Executive Director

New ABI Home Opens in Lakeville

Our newest home supporting people with ABI opened recently and we welcomed the first gentleman of four home. Located in the quiet and picturesque town of Lakeville, people can enjoy the beautiful scenery while remaining close to community features. We may even utilize some of the lot for gardens and growing vegetables!

Our ABI team remains very busy, with our latest land acquisition just being completed in Sandwich.
We Need Your Support

Advocacy is a huge part of what we do at The Arc. And now, due to ongoing concerns about the state and federal budget, we're asking you to join us as a united voice speaking up for the community we support. Contact your local legislators and ask them to ensure that programs that support people with disabilities continue to be fully funded. If you're unsure of who your legislators are, you can use the link below.

You can also help by sharing our contact on social media and participating in our fundraisers!
Inclusivity Initiative
The Arc of Plymouth and Upper Cape Cod is excited to announce the revitalization of our Cultural Diversity and Inclusion Committee. Objectives include staff training and development with the goal of cultural competence, development of best practices, and much more. Stay tuned.
Exciting Employee News
The Arc would not be able to fulfill our mission of supporting people with disabilities and their families without our incredible employees. Due to the growth of our organization, we have some exciting changes that we're happy to share with you!

-Mimi McCarthy, RN, is now the Director of Health Services.
-Casey Therrien is now the Program Director of Shared Living and In-Home Services.
-Jill St. Martin is now the Program Director of Adult Family Care (AFC).
-Elise Ayotte is now the Director of Family Support.
-Jackie Shanley is now the Assistant Director of Family Support.
-Sandrine Cherilus is now the House Manager of the Marshfield ABI Home.
Direct Support Professionals Week
Our organization is fortunate to have a dedicated team of Direct Support Professionals who keep our services running smoothly withtheir hard work and unwavering belief in our mission. This week is Direct Support Professionals week throughout the country, highlighting the critical work that DSP's do each and every day. The Arc will be celebrating our DSP's all week, but we'd like to share this video with you featuring Jane Ryder, the Commissioner of the Department of Developmental Services.
The Arc of Plymouth and Upper Cape Cod appreciates your support!