The Arc Central Chesapeake Region Celebration Impact Awardees

The Arc Central Chesapeake Region, a nonprofit committed to transforming lives for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD), is proud to recognize eight individuals for their significant contributions throughout the pandemic. This annual event will be held on Tuesday, June 15, 2021, 7:00 p.m. via a virtual ceremony. “From caring for people recovering from COVID-19, passing legislation that allowed service providers to work without interruption throughout the pandemic, and funding critical programs, each recipient has demonstrated their social responsibility and commitment to the Arc’s mission,” said Jonathon Rondeau, CEO, The Arc Central Chesapeake Region.

2020-2021 AWARDEES:

Leadership in Direct Service Award, Barbara Finch

Barbara has been with The Arc for over 20 years. Over the last year, she supported people as they recovered from COVID-19 with great care and compassion, working tirelessly throughout the pandemic.

Leadership in Administration & Management Award, Angela DeMoreland

In her twenty years at The Arc, Angela has served many roles demonstrating dedication and leadership in a number of areas. Over the last year, she took over operations and facilities management and took on the role of managing the Chesapeake Neighbors program.

Outstanding Personal Achievement Award, Melanie Cooper, FMS

This award recognizes someone supported by The Arc for their dedication to the community they live in. Melanie supports deliveries, shredding, helping at the local childcare center. She also took on the task of cleaning up along the Ma & Pa Trail that saw more foot traffic during the pandemic.

Outstanding Personal Achievement Award, Alice Connolley, Programs & Services

Alice is a relentless advocate for herself and others. She is a hard worker and has demonstrated this tirelessly through her work at Royal Farms during the pandemic.

Lorraine Sheehan Advocacy Award, Senator Guy Guzzone

This award is granted to someone in the community who embodies the spirit of Lorraine Sheehan and who shares her perseverance, passion, and unwavering belief in everyone’s abilities. Senator Guzzone’s work ensured that The Arc was able to continue providing critical services without interruption. He accomplished this by ensuring ways to include much-needed resources for providers and people with disabilities, supporting increased accountability within state government, and advocating for equal access to services for people in need.

Leadership in Social Responsibility Award, Amanda David, Edward Jones

Amanda worked to make the Holiday Giving program on the Eastern Shore possible. She made connections in the community, and most importantly, she continues to support The Arc as it grows and deepens services in the community.

Impact through Leadership Award, Kim Curry

A former Arc Board member, Kim has continued to work with the Quality Committee and is dedicated to generating meaningful and tangible impact for the community.

Impact through Philanthropy, The Bowen Foundation for Autism

Since their affiliation in 2013, The Bowen Foundation has partnered with The Arc to serve many children and families in Anne Arundel County. For the last two years, their financial leadership of the Family Fund has allowed the program to grow quickly, supporting many more people each year.

About The Arc Central Chesapeake Region

Since 1961, The Arc Central Chesapeake Region has been at the forefront of providing innovative supports, solutions, and advocacy for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Today, The Arc Central Chesapeake Region serves over 1,500 children, youth, adults, and their families throughout the arc of their life.

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