Pandemic Doesn’t Stop The Arc Baltimore

Despite numerous delays and disruptions caused by COVID-19, The Arc Baltimore recently was able to hold two of its signature fund-raising events – the organization’s 26th Annual Golf Tournament and Art in the Round, an annual exhibit and auction showcasing the talent and artistry of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Amazingly, both events exceeded all expectations in terms of both attendance and dollars raised, netting nearly $170,000 to benefit programs and services provided by The Arc Baltimore to support adults and children with developmental disabilities and their families.

The Annual Golf Tournament, which is usually held in the spring and had to be postponed three times, was finally held on Monday, October 19. While the pandemic forced the standard shotgun start to be altered in favor of staggered tee times and the usual breakfast and luncheon programs to be dropped in favor of food stations along the 18-hole course, it did little to dampen the spirits of the more than 100 golfers participating.

“The generosity of our golfers and a host of corporate sponsors – including our title sponsor, Scientific Plant Services – enabled us to net more than $60,000 to help people with disabilities live independently, have meaningful jobs and friendships, and participate as active citizens in the community,” says Kathleen McNally Durkin, The Arc Baltimore’s Chief Executive Officer.

Scientific Plant Service also served as the Title Sponsor for Art in the Round, which this year morphed from one big event into four: Paint Night hosted by The Arc Baltimore’s young professionals group, Luminaries, at which virtual visitors were able to create their own Maryland-themed masterpiece; a Kickoff Event which marked the debut of the artist profile video and opened the virtual art gallery where this year’s art could be viewed in 3-D; a Curator Night featuring guests from Baltimore’s art community who curated this year’s artwork; and the final live event at which 50 pieces of art were showcased and auctioned.

In addition, Art in the Round featured the launch of “Color Our World,” a Crowdfunding challenge campaign through which donors could fundraise in honor of one of The Arc Baltimore’s Hall of Fame artists. “Color Our World” replaced the mission appeal which normally takes place live during Art in the Round.

This year’s Art in the Round raised nearly $105,000 – more than ever before – for The Arc Baltimore’s COVID Relief Fund to help sustain programs and supports for people with developmental disabilities. The 50 pieces of art by 36 artists with developmental disabilities received a total of 730 bids.

“COVID has challenged us all, but The Arc Baltimore has responded by holding our annual Art in the Round event virtually and launching our ‘Color Our World’ campaign, both of which provide but a small sample of the beautiful colors people with disabilities offer to our world,” notes Durkin.

While the events may be over, donors can still contribute to The Arc’s “Color Our World” campaign by visiting https://www.thearcbaltimore.org/events/art-in-the-round/color-our-world/.

About The Arc Baltimore

The Arc Baltimore supports people with developmental disabilities to lead fulfilling lives with a sense of belonging, purpose, and meaningful relationships. As one of the nation's largest and most respected organizations of its kind, The Arc Baltimore is an indispensable resource, providing employment training and support, day and residential services, family support and education, treatment foster care, respite care, public policy advocacy and information, and referrals. For more information, visit www.thearcbaltimore.org or call 410-296-2272.