The Arc of Essex County Celebrates Committment of Employees

Each Fall, The Arc of Essex County, a 501c3 organization dedicated to providing services and supports to children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) and their families, hosts a recognition luncheon to honor the employees whose long-standing commitment and dedication have helped shape the agency into what it is today. While the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic halted the agency’s 2020 luncheon plans, the contributions made to the The Arc and milestone achievements are valued and celebrated, now more than ever.

“In an era where adults change jobs and careers more frequently than in decades past, I am honored and appreciative of the unwavering commitment displayed by our talented employees,” said Linda C. Lucas, Chief Executive Officer of The Arc of Essex County. “The incredible dedication of our entire workforce, not just those celebrating milestone anniversaries, has enabled The Arc to provide the tremendous care to children and adults with I/DD especially through the challenges caused by COVID-19.”

Direct Support Professionals (DSP) are the backbone of service provider organizations, like The Arc, delivering support and care that enable children and adults with I/DD to live robust and fulfilling lives. While those we serve cannot always say the all-important “thank you,” The Arc is taking the time during the month of October to recognize these everyday heroes:

45 Years:

Anitra Wilson

35 Years:

James Paden, Jr.

30 Years:

Elmira Edgar
Lisa Stefanelli-Diamond

25 Years:

Kathleen Hinnigan Cohen
James Jones

20 Years:

Charlene Armstrong
Phthya Austin
Christy Campbell
Sylvia Cummings
Patricia Hoerner
Gale James
Dina Jean
Dametralius Moon
Gauthie Pierre
Cheryl Walcott
Sherl Williams
Dora Young

15 Years:

Maria Donaleski
Ginette Moraud
Dorinda Owoo
Lolita Rodriguez

10 Years:

Graig Berkowitz
Yarona Boster
Elice Fitz
Angelo Marshall
Shareem McElhaney
Emmanuela Noel
Eric Sutherland

5 Years:

Rochelle Alford
Cynthia Arroyo
Brenda Bennett
Alan Binstein
Nancy Byrne
Andrew Casallas
Heather Comstock
Dominique Ford
Dezarae Goode
Debra Goode
Jessica Kahl
Jasmin Medina
Vladimir Moraud
Diana Nwabudo
Arocha Pittman
Wilfred Quaye
Dorea Ramey
Michael Resotka
Jacqueline Vaughn

“Thank you to all employees of The Arc of Essex County. Your dedication to all the people you serve is outstanding,” said Halina Grobelny Erven, a parent of an adult who receives services from The Arc. “I, and Adam, would be lost without you. I am grateful that Adam has found the best program in the world. Thank you for making every day special and sharing your time with him. I will forever be grateful to each of you.”

About The Arc of Essex County:

The Arc of Essex County is a private, non-profit organization dedicated to helping children and adults with intellectual and development disabilities participate in every level of our society and enjoy fuller, more independent lives. Founded in 1948, The Arc of Essex County provides more than 40 unique programs and services that support nearly 1,500 people throughout Essex County from birth to their senior years. For more information or to make a donation, visit www.arcessex.org.