A Letter from the CEO and Board President
Dear Friends and Members of The Arc Family,
Imagine capturing the mission of The Arc of Essex County in one word. Which word would you choose – support, acceptance, achievement? The options are endless, yet it takes an undercurrent of change to make them all work.
The Arc of Essex County was founded on the promise of change, and nearly 67 years after our inception it is a constant in everything we do. Our success is measured by our ability to adapt, respond, and innovate as our landscape shifts. Based on these metrics, The Arc of Essex County conquered change in Fiscal Year 2015-2016.
How? After nearly four years of preparation, our first adults moved into the state’ s fee-for-service system with The Arc’ s guidance and support. These adults experienced seamless transitions that you have come to know and expect from The Arc. And, when the Children’ s System of Care unexpectedly accelerated their own fee-for-service initiatives, we quickly adjusted and responded, continuing to support the children and families in our respite programs— again, without service interruption.
We know this shift has created uncertainties for the individuals and families we serve. However, The Arc of Essex County’ s systems, infrastructure, and staff have been tested time and again, and our experience and preparedness are instrumental in ensuring service continuity. As more individuals and families begin their transition, we are ready.
Our planning and preparation in the face of monumental funding changes has positioned The Arc as a leader in the fee-for-service transition. While many other agencies are focusing solely on this transition, The Arc of Essex County is looking to innovate in all areas. As our population and their needs change, we are examining and implementing accessibility and aging-in-place standards modeled after our latest group home in Roseland; expanding specialized day habilitation services such as our Bridges Day Program; and reinvesting in Camp Hope so its recreational spaces meet our campers needs for the next 60 years.
While change can be difficult, it is also necessary and exciting. As this fiscal year comes to a close, we look forward to driving change in the future and celebrating achievements along the way. Your renewed support ensures The Arc of Essex County can continue to be a champion on behalf of the individuals and families we serve.
Thank you for your confidence in all we hope to achieve. Sincerely,
Linda C. Lucas Chief Executive Officer
Brad K. Hopton Board President