Message from our Executive Director - April 3

This week our day services team, in conjunction with the amazing work of our Director of IT, launched a new opportunity that has created much warranted buzz. In addition to the various educational and recreational remote opportunities we offer, people now have theopportunity to see and interact with their peers once again. The happiness and comfort people are experiencing as a result of this opportunity is both inspiring and moving. I am so proud of the work our team is doing to help people re-connect with good friends during this time of social distancing.

Our Adult Family Care (AFC), Shared Living and Individual Home Support teams deserve a very hearty round of applause this week as well. The COVID-19 situation has meant significant changes to our typical support model, but they remain steadfastly committed, strong and actively engaged with the people we support and their families. From health check-ins and providing emotional support, to identifying additional needed community resources, to making sure people have the food and household supplies they need, to assisting with obtaining much needed PPE, these teams remain true to our mission by doing whatever it takes to get the job done - and for that we are very grateful. 

I’m hoping you had a chance to see our shout out this week to our amazing team in Wareham serving folks with brain injuries. Our direct support staff, nurses and management have continued to provide around-the-clock assistance and vital medical care during these very trying times. Please check out our thank you to all of them - and take a moment to pass along  your thanks as well.

Our Family Support Center, Agency with Choice and DESE staff are staying connected with all the families and individuals we support – making sure critical resources are flowing to families who need it, ensuring families have an ongoing connection with their full support system including our management staff and staff in the field, and in offering remote opportunities for social engagement and re-connection. Connecting frequently and compassionately and being available to answer questions and provide invaluable information regarding much needed support services is what they all do best – our hats are off to all of you.

Lastly heartfelt thanks to our Business and HR Operations team, and our ever present ready to pitch in Executive Administrative Assistant. Without all your behind the scenes, extraordinary work the continuity of our business operations would not be possible. This is no small task and working remotely has only increased the day-to-day challenges. I know all our employees, the people we serve and the families we support are tremendously grateful.

The COVID-19 situation may change the way we deliver support, but it has not changed our mission or our dedication to that mission. TheArc of Plymouth and Upper Cape Cod is here for the people we support and their families now - and we will be here when this passes.

Please stay safe and well.

Mary C. Valachovic
Executive Director