On Tuesday, The Baltimore Banner hosted its second annual Inside the Legislative Session event at the Graduate Annapolis, bringing together Maryland’s top policymakers, business leaders, and community advocates to address the state’s most pressing policy challenges. Among the key discussions was The Debate over Housing and Community Development: The Rise of YIMBYism, which included Jonathon Rondeau, President & CEO of The Arc Central Chesapeake Region (The Arc). 

This panel delves into the growing “Yes in My Backyard” (YIMBY) movement, which champions new, creative housing development initiatives as a solution to Maryland’s housing affordability crisis. With Maryland facing increasing demand for diverse, affordable, and inclusive housing options, this conversation could not come at a more critical time. 

Why YIMBYism Matters 

The YIMBY movement seeks to break down barriers to housing development, advocating for thoughtful policies that increase housing supply and address affordability. The YIMBY movement is a direct response to the “Not in My Backyard” NIMBY movement where people admit the need for more resources in their communities but have significant reservations about implementing the solutions near their own homes. 

The YIMBY approach aligns with The Arc’s vision to create inclusive communities where everyone, including people with disabilities, has access to safe and affordable housing. 

Jonathon brings a wealth of experience, drawing on The Arc’s successful community development portfolio, such as the recently opened Port Street Commons in Easton, which combines affordable housing, office space, and community resources in one innovative development.  

About The Panel 

The Inside the Legislative Session event offered a unique platform to hear from state leaders and policy experts about issues shaping Maryland’s future. The housing and community development panel was moderated by Hallie Miller, housing reporter for The Baltimore Banner, and included other distinguished speakers such as: 

• Jake Day, Maryland Secretary of Housing and Community Development 

• Krish O’Mara Vignarajah, President & CEO of Global Refuge 

• Michael Sanderson, Executive Director, Maryland Association of Counties 

• Vaughn Stewart, Maryland State Delegate 

Attendees gained valuable insights into how Maryland can address housing affordability, encourage sustainable development, and foster inclusivity in growing communities. Inside the Legislative Session also featured a conversation with Governor Wes Moore about the state’s budget.  

The Arc’s Role in Building Inclusive Communities 

At The Arc Central Chesapeake Region, community development is about more than constructing buildings—it’s about creating opportunities and empowering people. Projects like Port Street Commons and upcoming Easton Crossing exemplify The Arc’s commitment as an enterprise to addressing the diverse needs across the communities we serve.  

Through these efforts, The Arc is shaping the conversation around housing affordability and demonstrating the positive impact of inclusive, community-focused development. 

As Maryland grapples with housing affordability and accessibility challenges, discussions about YIMBYism and the topics covered during the panel are essential for crafting effective solutions. By participating in events like Inside the Legislative Session, The Arc continues to advocate for policies and projects that benefit everyone in our communities. 

On Thursday, January 9, 2025, 33 members of The Arc Central Chesapeake Region and The self-advocacy group, Living Boldly, joined other chapters of The Arc from across Maryland at Calendar Day 2025. Held annually on the second day of the Maryland Legislative Session, advocates and members of The Arc gather at Lawyers Mall in Annapolis, equipped with calendars and enthusiasm, to advocate for the rights and well-being of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). 

What is Calendar Day? 

Calendar Day is an annual tradition that brings together The Arc community from all across Maryland to raise awareness and advocate for people with IDD, honoring the grassroots spirit and legacy of The Arc. Advocates and supporters visit their legislators and members of the administration to distribute calendars highlighting the impact of each chapter of The Arc. These calendars showcase personal stories from people with IDD and their families, and includes important legislative dates, special chapter events, and even birthdays of lawmakers—helping to build relationships and keep key issues top of mind throughout the legislative session. 

Calendar Day is about much more than just distributing calendars. It’s about making connections and ensuring the voices of people with IDD are heard.  

“Calendar Day is a celebration of the power of advocacy and connection,” says Rylie Shewbridge, Director of Government Relations at The Arc Central Chesapeake Region. “It’s about bringing people together—advocates, families, and legislators—to ensure that the needs of people with IDD remain a priority in our state.”  

Calendar Day provides a platform to influence public policy and ensure that important issues such as behavioral health, access to services, and disability rights remain at the forefront of legislative agendas. 

The Importance of Legislative Engagement 

The Maryland General Assembly plays a crucial role in shaping laws that affect Marylanders with IDD, and the annual 90-day session gives lawmakers the opportunity to create policies that can improve the lives of people with disabilities. By meeting directly with elected officials, events like Calendar Day help connect advocates and lawmakers, ensuring the needs of people with IDD are prioritized and that policies continue to promote inclusion and equity. 

In preparation for the event, the 33 advocates who attended also participated in a Legislative Advocacy Training on January 7, which equipped participants with the tools to effectively communicate with legislators and members of the administration and provided insights into the critical legislation for the 2025 session. Armed with these skills, advocates are confident and ready to make a real impact on issues that affect people with IDD. 

A Unified Voice for Change 

Calendar Day 2025 serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of collaboration and advocacy. By coming together as a community, The Arc Central Chesapeake Region, alongside other chapters across the state, is working tirelessly to champion policies that support inclusion, opportunity, and equality for all. As calendars are shared and conversations unfold, The Arc is steadfast in its commitment to ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to live the life they choose.

Living independently for the first time is a big step for anyone – and it’s one Noah and his family have especially been looking forward to. In December, 25-year-old Noah moved out on his own for the first time.  

With support from The Arc’s Living Options & Services team, Noah now lives in a group home in Linthicum, MD, with roommates and the support he needs to live the life he envisions for himself.  

What is Living Options and Services? 

Supporting people like Noah to be active and engaged in the community starts with ensuring they have the support they need at home.  

In The Arc’s Living Options & Services program, people live independently or together in homes throughout the community. Every home offers private bedrooms and shared living spaces as well as dedicated Direct Support Professionals (DSP) providing anywhere from 18 to 24 hours of support every day. 

DSPs support people in every facet of their lives, such as accessing healthcare, attending medical appointments and follow-ups, building and maintaining relationships with housemates and friends throughout the community, facilitating daily living activities like cooking and laundry, and actively engaging in the community on weekends through activities like attending religious services and participating in social clubs or events. 

The Arc’s team gets to know each person and matches people to tailored living experiences, ensuring that roommates and the home itself align with people’s needs and preferences. 

“We don’t have 100% occupancy with our houses all the time because it doesn’t make sense for people to live with someone who isn’t compatible with them or in a home that isn’t going to meet their needs,” says Niki Jones, Director of Living Options & Services. “We would rather support people in finding their forever home – or as close to it as we possibly can. It’s a far more person-centered approach.”

Both Noah and his family appreciate The Arc’s person-centered approach as he prepares for the exciting new adventure of living independently.  

Preparing for Independence 

To ensure a seamless transition, The Arc’s team worked closely with Noah and his family throughout the process. Michelle, Noah’s mother, expressed her appreciation for the support and guidance they received, saying, “I enjoyed meeting the employees—everyone was helpful. If I had a question, it was redirected to the right person immediately. I never felt in the dark.”  

Noah and his family first became familiar with The Arc during his transition from high school to adult services. After exploring various options, they felt The Arc was the best fit. “Noah started with The Arc right after COVID,” Michelle recalled. “We loved how included he felt and how well we were kept up to date about changes as things opened. Noah has a team of people behind him. All of them are working together on his behalf. He has lots of help finding a job, not just housing. It’s a true lifestyle he’s living now.” 

In the months leading up to Noah’s move, his family worked hard to prepare him for this exciting new step. They encouraged him to take on more responsibilities at home and talked to him about living with new housemates. Noah has quickly bonded with his new roommate, describing him as his best friend. He’s most excited about the independence that comes with this next chapter. “He’s ready to make his own choices and even his own mistakes,” Michelle shared. “He’s really owning it.” 

Michelle and her husband are equally excited about the opportunities this transition opens for their entire family. For over 20 years, they put their dream of living on a boat on hold to focus on Noah’s needs. Now, as empty nesters, they are ready to revisit that dream. “Now that both of our kids are out of the house, we’re going to sell our home and buy a boat,” Michelle said. “This is the thing we’ve wanted to do forever, and now that we know our kids are secure and surrounded by people who support them, we can also feel secure accomplishing our dreams.” 

Dedicated Support from The Arc 

Noah has the support of his DSP Melissa, who works closely with him to help him access the community and be as independent as possible.  

“The most you can hope for is that your child meets people who care about him, want to help him, and see his value,” Michelle said. “Melissa is one of those people. She’s enthusiastic about Noah and excited to see what he can do.” 

This new chapter represents much more than a move – it’s an opportunity for Noah to build a fulfilling, independent life and for his family to embrace their own future with confidence and joy. The Arc’s Living Options & Services program creates opportunities for people throughout the community to live the life they want.  

The Arc Central Chesapeake Region (The Arc) was founded in 1961 by a group of parents who wanted their children with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) to have greater choices, opportunities, and the same rights and freedoms as others in their community. More than six decades later, The Arc continues to lead the way in advocating for those rights, working tirelessly to remove barriers to equity and access and build the services people tell us they want and need. 

The Arc’s commitment to advocacy is not just about reacting to changes—it’s about proactively creating the future that the people we support and believe in. One of the many ways The Arc works to make the community stronger is through advocating for policy changes. As the 2025 legislative session approaches, we will continue to champion the issues that matter most to the people and communities we serve. 

Looking Back: Legislative Wins from 2024  

2024 was a year of significant progress for people with IDD, and The Arc is proud of the legislative victories that have had a direct, positive impact on the lives of the people we support. 

Here are some key legislative successes from 2024: 

• HB538: Housing Expansion & Affordability Act of 2024 – This important legislation, which The Arc supported in partnership with Chesapeake Neighbors, introduced density bonuses that will significantly expand affordable housing opportunities. These bonuses allow for more housing units in single-family, multi-family, and mixed-use zones, helping nonprofit developers, like The Arc’s enterprise, provide more housing for the community.  

• HB336/SB592: Maryland ABLE Program – This bill requires local school systems to provide families with information about the Maryland ABLE Program during Individualized Education Program (IEP) meetings, allowing them to plan for their child’s future with greater ease. It’s a crucial step in ensuring that families have the resources they need to make sound financial decisions for their children with disabilities. 

• HB420: Accessible Parks – The introduction of communication boards at state parks, mandated by this legislation, is a game-changer for accessibility. These boards enable people with disabilities to engage more easily with their surroundings, making outdoor spaces more inclusive and allowing for a richer, more interactive experience. 

• SB92: Movie Theater Captioning – With this law, movie theaters in Maryland are now required to provide closed captioning technology for every screening, ensuring that people who are deaf or hard of hearing can enjoy entertainment on an equal footing with others. 

These victories are more than just policy wins—they represent real, tangible improvements in the lives of people with IDD and people throughout the community. As we continue to advocate for the rights of people with IDD, we celebrate these successes as part of a larger, ongoing effort to create a more inclusive and accessible world for all. 

Looking Ahead: State-Level Priorities for 2025 

As the 2025 Maryland legislative session begins on January 8, The Arc will continue to advocate for policies that promote equity and inclusion for people with IDD. With the state facing significant budget challenges, the focus will inevitably be on fiscal responsibility, but there are key areas where we will push for change: 

• Improving DDA Services – We will advocate for greater transparency and efficiency within the Maryland Department of Health and the Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA), especially concerning self-directed services funding. 

• Affordable Housing – Building on last year’s housing reforms, The Arc will work to strengthen Maryland’s affordable housing policies while opposing efforts that could weaken them. Affordable housing remains a critical issue for people with disabilities, and we will continue to push for solutions that meet their needs. 

Rylie Shewbridge, Director of Government Relations, emphasizes, “As we move forward, it is crucial to maintain a robust state budget for the Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA). Prioritizing funding for the services and supports that people with IDD rely on is essential for their well-being and success. Our advocacy efforts this session are focused on securing the resources necessary to provide people with IDD the opportunities they deserve. We’ve always believed in leading by example, and by addressing the accessibility needs within our own facilities, we hope to inspire others to do the same.”

Federal Advocacy: Protecting Essential Supports 

In addition to our state efforts, The Arc is also focusing on federal advocacy, particularly around the preservation of Medicaid funding, which is vital for people with IDD. Some of the major federal initiatives we are supporting include: 

• Protecting Medicaid Funding – Medicaid is a lifeline for people with IDD, and we will continue to advocate to ensure it remains strong and fully funded. 
• Direct Support Professionals (DSP) Workforce Act – This bill seeks to create a separate occupational category for DSPs, addressing workforce shortages and improving conditions for the essential staff who support people with IDD. 
• ABLE Tomorrow Act – This bill strengthens tax-advantaged 529A accounts for people with IDD, allowing them to save for disability-related expenses without jeopardizing public benefits. 
• Phasing Out Subminimum Wages – We will engage in efforts to eliminate 14(c) certificates, which allow employers to pay subminimum wages to people with IDD. 

Join Us in Advocacy 

As we head into the 2025 legislative session, The Arc invites you to join our efforts. Whether it’s contacting your representatives, attending advocacy events, or simply staying informed, your involvement matters. Together, we can continue to push for policies that make a meaningful difference for people with IDD and their families. 

To stay in the loop about policy priorities and advocacy alerts, sign up to receive The Arc’s monthly newsletter.  

For many parents of children with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) in our community, the holidays bring significant financial stress and pressure. For more than 20 years, The Arc Central Chesapeake Region (The Arc) has partnered with businesses and donors from throughout the community to support families with its program – Holiday Giving. 

“So many parents have to choose between spending money on gifts for the holidays or covering critical medical and household expenses, and that situation can be even more difficult for the parents of children with disabilities,” said Sara Pease, Assistant Director of Children, Youth & Their Families. “Knowing that there is a program like Holiday Giving that can support not just their child with a disability, but their whole family, allows them to focus on the things that matter: quality time together.” 

What is Holiday Giving?  

The Arc’s Holiday Giving program provides toys, clothes, and food support to families with children with IDD under the age of 21, as well as their siblings, even if they don’t have IDD. The program has grown steadily, from its first year when approximately 62 children were supported, to over 300 children supported today. 

Families apply for Holiday Giving and provide gift suggestions for each child. What makes The Arc’s program unique is the commitment to giving items that reflect each child’s interests, needs, and abilities and supporting every child in the household—not just the child with a disability.  

“Our donors are giving gifts that kids are truly excited to open,” said Caroline Slobodzian, Director of Development. “They’re thoughtfully chosen to align with what families have specifically requested.” 

The support doesn’t stop with gifts. Recognizing the added financial pressures many families face during the holidays, The Arc also provides grocery gift cards to support each family in putting a holiday meal together.  

“Each family receives a minimum of $100 to a grocery store of their choice,” said Sara. “With inflation and rising costs, food is expensive and can be a barrier for many of the families we serve. Some parents get very emotional because they’re not expecting this type of support. It truly makes a huge difference for their family.” 

 Words of Gratitude 

Following the holidays, The Arc hears directly from many of the families who participate in Holiday Giving with words of thanks. 

“Christmas was so much brighter and more fulfilling with the support from The Arc,” said [Shannon], a mother of two “As a single mom with limited support, it’s incredibly hard to meet all the girls’ needs and give them extra fun items. The Arc’s Holiday Giving program has been vital to our Christmas, and we cannot express our gratitude enough!”  

Another parent, [Robert], shared his gratitude in a handwritten note: “I’m incredibly thankful for everything The Arc did for me and my daughter. She had so much more to open and play with on Christmas. The clothes were probably the biggest thing. She was in desperate need of winter clothes. She loved everything so much.” 

This year’s success wouldn’t have been possible without the incredible generosity of Holiday Giving donors, volunteers, and employees. From shopping for gifts to delivering everything to families, everyone’s time and effort is a powerful reminder of the difference that can be made when people come together as a community. 

“We are incredibly grateful to the many donors who make this program possible,” said Caroline. “This program is complex, and we would not be able to support these families and children without the many generous people and businesses throughout the community.” 

As The Arc reflects on the program’s growth over the past 20 years, we are inspired by the impact it has made on so many lives. This holiday season, we celebrate not just the gifts under the tree but the kindness and love that bring us all closer together. Thank you for being part of this journey and helping us make the holidays brighter for families in need. 

Giving Tuesday, a global day of giving and generosity, is almost here! Celebrated annually on the first Tuesday after Thanksgiving, Giving Tuesday was created in 2012 to inspire people worldwide to support the causes they care about and has generated more than $13 billion for charities since its founding. This year, we will celebrate Giving Tuesday on December 3 by focusing on a vital mission: raising $5,000 for The Arc’s Family Fund.

What is the Family Fund?

Launched in 2017, The Family Fund is a grant program that provides financial assistance and essential resources to families raising children with disabilities. Many life-changing services, therapies, and resources are not covered by insurance and can be financially out of reach for the families who need them most. The Family Fund helps to bridge that gap.

“We founded the Family Fund to ensure that families do not have to choose between meeting their child’s basic needs and accessing the critical resources and support they deserve,” said Sara Pease, Assistant Director of Children, Youth, & Their Families. “In the seven years we’ve been doing this, the fund has grown dramatically, and we’ve seen incredible outcomes from the families and children it has supported.”

 The Family Fund has grown from $14,000 in its first year to nearly $95,000 in 2024, granting support to 107 children for things like riding therapy, respite care, educational assistance, specialized therapies, and more. Each grant makes an immediate, tangible difference in the lives of both the children who receive the grants and their families, promoting greater equity, access, and opportunity. You can read more about the impact of the Family Fund in our Because of You report and see the real difference it has made in the lives of families.

Why Your Donation Matters on Giving Tuesday?

The Family Fund is 100% funded by generous donors throughout the community who understand that families don’t always have the financial means to access the resources they need the most. For many families who apply to the Family Fund grant each year, the funding and the resources it creates access to can be the difference between surviving and thriving.

“We are incredibly grateful that the community sees the need for this program and understands the importance of ensuring that children and families have access to these critical resources,” said Caroline Slobodzian, Director of Development. “That’s why your support this Giving Tuesday is so critical.”

This year, The Arc seeks to raise $5,000 on December 3, helping kick start the campaign’s overall goal of $100,000. Those funds will be distributed to children and families in early 2025.

The Family Fund is 100% funded through donor generosity. Every dollar contributed to the Family Fund goes directly to families in need – the more we raise, the more children and families we can support.

Every dollar raised is granted back into the community. Your donation to The Family Fund can fund:

• Educational Resources: Grants for tutoring and therapy that can make a world of difference in a child’s learning and development.
• Adaptive Equipment: Financial assistance for tools and devices that enhance daily living.
• Healthcare Costs: Support for therapies and other essential health services that ensure children receive the care they need.
• Family Support Services: Respite care and support services that help families balance supporting their children while maintaining their well-being.

How Can You Help?

Giving Tuesday is your chance to be part of a global movement that creates real change. Here’s how you can support the Family Fund this year:

• Donate Today: Every contribution brings us closer to our $5,000 goal. Your gift, no matter the size, will directly benefit children and families in our community. Click here to donate now.
• Share Our Work: Spread the word on social media or with friends and family. Share this blog post or tell others why you support the Family Fund. You can also follow us on social media to see the impact of our mission.

Together, We Can Make a Difference

This Giving Tuesday, let’s show the power of community and generosity. By supporting the Family Fund, you’re ensuring that children and families will continue to have access to the critical resources they need.

Help us reach our $5,000 goal and change the lives of local children and families in your community by donating today.

Mark your calendars—registration for the highly anticipated Snowflake Ball is officially open! On January 11, 2025, from 5:00PM to 9:00PM, we’ll gather at the stunning Live! Casino & Hotel in Hanover, Maryland, for an evening filled with joy, laughter, and community.

The Snowflake Ball is more than just an annual event; it’s a cherished tradition that brings together friends, families, and supporters to celebrate the connections that make our community so vibrant and strong.

What Makes the Snowflake Ball Special?

For many, the Snowflake Ball is a rare opportunity to reconnect with people they may not see every day. It’s a chance to come together, share stories, and celebrate the incredible spirit that unites us.

“It’s a fantastic time to hang out with coworkers,” says Dylan Conover, Receptionist at The Arc’s Severn office. “I get to meet new people who have disabilities and enjoy the time together as a great organization.”

Whether you’re catching up with old friends or meeting someone new, the evening is an example of the inclusion and connection The Arc works to create throughout the community.

A Night of Celebration and Fun

This year’s event promises to be unforgettable. Held at Live! Casino & Hotel, the Snowflake Ball will feature:

• Dinner: A buffet menu with options to satisfy every palate.
• Dancing: A DJ and lively dance floor where guests can let loose to a fantastic mix of music.
• Photo Booth: An accessible photo booth where everyone can strike a pose and document the evening.
• Raffle Prizes: Every attendee will receive a ticket for one of the many raffles pulled throughout the evening.

Event Registration Details

The Snowflake Ball is open to everyone who wants to celebrate and connect. Tickets are $40 per person, but Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) attending with someone they support can attend for FREE. When registering to attend, please fill out one registration form per person attending, so one for you and one for each person you support.

Don’t Miss Out – Register Today!

We are beyond thrilled to announce that Jonathon Rondeau, President & CEO of The Arc Central Chesapeake Region, was awarded the prestigious Silver 2024 Anthem Award for Nonprofit Leader of the Year. This award celebrates Jonathon’s exceptional leadership, vision, and tireless dedication at an international scale for his work advancing The Arc’s mission and creating a more inclusive world for people with disabilities.

The Anthem Awards: Celebrating Leadership in Social Good

Presented by the Webby Awards, the Anthem Awards celebrates the outstanding achievements of individuals, organizations, and companies making a significant impact locally, nationally, and globally. The Nonprofit Leader of the Year category is one of the highest honors, recognizing visionary leaders who drive transformative change and elevate their organizations’ missions. Jonathon’s Silver Award was announced during the annual Anthem Awards ceremony in New York City, which gathers some of the most influential figures in nonprofit work, social change, and corporate responsibility.

The Anthem Awards selection process also includes a Community Voice component, where community members vote for their favorite nominees, adding a level of public engagement to the process. This year’s event showcased a wide range of honorees from various sectors, all contributing to positive social change. Jonathon’s award highlights his pivotal role in shaping the direction of The Arc in reimagining how services, housing, and resources coexist in our communities.

A Visionary Leader Committed to Inclusion and Empowerment

“I am deeply humbled and honored to receive the Nonprofit Leader of the Year award,” said Jonathon upon receiving the recognition. “This award is not just about me—it is a testament to the incredible work of The Arc’s employees, board members, partners, and supporters. Together, we are striving every day to create a more inclusive world where people with disabilities can live self-determined lives, pursue meaningful opportunities, and thrive within their communities.”

Under Jonathon’s leadership, The Arc has expanded how it serves people throughout the community in meaningful ways. With the launch of initiatives like Behavioral Health, Health at Work, and Port Street Commons, The Arc, under Jonathon’s leadership, is breaking down barriers for the people it serves, employees, and the community as a whole.

Transformative Leadership and Milestones at The Arc

Jonathon’s leadership at The Arc has been truly transformative for the enterprise. During his tenure as President & CEO, The Arc has made notable strides in improving the quality of life for people with disabilities, advancing inclusive and affordable housing options, and advocating for change in both policy and community spaces. One of the most recent milestones during Jonathon’s tenure has been the launch of Port Street Commons, a transformative mixed-use development that brings services, affordable housing, and community spaces together under one roof.

Additionally, Jonathon has led impactful and innovative workforce initiatives, including doubling the starting wage for Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) to $20/hour over the past seven years, launching a career ladder for DSPs, and reducing The Arc’s DSP vacancy rate to 6% while state and national rates hover between 20-50%. This commitment to improving compensation for DSPs, the backbone of our organization, reflects his dedication to valuing the workforce that provides critical services to people with disabilities.

Under Jonathon’s guidance, The Arc has also seen a greater focus on health and wellness programs for employees with the investment in a Total Rewards package that reduces costs for employees while increasing the quality of the benefits offered. This investment has also managed to keep the cost of medical insurance for employees stagnant for the last four years running, meaning that The Arc covers all premium increases and individual and family deductibles. The Arc’s Total Rewards also includes healthcare initiatives like Health at Work, which opened in 2024. Health at Work provides free onsite, same-day urgent and primary care to all Arc employees, regardless of whether they are enrolled in The Arc’s medical insurance plan. Under Jonathon’s leadership, The Arc is not just serving the needs of people with disabilities, but also supporting the dedicated professionals committed to this important work.

Looking Forward: A Continued Commitment to Inclusion

This award reflects Jonathon’s incredible dedication, but it is also a recognition of the collective effort of everyone who supports the work of the enterprise, including the employees and people they serve, the board of directors, partners, and community supporters who make The Arc’s work possible. We look forward to the continued impact Jonathon’s leadership will have on the lives of thousands of people with disabilities in the region and beyond.

This Veterans Day, The Arc Central Chesapeake Region (The Arc) is proud to celebrate employees who have served our country, like Nicole Woodson. Nicole is a U.S. Army veteran and Direct Support Professional (DSP) supporting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) in The Arc’s Living Options & Services.  

Nicole’s journey from military service to community support services is a familiar story for many service members who return from active duty, and we asked Nicole about how her experiences in the Army have shaped her work at The Arc. 

A Foundation of Strength and Service 

Born and raised in Washington, D.C., Nicole was drawn to helping others early in life. She worked with people with disabilities before joining the Army at the age of 23, hoping to find a career that would provide stability and a meaningful path forward.  

As an E4 Specialist stationed at Fort Stewart, Georgia, she served four years in the 3rd Infantry Division and was deployed to both Iraq and Kuwait. The military quickly taught Nicole how to adapt to circumstances and get to know people quickly. Working in logistics taught her discipline, organization, and how to adapt on the fly, skills she uses daily in her work with The Arc. 

“My interpersonal, leadership, and communication skills show up frequently in my work at The Arc,” said Nicole. “Recently in the house where I work, when time was running short and we needed to move a bit faster, I was able to take charge and make things easier for people to get out the door on time. I feel like, because of my experience in the military, I’m comfortable being in control so I can support them better.” 

Adapting to New Challenges 

Nicole’s time in the Army instilled in her not just technical skills but also strong leadership and emotional resilience. This background gives her a unique skillset for de-escalating challenging situations and reading emotional cues. She describes this as “hyper-vigilance,” a habit formed through years of training. Today, these qualities help her create a supportive, stable environment for the people she works with as a Community Support Assistant. 

“The people I support are like family to me,” Nicole shares. “I can sense when things might go wrong, and I’m always looking out for them, ensuring they’re safe and happy.” 

Working at The Arc is also fulfilling in many ways for Nicole personally as a disabled veteran who has had to adapt to being part of the disability community. While Nicole started working at The Arc to give back to her community, she’s been surprised to see just how much she has received in return. 

“Part of why I choose to come to work every day is because of how the guys help me with my own unseen disabilities,” she said. “Being with them is like therapy for me sometimes. They are something special, and I love seeing them every day.” 

When people with disabilities support each other, incredible levels of connection, trust, and support are possible. Each day brings new opportunities for Nicole to use her strengths and connect with others, lifting spirits and inspiring those around her. 

Honoring Veterans Who Keep Giving Back 

Nicole’s commitment to growth has never stopped. She is currently pursuing a master’s degree through a VA program, aiming to become a social worker or service coordinator to continue giving back to her community. Her studies, combined with her military background, add even more depth to her interpersonal skills and help her empathize with those she supports.  

“Psychology classes have made me even more of an empath,” she explains. “I adapt to how people are feeling, and that makes me a better support for them.” 

Nicole’s journey is a reminder of the ongoing contributions veterans make in their communities long after they have left the military. Her dedication to serving people with disabilities is only enhanced by the skills she honed during her military service, and she is an invaluable part of The Arc’s team.  

“Everyone deserves to feel safe, supported, and happy,” said Nicole. “My job at The Arc lets me make that a reality.”  

Returning veterans have a multitude of skills and experiences they can use to impact their communities, and The Arc is proud to support our employees who are veterans, in the reserve, or related to active and former service members for the ways they continue to show up for our mission and vision. 

This Veterans Day, we honor Nicole and all veterans whose commitment to service extends well beyond their time in uniform. 

Easton’s Waterfowl Festival is a more than 50-year tradition of celebrating wildlife art, conservation, and Eastern Shore life. The festival serves not only as a celebration of art and heritage but as a major economic driver for the Town of Easton and Talbot County. Every November, the event attracts tens of thousands of visitors, generating significant revenue for local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, galleries, and shops.

One of the most anticipated events of the festival is the Community Impact Breakfast, which The Arc Central Chesapeake Region hosted in partnership with the Waterfowl Festival and Talbot County Tourism & Economic Development.

“The Arc is proud to once again sponsor the Community Impact Breakfast at Waterfowl,” said Jonathon Rondeau, President & CEO of The Arc. “This important event brings together leaders from across all sectors, highlighting the vital connections between community development, the arts, conservation, and economic growth.”

Friday morning, nearly 200 people, including legislators, local business leaders, Festival VIPs, and community members, gathered to sip mimosas and listen to speakers, including both Rondeau and Carl L. Anderton, Jr, Director of Rural Economic Strategy for the Maryland Department of Commerce.

Rondeau connected the Waterfowl Festival back to The Arc’s work in the community and highlighted the organization’s most recent success – the opening of Port Street Commons the day before. “A key component of community development is providing economic opportunities for all,” he said. “There’s so much synergy between the festival’s goals and The Arc’s work as an enterprise.”

This powerful connection between the festival and The Arc’s efforts highlights how community services can intersect in meaningful ways to support the growth of a more inclusive and connected community.