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Dear Esther,

"I wouldn't have a job if it wasn't for The Arc, because you guys had to help me and build me up and make me want to go out and get the job."

– Terrell McLanahan, IKEA Employee

Finding a job is challenging for everyone, but for clients with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD), the hurdles can be even higher. Terrell McLanahan, a dedicated client of The Arc San Francisco, has experienced this firsthand.

Since 2009, Terrell has been working with The Arc to overcome the obstacles of finding meaningful employment. With his mother’s support and The Arc’s job preparation classes, Terrell gained the skills needed to navigate the job market despite his learning disability.

Your donation today can make a direct impact. Many clients like Terrell face barriers to employment, and your support helps provide the essential resources and personalized coaching they need.

In 2009, The Arc helped Terrell secure a job at Twitter, thanks to the guidance of Steve Huebner. Even when faced with the setback of being laid off in 2022, The Arc was there for him. Brandon Cruz, a dedicated staff member, supported Terrell through job fairs and applications.

"Brandon kept telling me, ‘My main priority is to make sure you get a job. It’s gonna happen.’ And it did," Terrell says.

Today, Terrell works at Saluhall, IKEA’s food marketplace, where he has been named Employee of the Month. His ongoing success is a testament to the critical role of The Arc’s continued support, especially from his job coach, Richie.

Currently, 15 clients with I/DD are actively seeking jobs through The Arc SF, and 50 more are on the waitlist.Your donation can provide the critical resources and personalized support needed to reduce waitlists and empower more clients to succeed.

Thank you,

The Arc San Francisco

P.S. Terrell values every opportunity he gets. "I don't take this for granted. I'm very, very thankful." Show your support for clients like Terrell with your donation today at www.givearcsf.org.

P.P.S. Tell your elected officials to reject the governor’s $ 1 billion cut in funding to disability services. https://thearcca.org/advocacy/take-action/

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