Katie's Corner: A Note from Our Executive Director | |
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As we start the New Year, I keep thinking back to those snowy days in January. What stuck with me wasn't just the snow itself—it was watching our direct support professionals show up no matter what. Icy roads, freezing cold, you name it. They were there every single day for the people who needed them. I'm really grateful for that.
The 2026 legislative session is now in full swing here in Annapolis. We’ve already passed out our new calendars, featuring our very own Ivy, and are gearing up for Developmental Disabilities Day at the State House in mid-February. Your voices and the voices of the people we support are critical as legislators work to craft a balanced state budget.
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Like many in our field, advocates are watching the Maryland Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) budget closely this session. In recent years, proposed cuts totaling hundreds of millions of dollars sparked rallies and intense advocacy, and lawmakers worked to restore most of that funding to avoid severe service disruptions. Still, the DDA continues to face ongoing fiscal pressures that could affect service levels or workforce support if not addressed thoughtfully in the final budget. Among the concerns are structural shortfalls and proposals to reduce some reimbursement rates and provider funding, We're hopeful for an outcome we can work with!
Our Annual Appeal is wrapping up, and I want to thank everyone who has joined the I’m Possible campaign so far. We’re aiming to raise $65,000 to honor 65 remarkable years of The Arc. Though the formal campaign has ended, we're going to keep it rolling throughout our 65th year, to keep pushing toward that $65,000 goal — every dollar helps change lives.
I’m also thrilled to share that tickets and sponsorships are now live for our first-ever Chocolate and Cheers event! This year, Chocolate celebrates our longtime Chocolate Ball tradition, while Cheers gives a new home to our Celebration of Excellence. We need YOUR help to recognize outstanding members of our community in categories such as Excellence in Community, Public Service, Professional Service, Education, and Employment. Please submit your nominations HERE, I can’t wait to see who you choose to honor!
Here’s to a meaningful month full of advocacy, appreciation, and continued momentum — together, we make I’m Possible real.
| | The Arc of Howard County Video Is Out | | | | |
We’re excited to share our newly released marketing video!
This heartfelt piece is the result of tremendous effort from our dedicated staff and offers a quick look at the programs and services we provide, our mission, and our deep commitment to the IDD community.
More than just an overview, the video reflects who we are at our core, a community of those we support, families, professionals, and supporters working together. Because this work is never done alone. We invite you to watch, learn more about us, and be part of our village.
| | Legislators, Here We Come! | | |
We had a wonderful time visiting our legislators in Annapolis for Calendar Day on January 15! We were represented by our very own Executive Director, Katie Collins-Ihrke, along with staff leadership, the people we support, and dedicated advocates.
Each year, chapters of The Arc, led by The Arc Maryland, join forces to distribute a free Legislative Calendar featuring the people we support. This serves as a reminder to representatives of our mission and who we are fighting for. We believe that our presence in the halls where policies are made moves us closer to stronger supports and more equitable funding. We are proud to represent Howard County and grateful to be part of a powerful statewide movement.
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On February 18, we will return for Developmental Disabilities Day, taking place at the Graduate by Hilton Hotel.
We look forward to joining fellow advocates, families, and people with IDD to meet with our state leaders, learn about key issues, and advocate for funding opportunities and policy changes.
For more information and to register to participate (online only as in person attendence is sold out) click below.
| | | Sponsorship and Nominations for Chocolate and Cheers | | THANK YOU to everyone who said yes to sponsorship and tickets for the Chocolate and Cheers fundraiser and silent auction happening on May 9th at Laurel Park. We are excited! If you haven't already, we have many levels of sponsorship available. Our Cheers for Excellence is also open for nominations. | | Introducing Our New Director of Operations | | |
The Arc of Howard County is pleased to welcome Angela Harris as its new Director of Operations starting on February 16.
Angie brings more than 33 years of federal public service, including 15 years in logistics and operations leadership at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, where she led cross-functional teams, managed complex projects, and guided staff through organizational change while aligning operations with mission-driven goals.
Angie brings deep expertise in operations management, compliance, and staff development. She leads with a servant leadership approach grounded in collaboration, accountability, and respect, along with passion, dedication, and a sense of humor.
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She holds a Master of Business Administration and a Bachelor of Science in Management Studies with a minor in Human Resources Management from the University of Maryland Global Campus.
Outside of work, Angie enjoys spending time with family and friends, traveling, watching television, and volunteering.
She is excited to join The Arc team and is deeply committed to advancing programs that empower individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and strengthen the broader community.
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Thank You and Farewell, Jan!
After years of steady leadership and unwavering dedication, we say farewell to our former Director of Operations Jan Baranczak, as he begins an exciting new chapter in Chicago. We wish you every success and happiness in this next adventure!
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Meaningful Day Program Update
The people we support in The Arc’s Day Program had a full and engaging month. and they wouldn’t have it any other way! From board games and karaoke, to movie time, exercise sessions, cooking and baking, and creative arts and crafts, each day is filled with opportunities for connection, skill-building, and fun!
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A special highlight was a meaningful trip to Baltimore, where participants prepared and distributed brown bag lunches to people experiencing homelessness. It was a powerful opportunity to give back and demonstrate compassion in action.
Looking ahead, we’re excited to host a Valentine’s Day celebration on February 13. The day will be filled with pampering, crafts, laughter, and joyful moments shared together!
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Celebrating Success and Confidence in Action
We’re proud to recognize three incredible people we support who are shining in their workplaces and growing every day.
Congratulations to Racquel, Madison, and Darius! Your hard work, confidence, and commitment make us all proud!
| Madison, who works in the bakery department at Safeway, consistently goes the extra mile. She doesn’t just perform tasks assigned to her, she has gone above and beyond performing extra tasks without any supervision. Her initiative and dedication truly stand out. | | |
Racquel recently gained employment at Weis Markets , and she is thriving!
Along with learning new skills, Racquel has built tremendous self-confidence and is doing exceptionally well in her role. Her growth has been inspiring to see.
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Darius is doing an outstanding job in the mailroom at the Howard County Public School System. He carries out his responsibilities with excellence and always with a smile. His positive attitude makes a difference every day.
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A big shoutout also goes to Employment Specialist Bola, who consistently supports and encourages Racquel, Madison, and Darius through every stage of the employment process—from résumé development to interviews and on-the-job coaching.
Bola joined The Arc seven years ago as a Direct Support Professional and transitioned to Employment Services after two years.
“What I enjoy most about my role as an Employment Specialist is being part of the journey that leads to meaningful employment for those that we support,” says Bola. “Contributing to the hiring process, building relationships with employers and seeing those supported gain confidence and independence through work is incredibly rewarding.”
Bola is proud to be part of The Arc of Howard County and to play a role in fulfilling its mission. And we are proud of Bola’s outstanding work!
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“It is inspiring to work alongside a team that is genuinely committed to helping those supported reach their goals and thrive in their communities,” Bola says. “The Arc is an organization that truly values inclusion, empowerment, and person-centered support.”
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Mission Moment
To We're excited to launch a new staff recognition initiative to celebrate the dedication and hard work of our team throughout the year. To kick things off, we would like to recognize Christine in our first-ever Mission Moment!
You will not miss Christine if you visit our office on Homewood Road because she's one of the friendliest faces around! For 21 years as an Administrative Assistant, Christine has shown what's possible when people with IDD are given the chance to thrive. Her dedication and reliability inspire staff, the people we support and our entire community.
“It's been a pleasure getting to know her over the few years I've worked with her,” says long-time co-worker Shawn, Employment Specialist. “Christine is a strong advocate for the people supported by The Arc, a great communicator, and she takes great pride in doing her work well.”
“I enjoy my co-workers, the work we do, and the people we support on a daily basis,” says Christine. Outside of work, she loves horseback riding, and performing in musical theatre productions, passions that brings her joy and confidence.
We are proud to invest in the people who make our mission possible every day. Thank you for all you do, Christine!
| | | | Snow Day Moments — Inside and Out | | |
We hope you’re all staying safe and warm this snowy season! We haven’t seen this much snow in years, and we know it can be challenging for many.
For the people we support, the days remained busy and connected thanks to our dedicated Direct Support Professionals and The Arc staff, who are always there—rain, shine, snow, or sleet.
in one particular home, DSM Annie had Zach, Scott and Richard enjoying snow days inside and outside! They built LEGO® sets, created artwork, watched TV, baked, and called family and friends. It’s a reminder that joy, independence, and belonging happen in both small and big moments, no matter where the season takes us.
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The Arc of Howard County strives to achieve full community life for people with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities
-- one person at a time.
Achieve with us.
A copy of the current financial statement of The Arc of Howard County is available by writing 11735 Homewood Rd, Ellicott City, MD 21042 or by calling (410) 730-0638. Documents and information submitted under the Maryland Solicitations Act are also available, for the cost of postage and copies, from the Maryland Secretary of State, State House, Annapolis MD 21401, (410) 974-5534.
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