Katie's Corner: A Note from Our Executive Director

As we close out June and begin a new fiscal year, I'm filled with gratitude for all we've accomplished together. We wrapped up a successful membership drive, welcomed new members into our growing community, and held our Annual Meeting, where we were pleased to induct our newest Board of Directors.

One of the highlights of the season was our very first Chocolate & Cheers gala. What began as an idea to auction a few pieces of artwork during the evening's silent auction, quickly became something much bigger. The response to the incredible artwork created by people we support was overwhelming, inspiring a partnership with the Columbia Art Center to host a community gallery exhibition showcasing their talent. We can't wait to share this exhibit with all of you.

After making it through last week's heatwave, we're ready to keep turning up the heat, (figuratively, not literally) and keep the momentum going. As we begin a new fiscal year, we're excited for what's ahead and grateful to everyone who continues to help build a more inclusive community alongside us.

You are invited to The Arc's Art Exhibit

Proud to witness their achievement and hard work. Pictured above during their graduation ceremony are (left to right): Tolu, The Arc Executive Director Katie Collins-Ihrke, Samuel, Gabe, Department of Disabilities Secretary Carol Beatty, Howard County Executive Calvin Ball, Rory, Meezan, The Arc Deputy Executive Director of Programs Greg Franklin, Travis, HCPSS Executive Director of Special Education Dr. Melissa Bruson, Chad, and HCPSS Special Education Director Janice Yetter.

• 6 out of 8 interns secured employment
• Most accepted positions at the Johns Hopkins Howard County Medical Center where they completed their internships
• Other employers are Amazon, Humanim and Columbia Association

Our Project SEARCH Interns are launching successful careers!

These outstanding results are a testament to their dedication and hard work, the support of our staff, and the commitment of our employer partners. Through hands-on training and real-world experience, Project SEARCH prepares recent high school graduates with I/DD for meaningful and competitive employment, while helping participating companies cultivate a skilled, inclusive, and dependable workforce!

Meaningful Day Program Update

We’ve been hitting all the right notes recently at our Day Program! The highlight for June was our first-ever “Golden Gala: A Masquerade Affair” held at the Randallstown Community Center.

The people we support and our invited guests from Athelas Institute put on their masks and enjoyed the food, music and dancing. Thanks to everyone who joined us and helped make our first Golden Gala a smashing success. It was a fun-filled lunchtime celebration. We can't wait to do it again!

When you walk into the supportive home at Flight Feather, you immediately feel a sense of peace. It’s calm and spotlessly clean. You can tell that this is a place where people are truly cared for!

That sense of peace has been shaped over decades by Vermell, Direct Support Manager (DSM). She has dedicated almost 30 years to the same home!

“The house comes on welcome hinges. When you come in, we want you to feel welcome.” -Vermell

Vermell joined The Arc of Howard County in 1997 as a part-time weekend staff while working full-time for a pharmaceutical company. She later transitioned to weekday evening shifts, helping support three women: Cathy, Barbara, and Joyce.

For ten years, she balanced both jobs until Cathy’s health began to decline and required additional support.

By then, the choice was clear.

“I loved Cathy, and have gotten to know her well," recalled Vermell. "My family became her family."

Vermell left her other job and hasn’t looked back.

Over the years, the first group of women she supported passed away, and a new generation of residents moved into the home. Today, Vermell supports Kim, Jane (not pictured below), and Laura, each with their own unique interests and personalities.

Kim enjoys music, especially The Beatles and Alan Jackson. She is active in track and field through Special Olympics and participates in Parks and Recreation programs. Jane has a large, involved family and competes in Korean Special Olympics. She enjoys movies and videos. Laura loves classic television shows, especially those on TV Land.

Together, the women attend church, enjoy bingo outings, and spend time in the community.

“I enjoy coming to work,” said Vermell who transitioned from living in the home to living independently in 2022. “I love helping people and making sure they feel important and loved, especially when society may overlook them.

At 70, Vermell feels blessed by the life she has built through her work. And when you walk through the doors of Flight Feather, you can feel that blessing too - in the calm, dignity, and love woven into everyday life.

Adopt A Home

If you’re interested in adopting a home with your family, friends, colleagues, or community groups, we’d love to hear from you! It's a worthwhile investment!