May 28, 2020 | Issue #43
Quarantine and the After Effects
I had two opportunities to be with you this week as I filled in for Maura Sullivan today with guest Jean Phelps, CEO of LifeLinks CLASS. On Wednesday, I had Brittany McDermott of Berkshire County Arc join me to talk about one home’s experience with the quarantine and the after effects.

In the Thursday session with Jean, we had a fuller discussion on safety in the homes and keeping people safe from the virus. Jean shared how her agency evolved in addressing the threat of the COVID-19 virus. This upcoming Monday, we will discuss transitions and visitation.  Hear more from Leo here.
Honor the Hero in Your Life
During this exceptionally challenging time, heroes among us have emerged. Direct support professionals, personal care attendants, nurses, residential staff, doctors, and first responders are putting their community and helping people first. And within families, mothers, fathers, siblings, and grandparents are doing more than ever to provide care to their loved ones with disabilities.

You probably have someone in your life who has gone above and beyond to help you or your loved ones. Honor their dedication with a gift to The Arc of Massachusetts. We will let them know that you made a donation in their name and that more will be done to enhance the lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and autism and their families.
COVID-19 Updates
On May 25, Executive Director Leo Sarkissian shared his latest COVID-19 update. He reflected on DDS data sharing, national and local trends, and more.
Just released this afternoon is the dashboard we have been waiting for, which reviews how our constituents/staff and others have fared in congregate settings.
Be sure to register for our COVID-19 focused, half-hour webinars on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays. Registering for one session will sign you up for future sessions of the series.
The COVID-19 pandemic has certainly reminded all of us of the need to have our business in order! This webinar will go through the steps involved in developing a future plan. Learn more and register here.
Chapters of The Arc
Joseph Woitkoski Steps Down as Chair of Berkshire County Arc After 36 Years
Joseph Woitkoski, Board Chair of the Berkshire County Arc, has stepped down from his position after 36 years of service. As Board member and chair since 1984, he has helped lead Agency growth from a few employees and a small budget into an organization with 800 employees, 43 group homes, numerous other offerings to the disability community, and a $36 million dollar budget. Read more here.
Sponsor Spotlight

The work of The Arc of Massachusetts is made possible by generous donations from people like you, friend. None of our advocacy, education, and outreach would be possible without your continued support. Please consider giving today.