Through its subsidiary, Chesapeake Community Development, the Arc Central Chesapeake Region (The Arc) is proud to announce the acquisition of 999 Corporate Boulevard in Linthicum, Maryland. This 71,286-square-foot Class A building currently houses The Arc’s headquarters in Anne Arundel County and four other businesses. Chesapeake Community Development purchased the property, marking a significant milestone in The Arc’s efforts to ensure long-term sustainability and expand its impact in the region. 

“This acquisition is a game-changer for The Arc and the communities we serve,” said Ross Benincasa, Senior Vice President of Community Development for Chesapeake Community Development. “Owning 999 Corporate Boulevard gives us greater control over our future while allowing us to support the success of our tenants. We are committed to maintaining the building as a premier business location and enhancing it for everyone who works here.” 

The building acquisition aligns with The Arc’s broader strategy to invest in its infrastructure, ensuring it can continue providing vital services to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and their families. As the new landlord, Chesapeake Community Development will make significant upgrades over the next 12 to 18 months, enhancing the property’s safety, accessibility, and amenities. Planned improvements include updated parking lot lighting, EV charging stations, lobby renovations, and landscaping upgrades, among others. 

“This building represents more than just an investment; it’s a statement about our commitment to the future,” added Benincasa. “By owning our space, we reduce operational costs, increase stability, and create opportunities to reinvest in our mission.” 

The Arc will implement policies to promote a professional and welcoming environment for all tenants, including transitioning the property to a smoke-free campus by February 2025. Rent collection and maintenance requests will also be streamlined with new systems in place beginning January 2025. 

Chesapeake Community Development also owns The Arc’s Severn office and Eastern Shore headquarters, Port Street Commons. With the purchase of 999 Corporate Blvd, The Arc is excited to continue investing in the infrastructure and resources needed to support our communities. 

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.

On Thursday, November 7, 2024, nearly 200 community leaders and supporters gathered to celebrate the opening of Port Street Commons with an official ribbon-cutting. The event honored the many people who brought Port Street Commons to life as well as the incredible social and economic impacts the project will have throughout the region.

Port Street Commons is a 24,000-square-foot space that includes offices, community spaces, and affordable housing designed to support a diverse range of needs in the community.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony took place almost 18 months to the day after the groundbreaking in June 2023, when the first shovel was put into the ground. Jonathon Rondeau, President & CEO of The Arc Central Chesapeake Region (The Arc), spoke proudly of the incredible collaboration and dedication it took to achieve this and noted that the project’s significance goes far beyond the building itself.

“The building behind me is an incredible accomplishment, but the building itself is not what we’re here to celebrate,” said Rondeau. “Today, we are celebrating The Arc’s continued growth and expansion on the Mid-Shore and how Port Street Commons is the next step of many toward creating the inclusive communities we all deserve to live in.” 

Celebrating Inclusion, Opportunity, and Access

Thursday’s Ribbon Cutting was filled with optimism as speakers highlighted how Port Street Commons will enhance accessibility, equity, and opportunity in the community. Megan Cook, Mayor of Easton, recognized the project as a milestone in the town’s ongoing commitment to economic development, revitalization, and community well-being. She commended The Arc for its visionary approach to creating mixed-use spaces that cater to both social and economic needs.

Among other speakers were Pete Lesher, Vice President of the Talbot County Council, and Julia Glanz, Deputy Secretary of the Department of Housing & Community Development. Both praised Port Street Commons for addressing the region’s housing shortage while providing critical services. Carol Beatty, Secretary of the Department of Disabilities, also underscored the project’s role in expanding services to support people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including a behavioral health suite for essential mental health care.

The program concluded with remarks from Rondeau, who expressed his gratitude for the community’s support and highlighted Port Street Commons’ potential to foster lasting positive change.

“With projects like Port Street Commons, we are building a future where inclusion is the norm, housing and services coexist, and everyone has the opportunities they deserve to live the lives they choose for themselves,” he said.

Rondeau went on to express his gratitude for the community’s support and highlighted Port Street Commons’ potential to foster lasting positive change.

Following the program, all of the speakers and several key supporters joined Rondeau to cut the ribbon before everyone toured the building. Guests eagerly explored the space, admiring firsthand the building’s modern design and emphasis on accessibility.

What is Port Street Commons? 

Port Street Commons is more than just a building; it’s a hub for community, inclusion, and opportunity. The 24,000-square-foot facility boasts space for two key resources:

1. The Arc at Port Street – Part of the building is The Arc at Port Street, the new Eastern Shore headquarters for The Arc Central Chesapeake Region. The space includes a Professional Development Center, a Community Hub for Day Services, a Behavioral Health Suite for mental health services, and a Health at Work clinic offering free on-site medical care for employees. This expansion is expected to create 30 new jobs over the next three years and will allow The Arc to better serve the growing needs of the region.
2. The Residences at Port Street – A separate wing holds The Residences at Port Street, which includes nine affordable housing units. Developed in partnership with Chesapeake Neighbors, these two- and three-bedroom rentable units are set aside for moderate-income families, making 65% of the Area Median Income (AMI) for the Town of Easton. The units include universally designed options for people with mobility challenges and modern amenities like energy-efficient appliances, in-unit laundry, and free Wi-Fi. Tenants were selected through a competitive lottery process that drew over 200 applicants in the first 24 hours. The Residences at Port Street is a necessary and long-awaited addition to the community’s affordable housing market.

A Lasting Legacy

The ribbon-cutting ceremony not only marked the completion of this major project but also represented an investment in the future of Easton and the broader Mid-Shore region. The building will serve as a lasting symbol of collaboration, inclusion, and opportunity, impacting people with disabilities, low-income residents, and the entire community.

Rondeau summed up the event with a message of hope and commitment: “I am incredibly grateful for the partnership and collaboration of the community throughout this project. I am proud that The Arc calls Easton—and Talbot County—home. We are building a future where inclusion is the norm, and everyone has the opportunity to live the life they choose.”

With its new headquarters, innovative housing options, and focus on community integration, Port Street Commons’ success offers a model for how inclusive community development initiatives can meet the needs of diverse populations while fostering stronger, more resilient communities.

The Arc Central Chesapeake Region (The Arc) and Michele Tharp, Board Chair, are pleased to announce the appointment of three new members to the board of directors. Arnold Farmer, Jessie Su, and Al Szydlowski began their terms on November 1, bringing a wealth of experience and passion to support the enterprise’s work throughout the community.  

“We are excited to welcome Arnold, Jessie, and Al,” said Jonathon Rondeau, President & CEO of The Arc. “Each of them is a strategic leader with valuable expertise and a deep commitment to our mission and vision. Their leadership will play an essential role as The Arc continues to grow and strengthen our services across the region and communities we serve. I look forward to the meaningful impact we’ll achieve together.”  

Arnold Farmer is an Audit Senior Manager at SC&H Group LLC, managing over 20 audit engagements annually. He conducts detailed reviews of attest engagements, offering leadership valuable recommendations by interpreting complex accounting rules and helping clients navigate financial decisions effectively. With his deep knowledge of complex financial regulations and collaborative nature, Arnold brings unique experience to The Arc’s enterprise as it continues to grow.  

Jessie Su is the Associate Director of Alumni Relations at Johns Hopkins University’s Carey Business School, focusing on alumni engagement and developing regional networks. Her talent for creating collaborations among students, alums, and industry experts fosters dynamic professional networks that drive positive change. Jessie brings the ability to develop strong relationships and brings a unique perspective that can enhance strategic initiatives and drive positive change for The Arc. 

Al Szydlowski is the Senior Vice President Anne Arundel & Howard County for Pinnacle Financial Partners, Inc., and has extensive experience in commercial and middle-market banking, offering a strong background in financial solutions, capital access, and strategic planning. He has managed large portfolios across multiple institutions, specializing in mergers, acquisitions, and tailored financial solutions. His expertise in assessing financial health and structuring complex lending will be invaluable for supporting The Arc’s enterprise growth and sustainability, enhancing its mission and community impact. 

Arnold, Jessie, and Al join a diverse group of community leaders from across the region who bring expertise from nonprofit leadership, healthcare, government, and business. Together, the board collaborates to set a dynamic and transformational vision, identify and pursue key opportunities aligned with The Arc’s strategic plan, and partner with leadership to govern the organization.   

For more information about The Arc Central Chesapeake Region and its Board of Directors, click here.