On a beautiful spring morning in Annapolis, over 80 self-advocates and allies gathered for The Arc Central Chesapeake Region’s (The Arc) Living Boldly Biannual Meeting. As sunlight poured into the room, so did an energy of purpose, community, and unwavering belief in the power of self-advocacy. 

What Is Living Boldly? 

Advocacy has always been at the heart of The Arc’s mission. Supporting self-advocacy—when people with disabilities speak up for themselves—is a natural extension of that mission.  Launched in 2022, Living Boldly is The Arc’s self-advocacy group. This is a public group open to anyone with a disability – you do not have to receive services from The Arc to participate.  

At its core, Living Boldly is about standing up, speaking out, and creating change. It’s driven by people with disabilities who are leading the charge toward a more inclusive future. Living Boldly is a space to learn, grow, connect, and most importantly, act. 

Living Boldly offers one chapter for Anne Arundel County and one for the Eastern Shore, each serving the needs of their communities. While each chapter has its own leadership and meeting schedules, they have the same mission: to ensure that people with disabilities are fully included, speak up on important issues, to help each other grow, and to encourage more independence. 

State Legislative Recap: Victories and Vigilance  

The morning began with welcoming remarks from Matt Morgan, Chief Program Officer at The Arc.  He spoke about the organization’s long history of advocacy and reminded everyone that real progress happens when we work together. 

“I want to thank you. You are the reason this movement continues. And I hope you leave here feeling re-energized, re-inspired, and more confident than ever in the power of advocating for yourself—and for the inclusive future we’re building together.” 

Next was a panel discussion led by Rylie Shewbridge, Director of Government Relations at The Arc. Panelists included Greg Snyder, Vice President of Government Relations from the Maryland Association of Community Services (MACS), and Mat Rice, Executive Director of People on the Go. 

The panel discussed key wins and challenges from the most recent legislative session. One of these wins was when the community mobilized after hearing that state budget cuts were threatening critical Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) funding. In just 48 hours, more than 900 people showed up for an emergency rally this last February. As budget discussions continued, people with disabilities were called to give a testimony of the impact of these cuts.  The lines of people waiting to share their stories extended outside the statehouse doors. And while not every battle was won, the outcome was powerful. The final budget restores a significant portion of the proposed cuts, securing a total DDA budget of $2.7 billion with additional funding to address deficit spending. 

When asked what mattered most, Mat Rice shared, “It’s important to note that for the first time in a long time, people with developmental disabilities were at the table talking to the Governor and his staff.” Mat believed one of the greatest successes was to make sure the Direct Support Professionals would be paid for the hard work they do. Greg Snyder emphasized protecting dedicated hours and including budget intent language to hold DDA accountable. 

Federal Advocacy Update: The Work Ahead 

At the national level, Sean Luechtefeld, Vice President of Membership and Communications for ANCOR, gave an update on the fight to protect services like Medicaid, which helps pay for long-term support for people with disabilities. 

Sean explained how federal policy works and where we are in the process of considering cuts to Medicaid. He explained if these cuts happen it means longer wait times for services. The 4,000 people currently on Maryland’s waiting list maybe have to wait even longer.  

But Sean also shared hopeful news: because of advocacy efforts, ANCOR has sent over 115,000 messages to lawmakers. Now, 21 members of Congress have promised not to support Medicaid cuts that would impact services for people with disabilities. 

Sean encouraged everyone in the room to keep sharing stories, writing letters, and reaching out to lawmakers. “We don’t want to look back when this fight is over and wish we had done more,” Sean said. “It’s only when we think we can’t make a difference that we don’t make a difference.” 

Sean gave attendees direct links to contact their representatives, and share personal stories that help legislators understand effects of their decisions. By continuing to message their representatives and tell their stories, self-advocates are showing the country that they are informed, organized, and determined to be heard.  

Putting Advocacy into Action

With inspiration in the air, attendees participated in an advocacy activity by writing to state and federal leaders —they wrote thank-you notes, shared personal stories, and reminded policymakers about the importance of their work. 

As the day wrapped up, Rylie Shewbridge returned to the podium with a message to close The Living Boldly Biannual Meeting on a note of hope and resolve.: 

“Change is not always fast, and it’s rarely easy, but it is possible when we keep showing up, together,” said Rylie. “Thank you for being brave, for showing up, and for leading the way.” 

Connect with Us 

Want to get involved in Living Boldly? Learn about upcoming meetings. 

Stay up to date legislative news that impacts people with disabilities by joining our newsletter and connect with us on social media where you can see pictures from today’s event.  

On April 24, The Arc Central Chesapeake Region (The Arc) welcomed supporters, community members, and advocates to Celebration Impact, an annual event that honors people and partners who make a meaningful difference in the lives of people with disabilities. From honoring Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) and advocates to celebrating the achievements of people supported by The Arc and community-minded organizations, the event was a powerful reminder of the transformative impact that support, commitment, and collaboration can have on a community. 

Celebrating Leadership, Service, and Advocacy  

President & CEO Jonathon Rondeau opened the evening by reflecting on a year of unprecedented growth and impact across the enterprise. He highlighted the importance of programs like Living Options & Services, Children, Youth & Their Families, and Self-Directed Services, each of which has expanded this year to meet the growing unmet needs of the community and support more people with disabilities in meaningful, life-changing ways.  He also applauded the opening of Port Street Commons on the Eastern Shore and the preparation for transformative projects like Easton Crossing and Silo Court; community spaces that bring together services, housing, and opportunity. 

Jonathon also recognized the tireless efforts of The Arc’s team, the commitment of the community, and the generosity of donors who make this work possible. This reminded us that true impact comes from the way people show up for each other; neighbors supporting neighbors, families supporting families.  

“Much of our work would not be possible without your commitment to equity and inclusion for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and I am grateful for your support,” said Jonathon. “As we look to the future, the projects we are preparing to launch promise incredible opportunities for even more community impact.” 

2025 Celebration Impact Honorees 

This year The Arc honored 10 people and organizations who have made lasting contributions to advancing inclusion and opportunity for people with disabilities in our communities. 

Julie Gallagher Leadership in Direct Service Award 
Tavion Harris was honored for his dedication as a Personal Support Assistant. His adaptability, professionalism, and commitment to building strong, trusting relationships make him a role model among his peers. 

Leadership in Management & Administration Award 
Isaac Ahanmisi was honored for leading the IT buildout at Port Street Commons, ensuring seamless tech infrastructure while continuing to support the organization’s broader technology needs. 

Jodie Colombo was recognized for transforming Day Services into a more equitable, efficient, and person-centered program through thoughtful leadership and strategic planning. 

Outstanding Personal Achievement Award 
Carl Schinner was celebrated for his 18-year career and current role as a Certification Specialist, demonstrating the power of opportunity and self-determination. 

Lauren Sheeder was honored for her leadership as a self-directed employer, effectively managing her team and advocating for her son’s services with confidence and support. 

Lorraine Sheehan Advocacy Award 
Delegate Heather Bagnall was recognized for advancing policies that improve Maryland’s developmental disabilities system and advocating for accessibility in public spaces. 

Councilwoman Allison Pickard was honored for championing legislation that reduces costs for affordable housing developers, helping make inclusive housing more achievable in Anne Arundel County. 

Leadership in Social Responsibility Award 
First Citizens Bank received this award for its consistent support of The Arc’s Holiday Giving program and for sponsoring the Golf Tournament, which raised over $228,000 last year. 

Impact Through Leadership Award 
Laura Austin was celebrated for her advocacy and decade of service as a Board member, shaping The Arc’s strategy and driving meaningful change across the community. 

Impact Through Philanthropy Award 
St. Andrew Apostle Church was recognized for adopting 100 children every year through The Arc’s Holiday Giving program, donating over $15,000 in holiday gifts, and bringing joy to families across the region. 

Recognizing the People Who Make a Difference Every Day 

Throughout the evening, Celebration Impact emphasized that progress doesn’t happen in isolation; it happens through relationships, shared purpose, and leadership at every level. 

“It is the drive and passion of everyone here at The Arc that allows us to impact the people we support and our communities so meaningfully every day,” said Jonathon. “I want to again take a moment to thank everyone here tonight for believing in the inclusive, supportive futures are creating.” 

The Arc’s 2025 Celebration Impact was a powerful reminder that meaningful change is possible and happening when people come together with a shared vision for equity, access, and belonging. 

At The Arc Central Chesapeake Region (The Arc), the people we serve are at the center of everything we do. We recognize that people are complex. Our thoughts, emotions, goals, desires, and past experiences, both positive and challenging, influence how we show up in any given situation. While we celebrate Mental Health Awareness Month in May, our commitment to supporting the emotional health and well-being of people with disabilities is year-round, because mental health matters every day, in every moment, and for every person. 

Behavioral Health: An Evolution 

Founded in 2020, Behavioral Health supports people with disabilities and mental health diagnoses to develop the tools and resources each person needs to navigate life’s many moments. Our licensed clinicians are committed to truly understanding each person, addressing behaviors that may create barriers, and supporting them in living the life they want to lead.  

We created Behavioral Health with the belief that behavioral health and mental health services should be integrated, trauma-informed, and person-centered. 

Our licensed clinicians work closely with each person, their family, and their support team to co-create strategies rooted in empathy, safety, and respect. By focusing on emotional well-being as a foundation for independence, The Arc’s Behavioral Health team helps people move forward at their own pace and on their own terms. 

This Mental Health Awareness Month, we’re celebrating by sharing the stories of three people whose journeys highlight the power of compassionate and personalized behavioral health support.  

Doug’s Story: Rebuilding Confidence After a Big Life Change 

Doug is a vibrant young man who thrives on the structure of his routine at school. Leaving the comfort of the environment he knew caused him anxiety, and he became more withdrawn. For a while, even short trips outside the house felt overwhelming.  

With support from The Arc’s Behavioral Health team, Doug slowly rebuilt his confidence. The team collaborates closely with Doug, his family, and his DSPs, relying on the DSPs’ daily insights to shape a plan grounded in empathy, patience, and emotional safety. By equipping his DSPs with the tools and strategies to respond with consistency and care, Doug feels more supported in moments that once felt overwhelming. Today, he’s venturing out on his own, forming new relationships, and reconnecting with the world around him. 

His growing independence has brought both joy to his family and a renewed sense of self.  

Tiffany’s Story: Finding Security After Past Challenges

Tiffany is someone who lights up a room with her love of music, knack for puzzles, and enthusiasm. For much of her early life, she didn’t always have access to the freedom and choices she deserved. These experiences had a lasting impact on her, leading to fears around food security and trust. 

When Tiffany came to The Arc, she was connected with the Behavioral Health team. Together with her DSPs, they created a personalized approach that centers her comfort, strengths, and autonomy, especially during mealtimes, which are now predictable, calming, and safe. 

Today, Tiffany moves through her community and Day Program with growing confidence and joy. Recently, she completed a challenging puzzle at her local library, a quiet but powerful moment of pride and persistence that reflects just how far she’s come. 

Michelle’s Story: A Direct Support Professional (DSP) Getting Support to Help Others  

When Peter began services with The Arc last year, he and his family were apprehensive about starting a new chapter, given all he had been through. That’s when Michelle, a DSP, stepped into his life. 

Michelle was new to supporting someone with Peter’s specific needs, but by partnering with the Behavioral Health team, she didn’t have to navigate it alone. Michelle received in-depth training on trauma-informed care, helping her understand how Peter’s past experiences affect his daily life. Together, Michelle and the Behavioral Health team were able to look at Peter from new angles and provide strategies to ensure she was meeting Peter where he was in the moment and supporting him with empathy and intention. 

With ongoing coaching and support from the Behavioral Health team, Michelle has not only grown in her professional skills but has built a trusting and supportive relationship with Peter, one where he feels safe, seen, and empowered to try new things. Behavioral Health gave Michelle the tools she needed to do her job well, and most importantly, to help Peter find connection and a renewed sense of possibility. 

The Arc is Here for You 

These are just a few of the many stories that demonstrate how The Arc’s Behavioral Health supports people in leading the lives they choose — with dignity, emotional safety, and joy. The program was built to create a meaningful, holistic model of support that respects the complexity of each person’s experience, especially for those who have faced trauma or struggled to find support that truly meets their needs. 

If you or someone you know with a disability could benefit from behavioral health support, learn more about our services at https://thearcccr.org/services/#behavioral-health  or reach out today. The Arc is here to help.

On Thursday, April 24, The Arc Central Chesapeake Region (The Arc) hosted its annual Celebration Impact event, bringing together community leaders, advocates, and supporters to recognize the many people and organizations throughout the community driving equity, access, and opportunity for people with disabilities. 

Held at The Fluegel Alumni Center in Annapolis, the evening honored ten awardees whose leadership, advocacy, and service have created meaningful change across the region.  

“Celebration Impact is an opportunity to celebrate the people who dedicate their time, skills, and resources to making each other’s lives and each other’s communities better,” said Jonathon Rondeau, President & CEO. “It was an honor to be able to recognize so many incredibly deserving awardees last night for the major impacts they’ve had over the last year.” 

From Direct Support Professionals and community advocates to partners in business and government, each honoree exemplified The Arc’s vision of building inclusive communities where every person belongs. 

2025 Celebration Impact Honorees: 

• Tavion Harris – Julie Gallagher Leadership in Direct Service Award 

• Isaac Ahanmisi and Jodie Colombo – Leadership in Management & Administration Award 

• Carl Schinner and Lauren Sheeder – Outstanding Personal Achievement Award 

• Delegate Heather Bagnall and Councilwoman Allison Pickard – Lorraine Sheehan Advocacy Award 

• First Citizens Bank – Leadership in Social Responsibility Award 

• Laura Austin – Impact Through Leadership Award 

• St. Andrew Apostle Church – Impact Through Philanthropy Award  

You can view photos from the event on our Flickr page.

The 2025 Maryland legislative session concluded on Monday, April 7, following a challenging 90 days for the disability community. Through the persistent and determined advocacy of self-advocates, families, services providers, and countless community members and partner organizations, the Maryland General Assembly has restored vital funding to the Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA), preserving essential services for Marylanders with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). 

In January 2025, the proposed budget introduced severe cuts to DDA—$194 million in fiscal year 2025 and $457 million in fiscal year 2026. These cuts threatened the supports and services that nearly 18,000 Marylanders with disabilities rely on every day.  The legislature responded to the powerful and sustained advocacy from service providers, self-advocates, families, and allies and a majority of funding was restored by the end of the legislative session. 

While we didn’t achieve everything we fought for, our collective voices made a difference. The final budget restores a significant portion of the proposed cuts, securing a total DDA budget of $2.7 billion with additional funding to address deficit spending. Though challenges remain, this represents a hard-won step forward in our ongoing advocacy for equity, inclusion, and the fundamental rights for Marylanders with disabilities.  

Key Budget Outcomes: 

• Protection of Dedicated Hour Funding: While the dedicated hour reimbursement rate will shift slightly from 87% to 86%, no reductions will occur in actual service hours. New budget language protects funding for people requiring these hours due to behavioral, medical, or transitional needs, retirement, or a lack of full-day services. 

• Geographic Differential Rates Maintained: Providers in select regions will continue to receive 10% above the base rate to account for regional cost differences, helping maintain a stable provider network across the state. 

• Wage Exceptions Capped to Promote Equity: New wage cap policies aim to standardize payroll practices by limiting wage exceptions to 15% above reasonable and customary rates statewide, and 10% in geographic differential areas. 

• Preservation of the Low-Intensity Support Services (LISS) Program: $2 million in funding was allocated to the LISS program, which provides flexible family-directed funds, remains intact. A new cap of $1,000 per recipient will ensure more families can access these critical resources. 

• Increased Support for Youth and Families: Funding was added for approximately 600 youth transitioning from school to adult services, as well as for emergencies and children aging out of foster care. 

Legislative Victories: 

• HB31: Secures the right to repair powered wheelchairs by requiring manufacturers to make documentation, parts, software, and tools available to independent repair providers and owners. 

• HB450: Requires the Maryland Transit Administration to automatically renew the Disability Reduced Fare Program certification of an enrollee who is permanently disabled.  

• HB502: Establishes the Office of Disability Employment Advancement and the Maryland as a Model Employer initiative to improve hiring, recruitment, retention, and advancement of people with disabilities in the State government. 

• HB1244: Creates an advisory council for DDA waiver programs to advise on system design, service delivery, and quality enhancement strategies for Medicaid waiver programs operated by the Administration. 

This session’s outcomes reflect what’s possible when advocates and policymakers come together.  

We will continue to monitor the implementation of these funding restorations and push for further improvements to Maryland’s disability service system. Staying informed and engaged is key to ensuring lasting change.  

To stay on top of legislative events like this, please join The Arc’s Newsletter and connect with us on social media. 

We are happy to announce that Emily McDermott, Vice President of External Relations, has been selected to participate in the Shore Leadership Class of 2025. Emily will join a distinguished cohort of professionals from across Maryland’s Eastern Shore for a year-long, hands-on leadership development program focused on building stronger communities and driving regional impact. 

As The Arc continues to expand its footprint and services across the Eastern Shore, Emily’s participation in Shore Leadership marks an exciting opportunity to foster collaboration, share insights, and advocate for issues that matter to people with disabilities. 

“I strongly believe in the power of collaborative leadership to strengthen our communities on the Eastern Shore,” said Emily. “Being a member of Shore Leadership’s Class of 2025 is an incredible opportunity to connect with other local leaders, deepen my understanding of the region’s challenges and opportunities, and ensure the voices of people with disabilities are part of every conversation about the future of our region.” 

Emily’s selection reflects The Arc’s ongoing commitment to community-centered leadership and partnership. As Vice President of External Relations, Emily has led efforts to build strong community partnerships, elevate The Arc’s mission across the region, and foster meaningful engagement with donors, policymakers, and advocates to create a lasting impact for people with disabilities. 

The Arc congratulates Emily on this well-deserved recognition of her leadership and dedication and extends congratulations to all members of the Shore Leadership Class of 2025. 

About Shore Leadership: 
Shore Leadership is a professional development program designed to enhance the quality of life on Maryland’s Eastern Shore. Through monthly sessions on topics of regional importance, participants gain valuable insights and build relationships with experts and fellow leaders who shape the culture, policy, and progress of the region. Shore Leadership has been developing leaders and cultivating positive change since 1997. 

The Arc’s Family Fund provides critical financial support in the form of small grants to local families with children who have intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). This year, the Family Fund granted a record-breaking $113,600 in funding to 96 families—our largest distribution to date.  

What is The Family Fund?  

The Family Fund is a grant program established by The Arc in 2017, designed to provide access to financial assistance and essential resources to families navigating the complexities of raising children with IDD. Many of the effective resources, therapies, and services make an incredible difference in the quality of life for children with IDD, but they are not covered by insurance and are out of reach financially for the families who need access to them the most. 

Grants from the Family Fund cover a range of resources that improve quality of life, including respite care, assistive technology, medical equipment, therapeutic services, and inclusive recreational activities and camps.   

The Family Fund is made possible through generous donations, grants, and community partnerships. By easing the financial burden on families, the Family Fund ensures that children with disabilities can be a part of their communities with the support they need and deserve.  

The Fund’s Impact in 2025  

Since its founding, the Family Fund has awarded $382,000 in grants to hundreds of children with IDD, including funding specifically for children with autism through a partnership with The Bowen Foundation for Autism. Each year, the Family Fund expands its reach and serves more families with more funding, reflecting both the growing needs within our communities and the generosity of those who support this vital program.  

This year, the Family Fund awarded 62 fully funded grants and 34 partially funded grants, ensuring that children with disabilities have the resources they need to grow, learn, and thrive. These grants provide access to essential communication tools, specialized therapies, and inclusive recreational experiences, allowing children to develop crucial skills, build confidence, and participate in activities like summer camp alongside their peers.  

“Each application is carefully reviewed by a committee consisting of employees from across The Arc’s enterprise. We consider the details of each application and make award decisions based on the life-changing impact we anticipate the grant funding would have on the child and their family,” said Sara Pease, Assistant Director of Children, Youth, & Their Families. “Our goal is to ensure that every dollar awarded directly enhances a child’s ability to communicate, grow, and participate fully in their community. Whether it’s funding for therapy, assistive technology, or camp experiences, these grants open doors that might otherwise remain closed.”  

Top requests this year included specialized therapies and IDD-focused summer camps, highlighting the ongoing demand for both structured developmental support and inclusive recreational opportunities.  “The impact of these funds goes beyond financial assistance—it provides opportunity and inclusion for so many families,” said Caroline Slobodzian, Director of Development. ” These grants bridge critical gaps in care and services, offering children with disabilities enriching experiences to support their growth and development. We are grateful to everyone who contributed to the $113,600 raised and made this possible.”   

Support the Family Fund Through Our 50/50 Raffle  

While funds for the 2025 grant cycle have been distributed, the need for support doesn’t end there. The Arc continues to raise money for the fund year-round, as the demand for these life-changing resources is ongoing and ever-present.   

In conjunction with our annual golf tournament, “Tee It Up for The Arc,” we hold a 50/50 raffle benefiting the Family Fund. You can support the Family Fund by participating in The Arc’s 50/50 raffle!  With your entry, you not only get a chance to win a cash prize, but you also help provide life-changing resources for families in your community. All funds raised from the raffle go directly to the Family Fund. 

We are proud to share that Ross Benincasa, Senior Vice President of Community Development, and Brandy Stephens, Vice President of People & Culture, have been named 2025 New Leaders Honorees by Leadership Anne Arundel (LAA). This honor recognizes professionals who have recently stepped into new leadership roles and demonstrate outstanding leadership, vision, and commitment to the Anne Arundel County community. 

As part of this recognition, Ross and Brandy will be honored at the New Leaders Breakfast Celebration on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, at Carrol’s Creek Café in Annapolis. 

“Ross and Brandy are exceptional leaders whose work supports our teams and communities to evolve and thrive,” said Jonathon Rondeau, President & CEO of The Arc. “Through their bold leadership, dedication to our mission, and expertise in their fields, they create profound impacts in hundreds of lives across Anne Arundel County.” 

Ross leads strategic community development projects that advance inclusive housing and development across the region. Since joining The Arc’s enterprise in 2024, Ross has played a key role in the rapid growth of the organization by identifying development opportunities, securing property acquisitions, and fostering strong community partnerships.  

Brandy is a dynamic leader who fosters a culture of appreciation and connection across The Arc’s enterprise. Since joining in 2023, Brandy has launched key initiatives like the Direct Support Professional Career Ladder and consistently works to enhance the employee experience. Her leadership is grounded in supporting organizational development, championing diversity, equity, and inclusion, and empowering employees to lead with authenticity. 

Ross and Brandy join leaders from every sector who are actively shaping the future of Anne Arundel County through innovative programs, strategic development, and collaborative partnerships. 

About Leadership Anne Arundel 

Since 1993, Leadership Anne Arundel (LAA) has served as the nexus of leadership in Anne Arundel County as a professional development and networking program for the county’s most impactful leaders. LAA facilitates opportunities for diverse leaders from for-profit, nonprofit, governmental, and community organizations to come together and gain the education, resources, and networks necessary to become the strategic, forward-thinking leaders their communities need. Learn more about LAA at www.leadershipaa.org.

The Arc is pleased to announce that Cody Skacan has joined the enterprise as the Vice President of Strategy. In this role, Cody will lead the implementation of The Arc’s strategic plan and growth initiatives, ensuring alignment with the enterprise’s mission and long-term vision. He joins The Arc at a key moment as it continues to expand its impact and services throughout the region.

Cody brings nearly a decade of leadership experience in strategy, program development, and organizational growth. He joins The Arc from Elevance Inc., where he held key leadership roles and spearheaded large-scale initiatives in mergers and acquisitions, stakeholder engagement, and team leadership. Cody’s expertise in executing complex programs while fostering collaboration and innovation will help him to drive The Arc’s strategic objectives forward.

“We are excited to welcome Cody to The Arc and look forward to the expertise and leadership he brings,” said Jonathon Rondeau, President & CEO of The Arc. “His strategic mindset, ability to build strong partnerships, and deep commitment to fostering meaningful change will be important as The Arc continues to grow to meet the needs of the people and communities around us.”

As Vice President of Strategy, Cody will work closely with leadership to align enterprise priorities, drive expansion efforts, and facilitate high-level initiatives that enhance The Arc’s reach and impact. He will play a critical role in fostering collaboration across departments to ensure forward momentum in advancing inclusion, equity, and opportunity for people with disabilities and the community.

Cody holds a Master of Business Administration in Healthcare Management from Western Governors University and a Bachelor of Science in Management and Marketing from Salisbury University.

On Monday, May 12, 2025, Tee It Up for The Arc will return to Queenstown Harbor in Queenstown, MD. This annual golf tournament is more than just a day on the greens; it’s an opportunity to support children with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and their families while enjoying a premier golf experience. With breathtaking waterfront views, top-tier hospitality, and an incredible after-party, Tee It Up for The Arc is an event you won’t want to miss. 

Registration for the tournament includes breakfast, lunch, unlimited drinks throughout the day, exciting activities on the course, and a ticket to our highly anticipated after-party. The after-party will feature delicious local food, craft beverages, live music by the Timmie Metz Band, and the much-anticipated 50/50 raffle drawing. 

Making an Impact Beyond The Course  

Tee It Up for The Arc is celebrating its 27th tournament this year and has seen remarkable growth in recent years, raising over $225,000 last year. The tournament’s evolution has been driven by passionate leadership and unwavering community support. 

“Tee It Up for The Arc has grown so much in recent years,” said Ben Harries, Past Tournament Chair. “We expanded to Queenstown Harbor and have consistently sold out both courses year after year. The demand and enthusiasm from our community has been incredible, and it directly impacts the lives of so many children and families.”  

All proceeds from Tee It Up for The Arc benefit The Arc’s Children, Youth, & Their Families program, which ensures that children with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) have access to resources, support, and opportunities that empower them. Funds raised from the tournament directly support the program’s key initiatives and infrastructure, including Project Learn and Family Navigation. 

“This event is about more than golf—it’s about making a difference,” said Steve Smollon, Tournament Chair. “Every year, we see firsthand how the funds raised through Tee It Up for The Arc provide life-changing support to children with disabilities and their families. Whether it’s helping a child access critical therapies, ensuring a family gets the advocacy they need, or bringing joy during the holidays, the impact is real. That’s what keeps us coming back, seeing the tangible impact on families and knowing that each sponsorship and donation contributes to building a stronger, more inclusive future.” 

Opportunities to Support Tee It Up for The Arc 

Last year’s tournament saw a sold-out event with 72 foursomes and a waitlist of eager participants. Tee It Up for The Arc consistently sells out, and this year is no exception, with only a handful of foursomes remaining.  

If you are interested in sponsoring or golfing in this year’s tournament, email events@thearcccr.org. Foursomes are sold on a first-come, first-serve basis. 

If you’re not able to golf, you can still support the tournament by joining The Arc for the after-party or purchasing a 50/50 raffle ticket. All proceeds from the raffle go directly to the Family Fund.