At The Arc, we believe that every Direct Support Professional (DSP) makes mission-critical decisions every day, which enrich the lives of the people we support, improve our operations, and maintain our reputation for innovation and improvement. Over the last seven years, The Arc has prioritized investing in our DSPs by doubling wages, establishing a culture of leadership at every level, and professionalizing the DSP role.

On April 1, The Arc partnered with the National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals (NADSP) to launch the Direct Support Professional Career Ladder. The career ladder provides professional development opportunities for DSPs to grow in their careers and ‘move up the ladder’ without having to leave the DSP profession behind. 

“Part of our strategic plan, Leading Boldly, is providing career mobility opportunities for employees, especially DSPs,” says Jonathon Rondeau, President & CEO. “This DSP Career Ladder increases our employees’ skills, recognizes them for their knowledge and experience by increasing their compensation, and means the people we serve will receive even higher quality support.”

How the Career Ladder Works

The Career ladder pairs additional training and learning opportunities with a monetary raise. There are three levels, DSP-I, DSP-II, and DSP-III, each requiring more than 50 hours of online, hybrid, and in-person training in addition to the standard professional development already required for DSPs at The Arc.

It all begins with a foundational session on the NADSP Code of Ethics. This session is essential, as the Code of Ethics serves as the guiding framework for the entire program, shaping participants’ professional conduct and decision-making. Once this foundational session is complete, participants dive into a series of learning activities that allow DSPs to earn badges that reflect the specific skills and knowledge they’ve acquired. As participants accumulate badges, they progress toward earning a DSP Certification for DSP-I, II, or III.

DSPs can complete their learning activities wherever they have access to Wi-Fi, making it convenient to progress at their own pace. In addition to online learning, DSPs demonstrate their professional competencies through testimonials that highlight positive experiences and their effective work as DSPs. This practical approach ensures that participants are not just gaining knowledge but are applying it in ways that make a real difference.

An important aspect of the program is that there are no qualifying exams or required presentations. This makes the program accessible to all DSPs, allowing them to focus on applying their skills in their daily work without the pressure of traditional academic assessments.

For each level completed, DSPs receive an increase to their hourly base rate of pay, totaling $3.50 more per hour once they complete DSP-III. The hourly incentives tied to certification levels are in addition to any Cost of Living Adjustments (COLA) that the employee receives. This ensures that the financial benefits of the program are maximized, providing participants with a significant reward for their efforts.

“The Arc has put many resources in place to make sure employees who seek to further advance their careers are as successful as possible,” said Brandy Stephens, Vice President of People & Culture at The Arc. “The existing training required of all DSPs at The Arc count toward earning these badges, meaning that all DSPs start 25% of the way toward achieving DSP-I.”

Enrollment in the NADSP Career Ladder Program is an easy process, but it’s essential to meet the eligibility criteria. Interested DSPs must complete an application to be considered. Applications are open year-round and reviewed weekly to admit new participants.

 Why the NADSP Career Ladder Program Matters

Since launching in April, 14 DSPs have completed one of the three levels in the program, with seven earning DSP-I, four earning DSP-II, and three earning DSP-III. An additional 82 DSPs have been accepted to the program and are beginning to work toward completing the first level.

“It’s an honor for me to demonstrate my commitment to superior professionalism and to be recognized,” said Destinee Foote, who recently achieved DSP-II and is working toward DSP-III, “DSP Certification was one of my main goals to conquer. The Arc offering this program is amazing and is an awesome opportunity for all DSPs.”

The Arc’s NADSP Career Ladder Program is more than just a professional development opportunity—it’s a pathway to personal and career growth. By providing a structured, flexible, and rewarding framework for career advancement, The Arc is empowering DSPs to deliver the highest standards of care while achieving their own professional goals.

“The Career Ladder Program is about growing and thriving in your role. We’re all about helping our DSPs gain new skills and get recognized for their hard work. It’s a win-win that boosts both personal growth and the quality of care we provide,” said Brandy Stephens. “People should have the opportunity to progress in their careers while still doing the work they love.”

We are excited to announce the addition of two accomplished professionals to our leadership team. Rylie Shewbridge and Caroline Slobodzian will be joining The Arc, bringing a wealth of experience and expertise to their respective roles as Director of Government Relations and Director of Development.

Rylie Shewbridge: Director of Government Relations

Rylie comes to The Arc as an accomplished government relations expert with almost 8 years of experience representing a diverse range of organizations at local, state, and federal levels. She has analyzed legislation, developed and drafted policy proposals, and served as a strategic advisor. Rylie previously worked closely with The Arc and its leadership as the Senior Government Relations Associate at Bellamy Genn Group.

“Rylie has consistently demonstrated her ability to navigate complex legislative landscapes and advocate effectively for important causes,” said Jonathon Rondeau, President & CEO, The Arc.  “We are excited to  leverage her expertise as we work with our legislative partners to create a more inclusive, supportive community for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities..”

In her role, Rylie will collaborate with The Arc’s lobbyists and coalition partners, strategically aligning and effectively communicating policy positions. She will facilitate the execution of a comprehensive government relations plan, coordinating outreach and engagement efforts at all government levels across The Arc’s enterprise.

Caroline Slobodzian: Director of Development

Caroline is an experienced fundraiser with  nearly 25 years of development experience, and comes to The Arc from the Clean Water Action Fund in Washington, DC, where she worked for over 13 years. Caroline brings key leadership, fundraising, and development skills to The Arc’s growing External Relations team.

“Caroline has extensive experience in development and takes a strategic approach to fundraising,” said Jonathon. “Caroline is excited to support our diverse work throughout the community and work with stakeholders throughout our enterprise to foster a culture of philanthropy.”

In her role, Caroline will maximize opportunities for engagement and growth , ensure effective and inspiring development initiatives, and  support diverse revenue streams through traditional and innovative strategies. The Arc is confident that the addition of Rylie and Caroline to the team will enhance its efforts to  support people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, innovate services, and advocate for a more inclusive community.

With more than 60% complete, Port Street Commons is on track to open in Fall 2024, bringing a unique resource to the Town of Easton.

Nearly one year after starting construction, we’re excited to share the latest progress at Port Street Commons. With the installation of insulation and drywall on the first and second floors, the project is now 66% complete and will open in the Fall. This milestone underscores the project’s efficiency and commitment to delivering a transformative space in Easton.

Check out Port Street Common’s progress so far.

Steady Progress and Key Milestones

Since breaking ground in June 2023, Port Street Commons has steadily progressed through key phases. Following the clearing and preparation of the site, vertical construction began in February, with the installation of steel structures, followed by the completion of the roof in May. With the exterior of the building nearing completion, we are preparing for a permanent power supply and completing interior work, all essential steps toward final finishes.

Port Street Commons is slated to open in Fall 2024 and will celebrate the ribbon cutting on November 7, 2024.

More information and details about the ribbon cutting will be available in September 2024.

A Community-Focused Vision

“Port Street Commons is not just about constructing a building. It’s about creating a vital community resource that will enhance the lives of people throughout the community,” said Jonathon Rondeau, President & CEO of The Arc Central Chesapeake Region. “We are grateful for the steadfast support from our many partners and stakeholders, which has been crucial in making this vision a reality.”

The 24,000-square-foot Port Street Commons is strategically designed to integrate office space, a place for services – including counseling and affordable housing, all under one roof. The Arc at Port Street will be The Arc’s new, permanent Eastern Shore headquarters and will include offices, a behavioral health suite, and a community hub. The Residences at Port Street will feature nine two and three-bedroom affordable housing units managed by Chesapeake Neighbors. Emphasizing universal design principles throughout the building, the project ensures accessibility for all residents and visitors, reflecting a commitment to inclusivity and community support.

Broad-Based Support and Funding

Support for Port Street Commons has come from stakeholders throughout the community. With a wide array of federal, state, local, and private support, over $6.1 million has been secured for the project. This collaborative effort highlights the project’s broad-based community backing and its significance in meeting local community-identified needs.

As construction enters its final phases, Port Street Commons is poised to provide essential services and foster a welcoming community environment that embodies The Arc’s mission of inclusivity and empowerment.

With summer break coming to an end, many families are thinking about going back to school and beginning to prepare for the upcoming school year. As you think about what that looks like for your child and family, one question on your mind might be, “How can I make sure my child gets the support they need?”

Building Stronger Relationships with Your School System

The Arc is here to support you as you navigate the many nuances of special education and individualized education plans (IEPs). We offer Project Learn, a program that partners with families and advocates for inclusive educational practices, empowering parents to actively participate in shaping their children’s educational experiences. Our goal is to help set a solid foundation for success at school and beyond.

Through Project Learn, The Arc supports you and your student in understanding your rights, developing a strategy to build a stronger relationship with your school system, and helping you understand your IEP. This program connects families with an experienced educational consultant and provides six sessions of one-on-one support, giving you and your student the tools and resources you need to become strong self-advocates.

Christa Needed Better Resources for Her Daughter

Christa first encountered Project Learn at an outreach event specifically tailored for parents of children with disabilities, where she was searching for supportive services designed to cater to the needs of her daughter, Della.

Christa was concerned about the limitations of Della’s existing IEP, which primarily focused on physical therapy goals, neglecting other critical areas of her development. With Project Learn, she found a dedicated advocate who played a pivotal role in addressing her concerns with the IEP. The program supported Christa in setting up a comprehensive data collection binder, which became instrumental in tracking Della’s progress and needs over time.

A Holistic Approach to Education Planning

Project Learn takes a holistic approach to education planning. Beth Nolan, educational advocate and co-founder of Project Learn, partners with families to identify and implement solutions.

Beth actively participated in Della’s IEP meetings and supported Christa in expanding Della’s goals to encompass a broader spectrum of needs that included educational, social, and emotional aspects of her development.

“I love having an advocate at my child’s IEP meeting who knows the rules and can ask for specifics that I may not know about.” – Christa, Project Learn Parent

The comprehensive approach to Project Learn not only aligned with Della’s overall well-being but also empowered Christa by providing her with the necessary tools and knowledge to actively participate in her daughter’s educational journey.

“By providing that one-on-one support to parents, we’re helping them resolve IEP challenges, so their children have the resources they need to be successful in school,” said Sara Pease, Assistant Director of Children, Youth, & Their Families at The Arc. “The other part of this program is empowering parents with the knowledge they need to continue to advocate for their student at school and beyond.”

How to Apply for Project Learn with The Arc

If you’re ready to learn more about how The Arc can help you get more involved in your child’s education apply for Project Learn, today.

Once the application is submitted, The Arc’s Family Navigator will reach out to gather more information. There is a minimal cost to participate, with a maximum fee of $50 based on an income sliding scale.

After acceptance into the program, the family meets with the Family Navigator to set up a data binder containing essential documents such as assessment results, doctor’s letters, and progress reports, which are vital for IEP meetings. The Family Navigator also discusses any additional needs and connects the family with the Educational Advocate, who provides one-on-one support. Finally, families complete a survey to evaluate the services and check in with the family navigator to ensure all their needs are met.

As the new school year approaches, it is important to ensure your child receives the support they need. With The Arc’s Project Learn, you can build a strong foundation for your child’s educational success and become an empowered advocate for their needs.

The Arc is dedicated to supporting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) to live the lives they choose, and that includes empowering people to travel where and how they choose. With summer being a prime time for exploration and relaxation, people are enjoying making memories, from day trips to weekend getaways throughout the region.

Planning a trip can be a complex process as people research destinations, budget and manage money, and begin planning itineraries. Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) provide support not just in planning the trips but also in empowering the people they support to make decisions and put their plans into action.

Planning the Perfect Getaway

Jonathan and Mike are close friends and roommates. In the Spring, Jonathan went on a cruise with his family. He had so much fun that when he returned, he and Mike immediately began planning a trip together for the summer.

With the support of their team, Helen and Joseph, Jonathan and Mike narrowed their destination to Ocean City, Md., and began researching everything the region had to offer. From local attractions to accommodations and dining options, Helen supported them in exploring it all. This thorough research helped Jonathan and Mike decide where they wanted to stay and what they wanted to do, ensuring the trip was exactly what they wanted.

Part of planning the perfect trip is thinking about finances and having a budget. Together, Jonathan, Mike, and their team discussed the costs of travel, lodging, meals, and entertainment. A sound budget ensured the trip was financially feasible and encouraged Jonathan and Mike to develop and practice essential money management skills.

Time to Getaway

Joseph joined Jonathan and Mike on their trip and ensured they accomplished their goals and had a great time. They both loved getting to spend time together, sharing a hotel room, spending time at the beach, and playing putt-putt golf. 

“Joseph and I are a great team. I help plan the logistics of the trip, and he joins the guys on their vacation and knows how to make it the most fun possible. Our intention is to help them make the most of whatever they want to do.” – Helen Ayomobi, Team Leader.

Empowerment Through Support

DSPs like Helen and Joseph play a key role in not just supporting people but empowering them. By guiding Jonathan and Mike through each step of the planning process, they were able to make their own choices and take control of their vacation.

Jonathan and Mike’s trip to Ocean City was a success, filled with joy and new experiences. Through a combination of careful planning and structured support, The Arc helped them create memories that will last a lifetime, all while fostering independence and confidence.

Direct Support Professionals at The Arc went from making $9.88 per hour in 2017 to $20.00+ per hour in 2024.

Direct Support Professionals, or DSPs, are the backbone of The Arc’s services. They provide the individualized and tailored support that people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) need to live, work, and connect with their community. As DSPs support people to volunteer, connect with friends, manage daily living, and build their skills toward future employment, DSPs make mission-critical decisions every day that enrich the lives of the people they support and maintain The Arc’s reputation for innovative, high-quality services.

“When I began at The Arc in 2017, DSPs were making $9.88 per hour,” said Jonathon Rondeau, President & CEO. “It did not nearly reflect the importance of the work they do or the value they provide to the people they support, our organization, or the community. It has been my constant mission to increase wages for DSPs, and I am grateful to have had support from the board of directors and leadership every step of the way.” 

Since 2017, The Arc’s leadership has prioritized annual pay increases for DSPs. The most recent raise brought starting wages from $9.88 per hour to $20.00 per hour, officially doubling starting wages over the last seven years.

“I took a pay cut to come here. But I was willing to do that because of what I had heard about The Arc and that there was more opportunity here,” said Amber Banos, Community Coach. “And in the two years I’ve worked here I’ve had four pay raises. I love what I do, and I’m happy here.”

In addition to investing in regular wage increases for DSPs, Jonathon and The Arc’s leadership have advocated alongside the community to ensure increases in funding for home- and community-based service providers are reflected in the governor’s annual budget.

Investing in DSPs is about more than just an annual wage increase.

This recent wage increase comes after two additional pay increase incentives and initiatives for DSPs within the last 12 months: Weekend shift differentials for DSPs who work on weekends and the DSP Career Ladder program which offers pay increases aligned with professional development certifications.

“We have many DSPs who take advantage of our weekend differential rates and career ladder program, which allow for even greater wage mobility,” said Jonathon. “Officially doubling wages in seven years is an incredible accomplishment, but the other half of this story is how we invest in our employees – everything from their health and professional development to ensuring they have the tools and resources they need to do their work. Being a DSP is a career, and we want people to have the support they need to grow here.”

Working as a DSP is a long-term career with room for growth and advancement. The newly launched DSP Career ladder is one opportunity that provides professional development opportunities for DSPs to grow in their careers and earn more without having to leave the work they love. 

The effects of consistent, thoughtful investment in our employees is reflected in everything from The Arc’s recent Employee Satisfaction Survey to our vacancy rate. While national vacancy rates for DSP positions are still hovering around 44% (with Maryland averaging 26%), The Arc has maintained a vacancy rate of 10% or less over the last 12 months.

Work with us

Competitive pay is just one of the ways The Arc invests in employees while attracting and retaining top talent. As a result, DSPs are more likely to stay with The Arc long-term, reducing turnover and ensuring quality care for the people we support.  If you’d like to take your career to the next level and join a team constantly striving to do more for their employees, check out our Careers Page today! 

“I came here because I needed a job out of school, and I’ve stayed because I love the people so much!”

At The Arc Central Chesapeake Region, we believe in the power of our people, and recognize that our incredible employees are who make everything we do possible. On Thursday, June 20, The Arc celebrated the dedication and commitment of employees who have been with the organization for five or more years with Celebration Service.

This celebration is a testament to the loyalty and longevity of our employees. This year, The Arc celebrated 115 people reaching this career milestone, the sheer number of which speaks to The Arc’s supportive and fulfilling work environment as well as their passion for The Arc’s mission, vision, and work in the community.

Celebration Service took place at our Severn office and was done in true Maryland style – with a celebratory crab feast. Guests arrived to freshly steamed crabs and shrimp served by senior leadership, showcasing their appreciation and dedication. Employees also enjoyed a full BBQ buffet, DJ, drinks, games, ice cream truck, and raffles.

“We have a diverse group of incredibly passionate professionals,” said Jonathon Rondeau, President & CEO of The Arc. “The fact that so many people are here after five years is a testament to their commitment to The Arc’s mission and vision as well as the resources and opportunities we pour into our employees.

This year, 115 people were celebrated as honorees at Celebration Service, which roughly equals 20% of our total workforce enterprise-wide. Of the 115 people recognized, 86 hold a role as a Direct Support Professional, and 21% of DSPs have stayed employed with The Arc for five years or longer, well above the industry average. Annually at Celebration Service, underscoring our reputation as an employer of choice for people seeking long-term career opportunities.

“I started as a Direct Support Professional, providing services for my brother-in-law. I’m still here after 26 years because I enjoy seeing the growth people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) achieve every day while in The Arc’s services, as well as the astronomical growth the organization has achieved over these last seven years.”

Angie, Director of Executive Operations

What motivates employees to stay with The Arc long-term? Our collective commitment to The Arc’s mission of empowering people with intellectual and developmental disabilities is a powerful factor. Employees are deeply passionate about the work they do, knowing that their efforts directly impact people throughout the community and region. But it is also the culture, opportunity, and resources that makes The Arc a place where people want to stay and grow.

“I started with The Arc out of high school, working as an administrative assistant. I have honestly worked throughout the enterprise.  From corporate supports to Chesapeake Neighbors and even Finance. Now I’m the Director of 2Gen Initiatives and have loved the last 25 years I’ve spent with this organization.”

Jessica, Director of 2Gen Initiatives

The Arc prioritizes employee development and growth, offering ample opportunities for advancement and professional enrichment. Whether through specialized training programs, ongoing education assistance, or career advancement pathways, employees are continuously supported in their personal and professional development journey. This investment in employees’ growth not only fosters a sense of loyalty but also equips them with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in their roles and make a meaningful impact within the organization.

“They recognize our hard work and celebrate our successes, big and small. Not to mention, the benefits can’t be beat. I love how I don’t have to worry about the cost of healthcare since they have affordable premiums and pay for our deductible and haven’t raised the cost for the last three years.”

Edward Coker, Direct Support Professional

The Arc places a strong emphasis on cultivating a supportive and inclusive work culture characterized by trust, respect, and collaboration. Employees feel valued and appreciated for their contributions, fostering a sense of belonging and camaraderie within the organization. This positive work environment promotes employee morale and engagement, making it more likely for employees to remain committed to The Arc for the long term.

Celebration Service is not just a moment to honor employees’ years of service; it is a celebration of The Arc’s vibrant and dedicated workforce, united by a shared commitment to serve the community. As employees gather to commemorate their achievements and milestones, they are reminded of the profound impact of their work and the invaluable role they play in the growth and success of The Arc’s work throughout the region. Through their unwavering dedication and steadfast commitment, they embody the spirit of The Arc and inspire others to join in its mission of inclusion, advocacy, and empowerment.