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Thank You for Expanding What’s Possible and Making Port Street Commons a Reality 

October 30, 2024

Port Street Commons, a new 24,000-square-foot building that will house The Arc Central Chesapeake Region’s new Eastern Shore Headquarters, is set to celebrate its grand opening on Thursday, November 7. The completed project includes both The Arc at Port Street, The Arc’s new headquarters, and The Residences at Port Street, which have nine units of affordable housing. Port Street Commons will provide both services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and safe, affordable housing for moderate-income earners in the Easton community. 

The ceremony on November 7 will honor the many supporters who invested in Port Street Commons and acknowledge the transformative impact the project will have on the community.

“We are so grateful for the support we’ve seen at every level,” said Jonathon Rondeau, President & CEO of The Arc. “Port Street Commons exists because of the generosity of the community and their belief in our vision for a more inclusive future.”

The Arc’s Capital Campaign Raises Over $6.1 Million

In total, Port Street Commons raised over $6.1 million, reflecting the community’s generosity that brought the project to life. The initiative received widespread support, including funding from federal, state, and local governments, in addition to individual stakeholders, community organizations, and foundations.

Notably, the federal government invested $750,000 in the project, championed by Senators Ben Cardin and Chris Van Hollen, while the State of Maryland invested $2.5 million. The Arc also received $1 million from The Harry & Jeanette Weinberg Foundation in addition to funding from the Talbot County Council, Rural Maryland Council, key community-based organizations like the Easton Rotary, and countless individuals throughout the region.

“Port Street Commons is a testament to what we can achieve when the community comes together with a shared vision and purpose,” said Caroline Slobodzian, Director of Development. “We are immensely proud of Port Street Commons, but even more, we are grateful for the network of partners, donors, and supporters who believed in this project and made it possible. As we look forward to the ribbon cutting on November 7, we celebrate the spirit of collaboration that has brought us to this moment.”

Together, we are expanding what’s possible for people with disabilities and building a future where everyone can live, work, and connect in inclusive, supportive environments. 

Join The Celebration on November 7

Mark your calendars and join The Arc for the ribbon cutting on Thursday, November 7, at 10:00 am. Port Street Commons is located at 480 Port Street, Easton, MD 21601.

“This is an open event, and we invite the entire community to attend,” said Jonathon. “Come tour the campus and see what you’ve invested in and the exciting work that is going to take place here.”

Speakers for the event include Easton’s Mayor, Megan Cook; Talbot County Council Vice President, Pete Lesher; Deputy Secretary of the Department of Housing and Community Development, Julia Glantz; and Secretary of Disabilities, Carol Beatty.

Click here to RSVP.

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