The Arc of Opportunity recently hosted their Annual Volunteer Recognition and Appreciation Awards night with 55 of their volunteers in attendance at the Great Wolf Lodge. All in attendance enjoyed each other’s company and hors d’ouervres followed by certificate and award presentations. Mary Heafy opened up the ceremony, “Tonight is a night to celebrate who you are and the many ways you have enhanced the lives of people supported by The Arc. You live out the mission of The Arc!”
Each volunteer was recognized with a certificate and a gift of words from the CEO and President of The Arc, Mary Heafy. Four additional awards were presented at the event: a Community Leadership award, two Volunteer-of-the-Year awards, and The Arc “Founders” award.
The Community Leadership award was presented to Gail Steele of Fitchburg, Director of Theatre at the Mount, for her leadership and creativity in launching a sensory-friendly theatre performance for families in the North Central Massachusetts region who support children with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities or on the autism spectrum.
The first Volunteer-of-the-Year award went to Betty Robbins of Westminster for her steadfast leadership and willingness to go beyond the call of duty in the many volunteer roles she has fulfilled for 35 years. Some of the roles Betty has filled include chaperoning countless recreation trips, scorekeeper for bowling and mini-golf, and served on the auction committee.
The second Volunteer-of-the-Year award was presented to Karin Thibaudeau of Fitchburg for her strong leadership and willingness to go beyond the call of duty as the coach for the Dolphins Swim Team since 1992. She grew this program from five athletes to as many as 70.
The Arc “Founders” award was presented to Rollin Lane of Leominster recognizing and thanking him for his decades of commitment, support, and exemplary volunteer service. Rollin is among the pioneers of The Arc movement in the United States.
The Arc of Opportunity has 200 volunteers who give their time in a variety of ways including serving on the Board of Directors, Auction Committee, Human Rights Committee and the Recreation program. The Arc relies on volunteers to help them carry out their mission to create and support lifetime opportunities in the community for individuals with disabilities and their families to reach their fullest potential by providing advocacy, education, employment, residential, and recreational services to enhance quality of life.