Submitted

The Arc of Rowan annual membership meeting and reception took place on April 1. The Arc of Rowan is a Rowan County United Way member agency.

Board President David Bolick presided. New officers installed for 2019-2020 include: President, David Bolick; Vice-president, Bridget Henderson; treasurer, Gary Rhodes; and secretary, Debbie Martin.

Board members renewing for a second term are Bridget Henderson, David Bolick and Suzette Pritchard.

The Arc of Rowan Board members to date are David Bolick, Amie Baudoin, Wilson Cherry, Bridget Henderson, Debbie Martin, Peter Murphy, Suzette Pritchard, Gary Rhodes and Kasey Tate; Self Advocate: Andrew Stirewalt; Ex-Officio: Vernice Gallon-Clyburn and Gary Yelton.

The Arc of Rowan presented awards to some deserving individuals:

Community Inclusion Award:
Recognizes an organization building community connections to support and include people with disabilities – Merony Theatre/Piedmont Players

Family Volunteer of the Year:
Honors an individual who has a child with developmental disabilities, and whose volunteer efforts have improved the welfare of persons with developmental disabilities – Evelyn Medina

Community Service Award:
Recognizes an organization or group exhibiting outstanding community service in support of people with developmental disabilities – Rowan County Public Library

Self-Advocate Award: Recognizes a person with a disability who has contributed in a distinguished manner service to the community – Mary Alicia Hodge

Direct Support Professional of the Year:
Recognizes an individual employed in community developmental disabilities services or supports demonstrating sensitivity and the ability to provide outstanding support resulting in increased independence for people with developmental disabilities – Joyce Loucks and Kim Walton.

Educator of the Year:
Recognizes a classroom teacher demonstrating excellence in teaching students with developmental disabilities while working toward the most inclusive education setting – Kathryn Baker

Volunteer of the year:
Recognizes a volunteer giving generously of time and talents to accomplish the mission of The Arc of Rowan – Mt Hope Church and Lyerly Evangelical Church

Distinguished Services Award:
Honors an individual contributing in a distinguished manner to the promotion of rights of and or services to people with developmental disabilities in Rowan County – Wilson Cherry.