12
Attendees enjoy the 2012 walk-a-thon New sletter SU M M E R E DITIO N 2 0 1 2 On Saturday, May 19, 2012, Arc Mercer hosted our annual Walk-a-Thon Fundraiser at Veterans Park in Hamilton, NJ. The event kicked off with a ribbon cutting ceremony lead by Steve Cook, Executive Director, and Geoff Morris, Board President, in which Mercer County Executive Brian M. Hughes, Mayor Bert Steinmann, Mayor John Bencivengo, Senator Linda Greenstein, Assemblyman Dan Benson, and Arc of NJ Executive Director Tom Baffuto participated. During the ceremony Greater Trenton Pipes & Drums played Amazing Grace in acknowledgement of Armed Forces Day. After the ribbon was cut, the one mile walk was lead by Nottingham Marching Unit. Upon return from the walk they were greeted by six volunteers from 2012 Walk-A-Thon Raises Over $50,000 Hamilton Presbyterian Church who handed out goody bags as they entered our community picnic. The picnic featured lunch provided and grilled on site by the Freemasons, lead by board member Rick Steele. The event also featured face painting, a 22 foot inflatable slide, various crafters, live DJ, and of course, our dunk tank! Our Administrator of Residential Services Luke Rattan, Associate Executive Director Jen Godoski, and Executive Director Steve Cook were all excellent sports in letting us sell dunk tank tosses for a great cause! The first toss to sink Steve Cook, Executive Director garnered $250 by Geoff Morris, Board President. We raffled off a pair of tickets to see the New York Yankees, Trenton Thunder, a $100 Wegmans Gift Card and a Family Fun Pack including tickets to Sesame Place, the Lakewood Blue Claws, and Medieval Times! Our event ended with a Tug of War contest between the Arc Mercer Residential Program and Arc Mercer Day Programs, and the water balloon toss. We had a beautiful day, with more attendees than ever before with an estimate of over 600! The Arc Mercer Walk-a-Thon grossed over $50,000.00, an increase of 13% from 2011, which we are extremely proud of! We are already looking forward to next year! A r c W a v e s More 2012 Walk-A-Thon Pictures on Page 4! Local Dignitaries join steve cook, executive director, and geoff morris, board president, in cutting the ribbon

Summer 2012 Arc Mercer Newsletter

Embed Size (px)

Citation preview

Page 1: Summer 2012 Arc Mercer Newsletter

Attendees enjoy the 2012 walk-a-thon

Newsletter • SUMMER EDITION 2012

On Saturday, May 19, 2012, Arc Mercer hosted our annual Walk-a-Thon Fundraiser at Veterans Park in Hamilton, NJ. The event kicked off with a ribbon cutting ceremony lead by Steve Cook, Executive Director, and Geoff Morris, Board President, in which Mercer County Executive Brian M. Hughes, Mayor Bert Steinmann, Mayor John Bencivengo, Senator Linda Greenstein, Assemblyman Dan Benson, and Arc of NJ Executive Director Tom Baffuto participated. During the ceremony Greater Trenton Pipes & Drums played Amazing Grace in acknowledgement of Armed Forces Day.

After the ribbon was cut, the one mile walk was lead by Nottingham Marching Unit. Upon return from the walk they were greeted by six volunteers from

2012 Walk-A-Thon Raises Over $50,000

Hamilton Presbyterian Church who handed out goody bags as they entered our community picnic. The picnic featured lunch provided and grilled on site by the Freemasons, lead by board member Rick Steele. The event also featured face painting, a 22 foot inflatable slide, various crafters, live DJ, and of course, our dunk tank!

Our Administrator of Residential Services Luke Rattan, Associate Executive Director Jen Godoski, and Executive Director Steve Cook were all excellent sports in letting us sell dunk tank tosses for a great cause! The first toss to sink Steve Cook, Executive Director garnered $250 by Geoff Morris, Board President. We raffled off a pair of tickets to see the New York Yankees, Trenton Thunder, a $100 Wegmans Gift Card and a Family Fun Pack including tickets to

Sesame Place, the Lakewood Blue Claws, and Medieval Times!

Our event ended with a Tug of War contest between the Arc Mercer Residential Program and Arc Mercer Day Programs, and the water balloon toss. We had a beautiful day, with more attendees than ever before with an estimate of over 600! The Arc Mercer Walk-a-Thon grossed over $50,000.00, an increase of 13% from 2011, which we are extremely proud of! We are already looking forward to next year!

Arc Waves

More 2012 Walk-A-Thon Pictures on Page 4!

Local Dignitaries join steve cook, executive director, and geoff morris, board president, in cutting the ribbon

Page 2: Summer 2012 Arc Mercer Newsletter

Letter from the Board PresidentThis June Arc Mercer Occupational Training Center and Employment Programs completed the accreditation process with the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF). CARF provides accreditation services worldwide at the request of health and human service providers and we are proud to announce Arc Mercer received their highest level, a three year accreditation. Receiving this level of accreditation speaks directly to the commitment of Arc Mercer staff to delivering the highest quality services to people with developmental disabilities.

Earlier this summer Arc Mercer hosted our Annual Walk-a-Thon at Veterans Park in Hamilton, NJ. This is one of our largest fundraising events of the year and in 2012 we were able to increase our fundraising dollars by 13%. Over 600 people attended the event which featured a one mile walk, dunk tank, live DJ, 50/50, prize raffle, local artisans and crafters, a 22 foot inflatable slide and a BBQ lunch provided by the Freemasons. The Masons, lead by Arc Mercer Board Member Rick Steele, provided the food and cooked lunch on site. We send our sincere thanks to Rick Steele and the Masons, they make this event truly special each year. We also would like to thank all of our attendees, as well as our sponsors, who helped us raise over $50,000 for children and adults with developmental disabilities in Mercer County!

Letter from the Executive DirectorThe spring and summer of 2012 has been a time of great growth and celebration for Arc Mercer. In May we held our Annual Walk-a-Thon and surpassed last year’s fundraising efforts by 13%, something we are very proud of in today’s economic climate. It speaks to the dedication and support of our community partners, and the high quality of services Arc Mercer provides which inspires their support.

In June, our Health Care Center celebrated its one year anniversary and continues to address an urgent need for people with disabilities in need of coordinated primary and

mental health care. On June 13th we celebrated another milestone, the launch of our solar energy project with a switch flipping ceremony. The Arc Mercer Occupational Training Center on New York Avenue, and our Headquarters on Ewingville Road have been fully outfitted with solar energy panels. This event gave us an opportunity to come together and acknowledge the incredible work of our project partners at Nexus Energy Solutions and IBEW Local 269, as well as the tremendous savings our agency will experience as a result of this project. The entire system was installed at no cost to the agency, and as a result, Arc Mercer anticipates a utility savings of $375,000 during the 15/year contract term!

We hope you are enjoying a safe and happy summer, and look forward to seeing you at our Fall Gala on November 16, 2012!

Geoff MorrisArc Mercer Board President

Steve CookExecutive Director

Steve CookExecutive Director

Donna RachelsAssociate Executive Director of

Administrative Services

Jennifer GodoskiAssociate Executive

Director of Operations

Luke RattanAdministrator of Residential

Joseph GleasonDirector of Day Programs/

Recreation/Respite

Kelly JirasDirector of Program Development

and Communications

Christopher EnglishManager of Human Resources

Dawn CarmosinoExecutive Assistant

Gloria PanebiancoVolunteer Editor

For More Information, Please Contact:

The Arc Mercer180 Ewingville Road

Ewing, NJ 08638P: 609-406-0181F: 609-406-9258

www.arcmercer.org

Our Mission:The Arc Mercer is committed

to securing for all people with developmental disabilities, the

opportunity to choose and realize their goals.

Follow us on Twitter@ ARCMERCER

The Arc Mercer is now on Facebook & Twitter!You can find a direct link to our social media pages by visiting our website at www.arcmercer.org or follow us today at:

2

Page 3: Summer 2012 Arc Mercer Newsletter

The Step Ahead School had nine volunteers from Sandoz come out to Step Ahead in April. They brought flowers and helped the children plant them as an activity in the classroom. While Sandoz is a global leader in genetics and has locations nationwide, our visitors were from the Princeton, NJ of f ice . The children and volunteers alike really enjoyed participating in the activities. Thank you Sandoz for supporting Arc Mercer!

The Arc Mercer’s Art Program had the distinct pleasure to be included in this year’s edition of Art All Night. The event is a free 24-hour art show which showcased 900 artists, a dozen special events and art installations, and 30 bands on two stages. Accord-ing to Art All Night chairman Joe Kuzemka, the show saw over 18,000 people in attendance this year.

Art All Night is held annually at the Roebling Market in Trenton from 3pm Saturday, through 3pm Sunday. This year the event was held on June 16th and 17th.

The Arc Mercer Art Program was represented by artists Robert Halpin (‘OTC Series’), Rachel LaMont (‘Big Yellow’), and James LaBone (‘Mr. La-Bone’). Joe Gleasan, Director of Arc Mercer Day Programs, enthused, “It was a wonder-ful event for our consumers to be a part of.”

Congratulations to all the artists who had the oppor-tunity to share their work with the community!

We’re looking forward to our involvement with Art All Night again.

Arc Artists Take Part in Art All Night Trenton 2012

Volunteers from Sandoza

rt

all

nig

ht

tre

nto

n 2

012

rachel’s artwork, “Big yellow”on display at art all night

Art all Night Attendees View Robert’s Artwork

Volunteers visiting from sandoz help the children at step ahead create their planterssandoz volunteers help the

students plant flowers

3

Page 4: Summer 2012 Arc Mercer Newsletter

Board of Directors

Geoff MorrisPresident

Rick Koreyva1st Vice President

Mayor Bert Steinmann2nd Vice President

Sharon LamontTreasurer

Sam ColavitaParliamentarian

Delegates

Jeff Hewitson

Mike Silvestrov

Members-at-Large

Wayne DeAngelo

Steve Doerler

Maria Fischer

Jerry Isaacs

Patricia Jordan

Nantanee Koppstein

Sebastian (Sonny) Panebianco

Michael Pratico, Jr.

Rick Steele

Janice VanDeusen

Judy Zoffinger

The Arc Mercer 2012 Walk-a-ThonMay 19, 2012

4

Page 5: Summer 2012 Arc Mercer Newsletter

Many Thanks To Our 2012 Annual Sponsors!

Aaron & CompanyA.W. Martin Construction

Bauer ElectricBell EnvironmentalBollinger Insurance

Borden PerlmanC&M

Capitol City VendingCarnevale Disposal Co. Commercial Cleaning

D&W FlooringDoerler Landscaping

Elite AirHeritage Business Systems

Kings PharmacyKSB Telesound

NJM BankPlumbers & Pipefitters Local 9

Roma BankRoyal Printing

Switlik Parachute CompanySzaferman Lakind

Victory Asset Management

... And To Our 2012 Walk-a-Thon Sponsors!

Blake HardwareCatholic Charities Diocese of Trenton

Colavita CoinsHaldeman Ford

Hoffman PlumbingIBEW Local Union No. 269

Mercer County SheriffNJBIA

Parkside LukOilSakers Shop Rite

SandozScoles Floor Shine

Sister Georgine’s SchoolTeich Groh

Arc Mercer Introduces Solar Energy ProjectOn Wednesday, June 13, 2012, Arc Mercer and Nexus Energy Solutions hosted a rib-bon cutting ceremony to celebrate and unveil our new solar energy partner-ship. The ceremony featured remarks on the latest solar initiatives by vested parties and dignitaries, including:

Steve Cook, Executive Director of Arc MercerBill Harris, President of Nexus Energy Solutions

Commissioner Joseph Fiordaliso, NJ Board of Public UtilitiesMercer County Executive Brian M. Hughes

Joseph Prusik, Manager of PSE&G Direct Install Energy Efficiency ProgramMayor Bert Steinmann, Ewing, NJ

Senator Peter Inverso

The Arc Mercer sought and reviewed proposals for solar energy projects that would further build on our energy savings achieved by recent renovations to our Ewing and Trenton properties. Nexus Energy Solutions was decided upon as the best partner for Arc Mercer. Their proposal was a Hybrid Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) where, unlike traditional PPAs, all energy produced from the solar panels would be provided directly to Arc Mercer at no cost. The entire system was installed at no cost to the agency, and the only cost that will be associated with the agreement with be the final purchase of the system for $1 at the end of the contract term. As a result, Arc Mercer anticipates a utility savings of $375,000 during the 15/year contract term!

This unique program allowed Arc Mercer to take immediate steps to decrease our energy costs and build on our recent initiatives to become more efficient. In 2011 Arc Mercer became involved with energy savings through the PSE&G Direct Install En-ergy Program. The Direct Install Program offers affordable, energy-saving solutions to help non-profits lower energy costs by replacing lighting, heating, ventilation and air conditioning equipment. Through the PSE&G Direct Install Program the Arc Mercer was able to replace our air conditioning and lighting equipment at our Occupational Training Center in Trenton, NJ. With these changes alone, the Arc Mercer will experi-ence a savings of $25,000 per year.

To celebrate the launch of our new solar energy program Steve Cook was joined by our guests of honor in flipping the cer-emonial switch, celebrat-ing the newly outfitted Arc Mercer. Our organi-zation was also present-ed with a resolution on behalf of Assemblyman Reed Gusciora and As-semblywoman Bonnie Watson Coleman.

Dignitaries and community partners join steve cook, executive director, flip the switch

steve cook (left) and bill

harris, President of Nexus

(right), address the crowd

5

Page 6: Summer 2012 Arc Mercer Newsletter

Arc Trans Increases Fleet

Within the last few weeks the Arc Mercer Transportation Department, Arc Trans, has recently added seven new agency vehicles to the fleet and finalized the purchase of an additional bus under a grant by the Federal Tran-sit Administration. Arc Trans is also looking to upgrade our approach to fleet maintenance and plans to imple-ment advanced technologies to allow for more efficient management of our fleet, including monitoring of preven-tative maintenance, fuel costs and mileage.

The Arc Mercer is also pleased to an-nounce Mr. Chris Biedul has joined the Arc Transportation Department as the new director. Chris brings a wealth of transportation management experi-ence to the position having previously worked for Network Rail on the Cross-rail Project in London. Our former di-rector, Steve Monchak, is leaving Arc Mercer to pursue a new challenge with the United States Army. Please join us in welcom-ing Chris, and send-ing Steve M o n c h a k our best wishes.

Chris BiedulDirector of Transportation

Maria Fischer Workshopon September 18, 2012 Can an Individual with a disability work while receiving Supplemental Security Income (“SSI”)?This is a question commonly asked by family members of individuals receiving SSI. The short answer is YES. However, it is vital to understand how working will impact SSI benefits and ultimately Medicaid benefits, as well. To help families better understand SSI and working, the Arc Mercer Family Advisory Group has invited Maria Fischer, Esq., an Associate with the law firm of Hinkle, Fingles & Prior, P.C. to present

information at the Family Advisory Meeting on September 18th, 2012 at 6:00 pm.

Please join us for this informative discussion which will include:• An explanation of SSI eligibility• The meaning of Substantial Gainful Activity (“SGA”)• Review of the formula used to determine how SSI benefits are reduced by

earned and unearned income• The impact Impairment Related Work Expenses (“IRWE”) have on SGA• What is Plan to Achieve Self Support? (“PASS”)• Brief overview of Social Security Disability Insurance (“SSDI”)

We look forward to seeing you on September 18th. To RSVP for this workshop please contact Diana Parker of the Arc Mercer at (609) 406-0181, Extension 100.

Arthur Sells First Work of ArtDuring Arc Mercer’s first Art Opening at the Ewing Municipal Building on August 3, 2011 Arthur Coombe and his painting “Money” were highlighted in an article by the Trenton Times. Authur’s painting made such an impression on the Tren-ton Times that it was used as reoccur-ring artwork accompanying a financial column by writer Kurt Rossi.

Kurt was unaware of how The Times came to have the painting on file or who the artist was, only that he appre-ciated the piece. Kurt decided that he wanted to purchase the piece and went about locating the artist, after some research he discov-ered that the art-ist was a local man who received ser-vices through the Arc Mercer. Kurt contacted the Arc’s Art Coordinator,

Eric Zimmerman, requesting to pur-chase the piece and meet the artist. Arrangements were made to have Kurt join Arthur and his family for lunch at Arc Mercer. Arthur has become the first artist in the Arc Mercer Art Program to sell a piece of his artwork. Arthur’s ac-complishment is a testament to the pre-viously untapped artistic abilities of the Arc Mercer consumers which are now being given an opportunity to be appre-ciated and enjoyed by the community at large.

arthur coombe (center) sells his first piece of art to kurt rossi (right). pictured with steve cook , Executive director (left) and Eric Zimmerman, Art Coordinator (far right)

Maria Fischer, Esq.Hinkle, Fingles & Prior

6

Page 7: Summer 2012 Arc Mercer Newsletter

A Touch of Taste Trainee Earns Degree and Paycheck

Write How You Feel

A Success Story from the Supportive Living ProgramKaren Conti is an active, outgoing woman who recently began living independently as of April 1, 2012. She is now a participant of the Arc Mercer Supportive Living Program. Karen also works in food services here at The Arc Mercer.

”I love the benefits of living independently” says Karen. “I can choose activities that I enjoy like visiting friends and family, swimming, working out at my gym and taking a long walk whenever I feel like it. I also know that I have to be very responsible. I must remember to get up and go to work, take good care of my apartment, attend all of my doctor appointments, practice safe habits in my apartment and when I leave my apartment.”

Karen anticipates learning new independent living skills through family supports and the Supportive Living Program. Congratulations Karen!

Jeff Morris has been part of the Touch of Taste kitchen team during the past few school years working three days a week while attending classes at The College of New Jersey (TCNJ). He has been sup-ported at the Ewingville Road facility by a TCNJ counselor and shown proficiency that allows him to also work indepen-dently.

In looking to the future with a goal to be independent and self-supporting, Jeff wanted to remain in food service and improve and expand his kitchen skills.

The following article is an excerpt from The Respite Reader, a monthly publication written entirely by participants in our Respite Program and overseen by the Respite Staff. By Marlene Brockington, Tammi Wieger and Vimaris Williams

Jim Gaven, the music teacher for the Mercer Arc, has started

a new writing program to help consumers with their handwriting skills.

For the consumers in Aftercare and also in the Day Program, Mr. Jim began this program February 1st. The program has a

nickname, ’Songs Of New Ground’’, and Mr. Jim leads two groups a week on Mondays and Wednesdays. Mornings are with the Day Program and the Aftercare program is in the afternoon.

Mr. Jim gives the participants three choices to write: 1. A short story, 2. Song lyrics, and/or 3. Poems.

Mr. Jim said he allows a little combination of between but he encourages more expression of feelings than writing skills. If a participant is capable of writing on their own, he tries his best to let them. He only helps with the spelling of words. If a participant asks for help with handwriting,

he also does hand-over-hand aid with the participants.

If the individual picks song lyrics, then

Mr. Jim would ask “How many minutes long would you like it to be?” If a poem is chosen, then Mr. Jim asks, “How many lines long would you like it to be?” If a short story is chosen, then Mr. Jim asks, “How many pages long would you like it to be?”

Mr. Jim gathers all the information and then the participants start doing their writing in their notebooks. Mr. Jim has not started to help anyone write music yet; for now he is just focusing group participant is on writing their thoughts and feelings.

Mr. Jim said, as of right now, there’s a nice mix between short stories and poems, so those are the most popular journal entries.

Again, all the words in The Respite Reader outside of the Staff Box belong to co-editors Marlene Brockington, Tammi Wieger and writer Vimaris Williams; I’ve only added a few words to offer an explanation, bridge to a new thought or paragraph when needed.- Alison Roth Newsletter Advisor, Arc Aftercare Staff

jim gaven (left) pictured with

taj kelly (right)

He went through a process of time studies and he reached a performance level that placed him among others of similar talents and skills. It also al-lows him to now be compen-sated at a competitive rate.

Jeff recently completed the necessary requirements in his curriculum and attained a degree from TCNJ! Jeff is still working three days each week, utilizing transporta-

tion to and from work, earning a paycheck on his way to continued training. Jeff is working towards improvement in his skills and self-inde-pendence. He is an as-set to the Touch of Taste program, well-liked and comfortably situated with his kitchen team. No doubt Jeff is focused and headed for a successful career.

7

Page 8: Summer 2012 Arc Mercer Newsletter

Arc Mercer Receives 3 Year CARF AccreditationIn June 2012 Arc Mercer achieved the highest level of accreditation by the Commission on Accreditation of Reha-bilitation Facilities (CARF) Internation-al. Arc Mercer, specifically our Occupa-tional Training Center and Employment Programs, was accredited for a period of three years in the following areas: Em-ployment Skills Training, Organizational Employment Services, Job Development, Job Supports, and Job Site Training. We also received, for the first time, 3 Year CARF Accreditation for Governance.

Founded in 1966, CARF International is an independent, nonprofit accreditor of health and human services. The CARF family of organizations currently ac-credits more than 48,000 programs and services at more than 21,000 locations

on five continents.

The achievement is an indication of Arc Mercer’s dedication and commitment to improving the quality of lives of people with developmental disabilities. In a letter to Arc Mercer from Dr. Brian Boone, CEO of CARF International, Dr. Boone states “Ser-vices, Personnel and Documentation (of Arc Mercer) clearly indicate an established pattern of practiced excellence. Your or-ganization should take pride in achieving this high level of accreditation.”

The report indicates “Arc Mercer’s leader-ship and administration lead by example in providing person centered services. Management and staff display an over-arching attitude of caring, concern, and awareness on the welfare of potential per-

sons served.” It also notes, “The Arc Mer-cer demonstrates a strong passion and commitment in relation to serving per-sons in the best capacity possible. It has responded to the community’s needs and been able to offer higher paid employment opportunities to those served.”

Congratulations to the Occupational Train-ing Center and Employment Programs of Arc Mercer for maintaining an outstand-ing level of service. We would also like to recognize the efforts of Jennifer Godoski, Colleen Connolly, John Martin, Steven Ronin, Lance Englehardt, Parnell Joiner, Dilys Henninger, Mike Levandowski, and Patricia Szenczi in preparing Arc Mercer for this accreditation.

Spotlight on the Enclave ProgramFor the past three years ETS of Ewing has hosted an Enclave Group from Arc Mercer for a two month period annually. An average of 15-20 individuals with disabilities receiving vocational training utilize this initiative as a stepping stone into community based competitive employment. The enclave participants attend ETS 5 days a week during the enclave and complete an assembly project. They get a true experience in competitive employment and have the opportunity to build on their vocational skills, while boosting their self esteem.participants at the ets

enclave project

8

We’re Now Accepting New Patients!

Are you an individual with a developmental disability looking for primary medical and mental health care services? - Contact the Arc Mercer! (609) 989-9211 ext. 127

We are now accepting new patients!New patients with a developmental disability must be enrolled in a Medicaid HMO

before the Arc Mercer Health Care Center can schedule an appointment.

We Currently Accept: United Health Care Community Plan, Amerigroup HMO and Horizon NJ

To schedule a visit, please contact our Health Care Center:

Anne Brady, [email protected]

(609) 989-9211 ext. 127Receptionist: (609) 989-9211 x100

801 New York Ave. Trenton, NJ 08638 - www.arcmercer.org

Page 9: Summer 2012 Arc Mercer Newsletter

Employees of the Month & Consumers of the Quarter:

Andrew is a resident of an Arc Mercer group home with an infectious laugh who likes to dance. He is also very interested in learning to play percussion and has shown enthusiasm for Monday night music lessons. Andrew also enjoys “Wally Wednesdays” where Wally the therapy dog comes to play.

Andrew McPhereson is awarded summer consumer of the quarter

John Morton has only been in the position of Recreation Manger for six months and within that time he has truly energized the Rec-reation Department with new and exciting events. He also wowed the Respite program with the parent group activity that truly brings the aftercare program together. His dedication to those we serve is inspiring as he always seems to give his last drop of energy for the Arc. Team work is his philosophy!

John Morton is awarded may 2012 employee of the month

In Memory of Willie BattleOn Monday, July 30th, Arc Mercer lost a wonderful colleague in the passing of Willie Battle. Willie, an employee since 2004, currently worked as a bus driver for Arc Mercer in the Ewing and Trenton communities transporting those served by Arc Mercer to their day program and employment sites daily. His compassion, positive outlook, sense of humor and ever present smile will be missed dearly. Our thoughts and sincere condolences go out to his family and friends.

Marlene Harrison is awarded spring consumer of the quarter

Marlene Harrison, a resident of an Arc Mercer group home, is an outgoing, friendly and consider-ate young woman. She consis-tently makes herself available to assist with household tasks and preparation for house events. Marlene has shown great im-provement with keeping her room tidy and clothes orga-nized.

Kathy English is awarded april 2012 employee of the month

Kathleen English has been with the Arc of Mercer for 33 years. She is the driving force behind the fundraising efforts at Step Ahead. Kathleen will enthusias-tically encourage parents, staff and professionals to support the programming of Arc Mer-cer. Ms. Kathy is highly invested in her commitment to her stu-dents at Step Ahead, as well as the consumers from other Arc Mercer programs. She always puts the needs of those we serve first with compassion and kind-ness.

9

Willie battle & his son, willie battle, jr.

Page 10: Summer 2012 Arc Mercer Newsletter

sunday monday tuesday Wednesday thursday friday saturday

Bowing $5.006:00 - 8:00 pm

Hamilton Lanes

Movie Night(It’s a Surprise)

Rated PG-13$5.00

6:15 - 8:00 pm

Bowing $5.006:00 - 8:00 pm

Hamilton Lanes

Coffee House6:30 - 8:00 pm

Main Office

Art & Crafts6:30 - 8:00 pm

801 New York Ave

Bowing $5.006:00 - 8:00 pm

Hamilton Lanes

Dinner Dance6:30 - 9:30 pmCheese Steak, Onion Rings &

Ice Cream

Bingo $3.006:30 - 8:00 pm

Main Office

Couple’s Night Dinner at

Town & Country 5:30 pm

or Bowling $5

Philadelphia Zoo8:30 am - 2:30 pm

$30.00

Bowing $5.006:00 - 8:00 pm

Hamilton Lanes

Recreation Department Offerings to Include Horseback Riding & Personalized Fitness TrainingThe Recreation Department is proud to introduce two new exciting oppor-tunities for our individuals. Through a partnership with Retro Fitness and the Special Olympics Gym we are initiating a Physical Fitness program. The pro-gram will include support from personal trainers who help each participant set up a personalized training program. The trainers will also provide follow up sup-port to encourage participants to reach their goals.

We are also excited to announce a Therapeutic Equestrian program of-fered through the Riding High Farm. Therapeutic horseback riding is recre-

ational horseback riding adapted to meet the needs of individuals with disabilities. The program will not only offer trail rid-ing but the opportunity for our individuals to work directly with the horses through grooming and feeding. The program will offer our individuals physical benefits by increasing strength and balance, as well as emotional benefits through the unique relationship between the rider and horse. The Recreation Department continues to strive to offer the highest quality and diverse recreation oppor-tunities for our individuals. For more information, please contact Recreation Manager John Morton at (609) 989-9211, Extension 125.

august recreation calendar

for more information, please call the recreation manager , john at (609) 989-9211 x125

10

Page 11: Summer 2012 Arc Mercer Newsletter

sunday monday tuesday wednesDay thursday friday saturday

Bowing $5.006:00 - 8:00 pm

Hamilton Lanes

Movie Night(It’s a Surprise)

Rated PG-13$5.00

6:15 - 8:00 pm

Art & Crafts6:30 - 8:00 pm

801 New York Ave

Bowing $5.006:00 - 8:00 pm

Hamilton Lanes

Coffee House6:30 - 8:00 pm

Main Office$5.00

Bingo $3.006:30 - 8:00 pm

Main Office

Couple’s Night Dinner at

Town & Country 5:30 pm

or Bowling $5

Bowing $5.006:00 - 8:00 pm

Hamilton Lanes

Dinner Dance6:30 - 9:30 pm

New Egypt Raceaway

6:00 - 8:00 pmBox Meal

september recreation calendar

for more information, please call the recreation manager , john at (609) 989-9211 x125

Club Hero recently took a trip to New York City to experience “Zarkana” a Cirque Du Soleil performance at Radio City Music Hall. Circus Du Soleil is a gravity-defying, high flying acrobatic spectacle. Our attendees were astonished by the beautiful music, light show and amazing feats displayed on stage. The group watched as the performers were tossed into the air, balanced on each other heads and performed numerous other acrobatics while seemingly flying overhead.

Club Hero members had such a great time they have already requested to return to New York City and see another Cirque Du Soleil performance! Club Hero’s upcoming events include the Philadelphia Duck Boat Ride and the Philadelphia Zoo. The program strives to offer new and exciting trips for the enjoyment of those we serve. We welcome new members, as well as trip suggestions! For more information please contact the Recreation Department Manager, John Morton, at (609) 989-9211 Extension 125.

Club Hero Attends Cirque du Soleil

11

Page 12: Summer 2012 Arc Mercer Newsletter

Non-ProfitUS Postage

PAIDTrenton, NJ

Permit No. 1435

Serving within a 15 miles radius of our 600 New York Ave., Trenton, New Jersey location (these area’s include all of Trenton, Hamilton, Ewing, Lawrence & Princeton). Transportation over 15 miles may be an additional charge. • Facility Drop-Off Rate: $0.16 per pound

Routine Pick-up/Flexible to your needs with a convenient flat fee. • 200 lbs container max (flat fee) = $40

Loose items: such as boxes, bags, etc. • $0.25 per pound, free transportation within 15 mile radius of facility.

shArcShredding at Arc Mercer

Secure destruction of business documents and records!

Affordable Flat Rates!

Reliable and consistent service delivered by screened, well trained and highly motivated employees!

Secure, environmentally friendly disposition of shredded paper!

shArc is a National Association for Information Destruction, Inc. (NAID) certified document destruction business operated by the Arc Mercer Occupational Training Center. The NAID Certification Program establishes standards for a secure destruction process includ-ing such areas as operational security, employee hiring and screening, the destruction process, responsible disposal and insurance.

For more information, call 609-393-2483 x109 to arrange services.

The Arc Mercer, Inc. 180 Ewingville Rd • Ewing, NJ 08638

Save the Date!November 16, 2012Arc Mercer Fall GalaHistoric Masonic Temple, Trenton, NJ