11 Individuals Honored by The Arc, Ocean County Chapter at the 2015 Catalyst Awards

Toms River, NJ-June 29, 2015- The Arc, Ocean County Chapter presented 11 individuals with the Catalyst Awards at the Clarion Hotel and Conference Center in Toms River on June 25th. The Catalyst Awards recognized local area residents for their work in making a difference for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Ocean County. Over 150 guests were in attendance.

“This year’s group of award winners truly exemplifies what the definition of a catalyst, that they are people who inspire change in the lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities,” said Laura Williams, Executive Director of The Arc, Ocean County Chapter. “We are truly impressed by their efforts and dedication to bettering the lives of our individuals and are honored to recognize their community achievements.”

About the Honorees

Community Organization of the Year- Boy Scout Troop 175 The Arc, Ocean County Chapter has chosen Boy Scout Troop 175 as the Community Organization of the Year. Boy Scout Troop 175 has volunteered for the past two years helping beautify several of the group homes by planting flowers and adding new mulch. Boy Scout Troop 175 has proven to be one of the hardest working and dedicated community organizations The Arc, Ocean County Chapter has had the pleasure of partnering with.

Healthcare Professional of the Year-Jeff Lange, Occupational Therapist for Fox Rehabilitation Jeff Lange has worked with several of our residents and has done some extensive work with many of our residents. With his dedication to his work, he was able to guide one of our residents use a walker to ambulate 90% of the time. His interaction with our individuals is always caring and supportive while addressing their needs for therapy. His encouragement and commitment to help better the lives of our individuals is evident by his results.

Educator of the Year-Melissa Conklin, Social Worker at Jackson Memorial High School Melissa Conklin has far exceeded our expectations for her involvement in her students’ transitional programming. Through her interactions, Melissa understands how vital her role is in ensuring her students success. Melissa serves as an advocate and a leader, paving the pathway to her students’ futures. She exudes positivity and warmth which is reflected in all of her students. She instills in them the desire to grow and the spirit of determination. Melissa helps her students discover just how special they really are, and encourages them to share their uniqueness with the world.

Distinguished Community Service-Home Goods of Toms River Home Goods provides volunteer opportunities to the participants of our Journeys/Discovery programs. This job samples promotes community inclusion and gives participants opportunities to work on their vocational skills in a professional setting.

Outstanding Professional of the Year-Katelynne Collick, Director of Training & Consultation Services for The Arc of NJ The Arc, Ocean County Chapter has chosen Katelynne as the Outstanding Professional of the Year. She has served as an invaluable resource for the agency and our employees. As the Director of Training and Consultation for The Arc of New Jersey, Katelynne provides training throughout the state on various topics related to working with people with I/DD. Katelynne assisted with the development of the Supported Employment Service as well as with preparing for the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) survey. Because of her unconditional guidance and reassurance we were able to secure our accreditation, and exceed the expectations set upon us.

Volunteers of the Year-Paul & Sharon Pipero Paul and Sharon Pipero have continuously offered assistance by identifying needs and addressing them in many forms. Whether it’s landscaping, room remodeling or offer tickets to an event, the Pipero’s have demonstrated their generosity over the years in many ways. They continue to put into action the mission of The Arc as they donate their time and effort needed to improve the lives of all we serve.

Bill Sackter Citizenship Award-Keith Henderson Keith Henderson is a longtime client who has achieved many accomplishments and continues to strive for his dreams. Keith has been working with Friends of Special Athletes in Sea Girt and is also an active part of his community by entering many foot races throughout each year. Keith is a part of the Jersey Shore Running Club and runs in several races including the Manasquan Turkey Trot, the Spring Lake Pride Race and many more. While maintaining a healthy lifestyle, Keith works for the Arc Employment Center as a material handler and mentions often how much he “loves his job” and hopes to continue the job forever. Keith is a model and inspiration to all that he meets and works with.

Newcomer of the Year-Laura Simone Laura exudes enthusiasm and compassion in all that she does. Laura has established a phenomenal rapport with her co-workers and the clients she supports, and has helped so many achieve successful employment outcomes. Laura instills independence and a positive work attitude in those she supports, and because of this, so many of them experience the true meaning of community inclusion and what it is to be successful.

Full Time Employee of the Year-Jill Terjesen Jill Terjesen was recognized for her strong commitment to The Arc, Ocean County Chapter and the 500 full time and part time employees the company employs. As Director of Human Resources, Jill recognizes the critical role employees play in helping The Arc to achieve our mission. She is an outstanding employee, hard worker, and always goes above and beyond to assist any employee. She is an excellent contributor to The Arc!

Part Time Employee of the Year-Jessica Davison Jessica has been working for The Arc for 12 years, using her knowledge of the residents and her education at Ocean County College in their nursing program to offer the best care to our individuals. Her professionalism is one to admire and is a model employee who is patient and caring.

About The Arc, Ocean County Chapter

The Arc, Ocean County Chapter is a non-profit organization making a difference in the lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families since 1955. The mission of The Arc, Ocean County Chapter is to advocate, provide opportunities and supports necessary for all individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to be accepted and valued as citizens of the communities in which they choose to live, learn, work and play.” To learn more about visit www.arcocean.org and follow us on Facebook at “The Arc, Ocean County Chapter”.