Regional ARCs Note 65th Year of Helping People with Disabilities

by Anna Gotlieb

Representatives from the ARCs of Rockland, Putnam, Westchester and Orange Counties celebrated the 65th anniversary of NYSARC, the state-wide umbrella organization serving people with intellectual and other developmental disabilities.

The group met on Bear Mountain Bridge, July 3.

Participants affixed the chapter names to the NYSARC flag in a symbolic gesture marking NYSARC's broad and ongoing journey in support of people with developmental disabilities and their families.

ARC Executive Director Carmine Marchionda called the Hudson River a fitting metaphor for NYSARC's journey.

“There have certainly been rough waters along the way, but with the determination of families, the commitment of community leaders and collaboration among our member chapters, we have made remarkable progress in ensuring that people with developmental disabilities participate fully in the mainstream of society," Marchionda said.

Richard Sirota, president, ARC of Rockland Board of Directors, remarked that “The bridge represents the links forged over the years on behalf of the people we support.”