MESSAGE FROM OUR CEO

Remember The Value Of Friendship.

Dear Friend,

Sometimes we get caught up with the business of everyday life.   We have dinner parties to attend, meetings at work, and 100 things on our To Do List.   This is a busy time of year.   It's easy to forget about what is really important in life -- the people we love and care about.  

Take a moment to remember the wonderful friends you have had over the years.

• The childhood friend from the neighborhood you grew up with.
• The high school friends from study hall.  
• Your first roommate when you moved out on your own.
• The person you know you can call when you need someone to talk to.  

Remember the fun times you spent together.

• Going out to eat at your favorite restaurant.
• Taking that special trip.
• Watching that unforgettable big game.  
• Sharing stories at the local coffee shop.

Your life has been enriched by the relationships you've had and the friendships that continue today.  

Now think of what your life would be like without friends.

It's hard to imagine, isn't it?   But for many of the people we serve at The Arc this is a reality.   Many people with developmental disabilities have never experienced that sense of belonging and love found through having a friend.   Few have had relationships with community members, other than the people that are paid to care for them.  

At The Arc of Atlantic County we strive to go beyond simply meeting basic needs and support

the people we serve to have a great quality of life.  

Everyone should have the chance to be a part of a community; everyone needs true friends.   When you have friends you feel good about yourself.   You are able to lead a safer, healthier life knowing that someone cares and is looking out for you.

Our services improve the quality of life for the people we serve and can lead to lasting friendships.

Danny, a teenager with developmental disabilities who loves sports, met community volunteer Chris through The Arc's golf program.   They formed an immediate bond on the links and have been golf partners.and friends for three years!

John, a community member who swims every day at the local aquatic center, met Henry when he was brought to the pool by The Arc's Adult Training Center staff.   John helped Henry become a better swimmer, and the two now look forward to seeing each other at the pool every week.   From a love of swimming, a lasting friendship has grown.

The Arc's Summer Camp places children with developmental disabilities in a camp with typical children.   Camp allowed Max, age 10, to overcome one of his greatest obstacles: making friends.   Now Max loves to have friends around.   He will invite friends over to his house, or play with the boy who lives next door.  

Right now - you can let a person with developmental disabilities know that you care.   By making your special donation today you are affirming that all people deserve to have a quality life and have friends to share it with.  

Cordially,

Deborah Davies, Ph.D.

Chief Executive Officer