The Arc of Chester County honored key businesses and individuals that championed the mission of assisting individuals with disabilities last week.

Donor award honorees were selected for going above and beyond in their support and advocacy of individuals with autism, intellectual and developmental disabilities, and their families.

This year’s honorees were invited to a COVID-friendly private recognition celebration and tour of The Arc’s newly renovated space on Lawrence Drive in West Chester.

Five outstanding members and organizations were recognized by The Arc of Chester County’s Board President, Matthew Holliday, Chief Executive Officer, Jeanne Meikrantz, and Treasurer Jessica Straghan, with the following 2021 distinguished awards:

Community Service Award

Phoenixville Fire Department. The Arc of Chester County Community Service Award honors a local organization that is dedicated to volunteerism and community service. The Phoenixville Fire Department selected The Arc as the recipient of their own fundraising initiatives in addition to their outstanding community service as a fire department serving the local community. 

Corporate Partner of the Year Award

Benchmark Federal Credit Union. The Arc of Chester County Corporate Partner of the Year Award honors a local organization that has significantly enhanced the Arc’s mission, through their dedicated support and loyal partnership. Benchmark’s support was year-round from sponsorship of The Arc’s Walk and Run signature event to fundraisers strategically hosted throughout the year to further support the Arc’s programs and services.

Agnes Grady Chesko Family of the Year Award

The Roldolfo & Alley Families. The Arc of Chester County Agnes Grady Chesko Family of the Year Award honors an outstanding family whose care for their children and assistance to other Arc families, and support of The Arc’s mission, sets an extraordinary example of love, loyalty, and dedicated advocacy.

This award was presented to an Arc of Chester County family whose son/grandson was connected to the Preschool Program, The Rodolfo and Alley Families.

Ruth Wood Philanthropic Leadership Award

 Susan and Stephen March. The Arc of Chester County Ruth Wood Philanthropic Leadership Award recognizes outstanding dedication, commitment, and a proven track record of philanthropic leadership.

This annual award was named after founder Ruth Wood, established in her 60-year legacy of advocating and fighting for the rights of people with disabilities. Susan and Stephen were recognized for their generosity and support, integral in ensuring The Arc’s essential and life sustaining services remained flowing throughout the pandemic.

President’s Award

Jessica Straghan. The Arc of Chester County President’s Award honors a local corporation or individual that has significantly enhanced the Arc mission, through dedicated support and loyal partnership. Long-time Arc supporter and Board Member Jessica Straghan was the recipient of this distinguished award.

“It is truly an honor to recognize such incredible generosity, loyalty, and dedication. This year’s awardees are exemplary recipients. The Arc is truly grateful to be the beneficiary of their dedication and support and we are thrilled to be able to honor them in this special way,” said Holliday.

“Many of these recipients have been a part of our Arc family for years and we are so touched by their generous spirit and deep compassion for individuals with disabilities in our community,” said Meikrantz.

“We continue to work hard through our advocacy efforts at the state and federal levels for increased funding, but it is our donors, volunteers and staff who go above and beyond to ensure that we are providing the best care and services to the individuals and families we support.

“Tonight, we are proud to be able to recognize just a few of them.”

About The Arc of Chester County

The mission of The Arc of Chester County: To advocate, educate, and provide services to empower individuals with disabilities and their families to enhance the quality of their lives.

The Arc’s programs and services enhance quality of life by preparing individuals with the skills and support they need for living in the community and speaking up for their rights.

Today, The Arc serves nearly 3,000 children and adults with developmental and other disabilities, and their families each year through the provision of a lifetime of services beginning at birth and extending through a person’s life.

Find out more information on The Arc of Chester County’s programs and services, or to make a donation and help support individuals with disabilities and their families.