For the sixth consecutive year, the VISTA NextGen Superstars Awards Reception & Celebration honored the future of Chester County, but it was a surprise moment of philanthropy that made a powerful impact on the present.

During the event held at the Penn State Great Valley Conference Center in Malvern, The Arc of Chester County, which supports individuals with disabilities and their families, was recognized as the event’s nonprofit beneficiary.

But the evening took an unexpected turn when Steve Knickerbocker, Senior Vice President of Development at American Community Journals, and Steve Miller, Citadel Credit Union’s Vice President of Philanthropy and Community Engagement, presented The Arc Executive Director Jeanne Meikrantz with a $10,000 check.

The surprise donation drew cheers — and even a few tears — from those in attendance.

“The Arc of Chester County is doing vital work in our community, and they deserve to be seen, supported, and celebrated,” said Ken Knickerbocker, CEO of American Community Journals and Publisher of VISTA Today. “This event is about honoring the changemakers of tomorrow, and The Arc represents the kind of tireless, compassionate service that inspires all of us. We were thrilled to surprise them with this donation thanks to the generosity of Citadel Credit Union.”

That generosity reflects Citadel’s broader commitment to giving back. As part of its Citadel Cares program, the credit union has pledged more than $2 million to community-focused organizations throughout the Greater Philadelphia region.

“We are fortunate to have great organizations throughout Chester County, like The Arc, dedicated to walking beside those who need a little support,” said Miller. “It is my honor to recognize The Arc’s meaningful work.”

Founded in 1952, The Arc’s mission is to advocate, educate, and provide services to empower individuals with disabilities and their families to enhance the quality of their lives.

“The Arc of Chester County is beyond honored and grateful to have been selected by VISTA Today as the beneficiary of this year’s event,” said Meikrantz. “The Arc has enjoyed a wonderful partnership for nearly five years with VISTA Today. Their interest in and loyal support of our mission and services — and the important work we do advocating with and for individuals with disabilities and their families — is to be commended and is greatly appreciated.”

With VISTA Today as the go-to community journal for all things positive in Chester County, Ken Knickerbocker emphasized the importance of honoring organizations that truly move the needle.

“It’s our responsibility to shine a spotlight on the people and organizations making a real impact,” he said. “The NextGen Superstars Awards are about more than professional success — they’re about leadership, service, and purpose. That’s why honoring The Arc of Chester County and surprising them with this donation was the perfect way to capture the spirit of the night.”

Learn more about The Arc of Chester County and its wide range of programs that support individuals with disabilities throughout their lives.

Learn more about how Citadel Credit Union supports a variety of charitable organizations and initiatives that build strength within the community in impactful ways.