Arc Mercer’s Black History Month event was a profound celebration of culture, history, and community, highlighting the contributions of Black individuals throughout history and within the agency.
The event opened with a powerful rendition of Wade in the Water by Arc Mercer’s talented Recreation Program Manager and Black Cultural Group member, LaShana Deacon. Accompanied by a narration from Day Program Director Kirk Ponton, attendees were reminded of the significance of slave songs as tools of resistance and survival, notably used by Harriet Tubman to guide enslaved individuals to freedom via the Underground Railroad.
Executive Director Steve Cook set the tone for the event, expressing pride in Arc Mercer’s diverse workforce and emphasizing the importance of cultural contributions in driving the agency’s mission forward. Past Board President Rick Koreyva and Board Member Jeff Schulman were in attendance, underscoring the Board’s commitment to celebrating the agency’s multicultural environment and the staff who care for their loved ones.
A highlight of the event was the presence of Assemblywoman Tenille R. McCoy from New Jersey’s 14th Legislative District. McCoy, being the first person of color to be elected in the 14th District, made her a perfect guest for this celebration of black excellence. McCoy affirmed her dedication to working alongside Arc Mercer and the Black Culture Advisory Group to strengthen relationships with community partners, ensuring better support for individuals of color with special needs.
On behalf of the 14th District, Assemblywoman McCoy presented the Arc Mercer a proclamation to celebrate Black History Month and also all of the great work done by our incredible staff.
The event also provided an opportunity to honor the memory of a beloved staff member, Darryl Smith, from the training department and Quality Assurance. Darryl was instrumental in training Arc Mercer staff in CPR and documentation through Therap, our system used for tracking care and progress for individuals with disabilities. His wife, Araina Hicks, spoke about the outpouring of support her family has received.
Additionally, the agency acknowledged Thomas Henderson, a DSP from the Village location and an active Team Atmosphere Committee (TAC) member, who recently received a serious diagnosis that will keep him out of work for some time.
In a touching moment of solidarity, BDSP Sharon Boone and Steve Cook led a moment of silence and recognition for both Darryl and Thomas. Attendees raised over $5,000 for their families through contributions from the Employee Relief Fund, the Board, staff, and matching donations from the agency.
Donations are still welcome, and those who wish to contribute can do so through the Employee Relief Fund.
The Black History Month celebration continued with a moving poetry reading by three Arc Mercer consumers—Celesta, Ebony, and Jordan—who shared works by Nikki Giovanni and Langston Hughes, offering a powerful testament to Black cultural heritage.
Bruce Points, lead trainer and a leader of the Black Culture Advisory Group, made an exciting announcement about the launch of the Black Cultural Community Partnership Initiative. This initiative aims to build a strong infrastructure for Black individuals and families with special needs, focusing on recreational, vocational, educational, residential, and healthcare services.
Steve Cook praised the initiative, calling it “an Arc Mercer Cultural Group commitment to take an underserved population and help their special needs children.”
Cook pledged to review the official proposal with the Board of Directors and committed $5,000 from the agency to help launch the project. With additional backing from Assemblywoman McCoy and the City of Trenton, the initiative is expected to make a significant impact on the community.
TAC Awards Luncheon Recognizes Outstanding Employees
The event also included a celebration of outstanding employees.
Work Anniversary Honoree: Fata Kaindii, DSP, Alice Location
Fata was recognized for five years of service. She shared her gratitude, stating,
“It’s an honor to serve people living with disabilities. And when you are working somewhere where you get the support and encouragement, you want to come here every day. You want to see the growth, you want us to be comfortable when we are working. And this is something I love to do, and I love my guys so much and it’s an honor to be here today.”
Fata received a customized Arc Mercer plaque and a $150 gift card.
Rising Star of the Month: Judy Wright, OTC
Judy earned 100% of the votes from the selection committee, and her heartfelt acceptance speech moved the audience: “Thank you, everybody, I’m in shock!”
Judy was nominated by Rosemary Reed, Employment Specialist at OTC, who described her as “fantastic,” hardworking, and an emerging leader in the food service program despite her visual impairment.
Judy received a $100 gift card and now qualifies for the Rising Star of the Year award.
Employee of the Month: Arinze Iloka, DSP, Special Needs Day Program
Arinze was nominated by Naldia Pyle, BDSP, Special Needs Day Program, who praised his unwavering commitment to consumers and his flexibility in managing transportation needs.
“Since joining our team, he has consistently demonstrated a strong willingness to engage with consumers. He is always ready to help when needed, never hesitates to step in, and acts promptly in every situation. His positive mindset is infectious, creating a welcoming and uplifting environment that resonates with our consumers.”
Arinze received a $250 gift card and is now in the running for Employee of the Year.
The event concluded with a call for nominations for future awards, encouraging staff to recognize their peers for their hard work and dedication.
The Black History Month event and TAC Awards Luncheon served as a powerful reminder of the strength found in diversity, the importance of cultural appreciation, and the rewarding nature of working in this field. Arc Mercer continues to celebrate the people who make its mission possible and remains committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive workplace for all.
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