Celebrating Excellence: Employee Recognition at the Arc Mercer

Behind every successful program, meaningful community inclusion opportunity, and life-changing support service at the Arc Mercer is a dedicated team of employees committed to making a difference.

That commitment is reflected not only in the quality of services provided throughout the agency, but also in the strong culture of recognition that celebrates employees who go above and beyond each day. In 2026 alone, the Arc Mercer has received more than 200 nominations across its Employee of the Month, Rising Star of the Month, and Dawn Carmosino Team Impact Award programs, demonstrating an agency-wide commitment to recognizing excellence, compassion, and dedication.

The most recent example is Kingsley Asare, who was named the Arc Mercer's Employee of the Month for his outstanding service as a Direct Support Professional at Forest Lane.

Kingsley is known for his reliability, professionalism, and willingness to support wherever he is needed. Whether working his regularly assigned shift or stepping in to assist another home, he consistently brings a positive attitude and a strong commitment to the individuals he serves. Colleagues describe him as dependable, flexible, and always ready to help.

Most importantly, Kingsley has built strong relationships with consumers through his respectful communication style and genuine compassion. His daily interactions help create an environment where individuals feel valued, supported, and empowered to achieve their goals.

Nominated by Forest Lane staff member Ereleen Tarr, Kingsley was recognized for his consistent punctuality, strong communication skills, and readiness to assist any residential program when needed. His recognition reflects the values that drive the Arc Mercer’s mission and the countless acts of dedication demonstrated by employees across the agency every day.

While Kingsley's recognition is certainly worth celebrating, it also represents something larger. 

Every nomination submitted tells a story of an employee making a positive impact in the lives of others. From Direct Support Professionals and residential staff to program specialists, transportation personnel, clinicians, and administrative team members, employees throughout the Arc Mercer are being recognized by their peers for the difference they make.

The 200+ nominations received so far this year highlights the agency's belief that recognizing and celebrating employees is essential to building a positive workplace culture and delivering exceptional services. When employees feel valued, supported, and appreciated, the individuals and families they serve benefit as well.

As the Arc Mercer continues to grow and innovate, employee recognition remains an important part of strengthening the workforce that supports hundreds of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities throughout the community.

Congratulations to Kingsley Asare and to all of the employees whose dedication, compassion, and commitment continue to make the Arc Mercer a place where both employees and the people they support can thrive.