Celebrating Five Years of Dedication at the Arc Mercer

At the Arc Mercer, every role contributes to the mission of supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to live full, meaningful lives. Whether working directly with consumers each day or helping guide the agency’s broader vision, every team member plays an essential part in strengthening the community the Arc Mercer serves.

This month, the agency proudly celebrates two employees reaching an important milestone, five years of service. Balakisa Souare, DSP at Phaeton, and Paul Lagana, Associate Executive Director of Residential, represent two very different roles within the organization, yet both share the same unwavering commitment to the mission and the individuals the Arc Mercer supports.

Balakisa Souare – DSP, Phaeton Group Home

As a Direct Support Professional at the Phaeton residence, Balakisa Souare has spent the past five years providing compassionate, hands-on support that helps residents live with dignity, independence, and joy. Direct Support Professionals are at the heart of the Arc Mercer’s work, and Balakisa’s dedication exemplifies the impact that mission-driven frontline staff have on the lives of the individuals they support.

Each day, Balakisa helps residents navigate daily routines, build life skills, and stay connected to their community. Her steady presence, patience, and genuine care help create a stable and supportive environment where individuals can thrive.

Paul Lagana – Associate Executive Director, Residential

At the leadership level, Paul Lagana has played a vital role in strengthening and guiding the Arc Mercer’s residential services over the past five years. As Associate Executive Director of Residential, Paul helps oversee programs that support individuals living in the agency’s group homes, ensuring they receive high-quality, person-centered care.

Paul’s leadership focuses on building strong teams, supporting staff development, and maintaining the high standards that families and residents rely on. His work helps empower residential teams across the agency to provide safe, engaging, and supportive living environments for the individuals they serve.

One Mission, One Team

While their roles differ, the work of Balakisa Souare and Paul Lagana reflects a shared purpose. The Arc Mercer recognizes that every employee, from frontline staff to senior leadership, plays a critical role in fulfilling the agency’s mission.

In recognition of their commitment, five-year honorees receive a customized Arc Mercer plaque, a $150 gift card, and a 5 Years of Service lapel pin as a token of appreciation for their contributions.

The Arc Mercer congratulates Balakisa Souare and Paul Lagana on reaching this important milestone and thanks them for five years of outstanding service to the

agency and the community.