The energy was palpable at Arc Mercer's recent Team Atmosphere Committee (TAC) meeting on September 12th. This bi-monthly gathering serves as a dynamic platform where mission-critical staff have the unique opportunity to actively shape the agency's future. It's a testament to Arc Mercer's unwavering commitment to open communication and employee empowerment.
Under the skillful facilitation of Naldia Pyle, a seasoned veteran of our Special Needs program, the meeting fostered a collaborative environment where everyone felt heard and valued.
Empowering Staff, Driving Progress
New Era of Employee Recognition: Director of Program Operations Stephen Miller unveiled a revamped system for recognizing exceptional employees. The new Employee of the Month, Rising Star of the Month, and Team Impact Award selection process emphasizes transparency and fairness. Mission-critical staff are invited to join the selection committee, playing a direct role in celebrating their peers' accomplishments.
Financial Well-being: Executive Director Steve Cook shared positive updates on the transition from the Union to the Arc Mercer 401k plan. Employees are encouraged to take full advantage of the generous benefits offered by this new retirement savings plan.
The success of the Premium Holiday program, designed to alleviate healthcare costs, was also highlighted. The program's deadlines have been extended to ensure maximum participation, underscoring Arc Mercer's dedication to employee well-being.
Expanding Opportunities, Nurturing Growth: Exciting developments are underway at Arc Mercer! The acquisition of a second farm expands the agency's land holdings to an impressive 124 acres, paving the way for new group homes, enriched vocational programs, and even a potential pet care training initiative.
This expansion reflects Arc Mercer's commitment to providing diverse opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The group discussed how Naldiya Pyle recently completed a course in Horticulture at Rutgers University, sponsored by the agency. This investment underscores Arc Mercer's dedication to supporting staff development and fostering expertise in areas crucial to our growth, such as the exciting new farm initiatives.
Listening, Innovating, Thriving: The TAC meeting served as a powerful reminder that every voice matters. Staff feedback inspired the revitalization of the Fishing Club, with ambitious plans to formalize the program and introduce exciting deep-sea fishing excursions for consumers. This exemplifies how Arc Mercer values and acts upon employee suggestions.
Furthermore, the mission-critical staff's dedication to developing new agency-wide training programs in areas like cooking, work-life balance, technology, and financial literacy was acknowledged. The recent hiring of a new training director signals a renewed commitment to these initiatives, ensuring staff have access to valuable resources for personal and professional growth.
A Culture of Appreciation & Global Impact
Tarweh Witherspoon, a respected Arc Mercer employee, shared his heartfelt gratitude for the agency's unwavering support of Project 601. This initiative aims to establish an Arc Mercer Chapter in Monrovia, Liberia, demonstrating the agency's dedication to making a positive impact both locally and globally.
Tarweh also acknowledged the positive changes implemented by leadership, fostering a more collaborative and supportive work environment.
Upcoming Events & Opportunities
The meeting concluded with a vibrant preview of upcoming events and opportunities to get involved:
Hispanic Culture Celebration: Mark your calendars for September 20th! The TAC's Hispanic Culture Group is hosting a festive celebration to honor and share the rich tapestry of Hispanic heritage within our diverse workforce. Immerse yourself in cultural presentations, fun activities, and delicious food – all are welcome! RSVP today!
Employee Relief Fund: Extend a helping hand to colleagues facing financial hardship. Your generous contributions to the Employee Relief Fund can make a real difference in someone's life during challenging times. Donate today and show your support for the Arc Mercer family.
Stay Healthy: Prioritize your well-being with free flu shots and COVID-19 booster shots available at our main building, 180 Ewingville Road, Ewing, NJ on September 18th and 25th from 1-4:30pm. Protect yourself and those around you as we head into flu season.
Celebrate Success: Join us for the highly anticipated TAC Awards Luncheon, where we'll honor outstanding employees with the coveted Employee of the Month and Rising Star of the Month awards. It's a fantastic opportunity to recognize and celebrate the dedication and achievements of our colleagues. RSVP Today!
Fall Gala Extravaganza: Get ready to shine at our Annual Fall Gala on November 15th at 6pm! This glamorous evening is not only our flagship fundraising event but also a night to celebrate the year's top performers, with the announcement of the Employee of the Year, Rising Star of the Year, and Team Impact Award winner. RSVPs are now open, so secure your spot and prepare for an unforgettable night.
These diverse events offer something for everyone – opportunities to celebrate our cultural richness, support each other, prioritize health, acknowledge achievements, and contribute to our agency's continued success.
Your Invitation to Engage:
We encourage all staff to actively participate in future TAC meetings, sharing your ideas and shaping the future of Arc Mercer.
Join the Arc Mercer Family
Arc Mercer's commitment to its employees is evident in every aspect of its operations. The Team Atmosphere Committee is just one example of how the agency fosters a culture of collaboration, innovation, and mutual respect. If you're seeking a fulfilling career where your contributions are valued and your voice matters, we invite you to explore the opportunities available at Arc Mercer.
Together, we can create a brighter future for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and build a workplace where everyone thrives.
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