Klockner Group Home Renamed in Honor of the Strycharz Family
The Arc Mercer recently gathered with employees, board members, friends, and members of the Strycharz family for a special ceremony officially renaming our Klockner Road residence in Hamilton The Strycharz Group Home.
The dedication recognizes the Strycharz family's longstanding connection to The Arc Mercer and, in particular, the remarkable legacy of Helen Strycharz, who devoted 43 years of service to the organization.
Executive Director Steve Cook reflected on the important role families have played throughout The Arc's history and how deeply the Strycharz family embodies that tradition.
Helen's commitment to The Arc Mercer extended far beyond her work. Her dedication inspired generations of her family to become involved with the organization as employees, volunteers, supporters, and advocates for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Her son, John Strycharz, who continues that legacy today as a member of The Arc Mercer's Business Enterprises team, spoke on behalf of the family during the ceremony.
“Arc was more than just a job. It was a community that she cared deeply about,” John shared while remembering his mother's dedication. “Her family continues to hold the strong values of service, dedication and connection that she carried throughout her life.”
Past Board President Rick Koreyva also reflected on Helen's decades of service and the significance of placing the Strycharz name on a home.
“Some people give their time. Others give their hearts. Helen Strycharz gave both,” he said. “A group home is more than a building. It's where people build their lives, where they're safe, supported and given the chance to thrive.”
The ceremony also recognized the many members of the Strycharz family who have worked, volunteered, or supported The Arc Mercer over the years. Their connection represents multiple generations of service to our mission and to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities throughout Mercer County.
The new name serves as a permanent reminder of that commitment.
Klockner Group Home will now be known as The Strycharz Group Home, honoring a family whose service has helped shape The Arc Mercer and whose connection to our mission continues today.
We thank the entire Strycharz family for their many years of dedication and congratulate them on this well-deserved recognition.
It’s wonderful to see the Strycharz family honored for their dedication and support, showing how community partnerships truly make a difference in people’s lives. Celebrating compassion like this strengthens bonds and inspires others. That same rhythm of focus and care reminds me of reflex games like Slope game, where precision builds lasting success.
@FNF Since Helen Strycharz’s involvement inspired several generations of her family to work, volunteer, and advocate with The Arc Mercer, are there particular programs or roles where that family connection has continued most strongly?