Planning for Impact: Arc Mercer’s Residential Team Gears Up for Another Memorable Beach Day

At The Arc Mercer, events like Beach Day are more than just fun—they’re stepping stones for staff growth, teamwork, and leadership. This year, the Residential Department is already making waves with early preparations for the agency’s next big beach event, and the recent planning session proved to be as strategic as it was collaborative.

In a dedicated meeting of group home managers, the team reflected on last year’s successes and identified new opportunities to make the upcoming Beach Day even better. From improving transportation logistics to creating more sensory-friendly spaces on the beach, every detail was examined through a lens of inclusion, safety, and joy for the consumers we serve.

But this session wasn’t just about planning an event—it was about growing careers.

Leadership in Action

True to Arc Mercer’s philosophy of promoting from within, the planning session gave residential staff the chance to step into leadership roles. Managers took initiative, led discussions, and practiced skills that directly align with career development: project management, delegation, creative problem-solving, and team facilitation. It’s all part of the agency’s ongoing commitment to empower employees with real-world responsibilities that prepare them for advancement.

A Culture of Collaboration

Using tools like the agency’s “Yellow Sheet” planning system, staff broke the event into actionable tasks, assigned responsibilities, and set deadlines—all while building camaraderie and sharing lessons learned from past experiences. This system fosters a transparent and collaborative environment where team members support each other while taking ownership of their work.

The planning session echoed a broader message that’s central to Arc Mercer’s culture: leadership isn’t a title—it’s a practice. And by practicing it together, the team is creating better outcomes for everyone.

Looking Ahead

As anticipation for Beach Day grows, so does the enthusiasm among staff who are proud to be part of something bigger. These planning efforts ensure the event will be not only a highlight of the summer for consumers but also a milestone in the professional journeys of those making it happen.

At The Arc Mercer, opportunities like this are built into the way the organization operates—from team outings to strategic sessions, every experience is a chance to grow. Whether you’re a new hire or a seasoned manager, if you’re looking to build your skills and make a difference, the Arc Mercer is ready to support your path.