The Arc Mercer, a leading agency supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), recently hosted its most successful Fall Fundraising Gala to date. Held at the Stone Terrace in Hamilton, New Jersey, this historic event marked a significant milestone in the organization’s 75-year legacy, bringing together roughly 280 attendees and raising an astounding $321,000. These funds will be reinvested directly into programs and services that enhance the lives of individuals with special needs.
A Night of Reflection, Connection, and Innovation
The evening commenced with a lively cocktail hour, where staff, board members, families, community partners, and other supporters mingled and reflected on a year of innovation and growth. Guests were treated to a screening of The Hunger, a short film created by participants in The Arc Mercer’s Day Program TV Production team. Attendees had the chance to meet the talented cast and crew behind this inspiring project.
When the crowd settled, Executive Director Steve Cook welcomed everyone with heartfelt remarks emphasizing the collective effort that makes the agency’s mission possible. He praised the attendees for their dedication, highlighting that the Arc Mercer’s impact is built on the passion and support of those in the room.
Celebrating Global Connections: Project 601 and Liberia Connection Group
A highlight of the evening was the spotlight on Project 601, The Arc Mercer’s initiative to establish a new chapter in Monrovia, Liberia. Members of the agency’s Liberia Connection Group, composed of mission-driven frontline staff, joined Cook on stage to share the remarkable progress of this groundbreaking project.
In a surprise gesture, the group presented a generous donation to the agency, showcasing their unwavering commitment to advancing the mission both locally and globally. Workforce and Development Manager Bishop Lionel Awode led the group in prayer, setting an inspiring tone for the rest of the evening.
Recognizing Community Champions
Executive Director Cook acknowledged special guests, including Hamilton Mayor Jeff Martin, who delivered a powerful speech on the importance of services like those offered by The Arc Mercer. Former state senator Peter Inverso, a longtime advocate for the agency, was also in attendance, underscoring the wide-reaching impact of The Arc Mercer’s work.
The first award of the evening, the Community Service Award, honored Sharkner Michaud of the Department of Motor Vehicles. Known affectionately as “Sharky,” Michaud has gone above and beyond to streamline the often challenging process of obtaining IDs for individuals with IDD. Michaud’s Haitian community connections have also helped the agency recruit dedicated staff members.
The second Community Service Award was presented to Peter Ehlin from The Compass Group at Rider University. Ehlin and his team have been instrumental in providing vocational training opportunities for consumers, helping them build skills and confidence to pursue meaningful employment.
Honoring Exceptional Achievements
During dinner, attendees enjoyed a video presentation showcasing The Arc Mercer’s exceptional year. Highlights included maintaining extraordinarily low medication error rates, acquiring farmland for new initiatives, and expanding internationally.
The awards ceremony resumed with the presentation of the Rising Star of the Year Award to Jinho Park, a participant in The Arc Mercer’s culinary arts vocational program. Board Member Sandy Smith celebrated Jinho’s dedication and growth, emphasizing his journey from novice to expert in the program. Jinho’s father delivered an emotional speech, expressing his gratitude for the agency’s life-changing impact on his son and family.
Next, Brooke Baker, a Behavioral DSP in the Day Programs, received the Douglas Van Deusen Employee of the Year Award. Board President Maria Fischer praised Brooke’s leadership, positivity, and unwavering commitment to creating community inclusion opportunities for consumers. Brooke’s heartfelt acceptance speech earned her a standing ovation.
The Dawn Carmosino Team Impact of the Year Award was given to Jason Davis, a DSP in the Residential Program. Jason’s willingness to go above and beyond, including helping off the clock during a beach outing, exemplifies the spirit of the award. This honor ensures the legacy of Dawn Carmosino, a beloved former staff member, lives on.
Scholarships and Lifetime Achievement Award
The evening also celebrated two outstanding interns, Matthew DelTorro and Patricia DiFalco, who received the Beverly J. Roberts Memorial Scholarships. The scholarships, named in memory of a dedicated advocate for individuals with disabilities, were presented by Arc of New Jersey Executive Director Tom Baffuto.
In a heartfelt moment, Baffuto himself received the Lifetime Achievement Award for his extraordinary career in service to individuals with disabilities. Cook announced that the agency’s newest residential home in Hamilton, NJ, would be named the Thomas J. Baffuto Home in his honor.
Closing the Evening on a High Note
The night concluded with a raffle featuring consumer-created artwork, showcasing the incredible talents within the Arc Mercer community. It was an evening of inspiration, gratitude, and celebration—a fitting tribute to a year of unprecedented achievements and a promising future ahead.
The 2024 Fall Fundraising Gala was a testament to what can be accomplished when a community comes together to support a shared mission. With every award, every speech, and every story, The Arc Mercer reaffirmed its commitment to innovation, inclusion, and excellence.
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