The Arc of North Carolina :: Information :: The Arc of North Carolina Board of Directors

The Arc of North Carolina

Paving the Way

2007 Annual Convention

Marriott at the Civic Center

Durham, North Carolina

Keynote Address by Al Condeluci, PhD, CEO - UCP of Pittsburgh

"Building Community From the Inside Out"

Building Community From the Inside Out

The challenge of inclusion rests with not only understanding culture and community, but also finding ways within the culture for meaningful participation. Historically, people with disabilities have been kept apart from community. This exclusion has set a tone for the greater community that people with disabilities are better off in their own space. This presentation takes an active look at community and relationships with an effort toward building a community where each belongs.

Here's A Sneak Peek at Convention 2007 .........

IEP Roadside Assistance

Bring your questions and your child's IEP and meet privately with a parent educator from The Exceptional Children's Assistance Center (ECAC). ECAC parent educators can suggest ideas for improvement, offer troubleshooting tips, and share information and resources.

Get details about this in the convention registration which is coming soon!

Registration is Here!

Paving the Way Convention Registration pdf file

The Arc of North Carolina's Annual Convention was held on September 8 and 9 at the Charlotte Hilton University Place. This year The Arc joined forces with The Arc of South Carolina to put on this event.

There were well over 300 attendees and more than 30 exhibitors. The Arcs of North and South Carolina would like to extend appreciation to the sponsors of the convention which made this event possible.

Platinum Sponsors of The Arcs of North and South Carolina 2006 Annual Convention

Highlights of the convention included Tom Kohler and Susan Earl who told the story of "Waddie Welcome and the Beloved Community." The story told of one man's determination to move out of a nursing home and back to his hometown and of the community members who joined forces and made it possible.

Loretta Claiborne held the audience captive as she told her story of personal determination, courage and triumph. Loretta is internationally known for her athletic achievements and motivational speaking that began through her involvement with Special Olympics.

Breakout sessions were packed full of information that attendees could use. Sessions on community housing options, inclusive education, literacy, health, employment, vocational rehabilitation, early intervention, future planning and advocacy were very well received. Plans are already underway for The Arc of North Carolina's 2007 Annual Convention.

The Arc of North Carolina presented their annual awards during a banquet held on Friday evening. The Arc bestows these awards to recognize extraordinary dedication commitment and excellence in advancing The Arc's philosophy which is that all people have the right and the ability to live in communities of their choosing.

Professional of the Year-Michael Watson Nominated by The Arc of Moore County

Direct Support Professional-Debbie Holt Nominated by The Arc of Stanly County

Victor Hall Leadership Award -Pam Richards Nominated by The Arc of Mecklenburg County

Deborah Greenblatt Distinguished Services-Robert Postma Nominated by The Arc of High Point

The Inclusive Community-City of Monroe Parks and Recreation Nominated by The Arc of Union County

Carey Fendley Award for Executive Excellance-Tonya Fowler Executive Director, The Arc of High Point

In addition to the annual awards, The Arc of North Carolina also recognized 9 chapters of The Arc as Distinguished Affiliates. This honor recognizes the dedication, commitment and the professionalism of local chapters of The Arc. A chapter that receives the Distinguished Affiliate recognition has met stringent criteria and has provided advocacy, instituted programs, encouraged diversity, participated in, and supported activities that benefit people with developmental disabilities in their communities.

Teri Smith from Kinston receives The Parent Volunteer of the Year Award from Nancy Ormond, The Arc of NC Board of Directors

Lauren Mullis, Executive Director, The Arc of Mecklenburg Co.accepts the award for the greatest membership increase for a larger chapter