THE ARC

By Katherine Tweed

The Arc has goals for people with developmental disabilitiesparticipating fully, engaging socially, volunteering and giving back

Kris is an example of hope, support and the work of The Arc of Cass County. As her sister, Kati Nelson, assistant director of The Arc, recounts the path Kris took in developing her own voice she is thankful for the opportunity Kris has been given.

Kris grew up in a warm home with supportive parents. She graduated from high school in 2006 and while she participated in athletics and choir, she was a quiet girl who would rather be present than engaged.

In spring 2007, Kris began attending programs at The Arc. As Kris became more involved in the programs and engaged in community issues she used her newly developed skills to advocate for all people with developmental disabilities. Her schedule became full of community-oriented activities. Kris testified before the North Dakota Legislature to advocate for a Direct Service Provider wage increase. She was elected President of an Arc program. She also volunteered her time to educate area students about issues for people with developmental disabilities.

In 2011, Kris received the Metro Area Mayor’s Committee Citizen of the Year Award because of her commitment to making the community more inclusive for everyone. Arielle Hoff-Mickelberg is the program and administrative coordinator for The Arc and is launching a new opportunity for young adults with developmental disabilities. The Retail Training Program is an intensive, individualized skill-enhancing internship. Each student will be able to experience the application process, interview, job offer, and gain the work ethic and skills needed to hold employment. This program is a six-week paid internship and will run in two summer sessions.

In 2014, Dani, the first participant in the Retail Training Program was an example of how beneficial this program will be. She went from being shy, reserved and lacking the confidence needed to be assertive in a professional setting, to being gainfully employed at The Arc Attic Treasures without supports.

Not only is Dani employed, she is one of the most reliable, punctual and committed employees at the store. She is also a great coworker and the staff look forward to working shifts with her. After completing this program Dani is open to exploring all possibilities for her life after high school thanks to the experience she has gained. The Arc is currently accepting applications for this summer program.

The Arc has goals for people with developmental disabilities―participating fully, engaging socially, volunteering and giving back. The Arc also has goals for people without disabilities; they want people to know that disabilities are both visible and invisible. Doing the best one can is all anyone can expect of any of us. Having a disability does not stop a person from making a positive impact on those around them.

For the first time, The Arc is part of Giving Hearts Day, February 12. All proceeds will benefit the Retail Training Program.

For Opportunities

to support The Arc or to find information on programs offered, visit arccasnd.com or call 701-293-8191.

The Homeward Animal Shelter of Fargo-Moorhead is primarily a pound rescue organization dedicated to rescuing dogs and cats at risk of being euthanized at local impounds. Each year, we adopt out hundreds of wonderful pets that just need a second chance at finding a “forever” home. We have a variety of pets available for adoption, from puppies and kittens to senior pets and everything in between, and almost any breed, including purebreds. Next time you’re considering adopting a pet, please check out our shelter and consider giving a pet in need a home.