The Arcticulate - Fall Edition

FALL 2020

The Arcticulate This edition of The Arcticulate is dedicated in memory of Sheila Nealon April 26, 1955 - October 26, 2020

“She will always be missed and never forgotten.”

Sheila Pauline Nealon, a lifelong resident of the Hyde Park Section of Scranton, died suddenly at home on Oct. 26, 2020, after a brief illness.

Sheila is survived by her wife, Marge Cook, her best friend and soulmate for more than 30 years. Marge is originally from the Green Ridge Section of Scranton.

Sheila is the oldest daughter of the late Paul G. Nealon Jr. and Constance Tremilozi Nealon of Clarks Summit, Pa. Sheila was preceded in death by her younger brother, Paul G. Nealon III. Upon his death, she lost a piece of her heart, from which she never fully recovered.

In addition, Sheila is survived by her younger siblings, Dr. Gerard Nealon (Jill Soudas) of Kingston, Pa., and Marguerite Nealon (Brian Kilcullen) of Berwyn, Pa. She is also survived by her paternal aunt, Patricia Kearney of Dunmore, Pa., and many in-laws, nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews and cousins.

A 1973 graduate of West Scranton High School, Sheila went on to receive a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from Marywood College, graduating with the highest academic distinction of summa cum laude.

Specifically, Sheila worked with people throughout Northeast Pennsylvania who had intellectual disabilities. She had most recently held the position of residential manager at The ARC of Northeastern Pennsylvania.

Although at an age for retirement, due to her deep devotion to the people whom she served, Sheila never stopped working and continued to serve as a mentor and role model to not only her co-workers, but also the residents.

Throughout her entire career in human services, Sheila worked tirelessly in the Scranton community to improve the lives of the residents whom she served, and formed bonds and lifelong friendships with many of her co-workers and colleagues.

Besides her work, one of her greatest passions was photographing scenes from nature and wildlife. With the perfect blend of patience, empathy and a fully charged camera, Sheila captured the beauty of animals and birds in the wild, and the tranquility of natural scenes throughout Northeast Pennsylvania. Through social media and a lot of gifting, Sheila was able to share her photography and special creations with hundreds of family and friends.

To celebrate Sheila’s life, an outdoor memorial service was held on Saturday, Nov. 14, 2020 at 1 p.m. at the Schimelfenig Pavilion at Nay Aug Park in Scranton.

Always inspired and influenced by her late maternal grandmother Pauline Tremilozi’s goodness, Sheila dedicated herself to a 35-year career in human services.

Donations in Sheila’s memory may be made to:

The Arc of Northeastern Pennsylvania

115 Meadow Ave., Scranton, PA 18505 Arrangements entrusted to:

The Donahue Funeral Home

303 S. Main Ave., Scranton, PA 18504

115 Meadow Avenue, Scranton, PA 18505 Tel: 570-346-4010 Fax: 570-346-8436 www.thearcnepa.org Email: frontdesk@thearcnepa.org

President’s Message I am honored to serve as the President of the Arc of Northeastern Pennsylvania. I extend a special thank you to the Board of Directors and the membership for your support.

My sincerest thank you goes to The Arc Staff for their tireless efforts and focus on quality of care of the consumers.

For the past several years, I have developed a strong relationship with The Arc in several capacities and look forward to continuing to be a resource. I enjoy being an integral part of the organization and helping wherever I am needed. These are challenging times we are facing. However, I am thankful knowing that our organization has caring and committed staff who are dedicated to the consumers served by The Arc. Every day is a new challenge and they continue

to face the challenge with respect and diligence.

I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the many groups and community members who give so generously to The Arc such as The Arc Auxiliary, Rotaries, Kiwanis, Foundations and the many people who are so kind, caring and believe in The Arc’s mission. We will see the days that we once enjoyed and will welcome you to come and visit us at The Arc to feel the compassion and unconditional love. We are very proud of the wonderful accomplishments happening every day at The Arc. Sheila Nealon was a very good friend of mine and I always enjoyed our time together. I hope she knows that she made a significant impact on all of us and will be missed always. God bless you, Sheila Nealon, you are in my prayers.

Respectfully, Ann P. Hoffman President

Exec’s Corner I am writing this on Wednesday, November 4, 2020. The weather is really quite beautiful for this time of year. I’ll surely accept sunshine and temperatures in the 70’s over what is to come.

There are many elephants sitting around my office today, flailing their trunks about, seemingly to get my attention. I have declined the opportunity to revisit the presidential election with them, preferring only to say that I wish our country united in respect for one another.

On many occasions I have enjoyed a political banter with Sheila Nealon. Today, especially today, I can almost hear her rant as she scratches her head. Yes, there were many times we laughed. We shared articles, stories, and books as we philosophised.

Individually, we were folks with opinions. Together, we became political scientists.

There are many things that I could tell you about Sheila, her sense of humor, her intelligence, her humble demeanor, and her preference for nature over

just about anything else. But the one characteristic that I have been fortunate enough to experience, and perhaps lucky enough to learn, was her keen ability to appraise character. Sheila knew herself well and she didn’t take herself too seriously. She would laugh at a stain on her shirt, or forgetting to attend to a task. These attributes, these strengths, provided an unobstructed path to Sheila’s objective vision. She saw people for who they are. But it went beyond the seeing. Sheila encouraged each one of us to be who we are and to do so with quiet humility and courage.

A true leader & advocate, Sheila sought no less than complete respect for the many individuals she served.

I thank you Sheila. It has been my honor.

Maryclaire Kretsch Executive Director

A Note of Thanks: We would like to extend a huge thank you to all the folks and community groups who support The Arc’s programs and services. Your dedication and compassion mean the world to us.

Sheila Nealon and I met in 2003 while she was a supports coordinator for Scranton Counseling Center. She showed up at a group home wearing a big purse on her shoulders, Ugg boots on her feet, and what I now know was a diet Pepsi in her hand. We hit it off from the start.

In 2005, a position opened up at the Arc. Sheila applied for and was hired to begin what would be over 15 years of dedication, compassion and strong advocacy for our individuals.

Sheila wore many hats throughout her career at the Arc. She was Program Specialist, Residential Program Manager, Co-worker, Psychiatrist, “Snealon”, Mentor, “Mommy,” and of course a friend.

In 2017 Sheila tried to retire, but once again her dedication did not waiver, and she was back in her office, in her chair, doing what she did best, advocating for our folks, teaching us important lessons and always reminding us to see the other side of things.

I know we can go on and on about Sheila, and how well rounded she was, she knew something about everything.

She made an impact on all of our lives and I for one am a better person because of Sheila, and I will miss her forever.

I believe that anyone who came in contact with Sheila felt the kindness, honesty and trust. Here are a few quotes, stories, comments or just feelings from some people who have been blessed with knowing Sheila. I hope that when you read them, you will say “that’s very true, indeed.”

-- Noniey -----------------------------As I use all the pages in my tablets, I would go through each one and keep the notes that I needed. Sometimes, I keep all the pages together or just staple the little scraps of paper to a new sheet. It’s a way for me to always remember titles of books, TV shows, recipes, phone numbers, addresses, little anecdotes, etc.

Recently, I saw a quote that I wrote down a long time ago and kept transferring from notebook to notebook.

It simply says, “Good Friends Never Say Goodbye, They Say See You Soon.” We didn’t get a chance to say goodbye to Sheila but I believe she knew that we cherished our time with her. It would never be long enough but I am thankful for what we had. See you soon, Sheila, please watch over us.

-- Eileen R. -----------------------------I’ll forever remind myself to put my “hands on the table”... Love forever and always, Your “Ass”

When I first met Sheila, I am not going to lie, she intimated me. She was so confident and had a BIG personality. After I got to know her I began to see what an amazing woman she was! She had the biggest heart and was so compassionate not only to the guys we serve but to all her coworkers. She was so encouraging and understanding! Her BIG personality came from an even BIGGER heart! Her passing is a big loss for The Arc and she will be missed by so many!

-- Eileen S. -----------------------------Yes, Sheila Nealon was a very unique woman. Her smile won me over from day one at the Arc of NEPA. She always greeted me with a beautuful smile and the most Gentle way. She answered many questions that I didnt know the answer and if she wasnt sure she made such an effort to get the right answer. Miss Sheila? There is no such thing, she is inbedded in my heart and will remain there forever. It was a privilege to know her but to be able to call her friend was an Honor. Miss you and will continue to love you.

-- Eileen Williams -----------------------------I remember when I first met Sheila at my interview and I was so scared and nervous and i knew she was someone very important which intimidated me more, but as I got to know her I realized she was so loving and kind, knew everything about the company and consumers and she was just such a wonderful woman. I always looked up to Sheila and I forever will miss her smile and she will always be my hero.

-- Roxanne K -----------------------------Where do I even begin.... My first meeting with Sheila...

I was scared. She was fierce, a woman with passion.

Passion for everyone and everything we try to make right in the world for our guys. She cared, cared with all of her. Her beautiful mind, her caring heart and her unforgettable soul. She taught me so much throughout the years about our guys, our goals, our mission but mostly about life. I don’t think she realized how much of an impact she had not only on me but to everyone who had the pleasure to meet her. She was and always will be one of the most important and influential people that I have the honor to call my friend. I will love you forever, you ass!

-- Desiree

About two years ago, I first met Sheila at one of my favorite restaurants, Fratelli’s. I was still fairly new to The Arc at that time. Prior to our meeting, Sheila’s name was brought up several times in multiple conversations, and it was always in regards to her knowledge, advocacy, or just a funny story someone shared with her prior to her “retirement”. I remember walking into the restaurant almost feeling like I was about to meet a celebrity. The famous Sheila Nealon.

To this day, I can still remember what booth we even sat in. We instantly connected. It was like we had known each other for years and years.

For a few months, Sheila and I collaborated on a few projects during her time as a Consultant. When the opportunity arose for her to become the Residential Manager, I was thrilled we would be office neighbors! I’ve spent many hours in her office talking, brainstorming and laughing. Her wisdom, insight and the ability to see beyond surface-level is something that I will miss deeply. I’ve learned so much about The Arc, it’s services, history, etc through Sheila.

It was evident how much she valued the relationships with coworkers, friends, family, Marge and Casey too! I’m sure I can speak for many of us when I say that you were a better person for having Sheila in your life!

Whenever I called or met up with Sheila, I knew I could never talk if I was pressed for time, for it was natural, and easy, that we could wind up talking until there was nothing left to talk about. And as I sit here with tears as I type, one thing I am certain of is that there’s never enough time. I wish our friendship would have lasted for many more years, but I will certainly value and cherish the time that we did have together. Sheila will forever be in my thoughts and in my heart.

-- Mary Ann -----------------------------It’s so hard to come up with one memory I have of Sheila but one that really sticks out in my head is the one day she walked into Pre-Voc and one of the consumers immediately started to bless herself and call Sheila, “father”, Sheila’s response was perfect - she immediately went over to her and started to pray with her. Every time Sheila came into the room she made sure she went right over to her and they always blessed themselves and started saying the “Our Father”. She always put the consumers first and fought for them in every aspect of their life. I had the utmost respect for her and I always felt respected by her as well. She made sure of that!

-- Erica F.

Sheila, I just want to thank you for coming into my life.

And for all the lessons you have taught me, Love you and I miss you so much.

Dottie -----------------------------“Fight for things you care about, but do so in a way that will lead others to join you” – Ruth Bader Ginsburg I like to think that Sheila Nealon was our own personal Ruth Bader Ginsburg. I know she would never agree and she would never want to take credit from another person’s success, or even sometimes take account her own success, but in many ways she was our own RBG. There are so many ways that I can say that Sheila was like our own RBG, but the one that stands out the most was through her advocacy. RBG was such a huge advocate in the court systems for benefits, education, the fourteenth amendment, women’s rights and so much more. Sheila was an amazing advocate for our guys we serve. She always guided us to do the right thing and always thought about situations through the eyes of our consumers. She would guide us, but not TELL us, what the best thing was to do. We would think on our own.

She would make sure to wait until we got everything out that we needed to say before she made us truly THINK about the situation at hand. She would break down all of the pieces and have us look at the situation in different perspectives, all the while ensuring we were doing the right thing. In all those moments where she truly made us think and not react, she was our Ruth Bader Ginsburg.

She was fighting for what she cared about, but was doing so in a way that we would follow. However, we would follow with our own opinions and thoughts in hand. Thoughts that she helped us think, through her thoroughness, calmness, and ability to always do the right thing. I hope that we can all always take that step back when we are battling different situations. To be able to look at each situation through the eyes of our consumers or through different perspectives and to continue to always do the right thing, “The Sheila Way”.

-- Sam D. -----------------------------To Sheila, I don’t mean to be selfish, but we all need you now more than ever. Please watch over us, give us strength, send us signs. There is a hole in our hearts that may never be filled.

-- Love, Pink

Snealon, I hope that you have the most beautiful view, and can take all the gorgeous pictures you want. I hope you get all the icing shots and Diet Pepsi that you’ve ever dreamed of. We will forever love and miss you, Love Ollie and Chelsea -----------------------------Sheila, thank you for believing in me, when I couldn’t see it. Your words of encouragement and the support you gave me, put me on a path in life that I otherwise would have never chosen. I will forever be thankful to you for this!

-- Bridget -----------------------------“I will forever miss our love for chocolate, our deep conversations, our laughs and “Benjamin Franklin.”

Love ya, Angela

Our family was devastated to hear of Sheila’s passing.

We will always be grateful to Sheila and Noniey for springing into action (apparently typical) and working their magic and saved our girls.

Our very first meeting, we could tell how much dedication and compassion Sheila had advocating for the ones who can’t speak for themselves or protect themselves. We wish we could have tell her one more time “thank you” and “God Bless You” for making such a life changing difference in our niece’s life and ours.

Sheila helped bring back our Tara’s smile, laughter and trust in her caregivers. She was definitely a Guardian Angel in Tara’s life and ours. Something tells me she will still be watching over everyone. May she rest in peace.

--Uncle Steve, Aunt Denise, Tara Fagan

-----------------------------“Recognizing the value of spirit, Sheila showed us that meaningful action is borne from compassion and respect.

Her wisdom has, and will forever, guide us.”

------------------------------

-- MC

“See you at the Pond”

“A Friend to All” I wish you could have seen yourself through everybody’s eyes yes, amazing, brilliant, witty, and of course so very wise.

To know you was to love you, and not once do I recall, anything but kindness, because you were a friend to all.

You helped so many people, by keeping it so real so to imagine life without you, to us is a huge deal.

To know you had our backs, when we were up against the wall surely proved the fact that you were a friend to all.

I’m pretty sure the saying goes, “God only takes the best,” we are grateful for the time we shared, we really were so blessed.

It’s your turn now, to turn and say goodbye, we’re truly glad to know, that you’ll still be by our side.

It’s your turn to take one final walk, while standing oh so tall.

Because everybody knows, you were a friend to all.

Thank you for being my mentor, my confident, and my forever person!

Love, Noniey

Robert H. Spitz Foundation Grant The Arc of Northeastern Pennsylvania is excited to announce receipt of a $7,500 grant from The Robert H. Spitz Foundation, administered by the Scranton Area Community Foundation.

Pictured: Maryclaire Kretsch, Executive Director; Roseann Polishan, Advocate; Mike Williams, Manager of Adult Day; Mary Ann O’Shea, HR Generalist; Kelly Peters, Senior Manager of Licensed Services; Mari Pizur, Recreation Services Manager, Eileen Rempe, Director, Public Relations and Development

In collaboration with Lackawanna College, The Arc-NEPA wants to provide educational access which will help students learn skills and gain knowledge to be utilized in a potential employment setting.

There will be weekly classroom gatherings with approximately 30 adults with IDD/A. The classes include basic computer training; Business Communications; Team Building; Access to employment experience within the college. This educational program helps each person reach measurable goals. We will work with Lackawanna College to enhance the lives of the men and women we serve by offering educational options, learning experiences and potential employment opportunities.

Thank you for your support!

Employee Campaign 2020

Save the dates...

United Way of Lackawanna and Wayne Counties Employee Campaign 2020

Please mark your calendars!

To all Arc Employees WE are so proud of your outstanding kindness!

Your contribution to this campaign has helped United Way answer the call for help... gather the necessary resources... and address the immediate needs to keep our neighbors safe during the pandemic.

Food was delivered to the homebound and groceries were made available at drive-through food banks; emergency shelters were provided and resources were maximized to ensure the safety and well-being of all.

We are asking you once again for your help as we continue to help families put food on the table or find safe housing, assist young school children with education needs, support isolated seniors, give folks with intellectual disabilities services and programming and the list goes on...

Please consider joining us for the 2020-2021 campaign.

Your generosity and support toward our campaign is greatly appreciated. We are thankful to the United Way for their unending dedication to our community.

March 21, 2021 Buddy Walk June 2, 2021 Bowling Banquet (even if we don’t have bowling!)

September 19, 2021 Waldorf Fall Festival December 4, 2021 Lackawanna Holiday Party Fiorelli’s December 5, 2021 Carbon Holiday Party Legion December 12, 2021 PODS Breakfast with Santa

Around The Arc Recreation Activity Review: Currently, we are having ZOOM activities in the evenings on Mondays at 6:00pm - EJ the DJ - Dance Party; Wednesdays at 6:00pm - Marianne Scrimalli Davis-Dance/Exercise; Thursdays at 6:00pm - Recreation Event. Mari will be continuing to offer additional recreational opportunities (Scavenger Hunts, Family Feud, Arc Idol, Art and Sparkling Apple Juice, Bingo, Where Am I?, etc.) for folks on Thursday nights and Mindy Hill will be having her Yoga during the day for Community Participation. Many individuals from all of our services join in the fun and we are grateful to be able to provide this outlet for health, wellness and recreation.

The Recreation department sponsored a “Pumpkin Dance” for the members in the PODS group in honor of October being Down Syndrome Awareness Month - we would normally have had the Buddy Walk (20th Anniversary) but we felt that was not a safe way to gather. We will be having a large event on March 21, 2021 (World Down Syndrome Day) and our very own, Sara Wolff, will be helping to plan this extravaganza in memory of her mom, Connie. Connie and Sara began the first local Buddy Walk at North Pocono High School for Sara’s Senior project. It was a huge success and the PODS have sponsored the event ever since. Please stay tuned for more information as we get closer to the date.

Auxiliary Happenings The ladies are continuing to find ways to brighten spirits by purchasing Halloween decorations for each home along with hats and gloves to keep our folks warm and last but not least... will be ordering fleece suits so our guys and girls will be toasty as we move into the colder months. The Auxiliary has postponed their activities for this year but have worked extremely hard to build a reserve so they can continue to fund projects that benefit the men and women we serve. We are so grateful for the efforts of the Auxiliary!

Arc Responds Fund Raisers: Recently, the Residential department

held a sweatshirt (featuring hoodies and quarter zips) sale which was a great success. The shirts were beautifully printed or stitched and will be welcome additions to our winter apparel. Thank you to the staff in Residential!

The poinsettia sale pick-ups will be on

Tuesday, December 8th from 2:00 p.m.

- 4:00 p.m.; Wednesday, December 9th from 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.; Thursday, December 10th from 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. All proceeds will benefit The Arc Responds. We will have the same set-up as the Spring flowers for safety purposes.

The Arc Recreation Schedule December 2020 EVERY MONDAY 6:00pm ZOOM EJ the DJ will have you dancing to the music!

You will be Rocking and Rolling at your house!

Thursday, December 3, 2020 6:00pm ZOOM Holiday Bingo!

“Tis the Season” We will be playing straight bingo and fill the bingo card.

Tis the season to win all kinds of Holiday Prizes... HO HO HO!!!!!

Thursday, December 10, 2020 Kick off the Holiday Season together!!!!

Nay Aug’s Holiday Light Display 6:00pm-7:00pm!

Oh the weather outside might be frightful but sharing with friends is so delightful and since we’ve no place to go. Enjoy a casual ride in your own car around Nay Aug and enjoy the Light Show! Drive your car into the last parking lot on the right (Across from the pool, where the bowling banquet was held) Santa will be waiting for you at the end! Please make reservations by Tuesday, December 1, 2020 so Santa can be prepared.

Thursday December 17, 2020 6:00pm ZOOM Holiday Hop! Virtually we will be “Rocking Around the Christmas Tree” with Marianne Scrimalli Davis’s dancing exercise class to holiday music!

We are off for the Holiday from December 24th thru January 1st.

Wishing You and Your Family Merry Christmas and A Happy New Year!!!!

Any questions or concerns please contact Mari or Holly at 570-207-0825

Shopping!!!

Don’t Forget About AmazonSmile Please do not forget about using Amazon Smile, when you shop - Amazon gives! AmazonSmile is a program where Amazon donates 0.5% of the purchase price of eligible products to the charitable organization selected by each customer. It is a simple and automatic way for you to support your favorite charity every time you shop, at no cost to you. Soooo, when you shop on Amazon, please think Arc and Happy Shopping. AmazonSmile is a way for customers to support their favorite charitable organization every time they shop with Amazon. Shoppers who start at smile.amazon.com will find the same Amazon they know and love, with the added bonus that Amazon will donate a portion of the price of eligible purchases to the charity of your choice.

Signing up is easy!

Here’s how to sign up for AmazonSmile 1. Visit smile.amazon.com 2. Sign in with your Amazon. com credentials 3. Choose a charitable organization to receive donations, or search for the charity of your choice 4. Select your charity 5. Start shopping!

The Arc Family Night at

Koziar’s Christmas Village It is one of the Greatest Christmas Displays in the U.S.A. Driving through the darkened countryside and coming over the last hill on the unlit country road is like driving into a fairyland. You find yourself in a dazzling valley set aglow with more Christmas lights than you have ever seen before. An outdoor walking tour of Christmas spectacular, glass buildings displays, train displays, visit Santa and his helpers and much, much more!

When: Friday, December 4, 2020 Time: 5:30pm (It takes approximately 1 hours and 40 minutes from Scranton)

NOTE: Transportation is on your own

Group Rate: 3 & UNDER – FREE | 4 TO 10 – $9.00.

11 TO 64 – $11.00 | SENIORS (65+) – $10.00.

Reservations must be made to receive group rate.

We will give you an ARC CARD that you will present in the MIDDLE AISLE at Koziars.

You will pay Koziars directly and it must be CASH to receive group rate.

Call Mari or Holly for reservations at 570-207-0825.

Enjoy a magic winter holiday walk around the village with your family!

Dress Warm!!!!!!

Ronald McDonald Children’s Charities We are proud to be notified of a grant award from the Ronald McDonald Children’s Charities of Northeastern Pennsylvania for Capital Improvements. The Arc of Northeastern Pennsylvania made a request for flooring in two areas of service area in one of our group homes. The new flooring will be designed to improve handicapped accessibility. Financial support from the community is vital to continue the services we provide to individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD).

Happy to Help

Membership Membership letters have been sent and we are receiving renewals everyday!!

Please remember that your renewals are vital to our organization. Your support makes The Arc’s powerful voice even stronger as we address issues such as education, employment, housing, and safety that are critical to the disability community. As a member of The Arc, your annual support will make our advocacy even more powerful.

Pictured: Eileen Rempe, Marianne Davis, Scranton School District Teacher; Mari Pizur, Maryclaire Kretsch

Recently, we were able to help in putting together packets, activities and boxes of educational materials for students with multiple disabilities in grades 7th12th, in the Scranton School District. We were grateful for this meaningful opportunity and we applaud Marianne for her work. She is an asset to our community.

Benefits of becoming a member: Your membership gives you: (Arc-US) - Access to the latest information, including our newsletters; Up-to-the minute alerts about the latest on Capitol Hill so you know when to take action; Discounted registration to our annual national events such as National Convention; Access to exclusive insurance coverage rates through our partner Mercer - Includes Group Term Life Insurance, Health Insurance such as major medical, Medicare supplement, life line screening, hospital income, and accidental death and dismemberment insurance. Coverage and availability may vary by state.As you know, the more members we have the more votes we have when it comes to legislative issues affecting the folks we serve. (Arc-PA) - In Touch E-Newsletter; PA Message Quarterly Newsletter; Advocacy Action E-Alerts and (The Arc-NEPA) - The Arcticulate; Participation at the Annual Membership Meeting and Awards Luncheon and local fund raisers. Please consider how you can help. Thank you!

United Way Advocacy Story Roseann Polishan, one of our advocates on staff recorded a video on what the role of an advocate is, what the needs have been, in particular during the pandemic, how she came to work for The Arc of Northeastern PA and why she believes in our mission. The video is available to be viewed on the arcnepa.org website during the United Way Campaign. or at this link: https:// youtu.be/KhCd8mUiZU0). We wish the United Way of Lackawanna County a Happy 100th Birthday! We are very grateful for their support!!

Advocacy Training Sessions During the pandemic, while many programs and services were closed, The Arc experienced an increased level of Advocacy calls. We continued to be a source of support for people who needed us.

Whether it was families that needed support for online learning, assistance with safely meeting with family, obtaining social stories on mask wearing and social distancing or finding support services during COVID, The Arc Advocacy Department was there to guide and help families in need.

This was in addition to the normal everyday needs of families and individuals with disabilities. Even though there were some advocacy community events that had to be put on hold this year, such as Wings for All and the Intelligent Lives Documentary Screening, the Advocacy Department has moved forward with hosting a series of advocacy trainings via zoom with both am and pm sessions. The first two events were held in September. They included meet the PaTTAN Parent Consultants, where families and guardians could find out what PaTTAN ( Pennsylvania Training and Technical Assistance Network) has to offer families with school aged special education students, especially with virtual learning and educational concerns during the pandemic. They also hosted a session with Bradley Goldsmith Special Education Attorneys to answer families and guardian questions related to special education in areas of one to one aides, compensatory services, requirements of FAPE and other areas. More virtual trainings will be scheduled for December including Asert -Autism Training and Hune - Medical and Educational Diagnosis Differences. Please be on the lookout for our own Advocacy Training Series created in house by Mandy and Roseann that will be offered Monthly starting in January 2021 via zoom.

Thanks!! Roseann

Golf Tournament The 20th Annual Golf Tournament which was held on September 14th was a wonderful success. Everyone was thrilled to spend the day together in a safe and beautiful venue. Carol Chisdak offered so much support which led to a great event. Bobby Robbins was the celebrity chair of this year’s tournament. Bobby is an avid golfer and medalist for Special Olympics. In 2015, Bobby competed in the Special Olympics World Games in Los Angeles, bringing home a silver medal with his partner, Jeff Snyder. He and his family were very excited to be a part of this event and we were thrilled to have their enthusiasm. Glen Oak went above and beyond to help us have a great event.

Major Sponsorships Dinner Sponsor Lamar Scranton Dodge, Chrysler, Jeep Cocktail Hour Sponsor John & Carol Heim - A.J. Guzzi General Contractors Flight Award Sponsor Ed and Lynda Lynett Beverage Sponsor Dave and Carla Pompey Halfway Point Sponsor Howell Benefits Knowles Insurance Robert Rosenberg Trinity Asset Protection Hole Sponsors American Janitor; Faye & Rick Bishop; Brucelli Advertising; Bill Burnell & Kate Holod; Cooper’s Seafood Restaurant; Garth S. Estadt Insurance Agency - 2; Forbes Pest

Control; Maureen Gallagher; Ann & Bob Hoffman - 3; Ruthie Hollander, Realtor - Century 21 Smith Hourigan Group; Keystone Chapter UNICO National; Knowles Insurance; Lackawanna Mobile X-Ray; Iris Liebman and Mike Mardo; Mark Lynn; Marianne Lyons; Michele & Mark McDade; NET Credit Union; Pennsylvania State Trooper’s Association #GrayNation; Sid Prejean; The Prescription Center; Bob Robbins - Celebrity Chair; Russomano Cleaning Services; Stirna’s Restaurant; Tim Wagner’s Sports Corner; Wayne Bank; Eileen Williams - 2; Cart Sponsors: Bill Burnell & Kate Holod; Carol Chisdak; Jordan’s Towing; Kelly Smertz Tires; Pat Kwiatkowski; Mark Lynn; Morgan Family; NET Credit Union; Rempe Family, Alexandra Yantorn

Breaking News: Carol Chisdak has confirmed the date for next year’s tournament - May 24th! Please mark your calendars...

2020 Tried to Keep Us Down and FAILED! By: Sheila Hardranft We are almost to the end of a very trying year for all of us. The Arc in Carbon County staff knew they had to provide services in a different way for our consumers. Knowing how much we missed our consumers and how much they missed each other, we couldn’t let that continue any longer. Carbon County recreation is a smaller group, but they sure are strong together. Our staff and consumers’ hearts are truly amazing.

During these trying times we made sure to call all our consumers to check in and assure them we are all in this together. In the beginning of the pandemic we sent cards and had a coloring page exchange.

We held a Parade for our folks, we enjoyed decorating our vehicles,

Enjoying the great outdoors with Matt!!! We spent some time at Ritters and had a lot of fun.

Mari and Holly traveled from Scranton and former Arc staff showed up with decorated cars to join in the fun!!! Imagine all that LOVE if you will! It took 5 hours of driving all around the county to our consumer’s houses to see them!

Our consumer’s made signs and waited anxiously until the parade arrived to display them proudly! It was a tearful and joyous day, enroute we stopped at a local grocery store to see one of our consumers who was working and her boss was kind enough to let her come outside to wave hello to all of us.

Currently we are taking our consumers out one at a time. We had picnic breakfasts, lunches and dinners at local parks, fed the ducks, went for walks, enjoyed a tasty ice cream or milkshake, went mini golfing, and

had fun on pumpkin hayrides. Also we are doing “Pen Pals” between our consumers and hope to keep that alive even after we go back to normal everyday living.

Throughout all of this we follow set guidelines for the health and safety of everyone. It has indeed been a challenging and hard year to deal with but to see the happy faces when we go on outings makes it all worthwhile.

We did receive sad news to hear the passing of one of our dear consumers. He was an amazing young man who truly appreciated the little things in life! In the words of Marvin when he saw the Parade...”THIS IS GREAT”!!!!!! I dedicate this story to Marvin Kunkel and his love for his friends and staff.

Outdoor Fun!!

Kiwanis Club Support Submitted by: Mari Pizur

The Recreation Service Department has been providing several Zoom programs a week for our participants since May. We have been entertained with EJ the DJ ‘Dance Party”, Marianne Scrimalli Davis “Exercise Dancing” and Mindy Hill “Chair Yoga” and several other programs. These programs have become costly but are critical for the health and well being of our consumers. It is a great way for our consumers to stay connected with their peers and keep them moving during this pandemic. In an effort to keep the cost as low as possible we asked the Kiwanis Club to help us defray the cost. We would really like to continue these programs In the past, the Kiwanis Club has been very generous in helping us provide affordable social outings for the people we serve. All these programs help our consumers to reach their goals of social development and enrich their lives with diversified activities during these trying times.

Once again, the Kiwanis Club’s generosity helps us to enhance the lives of the people we serve and support!

Thank you!

The Aktion Club Helps

The Aktion Club was very successful in collecting some items for Dessin animal shelter

DSP Week 2020 Submitted by: Mary Ann O’Shea Although we would all much rather celebrate in-person together, DSP Week 2020 (virtual style) was so much fun!

Starting with Motivational Monday, DSPs were invited to attend the NADSP’s virtual event, “From Praise to Promise”.

On Together Tuesday, DSPs showed us how they were spending the day with the Consumers. Some played games, others cooked meals together (can’t beat homemade mac and cheese and some grilled cheese sandwiches!), while a few took advantage of the beautiful weather and went for a walk!

On Way Back Wednesday, Winfield staff re-visited the 50s and 80s, while Newton staff took it back to Woodstock!

DSPs donned their favorite tie-dye attire on Tie-Dye Thursday, with an added bonus message to “Be Kind”.

On Fan Friday, DSPs ‘sported’ their favorite team sports. We spotted some Cowboys and Yankees fans!

We wrapped up the week with Staff Saturday, in which DSPs were encouraged to wear their favorite Arc apparel. We gifted each DSP with a new shirt to add to their collection, which includes the saying, “May you be proud of the work you do, the person you are, and the difference you make”.

DSPs were also treated to a $10 McDonalds gift card in lieu of the traditional luncheon, as well as an Arc reusable cotton mask.

DSPs who shared pictures throughout the week, were entered into a random drawing to win one of ten $25 Amazon gift cards. The winners are as follows: 1. Debbie Anduzlis 2. Deanna Decker 3. Sarah Hannon 4. Melody Cottrell 5. Rosetta Macri

6. Julie Ann Masters 7. Kimberlyn Grudzinski 8. Heather Townend 9. Carrie Ackers 10. Tracy Henriksen We are so grateful and appreciative of each and every Direct Support Professional! We hope you enjoyed your special week!

The Arc “Ask” Appeal The End of the Year Foundation “Ask” appeal will be out early December. We will be designating this year’s campaign toward Advocacy. Our focus will be on the health and wellness of children and adults with intellectual/developmental disabilities/Autism (IDD/A) who are served by The Arc. Advocacy improves the lives of people with IDD/A. The Arc does what needs to be done to insure that children and adults with IDD/A

are provided with resources and supports upon with they rely. Every call we receive is different but the need for help is urgent. The parents, guardians and support systems are often at a loss as to how to get information and where to turn. We want to alleviate some of the burden and stress that is placed on families who are often limited in means or may not understand the system and offer them guidance.

Please visit our Advocacy page on the website to learn more about

how The Arc is here to help. In the past, everyone has been very generous to us and we are grateful to have the support of the community.

This is a wonderful way to give to a worthy cause, benefit some great folks, renew your membership (all donations will be counted as your annual membership if you have not renewed) and it may be taxdeductible... Sounds like a winwin to me :)

New Hires Welcome to The Arc Family!

Nicole Allegrucci Hannah Decker Dawn Henderson Rosa Mojica Jacob Simon Christen Wolferd

Leave a Legacy Remembering… The Arc’s founding parents, concerned community members and friends have passed on a legacy of commitment to a new generation. Today, we seek to sustain this legacy.

Building… Looking toward tomorrow may often be intimidating, but at The Arc we continue the mission and grow with the needs of the children and adults we serve.

Leaving a Legacy… By giving a gift to The Arc, you are ensuring a bright future for the people served in our programs. Estate giving allows for a variety of ways for individuals to choose the support most appropriate for planning their legacy: Outright cash gifts, designated life insurance policy, bequests, real estate.

Current Employment Opportunities www.thearcnepa.org Full Time $13.00-$14.50/hr *Benefit Eligible

Part Time-B $14.00-$15.00/hr

*Non-Benefit Eligible

DSP Float *requires shift flexibility

3 Positions

Monday through Friday 3p-11p 4p-11p

1 Position 2 Positions

S/M/T alt Saturday 11p-9a

1 Position

W/TR/F alt Saturday 11p-9a

8 Positions

DSP - Must be able to work every Sat & Sun 9am-3pm 1 Position 11am-7pm 1 Position 3pm-9pm 1 Position 3pm-11pm 13 Positions

Part Time-A $13.00/hr DSP *Partially-Benefit Eligible Monday through Friday 4p-9p

The Arc of PA’s “Making Connections For The 21st Century Workforce” - Jerry and Lorraine https://youtu.be/bcYCF3pe_5w

2 Positions

--All positions require flexibility--

**Contact Mary Ann or Tina in Human Resources for any additional information or questions

Our outstanding benefit package includes:

Health insurance* Dental insurance* Vision insurance* Life/AD&D insurance Pension Vacation days* Personal days* Sick days* Holidays Credit union Direct deposit Long Term Disability Insurance $400 for new employee referral bonuses Fitness Club reimbursement

PLEASE NOTE: Minimum requirements for these positions include:

***18 years of age or older

***High School Diploma/GED

***Valid driver’s license Previous Human Services experience helpful, but not necessary. Paid training provided.

To be considered for one of these positions, a completed application must be on file with our Human Resources Department. THANK YOU FOR YOUR INTEREST IN EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES WITH THE ARC.

The Arc of Northeastern Pennsylvania

Spirit of the Season CLA (Virtual) Tour 2020!

This year, we can all certainly use a bit of good tidings and joy. Our annual Spirit of the Season CLA Tour will be hosted virtually! To enter, each CLA Supervisor can text or email pictures of the decorated sites to Mary Ann O’Shea in Human Resources (moshea@thearcnepa.org) no later than 12/14/20. Judges will be looking for the most colorful, creative, magical decorations. Prizes will be awarded for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place, but only one CLA will be presented with the coveted “Spirit of the Season” award!

While we will miss the sounds and smells of the festivities, and the occasional bribery of baked goods, we are looking forward to seeing everyone’s entries! Good Luck!

115 Meadow Avenue Scranton, PA 18505

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115 Meadow Avenue Scranton, PA 18505