Arc Notes: News from The Arc of Prince George's County

Shawn Payne is a graduate of The Arc's Office Skills Training Program and a current employee of The Arc Thrift Store, but his true love is art. In fact, Shawn's artwork is starting to bring him both income and international attention. His painting, Blue Suede Shoes, is currently on display in London at The Museum of Everything. Click here to view Shawn's artwork in the museum's digital gallery. Shawn has been creating his works at Art Enables, a studio and gallery in D.C. for artists with developmental disabilities. Through this gallery, Shawn has sold over 20 pieces including paintings, jewelry, and shoeboxes. He has recently embarked on a new tote bag venture. His mother, Jean Payne, says, "Having his artwork on display in London has really boosted his confidence and motivated him to try new modes, like the tote bags." To see more or purchase Shawn's work, click here.

The Arcs Across The Country Gather To Achieve New Heights

A small contingent of staff and volunteers from The Arc Prince George's County joined hundreds of other Arc members and self-advocates in Denver, Colorado, for The Arc National Convention. For some of us in the group, it was an occasion to re-connect with old friends; for others, it was a time to create new friendships. For all of us, it was an opportunity to share with and learn from our sister Arcs.

While there were many excellent workshops and sessions, the highlight of the convention was opening speaker, Dr. Temple Grandin. Dr. Grandin is one of the top animal behavior scientists in the world, developing groundbreaking methods for humane handling of livestock...and by the way, happens to have autism.

Dr. Grandin was non-verbal at age two, and exhibited all the signs of servere autism; she is now one of the most well respected advocates in the autism community. Her personal experiences have served as inspiration for countless individuals with autism, and she continues to lecture worldwide about language development, sensory issues, and visual thinking. Her presentation was awesome and inspiring! Click here for an opportunity to hear Dr. Grandin speak in Baltimore on October 13, 14, or visit www.TempleGrandin.com.

Arc Members: Join a Committee!

The Arc hosted its first Board and Member Committee Night on Thursday, September 22nd. For this new initiative, Board and Arc members selected one of nine standing committees to join. Six of these met on the 22nd: Employment and Day Services, Family & Community Services, Governmental Affairs, Human Resources, Resource Development, and Residential Services. Discussions were facilitated by Arc staff members who provided an overview of their departments, and highlighted current programs, initiatives and needs. Committees then charted a direction for the subsequent four meetings. Click here to read more.

A Lifetime of Learning

The Arc Education Committee meets on the second Tuesday of the month, with the next meeting scheduled for October 11. In the past, the committee has focused on educational issues for school-age children with disabilities, ages 5 - 21. While this age group will continue to have an important role on our agenda, the committee has been charged with reviewing and making recommendations to The Arc Board of Directors on matters related to a lifetime of learning opportunities for children and adults.

Please join us on October 11, at 6:30 PM, as we discuss and plan the direction of the committee this year. RSVP to Mary Funk, at mfunk@thearcofpgc.org. Hope to see you then!

Support The Arc through your workplace campaign!

The United Way Workplace Giving Campaigns are now beginning and we need your support! If your workplace participates in the United Way, Combined Federal Campaign, or Maryland Charity Campaign, please designate The Arc Prince George's County as the recipient of your workplace gift.