It was a particularly busy month at The Arc of Massachusetts. In these uncertain times, partnerships within and outside of our community are more important than ever. In this past month, we have nurtured and grown our relationships with organizations, corporations, and universities in many ways.
In addition to all of our advocacy work we have already shared, The Arc has been working on many other projects and taking part in events, including the following.
CEO Maura Sullivan and Innovation Development Director Leo Sarkissian represented The Arc of Massachusetts at Cummings Foundation’s Grant Winner Celebration. This event was an inspiring celebration of all of the winners of grants in this year’s $30 Million Grant Program. Thank you, Cummings Foundation, for your generosity and support!
CEO Maura Sullivan was appointed to the Board of Advisors for Tufts University School of Dental Medicine. On this exciting appointment, Maura stated, “I am so grateful to Dean Nadeem Karimbux for this nomination. I value the chance to use my disability policy and education lens, as well as my lived experience to positively impact TUSDM. I am committed to amplifying the voices and the oral health needs of the autism and IDD community.”
CEO Maura Sullivan took part in the Massachusetts Permanent Commission on the Status of Persons with Disabilities’ Strength in Support Employment Event at the Massachusetts State House. Hosted by the Commission’s Disability Employment and Workforce Supports subcommittees, the event brought together employed youth and young adults with disabilities, direct support professionals, and job coaches to highlight stories, share resources, and identify promising practices to advance employment equity across Massachusetts. The event was led by Disability Employment and Workforce Supports subcommittee Commissioner Gyasi Burks-Abbott. Read more and see additional photos here.
CEO Maura Sullivan served as the keynote speaker at Minute Man Arc’s 2nd Annual Employer Breakfast. Minute Man Arc presented special awards to TJX, US Army Corps at Hanscom, and Dinno Health. In her remarks, Maura spoke about the importance of employers who see the ability of the people with disabilities.
CEO Maura Sullivan attended the ribbon cutting of Inclusive Fitness’s new location in Burlington. Traditional gyms overlook what neurodivergent athletes need to succeed. We are excited to see the expansion of their work!
The Arc of Massachusetts also wants to highlight a new Boston-based nonprofit organization, Run the Gamut, which “provides structured educational program to motivated and prepared young adults with autism.” Admission is now open for the Fall 2025 semester. You can learn more at runthegamut.org.
