Founded in 1955, The Arc of Massachusetts advocates on behalf of 200,000 individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families in three areas: education and information referrals, legislative and public policy, and membership support and outreach advancing social inclusion, education, employment, and community living.
Following a three-year capital campaign, a $1.6 million, 3,600-square-foot headquarters is being constructed on the nonprofit organization’s existing site at 217 South St. in Waltham. Leo Sarkissian, who joined as executive director in 1991, had this to say:
Q. Why is it time for a new headquarters?
A. It’s way overdue. Our original headquarters was built in the late 1950s as a private residence. We spent $100,000 renovating it 15 years ago, but slowly over time, it began showing its age again. The goal is to have a structure that reflects well on those we serve and our affiliates, and presents The Arc in a positive light. In addition to 18 chapters across the Commonwealth, The Arc has close relationships with more than 50 public and private organizations in the field.
Q. What will the new building allow that the old one didn’t?
A. Unlike our last building, this one is one floor and fully accessible. Other service and advocacy organizations will be able to utilize the convenient site for their work. Plus, the building will be an attractive setting that enhances the charity’s presentation to its stakeholders and the public at large.
Q. How does advocacy help your constituents?
A. When individuals with disabilities are able to participate in their local communities, everyone benefits. Community participation means less stress for caregivers, higher productivity for parents or siblings in caretaking roles, and a richer community by involving all of our members.
Q. Why should the public support those efforts?
A. One of our advocacy outcomes relates to productive alternatives after high school. Historically, young people with intellectual and developmental disabilities were sheltered away. Segregation deprives the individual of community resources and activities. It also is more costly as adults lose out on the learning opportunities for work and social interaction. In addition, businesses benefit when individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities are employed, as there is usually low turnover.
Q. When can your staff move in?
A. We’re hoping for completion in December of this year. Anything can go wrong, of course, but I’m a pretty hopeful man.
For more information, call 781-891-6270, e-mail arcmass@arcmass.org, or visit thearcofmass.org.
Cindy Cantrell can be reached at cindycantrell20@gmail.com.
