An organization laser focused on helping oft-overlooked community members took a little time to allow its employees and volunteers to acknowledge their own accomplishments.
The Arc of Haywood County on Oct. 29 celebrated its 50-year anniversary while also cutting the ribbon on a second office on Boundary Street in Waynesville that will house the supported employment, community living, and community networking teams.
The new location was initially used as a pole barn for nearby Haywood Builders Supply. Over time, walls were added, and it became a mattress store. Now, after a good deal of hard work and a strong vision, it has been given new life.
Several people spoke in front of the building ahead of the ribbon cutting.
Arc of Haywood County Executive Director Todd Barbee has been on the job about four years. He said, from the podium, that over five decades, The Arc’s employees, volunteers, and board members have “been building something pretty special together.” He expressed appreciation for the people who’ve not only spent so much time and effort making it what it is but also those who’ve “fought and demanded better for the community of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.”