Letters from the President & CEO
Finding Small Moments to Celebrate is Critical
This was originally published in Visions, Issue II 2023.
June 1, 2023 – Rewards come in many forms at BCArc, and it’s important we recognize them. But we do not get to rest on our laurels for long. We celebrate, appreciate one another, and get back to work because people depend on our support 24/7, seven days a week.
This year we were fortunate to end our fiscal year with a financial reward to our staff. People work at BCArc for many different reasons, but primarily because they are caretakers — they help others at work and outside work. This is what they do. But they also deserve to get paid for their hard work and inherent compassion. They deserve a pay rate more than a career in human services offers (we take this fight to the state throughout the year).
Our staff will continue to provide great care for the individuals we serve –- that’s who they are –- and we will continue to do everything we can to pay them what they deserve. Thank you to our friends and families in the community who support us through the year. We can’t do this without you.
Maryann Hyatt
President & CEO
Leading BCArc Toward its Future
This was originally published in Visions, Issue I 2023.
March 1, 2023 – The staff at BCArc are inspiring. We recently opened a new residential program for individuals with brain injury, and launched a program to support families who need extra time after work. It is the drive and initiative of BCArc’s staff — its future leaders — that make these new programs possible.
This Agency is structured to provide clear career paths for staff to grow and advance. Ideally we want to retain our staff for a meaningful and lifelong career. Last year alone we promoted 49 employees. We have more than 40 employees who have been with BCArc 20-plus years, and 130 employees over 10 years. Those stats tell a powerful and positive story about the staff at BCArc. I started at BCArc in a residential program and took advantage of the career path and opportunities for advancement that BCArc offers.
Because of our committed, determined staff, we are well-positioned to serving the growing disability population for generations to come.
Maryann Hyatt
President & CEO
Community Partners Make BCArc Stronger
This was originally published in Visions, Issue III 2022.
September 1, 2022 – BCArc thrives because it enjoys tremendous support from its community. For more than 60 years organizations, businesses, government agencies, and residents of Western Mass have helped strengthen and grow BCArc.
Our programs depend on community partners. The individuals we serve work as employees with area businesses; they volunteer with community services. Every day they engage in the community in some form. Volunteers take them to plays, concerts, and sporting events. And our partners provide the financial support that lead to new opportunities and experiences.
During the tough COVID days, staff and the individuals we serve spent time inside, staying safe. When programs opened up, we again realized how critical our partners are, and their role in enriching the lives of the individuals at BCArc. Community engagement is integrated with everything we do at BCArc. And because of the support we receive, the opportunities are boundless. Thank you.
Maryann Hyatt
President & CEO