Rachael spending time with David, one of the individuals in the BCArc home she works at.
By Nicole Lemire
Rachael McHugh calls herself the “Weekend Warrior” because of her work schedule — 40 hours in three days. Although this schedule may not be for everyone, Rachel loves having four days off per week, as it gives her plenty of time to spend with her two sons.
Since 2015, Rachael has worked in various positions including relief and at the Crossroads day program, but her connection with BCArc goes back even further. When she was 12, she participated in Girls Inc., which held several dances in collaboration with BCArc. There, she got to meet individuals and became familiar with the agency. Later in life, she became interested in working with people with disabilities not only because of her familiarity with BCArc, but also after having a son with autism.
“My favorite thing about my job is bringing individuals into the community because it means so much to them,” Rachael said. “Going out to dinner, to the movies, or museums feels like no big deal to us, but to them it is. I think it’s important to normalize people with disabilities being out and active in the community.”
In the fall, Rachael plans to start an RN program at Berkshire Community College. She has been studying nursing for several years and is excited to have the finish line in sight. Once she completes the program, she plans to work as a nurse at BCArc, as she loves patient care and bonding with individuals BCArc serves.
Rachael has had such a positive experience working at BCArc that she encouraged her wife, Alisha, to apply. Now, Alisha is the site manager of a BCArc home in Pittsfield.
“It’s been great having both of us working here because we can relate to each other,” Rachael said. “If one of us is struggling with something at work, the other person really understands. But then, if one of us had a great day at work, we’re also able to celebrate together.”
Rachael is passionate about advocating for accessibility. Her commitment to this issue increased after she had surgery on her foot and was wheelchair-bound for several months. She recalls many experiences where public areas did not have the proper accommodation for her, as well as feeling judged by strangers.
“I was already empathetic to these issues, but experiencing it firsthand just made me even more passionate about accessibility and breaking stigmas around disabilities.”
Rachael’s dedication to the individuals led to her being named Employee of the Quarter, which came as a total shock to her.
“Rachael will take on any task that is asked of her and complete it with passion,” said Jamie Carpenter, Goldenhill site manager. “Goldenhill is honored to have such a dedicated employee.”
