See below for descriptions of the 2023 Awards. You can make up to three awards nominations on this form. If you would like to complete more than three nominations, please email Sharon Dols at sdols@thearcmd.org for assistance.
Legacy Award - This award is presented on those occasions where the individual’s lifetime work leaves a legacy for the future and mission of The Arc.
The Lorraine Sheehan-Bernard A. Gould Award for Volunteer Governmental Affairs Service - This award is presented to an individual who has demonstrated outstanding volunteer service in governmental affairs in one or more of the Association's priority goals areas. This award will be conferred at such times as the Awards Committee feels warranted, to only those candidates whose contributions have been exceptional.
Outstanding Advocate of the Year Award - This award is presented for advocacy leadership on behalf of persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families, including systemic change, legal advocacy, and professional endeavors that increase the rights of persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities to have inclusive lives.
School Inclusion Award - This award recognizes a school, teacher, educator, administrator, support personnel, or other education professional who has demonstrated excellence in providing quality inclusive educational opportunities for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities, reflective of The Arc position on education and inclusion of students with intellectual and developmental disabilities. This may include early education, secondary education, and higher education.
Employer of the Year - This Employer of the Year is presented to a private employer, business, or firm with an exceptional record and commitment to provide competitive employment opportunities to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Stanley S. Sidle/William Ohge, Jr. Memorial Citizenship Award - This award honors an individual with intellectual/developmental disabilities, (who is affiliated with The Arc) for outstanding participation in or contribution to their community. Achievements may include community leadership, contributions to his/her community and/or self-advocacy.
Community Professional of the Year - This award recognizes an executive/manager of an organization or community professional (this person is not an employee or board member of any chapter of The Arc in Maryland). Honorees’ work will have direct relevance to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. They may have demonstrated sensitivity and the ability to provide outstanding quality services which results in increased independence and inclusive lives for people with I/DD. The recipient(s) may demonstrate excellence in any of the following areas: residential supports, family supports, individual supports, employment supports, health supports, behavior intervention or support. Staff of The Arc employed at any level are not eligible for this award.