"Diversity is not about how we differ. Diversity is about embracing one another's uniqueness." - Ola Joseph. In the dynamic landscape of workplaces, few organizations stand out as beacons of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). The Arc Lexington, honored among "The 10 Best Workplaces for Diversity in 2023," is not merely an entity; it's a testament to the transformative power of cultivating a nurturing environment. At its core, The Arc Lexington is not just an organization; it's a commitment to ensuring that every individual, both within and outside its walls, lives their best life.

The journey of The Arc Lexington in the realm of DEI is illuminated by the "Nurturing Environment" program, the brainchild of CEO/Executive Director Shaloni Winston and Deputy Executive Director Dan Richardson. This program transcends conventional workplace structures, fostering a culture where communication is not a formality but a genuine exchange. Regular meetings provide a platform for employees to stay informed, share feedback, and forge connections that extend beyond professional realms. Here, diversity isn't a buzzword; it's the heartbeat of organizational operations.

Guided by Shaloni Winston's visionary leadership, The Arc Lexington has seamlessly woven DEI into its operational fabric. In this exclusive feature, we unveil the success story of an organization that has become the north star for those navigating the DEI landscape. Shaloni Winston, the CEO and Executive Director, shares insights into the strategies that have propelled The Arc Lexington to the forefront of workplace diversity. Alongside her, the management team reflects on the challenges, triumphs, and ongoing commitment to equity that propel The Arc Lexington's mission.

Behind the accolades and recognition lies a blueprint that extends beyond policies; it's a living, breathing commitment to inclusivity. The HR department, serving as a catalyst for change, collaborates with the entire organization to implement policies that transcend mere rhetoric. DEI training isn't a mandatory checkbox; it's a transformative journey that permeates every level of the organizational hierarchy. Equity is not a goal; it's the baseline from which The Arc Lexington builds towards a future where no one feels alone.

 

A Legacy of Support and Evolution

In 1953, in Fulton County, NY, a small group of parents faced a common challenge: ensuring their children with developmental disabilities could stay home while receiving proper education. They came together, founding the Fulton County Chapter of NYSARC, Inc., which later transformed into The Arc Lexington. Originally a supportive network, it has grown over the past six decades into an agency renowned for its unwavering mission, extensive services, and skilled leadership.

The Arc Lexington's journey began with parents advocating for their children's rights, striving to provide them with equal educational opportunities. Through collaboration and determination, they laid the foundation for what would become a beacon of support for individuals with developmental disabilities and their families. Today, The Arc Lexington stands as a testament to the power of community-driven initiatives, offering a diverse range of services tailored to meet the evolving needs of its constituents.

 

Support for Autism and Developmental Disabilities

The Arc Lexington embodies a profound commitment: empowering individuals with autism and developmental disabilities to embrace their full potential every day. Across Fulton, Schoharie, and Albany counties, this organization serves over 1300 individuals facing diverse intellectual and developmental challenges, including autism, cerebral palsy, and traumatic brain injuries.

 

Diverse Services Catering to Unique Needs:

• Autism Support Services: Tailored interventions and communication tools facilitate progress and development.

• Article 16 Clinic: Fosters independence and productivity, enhancing self-sufficiency.

• Child and Adolescent Program Services: Provides support for youth and families in Fulton County.

• Community Supports: Offers respite care, recreational activities, and parent support groups.

• Day Supports: Programs in Fulton and Schoharie counties promote personal growth and goal achievement.

• Employment Supports: Partnerships with local employers empower individuals through training and coaching.

• Guardianship: Advocates for those unable to act independently, overseeing medical treatment and emotional needs.

• Residential Supports: Tailored housing and care across diverse community settings in Fulton, Albany, and Schoharie Counties.

• Traumatic Brain Injury Supports: Provides therapy, socialization, and recreation for recovery and rehabilitation.

The Arc Lexington's holistic approach ensures individuals receive comprehensive support, enabling them to thrive in their communities. Through collaborative efforts with families, employees, and the wider community, The Arc Lexington creates pathways for individuals to lead fulfilling lives, overcoming challenges with dignity and support.

 

Celebrating The Arc Lexington's Milestones

The Arc Lexington has received prestigious accolades for its exceptional contributions to the community. In January 2022, it achieved the Council on Quality and Leadership (CQL’s) Person-Centered Excellence Accreditation with Distinction, joining a select group of 11 global organizations to earn this distinction.

The CQL’s Person-Centered Excellence Accreditation is a rigorous four-year process that sets high standards for human service organizations, emphasizing tangible outcomes. Only organizations demonstrating deeply ingrained, person-centered practices qualify for this accreditation, highlighting The Arc Lexington’s commitment to inclusive approaches, strategic planning, and operational excellence.

In April 2022, The Arc Lexington was honored with a Times Union Top Workplace Award for 2022, based on staff responses to a comprehensive survey. The recognition affirmed its status as a top employer in the greater Capital Region, with staff acknowledging its positive workplace culture and meaningful contributions.

Furthermore, The Arc Lexington was bestowed with the prestigious People’s Choice Award by the Schoharie County Chamber of Commerce in May 2023. This esteemed accolade celebrates organizations that have made significant strides in enhancing the quality of life within the local community of Schoharie County, underscoring The Arc Lexington's profound impact and commitment to community betterment.

 

Empowering Lives

The Arc Lexington embarks on a continuous quest to enhance its services through innovation and adaptability. By closely evaluating existing programs and identifying areas for improvement, the organization remains committed to meeting the diverse needs of the individuals it supports. This journey is fueled by collaboration, drawing strength from the unwavering dedication of its employees and the steadfast support of community partners.

The firm's evolution over the years reflects its unwavering commitment to addressing evolving needs and seeking growth opportunities. With a workforce exceeding 1600 employees, The Arc Lexington stands as a premier employer in Fulton County, proactively embracing future prospects for advancement.

One of the organization's pioneering initiatives, 'Transitions,' stands as a testament to its forward-thinking approach. Designed to support students and young adults with learning differences transitioning from high school, this post-secondary program fosters success in various spheres of life. Through strategic partnerships with esteemed institutions like the Savannah College of Art & Design and Virginia Commonwealth University, Transitions empowers individuals with practical life skills and real-world experiences. The recent establishment of a state-of-the-art campus in Albany, NY, and expansion into Schoharie County underscore its transformative impact.

In 2015, The Paul Nigra Center for Creative Arts emerged as another groundbreaking endeavor, offering a vibrant space for artistic expression and inclusion. This center provides a diverse array of classes, entertainment, and exhibitions, serving as a nurturing environment where artists of all abilities can thrive.

The integration of Lexington and Schoharie Arc in 2020 marked a significant milestone, amplifying the organization's spectrum of services across homes, day programs, employment initiatives, and community support. The merger process prioritized the integration of the Schoharie team into the Lexington family, reinforcing the organization's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

At the heart of The Arc Lexington's success lies its dedication to fostering a nurturing environment. Monthly forums serve as collaborative platforms for employees, supported individuals, and their families to exchange ideas and feedback, elevating morale and enhancing the quality of care.

Effective communication is paramount within The Arc Lexington's framework, facilitated by internal platforms like Workplace. This bespoke social media platform fosters connectivity among staff members, enabling them to celebrate achievements and disseminate vital information seamlessly.

The organization's culture of recognition is epitomized by an annual event honoring staff and commemorating years of dedicated service. Personalized speeches and acknowledgments spotlight individual contributions, inspiring excellence and reinforcing the ethos of The Arc Lexington.

Through its steadfast leadership, comprehensive services, and adaptability to industry shifts, The Arc Lexington remains at the vanguard of innovation. Committed to ensuring that individuals with developmental disabilities lead fulfilling lives, the organization exemplifies a dedication to its employees and the communities it serves. By championing diversity, equity, and inclusion, The Arc Lexington not only transforms lives but also raises awareness of the importance of inclusivity in society.