Our Patient Spotlight this month is: Julie Cummings and her amazing work with the Northeast Arc!
If you follow our happenings at Paradise Dental, you know that giving back to the community is a big part of what we do. We strive to get involved with many different organizations in the effort to make an impact on the community around us. We admire others who seek the same mission. Knowing this, it’s no surprise that we have chosen to highlight, long time patient, Julie Cummings who has led a life of making a difference with the Northeast Arc.
Making an impact with Arc partly came by birthright being Julie’s parents were founding members of Northeast Arc. Having a sister with disabilities, gave Julie’s parents the courage to challenge other professionals who told them their child would not be educated or taught to communicate or live a full and rich life. Here in started the mission to create a system that enabled children with disabilities to attend public schools with supports, live in neighborhoods of their choice and earn a paycheck while being active participants in the community. They work toward that goal by offering a wide variety of programs including Autism Services, Day Habilitation, Deaf Services, Early Intervention, Employment Services and Family Support to only name a few. They employ people with disabilities at their inclusive micro businesses, Breaking Grounds Caf, Heritage Shredding and Shine Jewelry.
Over the past 60 years, Northeast Arc has grown to touch and support over 10,000 Families annually, with 54 Properties, including 40+ Residential buildings in nearly 190 Massachusetts cities and towns. Northeast Arc is the largest chapter in Massachusetts and 2nd largest in the country. They are one of the largest employers on the North Shore with more than 1000 employees and they work with over 700 volunteers annually.
Julie has held several titles within Arc including Board Chair, Nominating Committee Chair, Residential Committee Chair and Community Engagement Committee Chair, and is now primarily active as a board member and volunteer. Her involvement has been throughout her life and she has not only seen most all of the growth take place, she has been an integral part in it. Her passion for giving back and commitment to growth in a sustaining business that continually blossoms is undying. The work of Northeast Arc and our patient, Julie is something we are proud of.
Please following the link to learn more about Arc and the Services offered.
