The Arc of Chester County held its Annual Meeting and Awards Ceremony where it honored several community members and agency partners for their outstanding support of and service to individuals with disabilities and their families during the 2022-23 year.

The 2023 President’s Award, which honors a local corporation or individual that has significantly enhanced the Arc mission, through dedicated support and loyal partnership, was given to Paul Cardell, Sr., a long-time Arc supporter, board member, and officer.

Cardell was the recipient of this distinguished award for his outstanding and long-time service as a volunteer and leader. He was also honored with the Ruth Wood Philanthropic Leadership Award for his decade-long ardent support of The Arc, including serving for 13 consecutive years as a Board Member and Officer.

“Paul Cardell is one of those extraordinary people who goes above and beyond and did so for more than 10 years. His contributions in and out of the boardroom were invaluable. Paul’s leadership as Chair of the Development and Community Relations Committee took our corporate sponsorship efforts of our Annual Bubble Walk & Fun Day to a whole other level. The Arc of Chester County has been successful because of leaders and volunteers like Paul, and we owe them an incredible debt of gratitude on behalf of those entrusted in our care,” shared Jeanne Meikrantz, Arc CEO.

The 2023 Agnes Chesko Grady Family of the Year Award was presented to the Cofiell Family. 

This award, named for one of The Arc’s early advocacy pioneers for those with disabilities in Chester County, is given to an outstanding family whose care for their children and assistance to other Arc families, and support of The Arc’s mission, set an extraordinary example of love, loyalty, and dedicated advocacy.

Trish Cofiell sits on the Advocacy and Government Affairs Committee at The Arc of Chester County and has been a strong advocate for all.

She strives to thoroughly understand the many issues the Arc faces and tirelessly researches and promotes positive solutions. Cofiell has much in common with Agnes Chesko and her family, she is always writing, volunteering, organizing, and helping others.

“The Arc of Chester County has enjoyed tremendous success in its advocacy efforts thanks to highly dedicated and committed families like the Cofiells’ who avail themselves at a moment’s notice to share their stories and challenges with our local legislators and community leaders. It is their voice that brings attention and awareness to the needs of those with disabilities in our community for increased services and support. We have enormous gratitude to the Cofiell’s for their amazing advocacy efforts,” shared, Kim Booz, The Arc’s Director of Advocacy.

The Arc’s 2023 Partner of the Year Award was given to one of its closest partners and friends, the Chester County Down Syndrome Interest Group (CCDSIG), a nonprofit organization that began in 1998 with a group of parents who wanted to meet for social contact and support.

The organization is made up of people whose lives have been affected by Down syndrome. Their goals include reaching out to new families, providing educational and social opportunities for existing members, and educating the community to promote awareness and inclusion of persons with Down syndrome.

The Arc’s partnership with CCDSIG is a true win-win!  For over 20 years, The Arc has supported CCDSIG’s popular and successful Annual Buddy Walk and in return, they have donated a portion of the funds raised annually to The Arc of Chester County.

CCDISG’s own fundraising success has enabled them to be a lead supporter of The Arc’s Annual Bubble Walk & Fun Day which has been instrumental in the success of this annual event and helps thousands of families living in Chester County.

“CCDSIG has an impressive lifetime giving history to The Arc of Chester County and we are incredibly grateful and humbled to be the beneficiary of their hard work and generosity in support of individuals with disabilities in Chester County. It has been a true privilege to work side by side lifting and supporting each other over the decades. Together, we are making a real difference in the lives we mutually love, support, and serve,” said Jen Strausser, The Arc’s Chief Operations Officer.

The 2023 Employer of the Year Award honors an exemplary employer each year that demonstrates a strong commitment to a diverse and inclusive company culture.

It was presented to Wawa– Store No. 208 in Malvern. Wawa was selected for this honor because of their dedicated support of two of The Arc’s supported workers, Adam and Katlyn.

“Wawa store managers, Meghan and Alex, and their entire team have been incredibly supportive, spirited, open, patient, flexible, and accepting of all things that come with hiring individuals with different abilities.

“Wawa has exemplified all the characteristics that we would hope to come from all employers in the future of competitive and integrative employment for our individuals.  The Arc of Chester County is very excited to present the Wawa team with this award! Thank you for all that you’ve done and will continue to do for our community,” expressed Shelby Hallman, Director of The Arc’s Employment Services Program.

The final award of the evening, The 2023 Employee of the Year, was given to 30-year Arc employee, Joyce Bobbitt. She was nominated by her peers for outstanding service to the organization, its participants, and the team. To read Joyce’s story, please visit The Arc’s Around the Arc Summer Newsletter at www.arcofchestercounty.org.

About The Arc of Chester County

The mission of The Arc of Chester County: To advocate, educate, and provide services to empower individuals with disabilities and their families to enhance the quality of their lives.

The Arc’s programs and services enhance quality of life by preparing individuals with the skills and support they need for living in the community and speaking up for their rights. Today, The Arc serves nearly 3,000 children and adults with disabilities, and their families each year through the provision of a lifetime of services beginning at birth and extending through a person’s life.

For more information on The Arc of Chester County’s programs and services or to make a donation and help support individuals with disabilities and their families visit: www.arcofchestercounty.org