The Arc of Chester County announces that American Community Journals (ACJ) is the recipient of its 2025 Partner of the Year Award.
The award was presented during the organization’s annual Celebration & Awards Dinner in recognition of ACJ’s steadfast partnership, powerful storytelling, and transformative support of The Arc’s mission.
Best known for their widely respected regional publications—VISTA.Today, MONTCO.Today, DELCO.Today, PHILADELPHIA.Today, and BUCKSCO.Today—American Community Journals has consistently elevated community voices through positive, informative, and feel-good storytelling.
ACJ’s coverage shines a light on the people, businesses, and organizations making a real difference across Southeastern Pennsylvania.
“Our relationship with ACJ began over five years ago, when we needed a platform to tell the stories that traditional media outlets were overlooking —stories of inclusion, advocacy, and the incredible accomplishments of individuals with disabilities,” said Jeanne Meikrantz, CEO of The Arc of Chester County.
“Through VISTA.Today and their network, ACJ opened the door for The Arc to reach new audiences and amplify our mission in meaningful ways.”
The partnership deepened in 2025 when The Arc of Chester County was selected as the beneficiary nonprofit of ACJ’s NexGen Superstars event—a celebrated “40 Under 40” program honoring emerging professionals who are making a significant community impact.
At the event, The Arc was surprised with a $10,000 donation, generously facilitated by ACJ and supported by Citadel Credit Union.
“To say we were speechless would be an understatement, ”Meikrantz said. “It was a magical moment —one that reminded all of us at The Arc what true partnership and generosity look like.”
To date, ACJ has published more than 70 stories about The Arc, sharing powerful narratives of resilience, inclusion, and hope with millions of its readers. Their commitment to The Arc goes beyond philanthropy—it’s a relationship rooted in mutual respect, shared values, and a dedication to uplifting the lives of individuals with disabilities and their families.
The Arc of Chester County was proud to present the 2025 Partner of the Year award to ACJ’s Ken Knickerbocker, Publisher and CEO, and his brother Steve Knickerbocker, Vice President of Development, for their unwavering support, partnership, and friendship.
The mission of The Arc of Chester County is to advocate, educate and provide services to empower individuals with disabilities and their families to enhance the quality of their lives.
The official registration and financial information of The Arc of Chester County may be obtained from the PA Department of State by calling 1-800-732-0999. Registration does not imply endorsement. The Arc of Chester County is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, and contributions are tax-deductible to the fullest extent permitted by law.
