THERE IS A SUPERHERO INSIDE ALL OF US,
WE JUST NEED THE COURAGE TO PUT ON THE CAPE.
UNITY – WE ARE STRONGER TOGETHER
The Arc Baltimore believes we must build a shared community that brings together people with disabilities, family members, professionals, advocates, and other collaborators with a unity of purpose for a stronger community. We respect every person’s inherent value and welcome diverse viewpoints that lead to truly inclusive practices where all truly belong and know they matter. Partnerships will be bound by strong communication and a clear vision.
“Put on the Cape” blog series by CEO Kathleen Durkin
OUR VALUES IN A COVID WORLD – UNITY
5/1/20
We need others in our lives. As we face the COVID-19 pandemic, we understanding that more than ever. Many of us feel scared, alone, and isolated as we follow the CDC guidance. BUT WE ARE NOT ALONE.
As I reflect on our value statements, perhaps UNITY in a time of social distancing, self-isolation, or quarantine might seem a “disconnect.” And yet, I would say, UNITY is absolutely what your actions are demonstrating. Together, by social distancing, by isolating, by even wearing a mask in someone’s home, you are demonstrating a collective consciousness about caring for one another, about recognizing the collective actions needed to fight the spread of this virus. You can help others by your actions, and you are! When finding ways to adapt to these changes, being creative and aware of your impact are more important than ever.
A shared community brings us all together in new and strange ways…from examples like the Knollwood community association checking in on their neighbors, to The Arc Monmouth (in New Jersey) posting a TikTok video on our FB page showing that they too are finding ways to be together, to making videos of staff and people we support staying home, disinfecting the house and wearing a mask. Thousands of cloth masks came from as far as Florida and New York to as close as Middle River! Zoom chatting with parents, calling to check in on each other, and hosting Go Team meetings of a support team. Donations for our COVID-19 Response Fund or our HERO fund are coming in daily. State and federal advocacy partners are fighting for funding as the state proposed budget cuts, or for federal legislation that will support our efforts. A strong partnership may look very different right now, but in its own way, it is STRONGER THAN EVER.
We are reminded that we depend on each other in order for our society to work, to keep us safe, and to bring our lives meaning. TODAY we are reminded that it will take our collective efforts to beat this virus. And we will. Be STRONG, Be UNITED, Be THE ARC BALTIMORE!
Kathleen
