Enjoy this lookback at some of the things we’ve done as an organization this year: advocacy, renovation at KFICCC, inclusive activities and more! 

He graduated from the first-ever class of Empowering Abilities in May 2025, and now we are happy to report that Matthew has been hired as a DSP at the nonprofit Makom! He’s in the process of going through the required trainings.

Did Matthew’s experience with Empowering Abilities help him land this position? “Oh yes, for sure… It made me feel that I can do this… More assertive, more initiative on my part.”

Empowering Abilities is a ground-breaking fellowship program for people with disabilities to become DSPs. The program provides comprehensive job training, mentorship, and certification courses, while paying the program participants for their time. Applications are being accepted now through January 9.

Matthew’s message to those thinking of applying to the program is “Believe in yourself.” Empowering Abilities Project Director Nicole Lindsay adds, “Matt adds depth to the phrase 'lived experience,' and Cohort 2025 is very proud of him."

Because of you, The Arc Montgomery County ended 2025 with incredible momentum. Your generosity during Giving Tuesday helped us raise nearly $20,000, and your continued support throughout our Year End Campaign brought in an additional $50,688.

These contributions directly strengthen our programs, expand opportunities for people with IDD, and ensure that families in our community receive the support they need.

We are deeply grateful for your kindness and look forward to all we will accomplish together in the new year.

The heart of our mission is simple, bringing joy to the people we support. This holiday season, we were able to do just that, thanks to YOU.

A special thank you to Holy Cross Catholic Church for more than 37 years of generosity through their Giving Tree project. Your continued kindness makes the season brighter for so many.

We’re also grateful for our dedicated volunteers at R3, along with our employees and board members, who help keep this beloved tradition alive year after year.

Your holiday giving reminds us why our work matters. Thank you for being part of our why.

Not only do we feel like family at The Arc Montgomery County, but some of us are really family! Recently, Vivien Gipson started as a Sub Teacher Assistant at KFICCC, and if her last name sounds familiar it’s because she’s the daughter of Chief Operating Officer James Gipson!

Vivien is a sophomore in high school and works at KFICCC when her school day is over, "I like working with kids. I've babysat since forever and I do see working with kids in the future." Vivien says she likes working with children of all ages. 

James adds, "Seeing my daughter choose to work at The Arc Montgomery County fills me with profound pride. I know my mother, who dedicated more than twenty years to special education, would be overjoyed to see her granddaughter working at KFICCC and carrying forward the values she held so dear."

Many people are familiar with Etsy at this point, but you likely have not yet heard of Trove Market. It’s an online platform for artisans and creators with disabilities to showcase and sell their handcrafted products. The minds behind Trove saw a gap in the market — many skilled creators faced barriers when selling their products online. So, they built a platform to empower and help achieve financial independence. Trove is easy to use and 97% of the proceeds go directly to the seller. Find out more here. 

Montgomery Parks has a lot to offer – at little to no cost. Trail Trekkers is a popular ongoing program where you can walk along accessible trails in Wheaton Regional Park.  

You may have seen Campfire Chats featured in our other E-News issues. In the January chat, you’ll be able to create a vision board for 2026! 

There’s also Raptor Caretaker Chats where you can learn about all the birds of prey at Meadowside Nature Center. For more on all the events through Montgomery Parks, click here. 

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