In an inspiring follow-up to their groundbreaking partnership with Liberia, the leadership of The Arc Mercer met with the First Lady of Liberia, Mrs. Kartumu Y. Boakai, in Delaware. This significant meeting marks a pivotal moment in the journey of Project 601 LiberiArc, an ambitious plan to transform the lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) in Liberia.
A Historic Meeting with Mrs. Kartumu Y. Boakai, First Lady of the Republic of Liberia
The Arc Mercer team, including Executive Director Steve Cook, Organizational Culture Manager Emmanuel Bropleh, CFO Tom Crane, Workforce and Development Manager Lionel Awode, Comptroller Sekou Kamara and mission-critical DSPs and co-chairs of the Liberia Group Taweh Witherspoon and Claudia Nance, engaged in productive discussions with Mrs. Boakai. The meeting focused on the mission, vision, and goals of Project 601, highlighting the Arc's commitment to expanding its compassionate and innovative approach to care on a global scale.
Mrs. Boakai, known for her passionate advocacy for individuals with special needs, expressed her enthusiastic support for the project. Having previously spearheaded initiatives such as the My Heart's Appeal program, she brings a wealth of experience and dedication to this cause. Her endorsement of Project 601 is a testament to its potential to make a profound impact in Liberia.
The Role of Arc Mercer's Team Atmosphere Committee
The success of Project 601 and the meeting with the First Lady would not have been possible without the dedicated efforts of Arc Mercer’s Team Atmosphere Committee (TAC). This committee, central to the agency's culture, played a crucial role in fostering the connections and collaborations necessary for the project.
The TAC, comprising mission-critical staff, provides a safe space for employees to discuss cultural issues, brings concerns to agency leadership, educates the agency about diverse cultures, and develops projects for community members with special needs. The Liberian Culture Group within TAC was instrumental in establishing vital contacts and support for Project 601, showcasing the power of cultural collaboration.
Building Bridges: A Small World with a Big Mission
Arc Mercer's strong Liberian cultural ties have been a driving force behind Project 601, creating a sense of destiny and purpose. Comptroller Sekou Kamara, who previously worked with the Mayor of Monrovia’s father back when he was an accountant, and DSP Taweh Witherspoon, who worked alongside the current president of Liberia at a food processing organization in Liberia long ago, highlight how small the world can feel and how the mission in Liberia seems meant to be.
The shared histories and relationships between Arc Mercer staff and Liberian officials create a unique bond, making the partnership feel both natural and inevitable. This meeting represents more than just a milestone; it symbolizes the unity and shared commitment to creating sustainable and impactful change. With the First Lady's backing, the Arc Mercer team is poised to make significant strides in establishing the first Arc International chapter in Monrovia, Liberia.
Looking Forward: A Bright Future for Project 601
Project 601 LiberiArc aims to build 15 schools, one in each of Liberia’s counties, over 15 years, providing high-quality services and education to individuals with IDD. This initiative will also include training for local staff, ensuring that the Arc Mercer's standards of care are upheld. Additionally, innovative ideas such as investing in farming will contribute to food sustainability and economic development.
As Arc Mercer continues to work closely with the Liberian community and its leaders, the shared vision of a brighter future for individuals with IDD is becoming a reality. The commitment of the First Lady and the support of the Liberian community, combined with the expertise and dedication of the Arc Mercer team, promise a transformative impact.
In closing, the meeting with First Lady Mrs. Kartumu Y. Boakai represents a significant step forward in Project 601 LiberiArc. The collaboration and support from both sides exemplify a shared dedication to innovation, sustainability, and, most importantly, improving the lives of those with special needs. The Arc Mercer family, driven by their Team Atmosphere Committee, is ready to embark on this remarkable journey, bringing hope and opportunity to the Liberian IDD community.
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