Every December, the Arc Mercer embarks on the Holly Jolly Tour, a heartfelt holiday tradition designed to honor its dedicated staff and bring joy to its consumers. The event is a unique opportunity for the agency's leadership, board members, and staff to connect on a personal level while delivering an authentic holiday experience to the individuals it serves.
Led by Executive Director Steve Cook and the Arc Mercer Residential Team, the Holly Jolly Tour spans three nights. During this festive journey, the team visits all 24 group homes and all five program sites, including the Mercer County College Campus Day Program, Special Needs Day Program, Business Center, Senior Day Program, and Vocational Occupational Training Center.
Accompanying the leadership team are Santa Claus, two cheerful elves, and Arc Mercer Directors and Administrators, all toting gifts and gratitude.
Recognizing the Heart of the Arc Mercer
The tour is as much about the agency’s consumers as it is about its staff. Steve Cook made it a priority to personally thank approximately all 450 staff members, shaking hands and expressing gratitude for their dedication and heroic efforts in providing high-quality care. The presence of board members, including Sandy Smith, Alan Zeitlin, and Janet Zatz, alongside board president Maria Fischer, emphasized the board's commitment to supporting frontline staff.
Fischer shared, “I saw so much more than a house with staff doing a job—I saw families, getting ready to celebrate the holidays. The love and respect between the staff and residents is evident!”
The board president attended all three days of the tour and personally let each staff member know how essential and deeply valued they are. She delivered the message on behalf of the board that the work of Arc Mercer mission critical staff is truly transformative, and to ensure they feel supported every step of the way.
With nearly 85% of the board having loved ones enrolled in Arc Mercer programs, their involvement sends a powerful message. It highlights the agency's deeply personal mission and reassures staff that decisions are made with the utmost care for the individuals they serve.
Bringing Holiday Magic to Consumers
For many consumers, the Arc Mercer is their only family, making the holidays an especially significant time. Each residential consumer was asked for their Christmas wish, and the agency ensured those wishes were fulfilled. Each gift was thoughtfully chosen and delivered by Santa and his helpers, ranging from state-of-the-art headphones, tablets, and art supplies to books and more.
Board Secretary Janet Zatz shared, “The warm feelings of the ‘families’ within the homes and the love residents and staff feel for Steve were clearly evident. I am so proud to be a small part of the Arc.”
Staff members worked tirelessly to decorate homes and program spaces, transforming them into festive holiday homes. Their efforts ensured that every consumer experienced the warmth and joy of the season in a setting that felt like home.
Celebrating Excellence Through Recognition
The Holly Jolly Tour also marked the culmination of the Platinum Star program, which rewards staff for excellence in key performance areas such as medication administration, recreation engagement, and compliance with documentation standards. Eligible staff who achieved platinum-level standards were awarded additional recognition.
The Platinum Star program underscores the Arc Mercer’s commitment to quality care and the high standards upheld by its team. It serves as a testament to the agency’s belief that both consumers and staff deserve nothing less than the best.
A Tradition Rooted in Gratitude
The Holly Jolly Tour exemplifies the Arc Mercer’s values of gratitude, community, and exceptional care. By celebrating its staff and consumers in such a personal and meaningful way, the agency reinforces its mission of fostering inclusion and joy for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
This annual tradition is more than a festive event—it is a reflection of the Arc Mercer’s dedication to its people, its programs, and the families it supports. As the agency continues to grow, the Holly Jolly Tour remains a cherished cornerstone of its culture, inspiring hope and happiness during the holiday season.
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